Scarlett Johansson Joins Mike Flanagan’s New Take on The Exorcist
Last Updated: December 1, 2025
Last week, many breathed a sigh of relief when Hollywood director David Gordon Green stepped away from his proposed Exorcist trilogy, allowing Universal Pictures to take a fresh direction with the iconic horror franchise. Green’s previous project, Believer, received mixed reviews, and his Halloween trilogy left some fans yearning for a revival of the genre that stays true to its roots. In a swift move, Universal has now announced that acclaimed filmmaker Mike Flanagan will take on the writing and directing responsibilities for the next installment.
Renowned for his thought-provoking and spiritually resonant works, Flanagan is regarded as one of today’s leading voices in horror cinema. With his standout series Midnight Mass, he embraced faith-based themes and character complexities that elevate conventional horror to a more profound narrative experience. Many fans view his unique storytelling as a much-needed infusion of depth into a genre often criticized for its formulaic plots.
However, there is a nuanced disappointment echoed in the fandom. While Flanagan is likely to deliver, many hope to see him devote time to his previously announced projects, like The Dark Tower, which has piqued the interest of fans eagerly awaiting adaptations of Stephen King’s epic saga.
Adding to the excitement, this week it was revealed that Oscar-nominated actress Scarlett Johansson will star in Flanagan’s Exorcist film. Johansson, recognized for her captivating performances in films like Jojo Rabbit, is taking a step back from her established blockbuster career into a genre that has seen her shine in the past with films like Under the Skin. Her involvement suggests a strong commitment to character depth in the upcoming horror narrative, hinting that the script holds substantial promise.
As we consider Johansson’s role alongside Flanagan, we are reminded of the biblical principle that emphasizes the importance of good collaboration: "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil" (Ecclesiastes 4:9, ESV). This verse encourages us to reflect on the impact of teamwork, as evidenced by Flanagan’s history of working with a regular cast that includes his wife, Kate Siegel, and other talented actors who return for their creative synergy.
Moreover, Johansson’s partnership with Flanagan could signify a hopeful turn in her career towards more character-driven roles. It suggests a deep calling to explore narratives that resonate on a spiritual or philosophical level, offering a wider perspective that aligns with positive biblical teachings.
As fans eagerly anticipate updates on this thrilling new chapter of The Exorcist, it invites us all to consider how we can ensure that our collaborations—be it in film, art, or daily life—embrace deeper meaning and purpose. With the perfect blend of talent, let us welcome this new project with open hearts and minds, ready to witness storytelling that reflects not only fear but also the complexities of faith, choices, and redemption.
As we move forward, let us remember: each story told can be an opportunity to reflect on our own narratives. May we find inspiration in the deeper connections that art can forge, guiding us toward a more enlightened understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
Explore and dig up answers yourself with our BGodInspired App. Be careful – each interaction is like a new treasure hunt… you can get lost for hours 🙂
