The Machinist is a 2004 psychological thriller film directed by Brad Anderson and written by Scott Kosar. The film stars Christian Bale as Trevor Reznik, a machinist who suffers from severe insomnia, having not slept for an entire year. His debilitating condition leads to paranoia and delusions, creating a haunting atmosphere throughout the narrative.
The story follows Trevor as he navigates his increasingly troubled life, which is exacerbated by his emaciated appearance—Bale famously lost 62 pounds (28 kg) for the role. His insomnia affects his work and relationships, causing tension with his coworkers. After a workplace accident in which a colleague named Miller loses an arm, Trevor becomes the target of blame. He believes that a mysterious coworker named Ivan (played by John Sharian) is somehow involved in his deteriorating mental state and the accident.
As the film progresses, Trevor's grip on reality weakens. He begins to receive cryptic notes that seem to taunt him, asking questions about his identity and sanity. The narrative builds suspense as Trevor attempts to unravel the mystery surrounding Ivan and confront his own past traumas. His interactions with a prostitute named Stevie (Jennifer Jason Leigh) and a woman named Maria (Aitana Sánchez-Gijón) further complicate his already fragile mental state.
The Machinist premiered at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival and received critical acclaim for its intense atmosphere and Bale's compelling performance. The film grossed approximately $8.2 million against a budget of $5 million, and over time, it has gained a cult following due to its exploration of themes such as guilt, redemption, and the psychological effects of trauma.
Overall, The Machinist stands out as a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the depths of human despair and the consequences of unresolved guilt, showcasing Christian Bale's remarkable transformation and acting prowess.