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Who could be the next Patrick Bateman? Actors in the running for American Psycho
Christian Bale’s chilling performance as the deranged Wall Street executive Patrick Bateman in the year 2000 catapulted him into the cinematic stratosphere. With previous roles like those in Empire of the Sun and Little Women, his role in American Psycho from Mary Harron cemented Bale as a versatile force in Hollywood.
The significance of Patrick Bateman today
Over two decades later, Patrick Bateman remains a significant cultural figure. His notorious grin, often labeled as the “sigma face,” has become a meme sensation. Lines like “I need to return some video tapes” have etched themselves into pop culture. Now, filmmaker Luca Guadagnino is poised to bring a fresh adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’s iconic book to the screen.
A modern approach to a complex character
Patrick Bateman’s outer facade of tolerance belies an inner dialogue teeming with racism, misogyny, and homophobia. His privilege as a wealthy white man in the 1980s enabled him to escape repercussions for his violent escapades. However, Guadagnino’s new project offers a chance to reinterpret Bateman for the contemporary era. Lionsgate has announced that this new version will not be a remake but a unique adaptation, allowing for novel interpretations of the story and its characters.
Exploring potential actors for the role
Choosing an actor to embody Patrick Bateman is no small task. Here, we delve into some unique candidates who could bring a new dimension to this complex character.
Jacob Elordi
Jacob Elordi’s portrayal of Nate Jacobs in Euphoria reveals his capacity to balance outward charm with hidden darkness, a defining trait of Bateman. His work in Saltburn as a wealthy, volatile character suggests he could seamlessly transition into Bateman’s bespoke suits. Having worked with Guadagnino in a Chanel campaign, the synergy is already there.
Charles Melton
Charles Melton amazed audiences with his performance in May December, earning a Golden Globe nomination. Known primarily for his dramatic roles, he showcased his comedic skills in History of the World, Part II. Bateman’s character, with his quirky morning routines, could benefit from Melton’s diverse acting range.
Aubrey Plaza
Aubrey Plaza, famed for her intense comedic roles, would bring a unique twist to Bateman. Her dedication to complex, risky roles makes her an exciting candidate for this infamously disturbed character. Casting Plaza in Bateman’s role could provide a fresh, gender-bending perspective without the need for a full gender-swap reboot.
Dev Patel
Dev Patel has yet to tackle a full-fledged villain role, making him an intriguing choice for Bateman. Patel’s earnest aura could juxtapose interestingly with Bateman’s sociopathy. His recent bloody scenes in Monkey Man demonstrate that he’s unafraid of diving into a violent role.
Finn Wittrock
Having played significant dark roles in American Horror Story, Finn Wittrock could bring the needed edge to Bateman. Wittrock’s knack for portraying wealthy, manipulative characters aligns well with Bateman’s persona. He’s seasoned in horror, making him a natural fit for this challenging role.
New talents to consider
Will Poulter
Will Poulter’s versatility, ranging from his golden boy role in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 to the chilling villain in Midsommar, makes him a strong contender. His trustworthy appearance enhances the eerie contrast necessary for the character of Bateman.
Margaret Qualley
What if Patrick Bateman was a “girlboss”? Margaret Qualley’s portrayal in The Substance positions her as an ideal fit. Her ability to maintain an intense, controlling demeanor resonates with Bateman’s calculated performance.
Emerging stars
Drew Starkey
Drew Starkey showcased his potential in Outer Banks and Luca Guadagnino’s upcoming Queer. Starkey’s familiarity with Guadagnino’s direction could offer a seamless transition into Bateman’s complex character. His recent interest in American Psycho hints at a deep understanding and appreciation for the role.
Manny Jacinto
Best known for his comedic role in The Good Place, Manny Jacinto has shown his range in The Acolyte. His charm combined with his capacity for serious roles could bring a unique and captivating spin to Bateman.
Harris Dickinson
From Triangle of Sadness to The Iron Claw, Harris Dickinson’s versatility is unparalleled. His upcoming role in Babygirl further demonstrates his ability to embody complex, seductive characters — ideal for Bateman’s intricate dynamics.
Final musings
The selection of Patrick Bateman for American Psycho under Luca Guadagnino’s direction offers numerous possibilities for reinterpretation. Each actor brings their unique flair, providing a fresh lens through which to view this iconic character. Follow our site for the latest updates and share your thoughts on who you believe would best capture Patrick Bateman’s essence.
