A freshly conceived iteration of the iconic film ‘American Psycho’ is reportedly underway, inducing mixed reactions, particularly concerning the rumored lead actor. The helm of the project is to be taken by noted Italian filmmaker Luca Guadagnino, who has been behind some of the most standout films in recent years, like ‘Challengers’ and ‘Queer’. This reimagining is set to be brought to screens by Lionsgate, with assurances that it will not be a simple carbon copy of the millennial film featuring Christian Bale as a murderous financier.
Rather than a direct reboot, the new adaptation is promised to be an original take on the infamous tale of a homicidal misanthrope embedded deep within high society, which is based on Bret Easton Ellis’s unnerving satire and horror-themed novel. Expected to infuse his own unique spin into the character of Bateman is Austin Butler, known for his performances in ‘The Bikeriders’ and ‘Priscilla’.
This casting news has emerged amidst a series of critical feedback related to recent Hollywood casting choices, including Paul Mescal being chosen as the star of ‘Gladiator II’, and Jacob Elordi being cast as Heathcliff in the upcoming rendition of ‘Wuthering Heights’. Additionally, there has been an overall unease stemming from the film industry’s propensity for relaunching and reimagining previous blockbusters.
Butler’s assignment to personify the infamous Patrick Bateman in the upcoming project has been confirmed. This announcement has stirred emotions among fans with some eagerly anticipating Butler’s interpretation of the legendary character. The film’s screenplay is crafted by Scott Z Burns, renowned for his work on ‘The Laundromat’.
At one point, there was substantial conjecture suggesting that Jacob Elordi, best known for his role in ‘Euphoria’, was poised to step into the dark persona of Bateman. This role was initially made famous by Christian Bale in the original cinematic adaptation.
The exact reasons underlying Elordi not receiving the role remain undisclosed, but it’s noteworthy that this isn’t the first time Elordi and Butler have been eyed for the same character profile. Notably, both actors were seen playing starkly contrasting interpretations of the rock-and-roll legend Elvis Presley, with Elordi uncovering Presley’s roots in Sofia Coppola’s ‘Priscilla’, and Butler reinventing The King in Baz Luhrmann’s biopic ‘Elvis’.