Renowned filmmaker Mike Flanagan, known for his work on “The Life of Chuck,” is currently in talks about the next instalment of the “Exorcist” film series for Blumhouse and Universal Pictures.
Potential Deal for Flanagan
While discussions are ongoing, neither Universal nor Blumhouse have provided official comments on the matter. If negotiations are successful, Flanagan would step into the role previously vacated by David Gordon Green, who departed the franchise earlier this year.
In July 2021, Universal and Blumhouse acquired the rights to “The Exorcist” from Morgan Creek for $400 million. At that time, plans were set in motion for a new series of films, although it remains uncertain whether Flanagan’s involvement would extend beyond one movie.
Box Office Performance of Previous Installment
The trilogy’s first film, “The Exorcist: Believer,” starred Leslie Odom Jr. alongside franchise veteran Ellen Burstyn. It premiered with domestic earnings below expectations, generating $26.4 million, and ultimately amassed $65.5 million in the U.S./Canada and $136.2 million worldwide.
Rescheduling of Sequel
Originally slated for release on April 18, 2025, the sequel “The Exorcist: Deceiver” was postponed following David Gordon Green’s departure. This delay allowed Lionsgate’s Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” to take its place in the release schedule.
Mike Flanagan’s Recent Projects
Flanagan’s recent work includes “The Life of Chuck,” an adaptation of a Stephen King story featuring Tom Hiddleston and Mark Hamill. Before this, he created “The Fall of the House of Usher,” a gothic horror miniseries inspired by Edgar Allen Poe’s works, for Netflix.
Flanagan has a history of adapting Stephen King’s novels, having directed projects like “Doctor Sleep” and “Gerald’s Game.” His filmography also includes titles such as “Ouija: Origin of Evil” and “Oculus,” as well as notable series like “The Haunting of Hill House,” “The Haunting of Bly Manor,” and “The Midnight Club.” He operates Intrepid Pictures alongside Trevor Macy.
