Fight Club

This is the richest interpretive film I know. Is it a critique of consumerism, a satire on the far-right and anarchist associations at the same time, or just a provocative thriller about the need for violence? Maybe all of it. In any case, it takes a good bit of genius to make it not look, through its shiny facade, like an angry young generation that wants to save the world with rocks in their hands, but rather like a serious ancient philosopher who has it all figured out to the last detail. It was a breakthrough life film for when I was in my 20s, and a decade later it’s (only) a fantastic cinematic ride without compromises, reflecting the end of the 1990s like few other things. (11/21/2008)

David Fincher has done it again, and after Se7en he delivers a film that stands a notch higher in my book. The star trio of Edward Norton, Brad Pitt and Elena Bonham Carter were convincing and made the most of their performances. A great premise that looks ordinary at first sight (because you can find fights in every other American film), but when you delve deeper (this film is brimming with really strong psychological potential), something original emerges (a real mind-fuck). The best part is of course the final twist (Fincher got me here). The film may not be one of my favourites (I may downgrade to 4* in time) , but it will still be in my head for a while. (04/10/2010)

Cult. Technically without hesitation (as it’s typical with Fincher), staying always one step ahead of the viewer, and always fun, original and solid. Maybe you’ll guess the twist, but even knowing it doesn’t affect the amazement at the ingenious deconstruction of the film space and the interpretive ambiguity. An excellent Norton and an equally good and inimitably cool Pitt. It’s impossible not to break the first rule – you don’t speak about Fight Club. 95% (05/11/2020)

The most indigestible, but intellectually and thematically the most charged and, perhaps for some, the most compelling David Fincher film. And after mature consideration, also my favorite. Anarchy, fights, and at times hopeless situations, depression, and despair. But above all, the life in it! The living energy of all the characters at any time of the day, night, or person. (08/20/2006)

An undisguised anarchist tinge of unapologetic shitting on the system? A satire on the emergence of terrorist groups seemingly based on good intentions? The hidden desires of a young man who wants to be something he can't be? Maybe none of it and maybe all of it together? In this case, I don’t care. The fact is that this is a brilliant piece of filmmaking with lots of great moments and food for thought. Fincher kicks ass. (04/13/2003)