Scarlett Johansson Leads New ‘Exorcist’ Movie
Scarlett Johansson is set to star in a new installment of the iconic “Exorcist” movie franchise, produced by Universal and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster. The film, which presents a “radical new take” on the classic horror tale, will be helmed by Mike Flanagan, who is also responsible for the screenplay and production.
Background of the Exorcist Franchise
The original “Exorcist,” released in 1973 and directed by William Friedkin, centers around a mother, Chris MacNeil, portrayed by Ellen Burstyn. She seeks help from two Catholic priests to exorcise a demonic entity from her 12-year-old daughter, played by Linda Blair. This landmark film, notable for its significant cultural impact, achieved global earnings of $441 million and garnered ten Academy Award nominations.
New Developments in the Franchise
Flanagan expressed his excitement about Johansson’s involvement, highlighting her remarkable acting range across diverse genres, from blockbusters to independent films. “Scarlett is a brilliant actress whose captivating performances always feel grounded and real,” he stated.
In 2021, Universal acquired the rights to create a new “Exorcist” trilogy for $400 million. However, the first film in this new series, “The Exorcist: Believer,” released in 2023, fell short of expectations, earning $136 million worldwide. Despite bringing back Burstyn and introducing new characters, it failed to generate sufficient interest for sequels.
Upcoming Film Details
- Setting: The new film will occur in the same universe as the 1973 original and will not be a sequel to “Believer.”
- Filming Location: Production will take place in New York City.
- Cast: Further details on the plot and additional cast members remain undisclosed.
Johansson’s Recent Projects
Scarlett Johansson recently contributed to another franchise revival for Universal with the blockbuster “Jurassic World Rebirth,” which amassed $868 million globally. In addition to her acting, she made her directorial debut in 2023 with “Eleanor the Great,” a dramedy featuring June Squibb.
This upcoming “Exorcist” film marks an exciting development for fans, as it seeks to reinvigorate a classic horror legacy while integrating new storytelling approaches.
