Scarlett Johansson has fought Thanos, dinosaurs, and will now star in the upcoming The Exorcist film from Universal and Mike Flanagan. Deadline was first with the news that the superstar actress was joining the film.
“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,” said Flanagan.
Johansson’s addition likely means that Universal means business with this next film. She’s a box office superstar and would provide some much-needed star power to the series after The Exorcist: Believer underperformed at the box office. This all comes after Universal paid $400 million for the rights to the series in July 2021. David Gordon Green was originally set to make a trilogy of films, but after Believer didn’t do as well, he dropped out of the next film. Universal wasted no time getting Mike Flanagan on board to write and direct the next film.
Johansson was on board to lead the film after a meeting between her and the studio. Deadline’s sources state “scheduling had to be worked out with a couple upcoming projects but that this film will likely be her next up on her docket to shoot. The project also gives Johansson her first legit horror film in long and successful career.”
Is It A Sequel? A Reboot? Something Else For The Exorcist?
The film will tell an all-new story in the same universe as the original film, but won’t be a sequel or a remake or a reboot. It is produced by Blumhouse-Atomic Monster, Morgan Creek Entertainment and Flanagan, who will also write and direct via his Red Room Pictures banner. Alexandra Magistro will also executive produce for Red Room Pictures. David Robinson produces for Morgan Creek Entertainment. Jason Blum and Ryan Turek serve as producer and executive producer for Blumhouse-Atomic Monster.
We’ll keep you updated on all things The Exorcist as we get more news.
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Source: Deadline
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