Flanagan's Fearsome Foray: Crafting a Chilling New Chapter in the Exorcist Saga

Mike Flanagan, the acclaimed horror director behind Netflix's "The Haunting" anthology, is set to take on one of the most iconic horror franchises of all time – The Exorcist. With a self-professed "nauseous" feeling about the task at hand, Flanagan is determined to deliver the scariest film of his career, while respecting the legacy of the original 1973 classic.

Honoring the Past, Forging a Terrifying Future

Revering the Revered

Flanagan's reverence for the original "The Exorcist" is palpable. He acknowledges the formative impact the film had on him, admitting that he saw it at a young age and it "fucked [him] up." Recognizing the futility of attempting to remake or surpass the original, Flanagan has opted for a bold and innovative approach – creating a "completely new thing" that "rhymes with it and harmonizes with it, but isn't trying to replace it."

Exploring Untapped Potential

While the new "Exorcist" film will not be a retread or remake, Flanagan has expressed a keen interest in delving deeper into the franchise's lore. He has specifically highlighted his fascination with "The Exorcist III," praising its "best jump scare maybe in cinematic history" and the potential to "explore further" the ideas presented in that film.

Pushing the Boundaries of Horror

Flanagan's goal is to create the "scariest movie [he's] ever made," a bold ambition that speaks to his commitment to pushing the boundaries of the horror genre. With a deadline looming and the pressure of delivering a worthy addition to the iconic franchise, Flanagan is determined to craft a film that will "scare the shit out of" him, ensuring that it will leave a lasting impact on audiences.

Collaborative Creativity

Flanagan's creative process is not a solitary endeavor. He has assembled a talented team of collaborators, including frequent partners Kate Siegel and Carla Gugino, as well as Rahul Kohli. This collaborative approach allows Flanagan to tap into diverse perspectives and creative energies, further enhancing the potential for a truly remarkable and terrifying cinematic experience.

Navigating the Challenges

Flanagan's self-described "nauseous" feeling about the project underscores the immense pressure and responsibility he feels in tackling such a revered franchise. The task of crafting a new and compelling "Exorcist" story that honors the past while forging a bold new path is no easy feat. However, Flanagan's unwavering commitment to delivering a truly frightening and innovative film suggests that he is more than up to the challenge.

A Promising Future

As Flanagan races against the clock to complete the script by his November 1st deadline, the anticipation for his take on "The Exorcist" continues to build. With his proven track record of delivering chilling and thought-provoking horror, Flanagan's fans and horror enthusiasts alike eagerly await the unveiling of his vision – a vision that promises to redefine the boundaries of the genre and leave an indelible mark on the legacy of one of the most iconic horror films of all time.