Bret Easton Ellis Debunks Rumors of American Psycho Remake with Luca Guadagnino

Put away your business cards everyone, as it appears that the much-discussed remake of American Psycho might not be in the works after all. This revelation comes from none other than Bret Easton Ellis, the original author of the controversial novel.

Recently, speculation had been rife about a new take on American Psycho, with rumors suggesting that actor Austin Butler was set to play the infamous Patrick Bateman, a role made iconic by Christian Bale in the 2000 film adaptation. Additionally, acclaimed director Luca Guadagnino was rumored to be at the helm of the project.

However, Ellis, aged 60, has cast significant doubt on these rumors. Speaking on his podcast in late December, he said, “I have a feeling it’s fake news. I heard somewhere, from someone, that there are no contracts. Austin Butler hasn’t signed anything to play Patrick Bateman. Luca doesn’t have a deal.”

He continued, “Scott Burns, who was supposed to write the screenplay, doesn’t have a deal either. From various sources that I have, this is just fake news that was put out there to see how an audience is going to react.”

Christian Bale as Patrick Bateman in American Psycho. (Lionsgate)

Ellis also clarified his own involvement, or lack thereof, in the alleged project. “If the reboot does somehow exist, I am not involved in the project and have nothing to do with this,” he stated firmly. “I might get some money if they do this, but I am not involved creatively on any level, and that is all I know.”

The Legacy of American Psycho

The original American Psycho novel is a satirical thriller that was adapted into a successful film in 2000. It follows the story of Patrick Bateman, a psychopathic serial killer and investment banker who struggles with his unquenchable bloodlust amidst the high-pressure world of Wall Street.

The film adaptation, starring Christian Bale, was a significant success, earning over triple its initial budget and developing a cult following. Fans of the film and novel appreciate its dark humor and its pointed critique of American consumer culture.

Bret Easton Ellis himself has had a notable career, not only for American Psycho but also for other well-known works such as Less than Zero and The Rules of Attraction. He has often been praised for his ability to capture the essence of the decadent and morally ambiguous culture of the 1980s and 1990s.

New Projects on the Horizon

Beyond these rumors, Ellis has been busy with other creative endeavors. He recently mentioned his work on an HBO series titled The Shards, which is based on his semi-autobiographical book of the same name. The series and book focus on a fictionalized account of his final year of high school in the early 1980s and a tragedy involving his close friend, Robert Mallory.

Furthermore, Ellis is set to make his directorial debut with an upcoming film titled Relapse. The film is said to follow a man who spirals into an existential crisis after witnessing a death at a drug-fuelled party.

While the potential American Psycho remake might be mere conjecture at this point, fans of Bret Easton Ellis have much to look forward to with his ongoing projects. His work continues to intrigue and challenge audiences, offering unique insights into human nature and society.

The post "Bret Easton Ellis Debunks Rumors of American Psycho Remake with Luca Guadagnino" aims to clarify the misinformation circulating about the remake of this iconic story, as confirmed by the author himself.