Hollywood is buzzing once again—this time with Luca Guadagnino at the center of a growing cinematic storm. The Italian auteur, known for visually lush and emotionally intense films like Call Me by Your Name and Challengers, is reportedly developing a new adaptation of “American Psycho”, and the internet can’t stop asking one question:
Who will play Patrick Bateman?
A Cult Classic Returns
Originally released in 2000, American Psycho starred Christian Bale as Patrick Bateman—a wealthy Wall Street banker hiding a terrifying double life. The film became a cult classic, spawning memes, fashion influence, and endless pop-culture references.
Now, with Guadagnino attached to reimagine the story, fans and critics alike are debating whether the iconic role can—or should—be recast.
Why Guadagnino’s Version Is Trending
Guadagnino is known for pushing boundaries, and that’s exactly why his American Psycho project is trending: He brings arthouse credibility to a controversial thriller.. His films often explore obsession, desire, and identity—perfect themes for Bateman’s twisted psyche. The project has reportedly caused casting hesitation among A-list actors, sparking speculation across Hollywood and social media.
Who Could Play Patrick Bateman?
While no official casting has been confirmed, film insiders and fans are floating several names as potential contenders:
Top Fan-Cast Favorites
- Jacob Elordi – Known for Euphoria and Saltburn, many fans think he has the charisma and unsettling intensity for Bateman.
- Austin Butler – After Elvis and Dune: Part Two, his transformative acting style makes him a strong contender.
- Barry Keoghan – His dark, unpredictable performances (The Killing of a Sacred Deer, Saltburn) make him a fan favorite for a psychological thriller.
- Glen Powell – With his rising Hollywood status, some believe he could bring a charming yet sinister twist.
Social media polls and Reddit threads are filled with debates over who could match—or surpass—Christian Bale’s legendary performance.
Why the Role Is So Controversial
Patrick Bateman is not just a character—he’s a cultural symbol. The role requires extreme psychological depth, dark comedic timing and a blend of charm and menace. Many actors fear comparisons to Bale’s iconic performance, which is why reports suggest some stars are hesitant to take on the role.
Guadagnino’s Vision: A Modern Bateman?
If the project moves forward, Guadagnino could modernize Bateman for the digital age—exploring themes like:
- Toxic masculinity in social media culture
- Hyper-capitalism and identity in the tech era
- Fame, obsession, and curated personas
This fresh take is exactly why cinephiles and Gen-Z audiences are watching the project closely.
The Internet Can’t Stop Talking
From TikTok edits to meme culture, American Psycho remains one of the most referenced films online. Combine that with Guadagnino’s arthouse reputation, and you get a perfect storm of hype, controversy, and speculation.
Final Take
Luca Guadagnino’s American Psycho isn’t just another remake—it’s a pop-culture event in the making. Whether the new Patrick Bateman becomes a cinematic icon or a risky reboot experiment, one thing is clear:
The casting announcement will break the internet.