More than two decades after its release, American Psycho continues to spark conversation—and even its own director didn’t expect that. Mary Harron, who directed the 2000 cult classic, recently expressed her surprise at how the film still resonates in today’s world, especially among younger audiences who weren’t even born when the movie was released.
In a recent interview, Harron said she’s often shocked by how American Psycho has become a pop culture touchstone, especially on social media. From viral memes of Patrick Bateman to deep-dive YouTube essays, the film has taken on a new life, one she never saw coming.
“It’s strange how people see themselves in it now,” Harron said. “Back then, it was seen as a brutal satire. However, people are now quoting it as if it’s a lifestyle. That’s fascinating—and a little terrifying.”
The film, starring Christian Bale as the eerily polished Wall Street killer Patrick Bateman, was initially controversial for its violent scenes and twisted humor. But in the age of influencer culture, materialism, and rising narcissism, many feel the movie hits harder than ever.
Critics and fans alike now call American Psycho a mirror of modern society, highlighting everything from toxic masculinity to the obsession with image and status. Its relevance today has made it a go-to reference for Gen Z TikTok creators and film analysts alike.
Harron says she doesn’t mind the attention but urges viewers not to miss the point: “It was always meant to be a warning, not a guide.”
As the internet continues to revive and reinterpret old movies, American Psycho proves that a film about an 1980s serial killer can still slice deep into the heart of today’s culture.