Luca Guadagnino to direct new 'American Psycho' movie with Scott Z Burns at Lionsgate.

Exclusive: He even continues his festivities in an adaptation of William S. Burroughs silent, Luca Guadagnino seems to have set his sights on another high-profile adaptation. Sources tell Deadline that he is in final talks for a new interpretation of the book American Psycho By Brett Easton Ellis for Lionsgate. Scott Z. Barnes will write the adaptation. The Lionsgate film will be produced by French Films, and executive produced by Sam Pressman, Edward R. Pressman's son, producer of the original 2002 movie, Pressman Films.

Ellis's novel was a groundbreaking and controversial work when it was published in 1991, not only for its iconic Manhattan investment banker turned serial killer but also for its incredible attention to detail in the world it delves into, as well as its graphic violence. The main character is distributed, causing it to be censored in various countries.

While the first film, starring Christian Bale and directed by Mary Harron, has gained popularity over the years, sources say that Guadagnino's film will be a new adaptation of Ellis' novel rather than a remake. The property is something the studio has been trying to crack for a while, and Guadagnino felt after a recent meeting with execs that he was the perfect choice to bring in a new take.

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

Guadagnino's most recent film, ChallengersStarring Zendaya, it opened at No. 1 at the box office and overperformed with strong returns and reviews. His latest film, QueerStarring Daniel Craig, will be released by A24 on November 27 and has a festival run that includes its premiere at the London Film Festival last week.

The filmmaker is currently posted After huntingStarring Julia Roberts. Includes previous work I love, Suspiria, bones and all, a big splash and Oscar winner call your name. Guadagnino is repped by CAA, Range Media Partners and Goodman, Genow, Schenkman, Smelkinson & Christopher.

Burns recently created the Apple TV+ limited series Extrapolation. His feature film screenplay credits include: Report side effects And The Bourne Ultimatum. It was also recently announced that he will produce the series Thumblight For Netflix and Media Race, it stars alongside Rosemund Pike.

Burns is repped by UTA, Range Media Partners, and Jackoway Austen Tyerman Wertheimer Mandelbaum Morris Bernstein Trattner Auerbach Hynick Jaime LeVine Sample & Klein.