‘American Psycho’ Reboot: Austin Butler is ‘Too Beautiful’ to Play Lead Role, Says Casting Director
Luca Guadagnino’s adaptation of ‘American Psycho’ is already creating a lot of talk, particularly when Austin Butler was cast as the notorious Patrick Bateman. Although some fans find the concept intriguing, a pivotal character from the original 2000 movie has provided an alternative viewpoint.
According to Kerry Barden, the original casting director of ‘American Psycho’, Butler might not be the best candidate for the Bateman part because of his attractive appearance rather than a lack of skill. Butler’s appearance, in Barden’s opinion, would be more appropriate for Paul Allen, who was first played by Jared Leto in the movie. He claimed Butler follows the same mould as Leto, who was picked by the casting crew for his unquestionable beauty.
Barden suggested that Bateman needs more than just leading-man looks, even though he recognised Butler’s depth and skill as an actor. He alluded that the part requires a keen edge that stands in stark contrast to physical perfection, which Christian Bale possessed in his eerie performance as the character in the first movie.
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Lionsgate is bringing Guadagnino’s thrilling take on ‘American Psycho’ to life, inspired by Bret Easton Ellis’s darkly satirical 1991 novel. This version is anticipated to provide a new viewpoint on Bateman’s universe, possibly modified for a more contemporary setting, even though the original movie was set in the 1980s.
Director Mary Harron had her own casting difficulties back in 2000. She disclosed that Leonardo DiCaprio was first considered for the Bateman part in a retrospective interview commemorating the movie’s 20th anniversary. However, she believed that such a troubling nature could not coexist with his image as a heartthrob after ‘Titanic’. Harron defended her choice to cast Bale, saying that he was the ideal candidate because of his passion and lack of teen-idol baggage.
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There are other names associated with Bateman about the reboot besides Butler. Cooper Koch, an actor best known for portraying Erik Menendez in ‘Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story’, has openly stated that he would like to reprise the role. Noting that he hasn’t played a serial killer yet but would be happy to try, he views it as a logical next step in his career.
The new ‘American Psycho’ is quickly establishing itself as one of the most talked-about reimaginings in recent years, thanks to a gifted director and a lot of discussion surrounding the casting. Butler has everyone’s attention, but it’s unclear if he can reinvent Bateman for a new generation.
–Farheen Ali
