AceShowbiz - Luca Guadagnino, celebrated for his work on films like "Call Me by Your Name" and "Suspiria," is in final negotiations to direct a new adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis' contentious novel "American Psycho." Known for its graphic violence and intense detail of Manhattan's high-stakes financial world, Ellis' 1991 novel is set for a fresh cinematic take by Lionsgate.

Scott Z. Burns, who has a knack for hard-hitting dramas as seen in his screenplay for "The Bourne Ultimatum," is on board to pen the new script. Rather than retracing the steps of Mary Harron's 2000 film adaptation, this venture aims to offer a novel perspective on the iconic character Patrick Bateman, an investment banker living a double life as a serial killer.

"We are thrilled to add another elite filmmaker to our upcoming slate," said Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson. "Luca is a brilliant artist, and the perfect visionary to create a whole new interpretation of this potent and classic IP."

The production will be spearheaded by Frenesy Films, with Sam Pressman of Pressman Films serving as executive producer. Sam's father, Edward R. Pressman, was the producer of the original 2000 adaptation starring Christian Bale. This familial continuity promises an intriguing bridge between the two film versions.

Guadagnino is hardly taking a break. His most recent film, "Challengers," opened to strong box office numbers, and his next project, "Queer" starring Daniel Craig, is set to hit theaters on November 27. Guadagnino is also in post-production for "After the Hunt," featuring Julia Roberts and Andrew Garfield.

Scott Z. Burns has also been busy, recently creating the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series "Extrapolations" and working on an upcoming Netflix series "Thumblite" starring Rosamund Pike. His repertoire also includes films like "The Report" and "Side Effects."

For young audiences unfamiliar with the novel or its previous film adaptation, this new take on "American Psycho" promises to reinvigorate interest in one of the most provocative characters in modern literature. Guadagnino's vision, combined with Burns' screenwriting prowess, sets high expectations for a reimagining that resonates with both fans of the original and new viewers alike.