Austin Butler, known for his Golden Globe-winning performance as Elvis Presley, will star in Luca Guadagnino's upcoming adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis' controversial novel 'American Psycho'.
- December 12, 2024
AceShowbiz - Austin Butler has been cast in the lead role of Patrick Bateman in Luca Guadagnino's forthcoming film adaptation of "American Psycho". Guadagnino's take on the novel will not be a remake of Mary Harron's 2000 cult classic but a new adaptation of Ellis's infamous book.
Butler has worked with renowned auteurs such as Baz Luhrmann, Denis Villeneuve, Ari Aster, Darren Aronofsky and Jeff Nichols. He joins a busy slate of upcoming projects, including Aster's "Eddington" and Aronofsky's "Caught Stealing".
Guadagnino, known for "Call Me by Your Name", "Challengers" and "Queer", is reportedly considering a more erotic interpretation of the book, exploring the explicit nature of Bateman's character. This aligns with Guadagnino's previous forays into genre with films like "Suspiria" and "Bones and All".
The original "American Psycho", released in 2000, saw Christian Bale deliver a memorable performance as Bateman, a Wall Street investment banker who leads a double life as a serial killer. Guadagnino's adaptation, featuring a script by Scott Z. Burns ("The Laundromat"), will bring a fresh perspective to Ellis's disturbing and darkly satirical tale.
Reaction to Butler's casting on social media was mixed, with some expressing surprise and disappointment that Jacob Elordi, who had been rumored for the role, was not cast. Others questioned the need for a new adaptation, citing the enduring popularity of the original film.
"American Psycho" has generated significant buzz online, with fans eagerly anticipating Guadagnino's unique interpretation of the iconic character. The film is expected to further cement Guadagnino's position as a master of psychological thrillers and contemporary storytelling.
