Scarlett Johansson is officially stepping into the world of demonic horror. The Oscar-nominated actor has signed on to star in the next instalment of ‘The Exorcist’ franchise for Universal and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster.
The film will be written, directed and produced by acclaimed horror auteur Mike Flanagan, known for ‘The Haunting of Hill House,’ ‘Doctor Sleep,’ and ‘Gerald’s Game.’ His version has been described as a “radical new take” on the iconic property.
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The original 1973 ‘The Exorcist,’ directed by William Friedkin, centred on a desperate mother (Ellen Burstyn) seeking the help of two Catholic priests to save her demonically possessed 12-year-old daughter (Linda Blair). It became a cultural phenomenon, earning $441 million worldwide and receiving 10 Academy Award nominations, securing its status as one of the most influential horror films ever made.
Universal confirms that Flanagan’s upcoming entry will be set within the same universe as the 1973 classic, but it will not serve as a sequel to 2023’s ‘The Exorcist: Believer.’ Plot specifics remain tightly under wraps, and additional casting has yet to be announced.
Production is slated to begin in New York City.
