Mary Harron Reflects on the Enduring Relevance of American Psycho at Its 25th Anniversary
During the 2025 Tribeca Festival on June 7, director Mary Harron celebrated the 25th anniversary of the cult classic American Psycho, asserting that its themes resonate just as strongly today as they did upon its release in 2000. In a candid discussion with comedian Hasan Minhaj, Harron explored the film’s lasting impact and its commentary on contemporary society.
Set in the late 1980s, American Psycho follows the life of investment banker Patrick Bateman, played by Christian Bale, who grapples with dark, murderous fantasies. Harron reflected on the film’s creation, noting that at the time, Wall Street employees felt like "dinosaurs," and she anticipated a shift away from such blatant greed. "While we might not see men like that anymore, the underlying issues of greed and rapacious behavior still exist," she stated. Harron pointed out that while these behaviors have become more concealed over the years, there remains a troubling trend of people "reveling in bad behavior" and expressing overt racism.
Minhaj remarked that Bateman’s voiceovers often articulated what others might think but hesitate to say aloud, a sentiment that feels particularly relevant today as many seem unafraid to express hateful rhetoric. Harron agreed, describing Bateman not just as a character but as a representation of the darker sides of 20th-century capitalism and the Reagan era. "Bateman embodies the cruelty, sexism, and racism that some individuals still glorify today," she noted, highlighting the character’s role in portraying the "triumph of male dominance and money."
When asked if current realities were echoing the film’s narrative, Harron confessed her perspective has shifted since its production. "I used to believe that history bends toward justice, but now it feels more like a corkscrew or a rollercoaster," she admitted. Harron expressed concern over the state of the world in 2025, mentioning the rise of open fascism and how this societal direction might explain the film’s continued popularity.
As the conversation shifted to Bateman’s character, Minhaj pointed out that some viewers find him aspirational. Harron shared her surprise at the film’s appeal among individuals in finance, saying, "Guinevere and I were bewildered—this film is a satire!" She theorized that viewers may be drawn to Bateman’s material success and his unfettered lifestyle.
Harron also discussed the film’s references to the Trump family, noting that Donald Trump appeared in the original 1991 novel by Bret Easton Ellis. "In the ’80s, Trump was more of a joke than a celebrity in New York," Harron explained, reflecting on how her character Evelyn Williams, portrayed by Reese Witherspoon, criticized Bateman’s fascination with Trump.
The director reminisced about the casting journey for Bateman, revealing that Christian Bale was the ideal choice after several recasts, including a brief stint with Leonardo DiCaprio. "Bale was the only actor who found the script as funny as I did," Harron said, emphasizing their shared sense of humor. "Many other actors saw Bateman as cool, but I wanted to capture the absurdity of the character."
Harron concluded by reflecting on the challenges of getting American Psycho produced, sharing her disbelief at its eventual acceptance and legacy. "I never imagined it would be embraced the way it has been," she remarked, highlighting the film’s significant cultural impact over the past quarter-century.
As American Psycho continues to resonate with audiences, Harron’s insights underscore the film’s critical exploration of societal issues that remain relevant today.
