American Psycho | Golden Age

American Psycho, written by Bret Easton Ellis and published in 1991, is a novel that satirizes the excesses of 1980s yuppie culture through the eyes of its protagonist, Patrick Bateman, a wealthy investment banker with a dark secret: he's a serial killer. The book's graphic violence and dark humor sparked controversy upon its release, with some critics accusing Ellis of misogyny and gratuitousness. Despite this, the novel has become a cultural touchstone, influencing films, music, and literature. The 2000 film adaptation, directed by Mary Harron and starring Christian Bale, further cemented the novel's place in popular culture. With a vibe score of 8, American Psycho continues to fascinate audiences with its unflinching portrayal of toxic masculinity and the banality of evil. As a cultural phenomenon, American Psycho has been name-dropped by artists such as Kanye West and Lady Gaga, and its influence can be seen in TV shows like American Horror Story and Dexter.