Lionsgate, the renowned film studio behind blockbuster hits, is gearing up for a modern adaptation of the iconic film “American Psycho,” featuring Christian Bale. In a bold move, the studio is also exploring a contemporary take on another classic, Stephen King’s “The Dead Zone.”
Lionsgate’s Ambitious Revival:
The studio is diving into the realm of literary classics with a renewal strategy, eyeing adaptations of Bret Easton Ellis’s “American Psycho” and Stephen King’s “The Dead Zone.” Sources reveal Lionsgate’s preparation for a chilling narrative in the modernized version of “American Psycho,” focusing on a character’s decayed moral values, violent tendencies, and an obsessive relationship with reality.
Reviving Patrick Bateman:
Known for its box office successes, Lionsgate is reportedly eager to rediscover the white-collar sociopath Patrick Bateman, immortalized by Christian Bale in Mary Harron’s 2000 film adaptation. In a quest to infuse a contemporary vibe into the story, Lionsgate is on the lookout for a talented writer who can breathe new life into the iconic character, making it relevant for today’s audience.
What is the “American Psycho” Plot?
“American Psycho” delves into the unsettling life of Patrick Bateman, a successful and affluent investment banker living in Manhattan during the late 1980s. Behind his polished exterior lies a psychopathic killer who indulges in gruesome murders, often fueled by his obsession with materialism, status, and societal expectations.
As Bateman navigates through the competitive world of finance, he spirals into a dark abyss of violence and sadism. The film, and potentially the modern remake, skillfully intertwines Bateman’s double life – a sophisticated professional during the day and a sadistic murderer by night. The narrative is a chilling exploration of Bateman’s psyche, societal decadence, and the thin line between sanity and madness.
New Narrative Approach:
Acknowledging the sequel, “American Psycho 2,” released two years after the original, Lionsgate aims to distance itself from any direct connections and create a fresh narrative. The sequel, starring Mila Kunis, faced severe criticism from both critics and viewers. The studio is determined to carve a unique path with this modern remake.
The Unfulfilled Promise of a Series:
About three years ago, news of a potential “American Psycho” series surfaced, but updates on the project have been scarce. With the formalization of the film project, the series might be indefinitely postponed, emphasizing Lionsgate’s commitment to the cinematic remake.
Lionsgate Explores “The Dead Zone” Remake:
Simultaneously, producer Roy Lee is spearheading another project – the remake of “The Dead Zone,” based on Stephen King’s novel. The storyline revolves around Johnny Smith, a teacher emerging from a coma with a supernatural ability to witness past and future events. As he encounters Senatorial candidate Greg Stilson, the narrative takes a gripping turn, foreseeing Stilson’s rise to presidency and the triggering of a catastrophic nuclear war.
Seeking Visionary Talent:
In the quest for a visionary approach, producer Roy Lee is actively searching for a talented writer/director to steer the ship. This modern interpretation follows the footsteps of David Cronenberg’s 1983 film, with Christopher Walken portraying the character and Anthony Michael Hall’s six-season adaptation for the USA Network.
Lionsgate’s endeavor to weave contemporary threads into timeless narratives raises the question: Is their attempt to breathe new life into these classic tales a strategic move? As the studio embarks on these ambitious projects, only time will tell if their modern adaptations, coupled with the gripping plots, resonate with audiences and stand the test of cinematic evolution.
Source: Dark Horizons
