Scarlett Johansson is set to star in the next “Exorcist” movie, produced by Universal and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster. Mike Flanagan, known for “Doctor Sleep,” is writing, directing, and producing this fresh take on the classic horror story. The original “Exorcist,” released in 1973, tells the chilling tale of a mother, played by Ellen Burstyn, who seeks help from two priests to save her possessed daughter, portrayed by Linda Blair. This film was a major success, earning $441 million worldwide and receiving ten Oscar nominations.
Flanagan praised Johansson, saying, “She’s a brilliant actress whose captivating performances always feel grounded and real.” This new installment aims to revive excitement around the franchise.
In 2021, Universal paid a hefty $400 million for the rights to make a new “Exorcist” trilogy. However, their first attempt, “The Exorcist: Believer,” released in 2023, didn’t ignite the expected interest. While it grossed $136 million, it fell short of sparking further sequels.
The upcoming film will exist within the universe of the 1973 classic but will not serve as a sequel to “Believer.” Currently, details about the plot and the rest of the cast are still under wraps, but filming is planned for New York City.
Interestingly, Johansson recently helped reboot another franchise for Universal with “Jurassic World Rebirth,” which made $868 million globally. An Oscar nominee for her roles in “Marriage Story” and “Jojo Rabbit,” she also directed “Eleanor the Great” this year, showcasing her diverse talents.
As we look toward the future of horror films, the success of classic reboots reflects a trend. Audiences crave nostalgia but also want new takes on beloved stories. It’ll be exciting to see how Johansson and Flanagan will shape this next chapter in the “Exorcist” saga. Just like in the past, horror films continue to evolve while engaging both new and longtime fans.
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Mike Flanagan,Scarlett Johansson,The Exorcist
