The upcoming reimagining of The Exorcist continues to bolster its cast, adding a heavyweight performer to a lineup that already includes Scarlett Johansson, Diane Lane, and Chiwetel Ejiofor. Variety confirms that Laurence Fishburne has joined the production, marking his first collaboration with director Mike Flanagan.
The project arrives in the wake of a largely unsuccessful 2023 attempt to revive the franchise with The Exorcist: Believer. That film, despite a significant investment from Universal and Blumhouse, underperformed both critically and at the box office. The financial commitment to the Exorcist rights – estimated around $400 million – clearly signaled the studio’s desire to successfully re-establish the iconic horror property, and the shift to Flanagan, a critically acclaimed horror director, suggests a new approach.
Flanagan’s involvement is particularly noteworthy. He’s known for his character-driven horror, exemplified by series like The Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass, as well as his 2022 film Doctor Sleep. His track record suggests a focus on atmosphere and psychological tension, a departure from the more visceral approach of some recent horror reboots. The addition of Fishburne, a veteran actor with a commanding screen presence, further reinforces the impression that this iteration of The Exorcist aims for a more sophisticated and nuanced tone.
Details regarding Fishburne’s role remain under wraps, but his casting immediately elevates the project’s profile. He’s a highly respected actor with a career spanning decades, achieving early recognition for roles in films like Apocalypse Now and The Color Purple, and achieving widespread fame as Morpheus in The Matrix franchise. His presence alongside Johansson and Ejiofor signals a commitment to attracting top-tier talent.
The new film, which has also been titled The Exorcist: Martyrs (The Movie Blog), will tell an entirely original story, distinct from the narrative threads established in The Exorcist: Believer. Flanagan has previously indicated that this installment will explore a different demonic mythology while still honoring the core themes of the original 1973 film. Early reports suggest the story will center on a mother (Johansson) and her son (Jacobi Jupe), with the latter potentially becoming possessed.
Production is slated to take place in New York City, providing a distinctly urban backdrop for the horror. This choice of location is a deliberate one, aiming for a grittier and more realistic aesthetic than some previous entries in the franchise. The film is a collaboration between Blumhouse-Atomic Monster and Morgan Creek Entertainment, with Flanagan producing through his Red Room Pictures. This partnership suggests a substantial budget and a high level of creative control for the director.
Fishburne’s addition is particularly interesting given his relatively limited involvement in the horror genre. His last foray into the genre was Event Horizon, released decades ago. His return to horror, coupled with Flanagan’s established reputation, generates considerable anticipation among genre fans.
The film is currently scheduled for a wide theatrical release on . This release date allows ample time for post-production and marketing, and positions the film for a potentially strong showing during a typically competitive spring movie season. The success of this reboot will likely hinge on Flanagan’s ability to deliver a genuinely terrifying and emotionally resonant story, and the assembled cast certainly provides a strong foundation for achieving that goal.
The casting of Fishburne, alongside Johansson, Lane, and Ejiofor, underscores the ambition of this project. It’s a clear signal that Universal and Blumhouse are aiming to create not just another horror sequel, but a significant cinematic event that can recapture the cultural impact of the original Exorcist.
