A new interpretation of American Psycho is in the works at Lionsgate after the success of Christian Bale’s original movie two decades ago.

American Psycho has developed a cult following over the last two decades since the Christian Bale-led film was first released in 2000. The film is based on Bret Easton Ellis’ novel of the same name and gained notoriety for its commentary on consumerism and 1980s yuppie culture, which are reflected in Bale’s memorable performance.

Christian Bale’s American Psycho will receive a new interpretation (Credit: Lionsgate).

Recently, a new adaptation of the popular novel was revealed to be in the works. The forthcoming film is expected to be helmed by director Luca Guadagnino and will update the core story centered on Patrick Bateman for a new audience. However, unlike Bale’s performance, which was based on Tom Cruise, the new film offers an opportunity for a fresh take on the cult character, which might vindicate Cruise.

The New American Psycho Movie Might Finally Vindicate Tom Cruise

American Psycho features Christian Bale as Patrick Bateman, a New York City investment banker turned serial killer. The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing $34.3 million at the box office against a $7 million budget.

Christian Bale based Patrick Bateman on Tom Cruise (Credit: Top Gun: Maverick | Paramount).

The film has garnered a cult following, especially because of Bale’s phenomenal performance. During an interview, director Mary Harron revealed that Bale initially struggled with the role until he found inspiration in a Tom Cruise interview.

Harron explained that Bale tried to channel his performance after the intense friendliness with nothing behind the eyes the actor saw in Cruise during the interview. Similarly, screenwriter Guinevere Turner also confirmed that Bale modeled his performance on Cruise.

Given the dark actions and heinous crimes Bateman commits in the movie, it is hardly a good look for an actor like Cruise who has consistently worked to establish himself as a role model. As a result, Cruise needs to be vindicated from the truly twisted and dark character modeled after him.

The opportunity might finally arise with the new adaptation of the source material that is currently in development at Lionsgate. While the project is in early development, a new actor will almost certainly take on the role of Patrick Bateman. As a result, the new interpretation might not be based on Cruise, finally freeing him from the burden of inspiring the twisted character.

Challengers Director Luca Guadagnino to Helm New American Psycho Adaptation

A new film based on the American Psycho novel is being developed at Lionsgate. The studio formally announced the upcoming project in October 2024, with director Luca Guadagnino in conversations to helm the newest adaptation of the classic Bret Easton Ellis novel.

Luca Guadagnino is in talks to helm the new American Psycho movie (Credit: Lionsgate).

The source material is known for its dark horror and satirical take on subjects like yuppie culture and consumerism with added violence, eroticism, and lavish visuals. Guadagnino has previously worked on movies such as Suspiria, Bones and All, and Call Me by Your Name that include such elements.

As a result, it is no surprise that Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson has faith in Guadagnino’s ability to create a fresh adaptation of the popular source material.

We are thrilled to add another elite filmmaker to our upcoming slate. Luca is a brilliant artist, and the perfect visionary to create a whole new interpretation of this potent and classic IP.

Fogelson made the above statement (via IGN) while announcing the new project and Guadagnino’s association with it.

Recently, Guadagnino received critical acclaim for his work on the 2024 romantic sports comedy-drama film Challengers, which also emerged as a commercial success. However, it remains to be seen if the acclaimed director can achieve a similar result with American Psycho.

American Psycho is streaming on Netflix.