Mike Flanagan to Helm New Take on The Exorcist Franchise

The change in direction comes nearly three years after Universal announced a $400 million megadeal to make a trilogy of ‘The Exorcist’ films.

Mike Flanagan, known for directing Stephen King adaptations like Doctor Sleep and Gerald’s Game, will write, direct, and produce what Blumhouse describes as a radical new take on The Exorcist franchise. This new direction is part of a shift following the lukewarm reception to David Gordon Green’s The Exorcist: Believer.

A Polarizing Reception Paves the Way

The announced $400 million megadeal to produce a trilogy of Exorcist films was upended after negative reviews and a $137 million box office haul for The Exorcist: Believer. Green, known for his work on Universal and Blumhouse’s hit Halloween movies, struggled to strike a chord with audiences this time around.

Bringing Horror Expertise

Flanagan is a respected figure in the horror arena. He built his reputation with Stephen King adaptations like Gerald’s Game and TV shows such as The Haunting of Hill House. His proficiency has earned him a loyal fanbase among horror enthusiasts. Notably, his involvement in the new The Exorcist project was rumored weeks before confirmation, thanks to The Insneider newsletter.

The Exorcist is one of the reasons I became a filmmaker, and it is an honor to have the chance to try something fresh, bold and terrifying within its universe, said Flanagan. His partnership with Blumhouse has brought about some favorite pieces in his portfolio: Oculus, Hush, and Ouija: Origin of Evil.

What This Move Means for The Franchise

This shift marks the end of plans for further sequels in Green’s vision of the franchise. Heeding fans’ calls for innovation, Flanagan will now helm the future of this horror classic, promising a departure from Green’s established narrative.

With Ellen Burstyn having reprised her iconic role as Chris MacNeil in 2023’s The Exorcist: Believer, Flanagan’s fresh take could introduce new familiar faces or delve deep into the franchise’s lore, offering audiences something both nostalgic and novel.

A New Chapter Begins

As anticipation builds, audiences remain eager to see how Flanagan will blend his distinctive style with the chilling legacy of The Exorcist. With producers like Trevor Macy onboard via Intrepid Pictures and Mike’s efforts under Red Room Pictures, all eyes are on this next chapter in horror history.