20 Incredible Film Performances That Didn't Get The Credit They Deserved

6. Christian Bale - American Psycho (2000)

Now regarded as one of the most gifted talents of his generation, the then 26 year-old Christian Bale's bravura turn in Mary Harron's literary adaptation instantly established him as one of the best young actors in Hollywood. American Psycho has been dividing opinion ever since it premiered at Sundance back in 2000, but the quality of the lead performance has never been up for debate. Making an audience root for a despicable character is no easy feat, but Bale manages it with aplomb. The actor makes Patrick Bateman both detached and engaging, shot through with a chilling charisma. Bale conveys the disturbing amount of glee that the character takes from his actions, and even in the quiet moments you can feel the contained rage that Bateman bottles up so well. Whether it be discussing Huey Lewis and the News or divulging his daily routine, there is a cold, calculated sincerity to the character's words. Almost 15 years later it still ranks as one of Christian Bale's greatest performances and certainly his most iconic outwith Batman, but at the time it was caught up in the movie's controversy and largely overlooked.