Scarlett Johansson has been announced as the lead in Mike Flanagan’s upcoming reimagining of the iconic horror franchise, “The Exorcist.” This new project is a collaboration between Blumhouse and Universal Pictures, marking a significant pivot for the franchise following its recent underperformance.
Flanagan, known for his work on acclaimed projects such as “Doctor Sleep” and “Gerald’s Game,” will serve as writer, director, and producer. His reputation extends to successful Netflix series like “The Haunting of Hill House” and “Midnight Mass,” which have garnered both critical and audience acclaim. With this new film, Flanagan aims to create something that respects the legacy of the original while exploring new creative territory.
Universal Pictures previously invested $400 million in 2021 to secure a new “Exorcist” trilogy, which was to be helmed by director David Gordon Green, known for 2018’s “Halloween.” Unfortunately, the first installment of this trilogy, “The Exorcist: Believer,” released in 2023, received negative reviews and only managed to gross $137 million at the box office, leading Universal to rethink its approach.
Given the disappointing outcome, the studio has now granted Flanagan complete creative control over the franchise. This shift aims to produce a fresh narrative that does not fall into the categories of reboot, remake, or sequel. Flanagan has expressed his desire to deliver a film that is “something that has never been done within the franchise,” striving to honor the original while avoiding reliance on nostalgia.
In a recent statement, Flanagan emphasized his goal of creating “the scariest movie” he has ever made. His vision appears to focus on innovative storytelling and psychological depth, setting high expectations for fans of the genre and the franchise alike.
Beyond “The Exorcist,” Flanagan is also engaged in developing a series based on Stephen King’s “Carrie” for Amazon MGM Studios, with filming for that project recently concluded. This further showcases his versatility and commitment to the horror genre, promising an exciting period ahead for both Flanagan and his audiences.
The announcement of Johansson’s involvement adds significant star power to the project, as the actress has a diverse filmography that includes blockbusters and critically acclaimed performances. Her presence is likely to attract attention and potentially draw in a wider audience.
As anticipation builds for Flanagan’s new vision for “The Exorcist,” fans and industry observers will be keen to see how this project unfolds and how it will contribute to the broader landscape of horror cinema.
