Luca Guadagnino has officially given fans a strong update on his upcoming ‘American Psycho’ remake movie and things are looking sharp.
Speaking at CinemaCon via video message, the Call Me by Your Name and Challengers director said the screenplay for the project is “coming out very handsomely.” The script, penned by Scott Z. Burns (Contagion, The Report), is reportedly in its final stages.
“We’re working hard to bring to the screen a new adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’ American Psycho, a book that I deeply love. It’s something that influenced me so much,” Guadagnino said, adding that he’s already “in conversation with very exciting performers to play the leads.”
While he didn’t name names, buzz around the industry points to Austin Butler as the frontrunner for the iconic role of Patrick Bateman-originally portrayed by Christian Bale in the cult 2000 film.
But don’t expect a straight-up remake.
Sources close to the production have said Guadagnino’s version won’t rehash the Mary Harron-directed cult classic. Instead, the new ‘American Psycho’ movie will offer a bold, modern take with a heavier erotic psychological emphasis-something closer to Guadagnino’s signature style.
The 2000 film grossed over $34 million globally on a $7 million budget and launched Bale into international stardom. The film also featured standout performances by Jared Leto, Willem Dafoe, Chloe Sevigny, and Reese Witherspoon. Bale’s chilling portrayal of Bateman-a Wall Street investment banker who hides his serial killer instincts behind a charming facade-has long been considered one of his most iconic roles.
Guadagnino, known for making bold visual and narrative choices, seems determined to push the envelope further.
“Luca is a brilliant artist,” said Lionsgate film chair Adam Fogelson, “and the perfect visionary to create a whole new interpretation of this potent and classic IP.”
Though casting details are still under wraps, Guadagnino’s previous ability to attract A-listers like Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, and Cate Blanchett suggests the new American Psycho could be stacked with talent.
Meanwhile, the legacy of Christian Bale’s performance still lingers. Co-star Chloe Sevigny recently reflected on the intensity of filming with him. In a Vanity Fair interview, she admitted Bale’s commitment to method acting made the shoot “intimidating” and “challenging.”
“I take my work very seriously too, but I’m also gregarious and goofy,” she explained. “It was hard to connect with someone who was always ‘on.’ I didn’t even fully understand what the Method was at the time.”
There’s no official release date yet, but the project is moving quickly. Production is expected to begin late this year or early 2026.
One thing’s for sure: Bateman is coming back-and this time, he’s getting the Guadagnino treatment.
- Lilova’s ‘Gori’ release brings flamenco-infused remixes - April 21, 2025
- Emma Slater and Alan Bersten HARD LAUNCH Romance with Surprise Kiss Mid-Show - April 21, 2025
- Is Georgina Rodríguez Finally Engaged to Cristiano Ronaldo? - April 20, 2025
