Genre: Thriller
American Psycho opening analysis 

General information 
American Psycho is a 2000 american psychological thriller. It is also classed as a black comedy. It was directed by Mary Harron, and is based off the 1991 novel of the same name. The film received generally positive reviews upon theatrical release, however over time has racked up both positive and negative reviews. Some critics such as the New York Times called it a horror-comedy classic, while others said it could be interpreted in an incorrect way by some people and is pointlessly disturbing. On IMDb the film has a rating of 7.6 

Target audience 
The film was given an 18 certificate due to the graphic violence and nudity shown in the film. As such, it goes without saying that this film is targeted for adults, however people as young as 14 are likely to enjoy this film in reality. The targeted age range is probably around 18-40. People over the age of 40 are likely to not enjoy the film as much due to the number of inappropriate scenes shown. 

Characters, mis en scene and camera angles 
The opening scene to this movie shows the morning routine of Patrick Bateman, who is a wealthy investment banker who lives in New York. Patrick Batemen is the main character in the film, and serves as the psychotic killer who will later kill people such as his friends. In the scene he literally describes his routine to the audience, and what he does to make sure that he appears perfect. For example the various lotions he puts on his skin, the exercise he does to ensure good personal fitness, and the fact he eats a balanced diet. 
The scene is shot in Patrick's apartment in New York. In the first shot, the view from one of his windows can be seen, as well as another shot when he is doing his exercises. Tall buildings can be seen outside to show the audience that he lives in the city. These shots show to the viewer that his life revolves around being busy, impressing others while at the same time hiding a part of himself away, a part that others do not see. This line pretty much sums up the film. 
Camera angles used include the pan shot, a zooming shot and a close shot. The close shot used is too show Patrick Bateman's face, and him applying the various lotions. The pan shot is used to show the environment in which Patrick Bateman lives. This gives a good insight into the life of Patrick, immediately within the opening scene. This makes the scene somewhat satisfying to the audience. Zooming shots and medium shots are used to show Patrick as a whole, going about his routine. This is so nothing is hidden from the viewer concerning Patrick's routine.

Music and sound
Patrick Bateman's voice over is technically diegetic. Even though it is a voice over, the narration takes place within the universe of the story, and as such this makes it diegetic. The voice over of Patrick is the easiest way for him as a character to communicate to the audience about his life, without him literally having to stand there talking to the camera. I think this is the most effective way, and I feel this is why the voice over was used. 
Music wise, there is soft music in the background. Like the opening's to Zodiac and Rear Window, this soft music contrasts well with what happens later on in the film. This is definitely a typical thriller/horror opening convention. It should be noted however that the music does not dominate at all, although it is noticeable. The words of Patrick Bateman must be dominate as this is what the audience is supposed to be paying attention too. The music however does work well with the dialogue, and helps create a feeling of perfection that Patrick Bateman is trying to convey.