Fight Club
15It’s been 25 years since this particular club opened its doors to its male members, and despite its years, its first rule has become legendary. But of course, we’re not allowed to talk about it.
But what we can talk about is the longevity of David Fincher’s film, and if it’s managed to still be relevant to modern audiences.
A young man (Edward Norton) is working in a job he does not enjoy. It does, however, give him the means to furnish his apartment in an array of flat-packed, Swedish furniture. So it’s not all bad.
On a flight back from a work trip, he sits next to an interesting character, whose name is Tyler Durden (Brad Pitt). It’s the kind of conversation that intrigues him, as the soap salesman is unlike anyone else he’s ever met before. He does get his card though, before they part.
Which is just as well, as when he gets home, his apartment is on fire, and so he needs a place to stay, which luckily, Tyler agrees to.
It’s the beginning of a very close friendship, that develops into something far bigger than either of them could have predicted.
Fincher’s forth film is essentially an essay in the failings of modern masculinity, with the male population of the film no longer in touch with how they should behave as men. And 25 years on, it still feels as fresh and relevant today, especially touching on as it does, the issues regarding male mental health.
It’s based on Chuck Palahniuk’s incredible 1996 debut novel of the same name, with Fincher keen to keep the style and tone of that book intact for his film.
It also saw the director reunite with his Se7en star Brad Pitt, who brings Tyler Durden to life in impressive fashion. It was also a great role for Norton, as the unnamed narrator, on quite the journey.
Someone who should also get a mention is Helena Bonham Carter, in the only significant female role in the film, playing Marla, who turns out to be the main protagonist’s counterpart. Carter nails it, with her mix of vulnerability and sexuality, with a compelling character that deserves a film of her own, quite frankly.
It’s odd to see a young Jared Leto too, in a minor role, that kind of makes you think that his career hasn’t really progressed that much in the 25 years since, as he’s still no closer to being AAA talent.
Fincher really went to town with the direction, which is sublime in places, and still looks as fucking cool as it did when it was first released.
Possibly the only shock it provides – besides its story that is - is that it was only nominated in one category at that year’s Oscars, which was Best Effects in Sound Editing, being snubbed in every other category, including Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay which is nothing short of insane.
Other clubs have come and gone (The Breakfast Club, Dallas Buyers Club and The Joy Luck Club to name but a few), but this one proves, 25 years on, that it’s still got a lot of fight in it yet. Just remember to keep it to yourself and not blab about it.