‘Challengers’ Luca Guadagnino Directing New Adaptation Of ‘American Psycho’

Preview:

• ‘Challengers’ director Luca Guadagnino is aboard a new adaptation of ‘American Psycho.’
• ‘The Bourne Ultimatum’s Scott Z. Burns is writing the script.
• Christian Bale starred in the 2002 adaptation.

While he has brought us several outstanding original movies (most recently the successful ‘Luca Guadagnino has also tried his hand at adapting novels or remaking classic films with a new spin.

And while the newly-announced plan to tackle a fresh take on American Psycho’ could fall into both categories, it sounds, according to Deadline as though Guadagnino is aiming to take a new crack at the book rather than going the remake route.

What’s the story of ‘American Psycho’?

Ellis’ novel, which was published back in 1991, ‘American Psycho’ is set during the Wall Street boom of the late 1980s.

It follows wealthy young investment banker Patrick Bateman. In his mid-20s when the story begins, Bateman narrates his everyday activities, from his grooming routine, his recreational life among the Wall Street elite of New York… and his forays into murder by night.

Because, as the title suggests, Bateman is a serial killer, one who has been offing rivals, colleagues and women, his murder spree becoming increasingly brutal and sadistic.

The book was a sensation in its day but fueled huge debate over its grisly violence and misogynistic attitudes –– even with a satirical bent.

Co-writer/director American Psycho II: All American Girl’ was quickly pumped out featuring none of the same creative team but couldn’t match the impact.

Who else is working on the new ‘American Psycho’?

With Lionsgate long wanting to take a new stab at adapting the novel, it also has Edward R. Pressman, producer of the original film, aboard.

Scott Z. Burns, who wrote the likes of ‘Extrapolations,’) is writing the script.

Related Article: Lionsgate Has a New Version of ‘American Psycho’ in Development

What other movies does Guadagnino have on the way?

The director’s next film to be released, ‘Drew Starkey, and will be in theaters on December 13th after receiving plenty of plaudits on the festival circuit.

The prolific Guadagnino has also recently worked on ‘Andrew Garfield, and is in post-production.

When would the new ‘American Psycho’ movie be on screens?

With no casting or shoot date in place yet, we’re going to have to wait to find out when this one will be released.

Other Luca Guadagnino Movies:

• 'The Protagonists' (1999)
• 'Melissa P. '(2005)
• 'I Am Love' (2010)
• 'A Bigger Splash' (2016)
• 'Call Me by Your Name' (2018)
• 'Suspiria' (2018)
• 'Bones and All' (2022)
• 'Challengers' (2024)
• 'Queer' (2024)

Buy Luca Guadagnino Movies on Amazon