Mike Flanagan adapts The Exorcist
American director Mike Flanagan, known for adapting Stephen King's works, is set to adapt The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty. This marks Flanagan’s first project outside of Stephen King’s universe and signals a new direction for his career.New film returns to the source
The film, titled The Exorcist: Martyrs, aims to return to the source of the franchise, which has seen several forgettable episodes in previous adaptations. Flanagan’s version is intended to offer a fresh take on the original material.Franchise history and past adaptations
The original novel by Blatty, first published in 1971, was adapted into a film in 1973 by William Friedkin, followed by a sequel in 1977 directed by John Boorman, and a third installment directed by Blatty himself in 1980. These films established the Exorcist as a horror classic.Later attempts met with disappointment
Later attempts in 2004, 2005, and 2023 were met with disappointment, but Flanagan's adaptation has reignited interest in the franchise. His involvement has drawn attention from both fans and critics, who are eager to see how he approaches the material.Cast and release details
Flanagan has assembled a notable cast including Scarlett Johansson, Sasha Calle, Diane Lane, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Laurence Fishburne, and he has written the screenplay himself. The French release of the film is scheduled for March 10, 2027.
