The Machinist

The Machinist
Theatrical release poster
Directed byBrad Anderson
Written byScott Kosar
Produced byJulio Fernández
Starring
CinematographyXavi Giménez
Edited byLuis de la Madrid
Music byRoque Baños
Production
companies
  • Castelao Producciones
  • Canal+
  • ICAA ICF
Distributed by
Release dates
  • 18 January 2004 (2004-01-18) (Sundance)
  • 3 December 2004 (2004-12-03) (United States)
  • 17 December 2004 (2004-12-17) (Spain)
Running time
102 minutes
Countries
  • Spain
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • France
LanguageEnglish
Budget$5 million
Box office$8.2 million

The Machinist is a 2004 psychological thriller film directed by Brad Anderson and written by Scott Kosar. It stars Christian Bale as the title character, a machinist struggling with paranoia and delusion after being unable to sleep for an entire year. Jennifer Jason Leigh, Aitana Sánchez-Gijón, John Sharian, and Michael Ironside appear in supporting roles.

The film drew attention due to Bale's commitment, having lost 62 pounds (28 kg) in preparation for his role. Upon release, The Machinist was well received by critics, with praise for Bale's performance, and grossed $8.2 million on a $5 million budget. In later years it has gained a cult status.