Scarlett Johansson Joins Forces With Mike Flanagan For Bold New Exorcist Movie

Scarlett

Johansson has been confirmed to star in the next Exorcist movie for Universal and Blumhouse–Atomic Monster. The film will be written, directed, and produced by Mike Flanagan, who is crafting what has been described as a “radical new take” on the iconic horror franchise.

Johansson’s Momentum Continues

Scarlett Johansson recently helped revive another major Universal franchise with Jurassic World Rebirth

, which grossed $868 million worldwide this summer. An Oscar nominee for Marriage Story and Jojo Rabbit, she also made her directorial debut earlier this year with Eleanor the Great, starring June Squibb.Praising her talent, Flanagan said, “Scarlett is a brilliant actress whose captivating performances always feel grounded and real, from genre films to summer blockbusters, and I couldn’t be happier to have her join this ‘Exorcist’ film.”

A Standalone Installment in the Original Universe

Flanagan’s upcoming film will exist in the same universe as the 1973 classic but will not serve as a sequel to Believer. Beyond this, the plot remains tightly under wraps, and additional cast members are yet to be announced. Production is set to begin in New York City.ALSO READ: OG Ron Weasley Aka Rupert Grint Passes Baton To Alastair Stout Before Harry Potter Reboot Filming With THIS Sweet Gesture

A Fresh Vision for a Legendary Horror Classic

The original Exorcist (1973), directed by William Friedkin, told the terrifying story of a mother (Ellen Burstyn) seeking help from two Catholic priests to save her demonically possessed 12-year-old daughter (Linda Blair). The film became a critical and commercial triumph, earning $441 million worldwide and securing 10 Oscar nominations.In 2021, Universal invested $400 million to acquire rights for a new Exorcist trilogy. However, the first installment, The Exorcist: Believer (2023), despite bringing back Ellen Burstyn and introducing new characters, earned $136 million globally, a respectable figure but not strong enough to drive the planned franchise forward.