Scarlett Johansson to Headline Mike Flanagan’s New Exorcist Movie Revival

Academy Award-nominated actress Scarlett Johansson is joining the iconic horror franchise. She will star in a new Exorcist film directed by acclaimed horror maestro Mike Flanagan. The project is a major priority for Blumhouse and Atomic Monster studios. This news was first reported by Deadline.

The studios are aiming to revitalize the franchise after the last installment underperformed. Flanagan, known for hits like The Haunting of Hill House, will write and direct. His involvement signals a serious creative commitment.

Strategic Casting for a Franchise Reset

Securing a star of Johansson’s caliber is a significant move. According to Deadline, the studios are in talks with several top-tier actors. Johansson is seen as the ideal fit for the lead role.

Flanagan expressed his excitement about the casting. He praised Johansson as a “brilliant actress” whose performances feel “grounded and real.” He also called it an honor to try something “fresh, bold, and terrifying” within The Exorcist universe. This project reunites him with Blumhouse, with whom he has a strong working history.

Navigating Past Box Office Challenges

The new film arrives following 2023’s The Exorcist: Believer. That movie grossed $136.2 million worldwide. The results were considered disappointing.

NBC Universal, Peacock, and Blumhouse had acquired the rights for $400 million in 2021. The previous director, David Gordon Green, subsequently exited the franchise. The new film with Johansson and Flanagan represents a clear course correction. It aims to recapture the critical and commercial success of the original classic.

Johansson is coming off a major box office hit with Jurassic World: Rebirth. Her involvement adds considerable star power to the horror project. Her specific role in the new Exorcist movie is being kept under wraps for now.

This new Exorcist movie is a high-stakes venture for all involved. The combination of Scarlett Johansson’s star power and Mike Flanagan’s horror expertise creates immense anticipation. Fans are eager to see this fresh take on a legendary franchise.

Info at your fingertips

Who is directing the new Exorcist movie?

Mike Flanagan is directing the new film. He is the creator of popular horror series like *The Haunting of Hill House* and *Midnight Mass*. He will also write the screenplay.

How did the last Exorcist movie perform?

The last film, *The Exorcist: Believer* (2023), underperformed at the box office. It grossed $136.2 million globally. This led to a strategic shift for the franchise.

What was Scarlett Johansson’s recent film?

She recently starred in *Jurassic World: Rebirth*. The film was a major box office success. It earned over $869 million worldwide.

What studios are producing this film?

The movie is a production from Blumhouse and Atomic Monster. Jason Blum is producing. The project is a key priority for both studios.

Why is this casting important for the franchise?

Signing an A-list star like Johansson brings new credibility and attention. It signals a serious commitment to quality following the previous film’s performance. Her involvement is seen as a major step in revitalizing the series.