Thescreescore – The upcoming American Psycho remake, helmed by Luca Guadagnino, has Hollywood buzzing. While Austin Butler’s name is swirling as a potential Patrick Bateman, a surprising twist emerges from the original film’s casting director, Kerry Barden. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Barden revealed a different role she envisions for the Elvis star: Paul Allen. This unexpected casting choice throws a wrench into the already speculative casting process, igniting a fresh wave of debate among film enthusiasts.
Barden’s reasoning is intriguing. She credits Jared Leto’s casting in the original film to his undeniable allure, a quality she believes Butler equally possesses. "I would cast Austin in Jared’s role because he’s that beautiful, and that’s why we cast Jared, is because he’s that beautiful," she stated. While acknowledging Butler’s acting prowess, Barden emphasizes the unique visual appeal that both actors share, suggesting a strategic casting choice based on more than just acting ability.
This revelation raises questions about Guadagnino’s vision for the remake. Will he prioritize a faithful adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’ novel, or forge a new path, potentially embracing Barden’s unconventional suggestion? The role of Paul Allen, while a significant supporting character, lacks the depth and screen time of Bateman’s iconic portrayal by Christian Bale. Casting Butler in this role could be seen as underutilizing his considerable talent.
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However, the possibility of Butler as Bateman is equally compelling. His range, demonstrated in roles from Elvis to Feyd-Rautha in Dune: Part II, showcases an ability to inhabit complex, morally ambiguous characters. His inherent vulnerability could offer a fresh interpretation of Bateman’s chilling duality, potentially creating a memorable and unique take on the character. The contrast between Butler and Bale’s performances would undoubtedly spark significant discussion.
Ultimately, Barden’s comments highlight the multifaceted nature of casting and the subtle nuances that can shape a film’s success. While Butler as Paul Allen is an intriguing prospect, his potential as Patrick Bateman remains a tantalizing possibility, promising a reimagining of American Psycho that could redefine the character for a new generation. The decision, however, rests solely with Guadagnino, and the anticipation is palpable. The question remains: will he listen to the original casting director’s insightful suggestion, or will he dare to cast Butler as the iconic serial killer himself?
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