Scarlett Johansson will join director Mike Flanagan for a new chapter in the iconic franchise, with Flanagan set to bring a fresh perspective to the Scarlett Johansson Exorcist movie. The film, recently confirmed to be moving forward, positions Johansson in an undisclosed role as Flanagan writes, produces, and directs the project set in the universe explored by the classic 1973 Exorcist film.
Mike Flanagan Takes Over the Franchise
The latest development follows a period of uncertainty regarding the future of the Exorcist series. After the release of Exorcist: Believer, helmed by David Gordon Green, received a poor response both commercially and critically, Green exited the project, and Universal’s plans for a new trilogy seemed jeopardized. Reports in May 2024 indicated that Mike Flanagan, acclaimed for his work on Midnight Mass, Doctor Sleep, and The Fall of the House of Usher, had stepped in to lead the direction of the franchise.
Rumors initially suggested Flanagan would continue the previously planned trilogy, but those were put to rest when the film was removed from Universal’s schedule. However, new information has confirmed that Flanagan remains committed to the Exorcist universe. According to Variety, he has crafted a “radical new take” on the series, moving beyond continuations of previous films.
Connection to the Original Exorcist
This installment will not serve as a sequel to Exorcist: Believer. Instead, Flanagan’s narrative will be set within the timeline of the original 1973 film. The source material follows Ellen Burstyn’s portrayal of a mother seeking the help of two Catholic priests for her possessed daughter, played by Linda Blair. While the upcoming movie is rooted in this established universe, details about the story remain tightly under wraps.
Scarlett Johansson Joins the New Film
The announcement of Scarlett Johansson’s involvement adds a significant star to the project. Johansson, who recently appeared in the latest Jurassic World film, has experience revitalizing major franchises. Her role in Flanagan’s Exorcist movie has not been disclosed, leading to much speculation about whether she will portray a character undergoing possession or someone confronting the supernatural threat.
Flanagan commented on Johansson’s casting by stating,
“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”
—Mike Flanagan, writer/director.
Anticipation and Future Prospects
Specific plot information about Flanagan’s script is not yet available, but the film is expected to diverge significantly from previous entries in the Exorcist franchise. With Flanagan’s reputation established by works like Midnight Mass and a cast headlined by Johansson, anticipation is building among fans and industry observers. The direction of the Scarlett Johansson Exorcist movie remains a closely guarded secret, but the creative team’s pedigree has set expectations high for what comes next in this storied universe.
