The horrors are coming along nicely. In 2024, Mike Flanagan signed on for a new Exorcist film—one that was originally assumed to be the follow-up to David Gordon Green’s poorly received The Exorcist: Believer. But Flanagan is instead doing his own thing. In November, Scarlett Johansson signed on to star in a film that is reportedly a “radical new take” on the Exorcist franchise, set in the same universe as the 1973 original.
It was previously announced that Johansson will be joined by Jacobi Jupe (Hamnet), who plays her child, and Diane Lane, whose role remains unknown. One is tempted, of course, to assume that young Jupe will wind up possessed, in keeping with the plot of the original film, but one actually knows nothing at all. Perhaps this time it’s a mother facing possession. Flanagan, who is writing and directing, is not exactly known for taking the most straightforward options.
Now we’ve got one more star in a mysterious role: Chiwetel Ejiofor (The Old Guard, Children of Men) has also joined the cast, reuniting him with his Life of Chuck director. (Flanagan does love to reuse his ensemble!)
According to The Hollywood Reporter, “Sources say the actor will be playing an ex-con turned priest.”
The Exorcist is expected to begin production in New York City next month. It’s set to begin haunting theaters on March 12, 2027.
