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Mary Harron, the director behind the iconic 2000 film American Psycho, has recently shared her insights on the Broadway musical adaptation that premiered in 2016. She expressed concerns that the musical’s approach to character development, particularly that of protagonist Patrick Bateman, may have undercut the story’s original essence.
In a discussion with Letterboxd, Harron remarked, “They want to give it a bit of heart. They want to give [Patrick] Bateman a bit of conscience.” She cautioned that many adaptations tend to fall into this narrative pitfall. While praising the set design for its reflection of the film’s aesthetic and expressing her admiration for composer Duncan Sheik, she noted, “I would have used the pop songs of the time. If you have the actor sing original songs, you’re trying to express their inner life in a way. I don’t think that works here because what is their inner life?”
The musical centers around Patrick Bateman, a young, affluent Wall Street banker characterized by his charming demeanor and insatiable desires. Throughout the day, he and his affluent circle engage in a lifestyle filled with fine dining, exclusive venues, and high-end fashion. However, as night falls, Bateman reveals a more sinister side, indicating that his facade is beginning to deteriorate.
Harron’s film, which debuted in 2000, featured notable performances from actors such as Christian Bale, Willem Dafoe, Jared Leto, Justin Theroux, and Reese Witherspoon. Over the years, the film has solidified its status as a cult classic. Recently, it was announced that director Luca Guadagnino is set to helm a new film adaptation of the story.
The musical adaptation boasts music and lyrics by the Tony and Grammy Award-winning Duncan Sheik, alongside a book by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, known for works like “Supergirl” and “Glee.” Directed by Rupert Goold, an Olivier Award recipient, the musical also features choreography by Lynne Page, a Tony Award nominee. The American Psycho musical made its Broadway debut at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre on March 24, 2016, with Benjamin Walker portraying Bateman. Prior to its Broadway run, the musical had been showcased in London’s West End in 2013, with Matt Smith in the lead role.
The Broadway iteration of American Psycho garnered significant attention, earning eight Outer Critics Circle Award nominations and winning two, alongside two Drama League nominations, eight Drama Desk nominations, and two Tony nominations.
Real Women Have Curves
James Earl Jones Theater (Broadway)
The upcoming show Real Women Have Curves promises to deliver a delightful and empowering experience on Broadway this April. Set in the summer of 1987, it follows Ana Garcia as she navigates her dreams of escaping East Los Angeles. When her family faces a pivotal challenge with an order for 200 dresses, Ana must balance her aspirations, her mother’s expectations, and the struggles of a community of women striving to succeed against all odds.
Source
www.broadwayworld.com