Flanagan's 'The Exorcist: Martyrs' Reboots Franchise with Johansson

Key points

• The trailer for 'The Exorcist: Martyrs' was unveiled at New York City Comic Con, featuring Scarlett Johansson as homicide detective Julie Miller.
• The film is set for a March 12, 2027, theatrical release, delayed from an original 2026 schedule due to production issues.
• Universal acquired the rights to a new trilogy for $400 million in 2021, but 'Martyrs' is not a direct sequel to the 2023 film 'Believer.'
• The cast includes Chiwetel Ejiofor, John Leguizamo, Laurence Fishburne, Diane Lane, and Jacobi Jupe.
• Flanagan described the project as his scariest work, aiming to take the franchise in a completely different direction.

Background

Scarlett Johansson has been active in multiple projects, including James Gray's 'Paper Tiger' and Brad Bird's 'Ray Gunn,' while also closing her skincare brand, The Outset. The 'Exorcist' franchise previously saw 'Believer' earn $137 million globally, leading to the cancellation of the planned 'Deceiver.'

How outlets are covering it

Variety and The Hollywood Reporter both confirm the March 12, 2027, release date and the involvement of Blumhouse. THR emphasizes the film as a 'radical reboot' following the franchise's box office struggles, while Variety highlights Flanagan's collaboration with Blumhouse and the specific plot details involving a priest and a serial killer. Esquire provides minimal additional detail, focusing on Flanagan's role in the horror series.

Why it matters

The film represents a significant attempt by Universal to revitalize a major horror franchise after a costly and underperforming trilogy. The involvement of high-profile talent like Scarlett Johansson and the creative direction of Mike Flanagan could signal a shift in the franchise's tone and commercial viability.

What to watch

The film is scheduled for a wide theatrical release on March 12, 2027. Universal may announce further details regarding the remaining films in the trilogy, though 'The Exorcist: Deceiver' was previously scrapped.