Scarlett Johansson Lands Lead Role in Mike Flanagan’s New ‘Exorcist’ Film

Scarlett Johansson steps into horror territory once more with her casting as the lead in a fresh take on the iconic ‘Exorcist’ franchise. The project, helmed by writer-director Mike Flanagan, promises a radical departure from prior entries while remaining tethered to the 1973 William Friedkin original. Universal Pictures and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster announced the development on November 25, 2025, positioning the film as a standalone entry in the established universe.

Flanagan, known for Netflix series such as ‘The Haunting of Hill House’ and ‘Midnight Mass’, takes on triple duties as writer, director, and producer. His involvement signals a blend of psychological depth and supernatural tension, hallmarks of his previous works. The untitled film will shoot primarily in New York City, with production slated to begin in early 2026 under the oversight of Blumhouse’s Jason Blum and James Wan of Atomic Monster.

Johansson’s role remains under wraps, but sources describe it as a complex central figure driving the narrative’s emotional core. The actress, fresh off voicing Ash in ‘Transformers One’ and starring in ‘Fly Me to the Moon’, brings a versatile resume to the genre. Her last foray into scares came with 2019’s ‘Under the Shadow’, a critically acclaimed Iranian horror film.

No additional cast members have been revealed, though Flanagan’s collaborations often feature ensembles from his prior projects. The budget remains undisclosed, but Blumhouse’s model favors mid-range investments yielding high returns, as seen with ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s’ grossing over $290 million worldwide on a $20 million outlay. Release timing aligns with Universal’s 2027 horror slate, potentially targeting fall for awards buzz.

This iteration sidesteps direct continuity with 2023’s ‘The Exorcist: Believer’, which underperformed at $137 million against a $30 million budget. That film’s lukewarm reception, holding a 22% Rotten Tomatoes score, underscores the stakes for Flanagan’s vision. Industry analysts note the franchise’s enduring appeal, with the original earning $441 million adjusted for inflation.

Flanagan praised Johansson in the announcement, stating she possesses “a brilliant actress whose captivating performances always feel grounded and real, from genre films to summer blockbusters.” Her selection reflects a push for A-list talent in elevated horror, mirroring successes like ‘The Invisible Man’ with Elisabeth Moss. Pre-production advances swiftly, with script revisions finalized last month.

The ‘Exorcist’ saga, based on William Peter Blatty’s 1971 novel, has spawned sequels, prequels, and a television series since its debut. Friedkin’s film, starring Linda Blair as the possessed Regan MacNeil, won two Oscars and reshaped cinematic terror. Johansson’s involvement could revitalize interest amid a crowded 2027 landscape featuring ‘Avatar 3’ and Marvel’s ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’.

Blumhouse’s track record with reboots, including ‘Halloween’ and ‘Scream’, bolsters expectations for box office viability. Wan, producer on ‘M3GAN’ and ‘Insidious’, ensures technical polish in effects and sound design. Filming in New York leverages urban grit for atmospheric dread, contrasting the original’s Georgetown settings.

As details emerge, the project stands as a pivotal test for the franchise’s longevity. Johansson’s commitment spans multiple months, overlapping her ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ obligations. Flanagan’s horror pedigree, coupled with her star power, positions the film for critical and commercial impact in a post-pandemic market favoring familiar IPs.