Bret Easton Ellis created the 1991 novel American Psycho which paved the way for the 2000 film of the same name. The film, which starred Christian Bale as Patrick Bateman, has gone on to become a major modern-favorite. Now a new adaptation of American Psycho is in the works, and it’s been revealed that none other than Austin Butler has been tapped to play Patrick Bateman.
It was previously shared that Luca Guadagnino would be directing the new take on the classic story. Now, however, fans have a clearer glimpse at Guadagnino’s vision with the news that Austin Butler will be playing Patrick Bateman, the iconic serial killer formerly brought to life by Christian Bale. However, this new take isn’t being described as a remake of that film, but rather “a new adaptation of Ellis’ novel.”
This description, along with the news that Austin Butler will be playing Patrick Bateman, comes from Variety. The outlet also added that the new project from Guadagnino, who previously directed Challengers, Bones and All, and 2018’s reinterpretation of Suspiria, could offer a very different take on Patrick Bateman.
With the knowledge of some of Guadagnino’s past works, the outlet suggests that “the new take on the book could have a larger erotic emphasis than the original horror satire.” Furthermore, given the addition of Austin Butler, Guadagnino “might have interpreted the Patrick Bateman character in a much different way than its previous incarnation.”
Patrick Bateman, who has always represented toxic masculinity and the social satire implemented by original creator Bret Easton Ellis and director Mary Harron who helmed the previous film adaptation, has become an icon in more ways than one. Now, however, we’ll get to see another interpretation from director Luca Guadagnino that will no doubt peel away more aspects of the fascinating character’s headspace and what he could represent for today’s audiences.
Stay tuned to ScreenGeek for any additional updates regarding this new interpretation of American Psycho with actor Austin Butler as Patrick Bateman as we have them. With Guadagnino at the helm and Butler bringing Bateman to life, this could be a very surprising take on the classic story.