(Image Source: Lionsgate)
The classic black comedy psychological thriller "American Psycho" was reportedly slated for a remake two years ago, with acclaimed Italian director Luca Guadagnino ("Call Me by Your Name") attached to direct and Scott Z. Burns ("Contagion") set to pen the script. However, two years on, the screenplay is still undergoing revisions, and a lead actor has yet to be cast.
(Image Source: Pinterest)
While earlier reports indicated Austin Butler was eyed for the lead in the new iteration, media outlets later claimed Butler, who was initially in talks, now appears to have exited the project. Bret Easton Ellis (pictured above), author of the original "American Psycho" novel, recently revealed on his personal podcast that finding a new lead is proving difficult. "Several big-name stars I can't name have already turned down the role," Ellis stated, "I think it's because they don't want to take over from Christian Bale." Ellis implied that Bale's iconic performance in the original film created immense pressure for anyone stepping into the role.
(Image Source: Lionsgate)
However, Ellis emphasized that, according to what he's heard, the initial script rejected by those big-name stars might not have been up to par. Consequently, the screenplay has since been rewritten, with a new draft already circulating within the industry. Ellis also noted that the new film's narrative will diverge significantly from the original. "As far as I know, this film is completely different from the 2000 film directed by Mary Harron," he explained. "It's an entirely different adaptation perspective, with no similarities to that version."