Christian Bale Weighs in on “Bold Choice” to Make a New ‘American Psycho’: “All the Best to ‘Em”
Christian Bale is sharing his thoughts on Hollywood’s plans to revisit one of his most iconic roles.
The actor, who famously played Patrick Bateman in the 2000 cult classic American Psycho, addressed the upcoming new adaptation while attending the premiere of his latest film, The Bride!, on Tuesday.
When asked about the possibility of a younger actor stepping into Bateman’s blood-stained shoes, Bale responded with a mix of encouragement and curiosity.
“Whoever wants to give it a shot, give it a pop,” Bale told The Hollywood Reporter. “I loved making it with [director] Mary Harron so many years back. I have fantastic memories of the whole process.”
Although he admitted he doesn’t know many details about the new project, Bale acknowledged that revisiting such a beloved film is a daring move.
“It’s a bold choice for anyone to tackle this,” he said. “I don’t know if they’re doing a remake or what. I don’t know anything else about it. But I wish them all the best. I admire people who take risks.”
The new adaptation is being developed by acclaimed director Luca Guadagnino, known for films like Call Me by Your Name and Bones and All. Rather than remaking the 2000 film directly, Guadagnino reportedly plans to offer a fresh interpretation of Bret Easton Ellis’ controversial 1991 novel.
Screenwriter Scott Z. Burns is currently working on the script.
Guadagnino previously teased the project during CinemaCon, saying the novel has had a major influence on him and that the creative team is working hard to bring a new version of the story to the screen.
News of the reboot has sparked mixed reactions from people connected to the original film.
Actor Matt Ross, who appeared in the 2000 movie, suggested the new adaptation might feel more like a business decision than a creative necessity—but acknowledged that multiple interpretations are possible since the story originated from a novel.
He also pointed out that any actor taking on Patrick Bateman will inevitably face comparisons to Bale’s unforgettable performance.
Producer Chris Hanley, however, expressed confidence in the new project, praising Guadagnino’s filmmaking track record.
For now, the role of Patrick Bateman remains uncast—but whoever eventually takes it on will be stepping into one of cinema’s most chilling and memorable characters.
And if Bale has any say in it, they should go for it.
