Chiwetel Ejiofor Joins Scarlett Johansson in Blumhouse's 'Exorcist' Horror Movie: A Fresh Take on the Classic
Chiwetel Ejiofor is the latest actor to join the cast of Blumhouse-Atomic Monster and Morgan Creek Entertainment's upcoming 'Exorcist' horror movie. This new take on the classic film reunites Ejiofor with director Mike Flanagan, who has promised a bold and fresh approach to the material. Flanagan, known for his work on 'The Life of Chuck' and 'The Haunting of Hill House', wrote the script and will direct and produce the film, which is set in the 'Exorcist' universe but not a remake or sequel.
Ejiofor will play an ex-con turned priest, joining Scarlett Johansson, Jacobi Jupe, and Diane Lane in the cast. The original 'Exorcist', based on William Peter Blatty's novel and directed by William Friedkin, focused on the demonic possession of a young girl and the priests who tried to save her. The film was nominated for 10 Oscars and inspired several follow-ups, most of which centered on the girl's adult life or the backstories of the priests.
Universal Pictures has set a March 12, 2027 release date for the new film, which will be shot in New York City. The project is produced by Blumhouse-Atomic Monster, Morgan Creek Entertainment, and Flanagan's Red Room Pictures, with David Robinson producing for Morgan Creek Entertainment and Jason Blum and Ryan Turek serving as producers and executive producers, respectively, for Blumhouse-Atomic Monster. Alexandra Magistro will also executive produce for Red Room Pictures.
Ejiofor, known for his roles in '12 Years a Slave', 'Children of Men', and 'Love Actually', has earned Oscar and BAFTA nominations for his performances. He was recently seen in 'Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy' and 'The Old Guard 2'. The 'Exorcist' reboot is set to bring a fresh and bold take on the classic horror film, and Ejiofor's addition to the cast is sure to generate excitement among fans of the original.
