Austin Butler is stepping into the spotlight once again, this time as the lead in Luca Guadagnino's fresh adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis's iconic novel ‘American Psycho.’ The project, backed by Lionsgate, promises a new perspective on the story of Patrick Bateman.

Although earlier speculation suggested that Jacob Elordi was in consideration for the role of Bateman, the part ultimately went to Butler. Interestingly, both actors share a connection, having portrayed Elvis Presley in vastly different films: Elordi in Sofia Coppola’s ‘Priscilla’ and Butler in Baz Luhrmann’s ‘Elvis’ — in which the actor earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

The upcoming film, penned by screenwriter Scott Z. Burns (‘The Laundromat’), won’t be a retread of the 2000 adaptation that starred Christian Bale. Instead, it aims to reinterpret Ellis’s novel with a distinct new vision. Guadagnino, celebrated for his works like ‘Call Me by Your Name,’ ‘Challengers,’ and the recent ‘Queer,’ may shift the narrative’s focus, potentially leaning into its erotic undertones rather than solely emphasizing its satirical-horror elements.

The original 2000 movie, set in the glitzy excess of the 1980s, depicted Patrick Bateman as a Wall Street professional with a chilling secret: he was also a serial killer. Under Guadagnino's direction, Bateman’s character could be reimagined in a way that diverges from Christian Bale’s now-iconic portrayal. With a resume that includes genre-defying films like ‘Suspiria’ and ‘Bones and All,’ Guadagnino has proven his ability to bring unexpected dimensions to established narratives.

Butler's casting as Bateman suggests a fresh interpretation of the character, one that may explore uncharted emotional and psychological territories. Guadagnino’s vision for ‘American Psycho’ could be both bold and provocative, with the filmmaker known for bringing the best out of his actors.

The new take on ‘American Psycho’ is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated cinematic events of 2026.

No specified date of release has been announced.

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