American Psycho reboot: Everything we know so far

Director Luca Guadagnino announced a reboot of the 2000 cult classic horror film American Psycho in October 2024 during an interview with Variety. Austin Butler has been cast as Patrick Bateman, a role originally brought to life by Christian Bale, who received widespread acclaim for his performance.

Luca Guadagnino, renowned for Call Me by Your Name and Bones and All, is directing the reboot.

The story focuses on Patrick Bateman, a successful investment banker in 1980s Manhattan. During the day, he works in the high-powered world of finance. By night, however, he reveals a much darker side, giving in to his violent and disturbing impulses.

This adaptation promises to explore themes of identity, consumerism, and moral decay with a modern perspective.

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Plot details of American Psycho reboot

The reboot centers on Patrick Bateman’s double life, showcasing his outward success as a Manhattan investment banker by day and his descent into violent tendencies by night, exposing the fragility of his relationships and persona.

Guadagnino's adaption is set to elaborate on issues of greed and identity, while also criticizing 1980s materialism. New characters and subplots may be introduced to provide more insight into Bateman's fragmented psyche and inner issues.

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Cast and crew of American Psycho reboot

Austin Butler, best known for playing Elvis, has been cast as Patrick Bateman. His casting piqued interest because of his ability to play complex roles.

Early rumors about Jacob Elordi being cast as Patrick Bateman emerged after the actor deactivated his Instagram account, sparking widespread speculation online. Social media users and speculative reports fueled the idea that Elordi might be involved in the reboot. However, these rumors were debunked when Austin Butler was officially announced as the lead.

The film will be directed by Luca Guadagnino, who is known for his ability to tell emotionally complex storylines. David Kajganich, Guadagnino's frequent partner in writing, is scripting the screenplay based on the novel.

Speaking about the film in an interview with Variety, Guadagnino stated:

"I want to explore Patrick Bateman's psychological depth while keeping the sharp critique of consumerism that defines the story intact."

Additional casting details are expected to be announced as production moves forward.

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The original American Psycho

Christian Bell from The American Psycho (2000) (via Primevideo)

American Psycho, released in 2000, is considered a cult-classic. The movie was helmed by Mary Harron. Christian Bale’s depiction of Patrick Bateman gained recognition for its ability to balance dark humor with psychological tension. The film's harsh condemnation of consumerism and excess appealed to audiences and solidified its place in pop culture.

The film toned down some of the novel's most explicit passages, such as detailed depictions of Bateman's savagery. However, it kept its sharp critique of materialism in sequences, such as Bateman's compulsive rants about designer goods.

This also includes the infamous scene where he delivers an elaborate speech about the superiority of his business card. This moment has become one of the most memorable in the film, highlighting Bateman’s shallow fixation on appearances.

The film was met with criticism and controversy upon its premiere, with some wondering whether it celebrated or critiqued violence. Despite the initial response, it was praised for its humorous attitude and remains relevant today. Its heritage establishes great expectations for the future revival.

As production of the reboot progresses, more updates are expected, keeping fans eager for this modern retelling of American Psycho.