American Psycho vs. Scream
What's the Difference?
American Psycho and Scream are both iconic horror films that explore the darker side of human nature. While American Psycho delves into the mind of a wealthy, narcissistic serial killer, Scream takes a more meta approach by satirizing and subverting traditional horror movie tropes. Both films feature a strong focus on violence and gore, but American Psycho is more psychological and introspective, while Scream is more self-aware and tongue-in-cheek. Despite their differences in tone and style, both movies are highly influential in the horror genre and have left a lasting impact on audiences.
Comparison
| Attribute | American Psycho | Scream |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2000 | 1996 |
| Director | Mary Harron | Wes Craven |
| Main Character | Patrick Bateman | Sidney Prescott |
| Genre | Psychological thriller | Slasher |
| Setting | New York City | Woodsboro, California |
Further Detail
Plot
American Psycho follows the story of Patrick Bateman, a wealthy investment banker living in Manhattan during the 1980s. Bateman leads a double life as a serial killer, targeting those he deems inferior to him. The novel delves into Bateman's descent into madness and his obsession with materialism and superficiality. On the other hand, Scream is a slasher film that revolves around a masked killer known as Ghostface terrorizing a small town. The film pays homage to classic horror movies while also subverting genre tropes.
Character Development
In American Psycho, Patrick Bateman is portrayed as a narcissistic and sociopathic individual who struggles with his own identity. Throughout the novel, Bateman's violent tendencies escalate, leading to a chilling exploration of his psyche. On the other hand, Scream features a diverse cast of characters, including the resourceful final girl Sidney Prescott and the witty film buff Randy Meeks. Each character in Scream is given depth and complexity, making them more than just typical horror movie stereotypes.
Themes
American Psycho delves into themes of consumerism, identity, and the emptiness of material wealth. The novel critiques the superficiality of 1980s yuppie culture and the dehumanizing effects of capitalism. In contrast, Scream explores themes of metafiction and self-awareness within the horror genre. The film constantly references other horror movies and plays with audience expectations, creating a unique viewing experience.
Tone
American Psycho is known for its dark and satirical tone, blending moments of horror with biting social commentary. The novel's graphic violence and disturbing imagery contribute to its unsettling atmosphere. Conversely, Scream balances horror with humor, incorporating witty dialogue and self-referential jokes. The film's meta approach to the slasher genre adds a layer of irony and playfulness to the story.
Reception
American Psycho received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its boldness and others condemning its graphic content. The novel has since gained a cult following and is considered a modern classic of horror literature. On the other hand, Scream was a commercial success and revitalized the slasher genre in the 1990s. The film was praised for its clever writing and innovative approach to the genre, spawning multiple sequels and a TV series.
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