Mike Flanagan Calls ‘The Exorcist’ His Chance to Create “The Scariest Movie I’ve Ever Made”

Mike Flanagan has become one of the most influential voices in modern horror, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. For over a decade, the writer-director has delivered spine-chilling films like Oculus, Hush, and Doctor Sleep, while also creating hauntingly memorable TV series for Netflix, such as The Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass.

Now, Flanagan has been brought on by Blumhouse to revive The Exorcist franchise, following the disappointing box office performance of its latest installment. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Flanagan discussed his excitement for the project, calling it an opportunity to create one of the scariest films of his career.

During the interview, Flanagan was asked about his “radical new take” on The Exorcist horror series. While excited at the opportunity he admitted to feeling intimidated, saying:

I’ve always felt that there’s no point in going into a franchise or into a property that monolithic unless there’s something new you can bring. I chased The Exorcist very aggressively because I was convinced I had something that I could add. This is an opportunity to do something that I believe has never been done within the franchise — something that honors what came before it but isn’t built on nostalgia. I really just saw an opportunity to make the scariest movie I’ve ever made. I know expectations are high. No one’s more intimidated than I am.

Mike Flanagan | Via | The Hollywood Reporter

While specific plot details for Flanagan’s The Exorcist remain under wraps, the film is still in its early development stages. What is known is that it will not directly follow 2023’s Exorcist: Believer. The reboot, which was initially meant to kick off a trilogy, was part of Universal Pictures’ acquisition of the franchise’s global rights for a hefty $400 million. However, after the film underperformed at the box office, earning only $137 million worldwide against its $30 million budget, plans for a sequel were scrapped. With director David Gordon Green stepping away, Flanagan has been brought in to revitalize the franchise.

Flanagan’s version of The Exorcist is set to hit theaters on March 13, 2026. The project represents a significant opportunity for Flanagan to reshape the franchise and potentially restore its former glory.

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