Mike Flanagan's Exorcist: Everything we know so far 

Mike Flanagan's new Exorcist movie is about to amp up excitement among those who choose horror movies over any other genre. Known for his successful horror shows on Netflix, Flanagan now revives as one of the most iconic horror franchises. This new Exorcist, which is expected to be released on March 13, 2026, promises new, terrifying experiences like his previous films.

The 2023 Exorcist reboot's commercial success, despite poor reviews, revived this popular movie streak. The film made $137 million on a production budget of $30 million stating the franchise's longevity. This financial success allowed Flanagan to join the franchise and expand it under his guidance.

The Exorcist (1973) plot

The Exorcist, 1973 (Via Prime Video)

The original film was released on December 26, 1973. The plot starts in northern Iraq, where priest Lankester Merrin discovers a disturbing talisman during an archaeological dig.

In Georgetown, actress Chris MacNeil's daughter Regan begins exhibiting violent behavior. After medical tests reveal no physical cause, Regan's condition worsens, culminating in the death of the film director Chris has been working with.

Detective Kinderman suspects Regan, whose behavior becomes increasingly demonic. Father Damien Karras, facing a crisis of faith, agrees to perform an exorcism with Merrin.

Merrin dies during the exorcism, and Karras sacrifices himself to save Regan by transferring the demon into himself and jumping out a window. Regan is healed, and her family leaves, while Father Dyer administers the last rites of Karras.

The film caused quite an upheaval upon its release and fans can expect the chilling legacy of the original film to remain while introducing a new storyline. Mike Flanagan is ideal for the reboot of this spooky franchise as he consistently produces high-quality horror content.

Flanagan's masterful storytelling will continue with The Life of Chuck and the untitled Exorcist movie coming out in the next two years. His previous works have balanced quality and quantity, and this new film is expected to do the same.

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Mike Flanagan’s Exorcist: A new chapter in horror

The Mike Flanagan-directed Exorcist will be released on March 13, 2026. Though many details are not yet out, this film seems to reimagine the 1973 classic and terrorize a new generation. Flanagan, known for Midnight Mass and The Haunting of Hill House, promises a terrifying new story, not a sequel.

Flanagan's success in the spooky genre makes him remarkable as a horror film director. He creates atmospheric and psychologically intense horror which has brought him a dedicated following. His collaborations with Blumhouse, including Oculus, Hush, and Ouija: Origin of Evil, have all been well-received.

The poor reception of The Exorcist: Believer in 2023 did not deter the franchise's return. Instead, it highlighted the potential for a fresh start under Flanagan's direction. Believer's financial success showed that there is still a strong market for Exorcist movies, encouraging Blumhouse and Morgan Creek to continue with their plans for new films.

Flanagan’s involvement is seen as a significant step in reinvigorating the series with his unique vision.

Flanagan's current horror streak will continue with this film's 2024 theatrical release. The 2026 release of his horror film ensures that fans will soon get more of his gripping stories.

Jason Blum of Blumhouse and Flanagan's longtime collaborator Trevor Macy are producing the new horror film. Flanagan's blend of psychological horror and intense storytelling will likely make a breakout horror film.

Talking about Flannigan's directorial, Jason Blum commented,

“Mike’s voice and vision are indispensable for horror fans and we are excited to welcome him back to Blumhouse. I immediately responded to Mike’s new take on the world of The Exorcist and can’t wait for audiences to experience it.”

The 1973 film was the first horror film nominated for best picture at the Academy Awards. Flanagan's new perspective honors this legacy while appealing to modern audiences. His comments on the film show his admiration for the original and his eagerness to add something new.

In an interview, he stated,

"The Exorcist’ is one of the reasons I became a filmmaker, and it is an honor to have the chance to try something fresh, bold, and terrifying within its universe. Reuniting with my friends at Blumhouse, with whom I’ve made some of my favorite pieces of work, only makes this more exciting."

As details about Exorcist remain scarce, excitement builds, promising a revival that could redefine the franchise for a new generation of horror fans.