Introduction

In one terse tweet posted on October 27 2025, the X-account SolaceCinema suggested that Margot Robbie is in talks to lead a gender-swapped remake of the cult film American Psycho. Because the tweet blends a provocative claim with striking visuals, it has sparked considerable online discussion. But how much of it is substantiated? Let’s dive in.

What We Do Know

1. Director and project in motion. Luca Guadagnino—the director known for Call Me by Your Name and Challengers—is confirmed to be attached to a new film adaptation of the novel American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis.
2. Script and production company. The screenplay is being developed by Scott Z. Burns for production by Lionsgate.
3. No casting confirmation yet. While various casting names have circulated—including Austin Butler and Patrick Schwarzenegger—none of them (or Robbie) have officially been confirmed.
4. The Margot Robbie rumour. The specific claim: Margot Robbie is reportedly in advanced discussions to play a “female version” of the Bateman-type lead in this remake.

What We Don’t Know / What is Speculation

• Whether the final film will truly be a gender-swapped version (female lead instead of male) or simply a reinterpretation remains unconfirmed.
• Whether Robbie has formally accepted the role, signed on, or whether the project is still in early development.
• Key production details: release date, full cast, budget, whether it will follow the novel closely or diverge significantly.
• How the tone, themes or narrative might change in a gender-swapped context (if indeed it goes that way).

Why the Gender-Swap Rumour is Important

Cultural & thematic implications

• The original American Psycho (2000 film, directed by Mary Harron) was a satirical critique of 1980s yuppie culture, masculinity, consumerism and violence. Re-casting the lead as female could recalibrate the themes:
• It might shift focus from hypermasculinity to different forms of misogyny, status obsession, gendered expectations of power.
• A female killer protagonist could open new commentary on gender, violence, identity and society.
• It may also draw scrutiny: will the film retain the original’s edge, or will it soften or alter its critique?

Commercial appeal

• Robbie is a box-office and awards-friendly star; her involvement would generate media coverage.
• Gender-swap remakes provoke discussion and attention—sometimes successful, sometimes controversial.
• Audiences may be curious how a well-known property is reinterpreted, which can drive clicks and social engagement.

Risks & Questions

• Changing the gender of the lead carries risk of losing some of the original’s tone or message—critics may argue it dilutes the critique.
• Fans of the original may resist major departures; expectations will be high because the original has a cult status.
• If rumours remain unverified, the announcement may disappoint or backlash may emerge if the final product shifts too far.

What To Watch Next

• Official casting announcements from Lionsgate, Guadagnino’s team or Robbie’s representatives.
• Production updates: start of filming, script details, whether the project is described as a “remake”, a “re-imagining”, or a “new adaptation”.
• Marketing materials to see how the project will be positioned (horror-thriller, satirical drama, etc.).
• How media and social commentary respond to the gender-swap concept and how it’s executed.

FAQs

Q1: Is the original American Psycho being remade or just adapted?
A: The project is described as a “new interpretation” rather than a straight remake of the 2000 film.

Q2: Has Margot Robbie officially signed on?
A: Not at this time. The reports say she is “in talks” or “in advanced discussions”, but no official confirmation.

Q3: Why does the gender-swap matter?
A: Because it changes not just casting, but potentially the thematic frame: moving from a male protagonist saturated in toxic masculinity to a female lead might shift focus to different social dynamics, or risk undermining the original’s critique.

Q4: When is the film likely to release?
A: No official date has been announced. With major films, casting and production announcements sometimes take months or years.

Q5: Could this derail the original’s cult appeal?
A: Potentially. If the tone changes drastically, some fans may feel it diverges too far. Conversely, a well-executed reinterpretation could expand the original’s legacy.

Conclusion

In neutral reflection: the rumour that Margot Robbie will lead a gender-swapped version of American Psycho is intriguing, but should be treated with caution. While the key pieces—director, script, studio—are in place, the casting and project details are not yet confirmed. If realised, the film could offer a bold re-examination of its source material, reflecting changing cultural perspectives. But execution will determine whether it becomes a meaningful reinterpretation or simply a headline-grabbing rerun. As viewers and fans, it is wise to watch for official announcements and evaluate how well the creative vision holds up beyond the initial hype.