Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson is gearing up to enter the horror genre with the upcoming “Exorcist” movie, a collaboration between Universal and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster.
About the New “Exorcist”
The new “Exorcist” will take place within the same universe as the iconic 1973 film and will not serve as a sequel to “Believer.” Specific plot details and additional cast members have yet to be confirmed. Filming is scheduled to occur in New York City, as reported by variety.com.
Creative Leadership
Mike Flanagan is at the helm as writer, director, and producer of this latest installment, touted as a “radical new take” on the original concept.
“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, who is well-known for his work on “Doctor Sleep” and “The Life of Chuck.”
Historical Context
The original “Exorcist,” directed by William Friedkin, follows a mother who hires two Catholic priests to perform an exorcism on her demonically possessed 12-year-old daughter. Released in 1973, the film earned critical acclaim and commercial success, grossing $441 million worldwide and receiving 10 Oscar nominations.
Johansson’s Recent Ventures
Johansson recently revitalized another major franchise for Universal with this summer’s “Jurassic World Rebirth,” which grossed $868 million globally. An Oscar nominee for her roles in “Marriage Story” and “Jojo Rabbit,” Johansson made her directorial debut earlier this year with “Eleanor the Great,” a feel-good dramedy featuring June Squibb.
Recognized as one of the highest-grossing lead actresses in cinematic history, Johansson’s accolades include a British Academy Film Award, a Tony Award, and nominations for two Academy Awards and five Golden Globe Awards.
Upcoming Projects
Next, she will appear in “Ray Gunn,” directed by Brad Bird, alongside voice talents like Sam Rockwell, Jamie Costa, and John Ratzenberger. Following that, she has “Paper Tiger” with Adam Driver and Miles Teller, which tells the story of two brothers chasing the American Dream while getting caught in a menacing Russian mafia plot that threatens their family and tests their bond amid potential betrayal.