Luca Guadagnino in talks to direct new 'American Psycho' movie

Los Angeles: Filmmaker Luca Guadagnino is in discussion to direct a new take on the popular horror novel American Psycho.

The novel, written by Bret Easton Ellis and published in 1991, was earlier adapted into a 2000 movie, featuring Christian Bale in one of the most critically-acclaimed performances of his career.

Scott Z Burns, known for his work on movies such as Contagion, The Bourne Ultimatum and The Report, will pen the adaptation, reported entertainment news outlet Deadline.

The story is about Patrick Bateman, a wealthy, narcissistic, vain Manhattan investment banker who lives a double life as a serial killer.

The project comes from Lionsgate film and will be produced by Frenesy Films. It will be executive produced by Sam Pressman, the son of Edward R Pressman who had produced the original movie through his company Pressman Film.

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

Guadagnino, who earlier helmed Challengers, Suspiria, Bones and All, A Bigger Splash and Call Me By Your Name, most recently directed Queer, starring Daniel Craig.

He is currently working on After the Hunt with Julia Roberts playing the lead role.