Luca Guadagnino’s American Psycho: Why the New Adaptation Will Outshine the “Garbage” Sequel

Luca Guadagnino is set to bring a fresh perspective to Bret Easton Ellis’ controversial novel, much to the dismay of some fans. However, this adaptation is likely to far surpass the poorly received *American Psycho* featuring Mila Kunis from 2002.

Let’s clarify: Guadagnino’s rendition of *American Psycho* isn’t just a straightforward remake. Reports suggest that his version will present a unique interpretation of the chilling story, which means a new portrayal of Patrick Bateman’s violent escapades.

Originally released in 1991, Ellis’ novel shocked readers with its brutal illustrations of violence perpetrated by the serial killer Patrick Bateman. The cinematic adaptation, directed by Mary Harron, premiered in 2000 with Christian Bale taking on the role of the sociopathic investment banker, demonstrating that the so-called “unfilmable” book was indeed viable for the big screen.

While the announcement of Guadagnino’s potential adaptation has ignited debates across social media platforms, it’s certain that it will avoid the infamy associated with the “dismal” *American Psycho 2*.

Ultimately, what it boils down to is this: Luca Guadagnino’s *American Psycho* pic.twitter.com/4yrvddzYqq

— lionsgate (@Lionsgate) October 18, 2024

If you’re not acquainted with the sequel, there’s a valid reason: it was a project that should never have seen the light of day. Released in 2002 as a direct-to-video feature, *American Psycho 2* starred Mila Kunis as a homicidal college student.

The lackluster sequel begins with a young version of Kunis’ character ending Patrick Bateman’s life after he kills her babysitter, which fuels her subsequent desire for violence. The film then unfolds as a typical slasher flick, lacking any real connection to the *American Psycho* narrative.

Originally, the screenplay was titled *The Girl Who Wouldn’t Die*, having no ties to the *American Psycho* franchise at all. However, once production commenced, some scenes alluding to Bateman were inserted, enabling it to pass as a sequel.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uODp59M_QY

American Psycho II: All American Girl (2002) Official Trailer #1 – Mila Kunis Movie (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uODp59M_QY)

Kunis even expressed her regret during a 2005 interview with MTV, stating: “When I did the second one, I didn’t know it would be *American Psycho II*. It was intended to be a separate project, and it ended up getting re-edited. But, oh … I don’t know. It was bad.”

Unsurprisingly, the outcome was less than stellar. The film, which could have been an average slasher on its own, is now criticized as a significant misstep (it holds a mere 11% rating on Rotten Tomatoes) or, even worse, has faded from memory altogether.

For additional insights, discover which kill in *Terrifier 3* draws inspiration from the most disturbing scene in *American Psycho*.

Source