Is Paul Allen Really Dead? The Shocking Truth Behind American Psycho’s Mind-Bending Ending Revealed!

In my humble opinion, the chilling masterpiece known as “American Psycho” leaves viewers pondering the enigma at its core: was the protagonist, Patrick Bateman (brilliantly portrayed by Christian Bale), indeed an American psycho or merely a man consumed by his own twisted thoughts? The film presents us with grotesque scenes of Patrick carrying out gruesome murders, from his ruthless colleagues to innocent bystanders such as a homeless man, a dog, and even those closest to him. These acts, while horrifying, beg the question: were they real or merely figments of his deranged imagination?

In the movie, Patrick’s understanding of truth becomes hazy when he takes the life of Paul Allen (Jared Leto). Driven by envy and anger, Patrick murders Paul in his apartment and sends a voicemail pretending to be Paul, suggesting he had gone to London. However, this deception was meant to mislead, but as guilt consumes him towards the end of the film, Patrick confesses the truth to his attorney. Unfortunately, the attorney doesn’t trust Patrick because he saw Paul Allen in London. This realization causes Patrick to question his entire life. The movie has left many viewers baffled due to its ambiguity. Nevertheless, one may wonder if Patrick truly killed anyone – was it indeed Paul Allen that he murdered?

This article was last revised on April 28, 2025, by Ajay Aravind. The ’80s are often depicted in movies as overly materialistic, a notion that might be true for some, but not all. During this period, the yuppie executive emerged, a phenomenon that Bret Easton Ellis’ 1991 novel describes almost dreamlike. However, the film adaptation of “American Psycho” presents a different perspective. While both versions share the same perplexing ending, fans remain puzzled about it. This update aims to provide additional insights into the movie’s ending and the potential remake by Luca Guadagnino.

Does Patrick Bateman Kill Paul Allen in American Psycho?

The Ending Can Be Interpreted in Multiple Ways

In response to speculation about the film being a prolonged dream sequence, its director, Mary Harron, has made it clear that this is not the case. However, the question remains as to whether the deaths portrayed in the movie are real or not. The character Patrick, who serves as the narrator, becomes progressively less trustworthy, and his violent acts are used to maintain the illusion of reality. At the start of the third act, it can be confidently stated that he did not witness an ATM message instructing him to feed a stray cat, shoot an old woman, or kill numerous police officers. From this point onwards, the details become murky. The authenticity of the murders fades in significance compared to the fact that Bateman can no longer distinguish between his brutal fantasies and the real world. This ambiguity ties his actual and imagined murders to the vacuous materialism of the 80s that surrounds him.

The death of Paul Allen stands out significantly as it forms the core of the movie’s plot. Before his arrival, Bateman spreads a newspaper. He dons a raincoat and provides an amusingly detailed critique of Huey Lewis & The News’ “Hip to Be Square,” one of the most famous soundtrack inclusions in film history, as it plays on the speakers. He then uses an ax to kill Paul before the song concludes. This act triggers a chain of events that could jeopardize Patrick’s liberty while also suggesting that Paul’s disappearance was not merely a dream. The Allen family even hired a detective (Willem Dafoe) to locate him and questioned Patrick on multiple occasions. However, there were reports of Paul being spotted in London, which seems to support Patrick’s claim that he had gone on a trip. Yet, how can this be possible if Paul was already deceased?

American Psycho Leaves Bateman as Confused as the Viewer

At various points during the movie, it’s often hard to tell Patrick apart from the other professionals due to their similar appearances and behaviors. They all sport identical suits, glasses, haircuts, and have similar minimalist and expressive demeanors. Additionally, they share a common desire for high-end living, dining at exclusive restaurants, and residing in costly apartments. This shared lifestyle even allowed Patrick to convincingly provide an alibi when it was believed he had dinner with Marcus Halberstram (Anthony Lemke) at the same time Paul Allen disappeared.

As I glanced at Paul’s scheduler, it indicated he dined with Marcus. However, what actually transpired was a lunch date with Patrick, a fact that came to light when Patrick confronted his lawyer. Initially, the lawyer mistook Patrick for someone else, labeling him pathetic. This man, who turned out to be an unknown individual, was mistakenly identified as Paul Allen. Even when Bateman wished to confront the misunderstanding, those around him continued to disregard him. In retrospect, maybe this is the essence of American Psycho.

Nothing Truly Matters Inside American Psycho

Bateman Is an Unreliable Narrator and Can’t Be Trusted

The final soliloquy by Patrick Bateman following his unsuccessful confession encapsulates the essence of his life: “I’ve broken through all boundaries. I share little with those who are chaotic and deranged, violent and wicked – the chaos and destruction I’ve sown and my disregard for it have now reached new heights. My suffering is relentless and intense, and I harbor no dreams of a better future for anyone. On the contrary, I yearn to inflict this same pain on others. I wish none to escape, yet even after acknowledging this, there is no release. My punishment still eludes me, and my self-understanding remains as elusive as ever. No fresh insights can be gleaned from my revelations.

Despite Patrick Bateman’s actions following his apparent murder spree throughout the film going unnoticed, no one intervened as a sex worker frantically cried for help in the building halls. No one seemed to care that someone was dying; instead, they were engrossed in their opulent lifestyles. However, what truly exposed them was when Patrick revisited Paul Allen’s apartment and found it impeccably clean, given that he had stored all his victims there.

It seems plausible that, given his tendency to distort truths, he might have sanitized the scene and forgotten certain details. Yet, another chilling scenario lends credibility to the story’s gloominess. Upon encountering the realtor, Patrick perceived her as aware of the blood and corpses, but she showed no interest in associating with him. Had she done so, the apartment price would likely have dropped significantly. In this world, the primary concerns are money, attractiveness, and securing a table at Dorsia.

Patrick Bateman Actually Sought Redemption

When Patrick understood that his actions didn’t result in any repercussions, he fell apart. And when he eventually admitted to his crimes, whether subtly or overtly, people showed no concern because the materialistic culture of yuppies had supplanted empathy among people. Recognizing these transgressions would shatter the image of perfection that society of this era held dear.

However, unlike others in similar situations, Patrick acknowledged that his actions were morally wrong and that he deserved to be held accountable for each of his crimes.

Despite the quote indicating that it doesn’t matter if he admits his guilt or comprehends the implications of his actions, what matters is that he’s a murderer. This leaves him feeling aimless. In the novel “American Psycho,” his murders were driven by personal pleasure, yet he knew they were morally wrong. Since no one seemed to care, his killings became devoid of significance. Consequently, he finds himself without purpose in life.

The American Psycho Film and Book Differ

Each Discusses 1980s ‘Yuppie’ Culture in Different Ways

In essence, while both the book and the film explore themes related to American yuppie culture satire and comedic undertones, they each approach their subject matter differently. Unlike the book, which emphasizes shock value through graphic descriptions of Patrick’s violent acts, the movie delves deeper into Patrick’s psychological state and tackles a complex theme that many viewers might find challenging: identity issues. The question it poses is: When everyone appears to be identical, what defines one’s true purpose in life?

The film subtly explores satirical themes of consumerism, simultaneously tackling sensitive issues like race, sexism, homelessness, among others. Briefly, it hints at these aspects while delving deeper into the character of Patrick Bateman and his motivations for his actions. It manages to create a connection between him and the audience despite his monstrous nature. The movie raises questions about a society centered on status and material possessions, suggesting that such a society could breed individuals like Bateman.

The film’s conclusion is open to various interpretations due to the fact that Patrick Bateman, as the narrator, was unreliable throughout the movie, making it challenging to distinguish reality from his thoughts. Whether he was imagining or hallucinating most of it, it doesn’t absolve him of guilt. He remains stuck in a state of uncertainty – with a “This Is Not An Exit” sign visible in one late scene to emphasize this point – unable to break free from his tormenting purgatorial existence. At least Paul Allen managed to evade it: it’s unclear whether Patrick killed him or if some other factor kept him away from their once-lively, now empty New York cityscape and its towering buildings.

Bateman Is Not the Only Toxic Character Idolized By Male Fans

So-called Sigma Males Like Patrick Bateman Are 21st Century Pop-Culture Icons

The idea of a ‘Sigma Male’ has been in existence for over a decade, leaving such an impact on popular culture that even the generation known as Gen Alpha is adopting the term “Sigma” to signify “powerful” or “stylish.” Characters like Patrick Bateman, who seem to control their lives and personalities, are often admired by younger male followers. The term is also used sarcastically to dismiss ideas such as the ‘Sigma Hustle’ and ‘inceldom’. However, it’s important to note that Bateman isn’t the only character embodying the Sigma Male persona; there are others too, some of whom garner misguided admiration despite clearly serving as warnings.

Rick Sanchez Is a Satirical Bad Example

Rick Sanchez, a well-known caricature of Doc Brown, often appears as Morty’s mentor and guide. However, beneath this facade, Rick is a cunning, self-centered narcissist who uses others for his own gain. This character dynamic lies at the heart of “Rick and Morty,” a show that aims to challenge traditional pop culture norms. Regrettably or not, Rick excels at manipulation, convincing both the audience and other characters to support his questionable ideas.

The warning signs are clearly marked, yet he exhibits excessive drinking and illegal drug use. He shows no hesitation in committing murder, often under the guise of a higher purpose, but always with a callous indifference. His sensitivity is remarkably low, which, coupled with his other flaws, paints a bleak portrait indeed. This dark side is an essential element of his character, but some viewers argue that the show Rick and Morty has crossed the line on occasion, going too far.

Tyler Durden Embraces Nihilism Without Consequences

In simpler terms, Tyler Durden is a well-known character who embodies the trope of a person who renounces consumerism and devotes himself entirely to the concept represented by Fight Club. Tyler is captivating and influential, yet inherently destructive. He yearns for a primitive, harmonious society, but lacks a practical understanding of how to achieve it. All he can do is demolish, never build – his actions only lead to destruction. Despite Edward Norton’s character eventually expelling him from their subconscious, the damage inflicted remains permanent.

It’s clear that Durden is merely a character born from a mentally ill man’s mind, implying he shouldn’t be admired or followed. The storyteller in Fight Club, Norton, also proves to be questionable as the line between truth and psychosis blurs. In the novel by Chuck Palahniuk, the main character ends up institutionalized, unable to distinguish fantasy from reality. This aspect is frequently misunderstood by viewers who perceive Durden as a hero instead of a villain, but the film mirrors this conclusion.

Walter White Succumbs to His Dark Side

Throughout his tale, the character experiences a significant transformation, moving from a weak school instructor to a formidable drug lord. This journey implies that there is a hidden potential for darkness within us all, and unfavorable conditions can make it effortless to unleash this side. He evokes sympathy much like many antiheroes do, having adhered to the rules diligently throughout his life with minimal rewards.

In certain aspects, his transformation mirrors taking on the characteristics of the villains he battles, like Gus Fring and his Los Pollos Hermanos enterprise. This is a key theme of the show, exploring how even the kindest individual can convincingly transform into the most ruthless one. White’s death in the final episode carries as much judgment as liberation.

The Joker’s Insanity Is Spawned by an Uncaring World

Phoenix’s character, Arthur Fleck, undergoes a transformation from seemingly powerless to seemingly all-powerful. His strength lies in his nihilistic beliefs and ability to cause harm to a society that has rejected him. Phoenix portrays Fleck’s predicament with understanding and empathy, but never downplays his insanity. Gotham breeds its own monsters by eliminating aid programs for individuals like Fleck. He becomes a tragic figure, yet he cannot accept or take responsibility for his condition. Although he might be right in some ways, he is still incapable of making sound decisions, a fact that he symbolizes through his famous jig on the steps.

Just like Bateman and other characters on this list, their misanthropy is not hidden or polite. While viewers might feel some sympathy for them, it’s crucial to remember that these men are portrayed as villains, not role models to emulate or celebrate. Misconstruing them otherwise would mean misunderstanding both the movies themselves and the creators behind them. Their toxic masculinity, akin to Bateman’s, serves as a warning rather than an invitation for admiration. Regardless of how many people he’s killed in American Psycho, Bateman wouldn’t be any less monstrous if he didn’t; the same applies to other similar pop-culture figures who emerged after him.

Luca Guadagnino Might Change American Psycho Dramatically

Austin Butler Might Play Patrick Bateman in the Upcoming Film

The movie “American Psycho,” released towards the end of the 20th century and set in the 1980s, was instrumental in satirizing that era as penned by author Bret Easton-Ellis. However, speculation about a new “American Psycho” film persists, which is essentially another adaptation of Ellis’ novel. Director Guadagnino has expressed interest in this project, and Lionsgate has shown enthusiasm for bringing his vision to life. In 2024, it seemed that Austin Butler was the chosen actor to portray Patrick Bateman, but this has yet to be officially confirmed. With many details about the upcoming “American Psycho” adaptation still unknown, fans continue to ponder how the story might unfold in modern times.

Mary Harron’s direction of American Psycho garnered her numerous accolades, yet her approach differs significantly from Guadagnino’s. Known for his vivid landscapes, gradual suspense, emotional intensity, Guadagnino’s style seems far removed from the satirical black comedy crafted by Harron. However, fans are yearning for a fresh interpretation of the book, rather than a replica of the original. This longing might involve setting the story in 2025 or beyond, hinting at substantial changes to the characters and their motivations. Guadagnino has the opportunity to deviate from his usual style and follow Harron’s path, but he could also dramatically transform the fundamental essence of the plot.

Similar to how Patrick Bateman’s character dominated the narrative in 2000’s American Psycho (if he remains the central character), Butler could convincingly portray a wealthy financier with multiple hidden depths. Despite potential controversy surrounding his role, this type of character has been recurrent for many years. However, the underlying themes are likely to evolve. In this contemporary context, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) and Bitcoin could become the focal points, thereby highlighting the emerging “finance bro” stereotype that permeates a significant portion of social media today.

Transforming the traditional, all-analog setting of “American Psycho” with digital elements promises a more impactful narrative, making it even more contemporary and resonant. The pervasive “sigma” mentality isn’t fading quickly, but Guadagnino’s American Psycho could potentially shape public opinions about the growing menace from the harmful online subculture known as the toxic manosphere. The central question remains: Who will embody Paul Allen?

2025-04-29 18:55