“The Exorcist: Believer” is an upcoming horror film that serves as a legacy sequel to the iconic 1973 horror classic, “The Exorcist.” Directed by David Gordon Green, known for his work on the recent Halloween trilogy, the film is set to continue the chilling tale of possession and exorcism. Here’s everything we know so far about this highly anticipated movie.

Release Date And Trilogy Plan

“The Exorcist: Believer” is scheduled for release in theaters on October 13, 2023. This film will be the first part of a trilogy, with the second installment, “The Exorcist: Deceiver,” already slated for an Easter weekend release in 2025.

Streaming Availability

Initially, “The Exorcist: Believer” will exclusively premiere in theaters. However, once the theatrical window closes, the film will become available to stream exclusively on Universal’s streaming service, Peacock. The same release strategy is planned for the subsequent films in the trilogy.

The Cast

The film boasts an impressive cast, including Academy Award winner Ellen Burstyn, who will reprise her role as Chris MacNeil, the mother of the possessed Regan MacNeil. Joining Burstyn is Leslie Odom Jr., an Academy Award nominee, playing Victor Fielding, the father of another possessed child seeking help from Chris MacNeil. Jennifer Nettles and Norbert Leo Butz also feature as parents of possessed children. Newcomers Lidya Jewett and Olivia Marcum portray the possessed girls, Angela and Katherine, respectively. Emmy Award winner Ann Dowd, Raphael Sbarge, and Okwui Okpokwasili round out the cast in undisclosed roles. There have been rumors of Linda Blair possibly reprising her role as Regan MacNeil, but nothing has been confirmed.

Behind The Scenes

David Gordon Green is at the helm as the director for “The Exorcist: Believer.” He has a diverse filmography, ranging from indie dramas to big-budget blockbusters. Blumhouse Productions, known for its success in the horror genre, is producing the trilogy alongside Morgan Creek, the company holding the rights to the Exorcist franchise. Jason Blum of Blumhouse and James Robinson and David Robinson of Morgan Creek are producing the film, while Danny McBride and Couper Samuelson serve as executive producers. The story for the film was developed by Scott Teems, who previously worked on horror films like “Halloween Kills” and “Insidious: The Red Door.”

The Original Exorcist Story

“The Exorcist” (1973) revolves around the possession of a young girl named Regan, played by Linda Blair, and the efforts of two priests, Father Merrin and Father Karras, to exorcise the demon from her. The film became infamous for its shocking and disturbing scenes, leading to controversy and pushback from some communities. Despite criticism, it received critical acclaim and earned an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Other Exorcist Films

“The Exorcist” has seen various attempts at sequels and prequels over the years, with varying degrees of success. “The Exorcist II” was generally regarded as a failure, while “The Exorcist III” was considered a success. Several prequels were attempted, but none managed to capture the same acclaim as the original. A TV series sequel to “The Exorcist” was released in 2016, starring Geena Davis, but it only lasted two seasons.

Plot Of The Exorcist: Believer

In “The Exorcist: Believer,” the story is set fifty years after the events of the original film. The focus shifts to Victor Fielding, played by Leslie Odom Jr., a man who lost his pregnant wife in a Haitian earthquake and raised their daughter, Angela, on his own. When Angela and her friend Katherine disappear in the woods and return with no memory of the ordeal, Victor seeks help from Chris MacNeil, portrayed by Ellen Burstyn, the only living person who has faced such evil before.

Conclusion

With its impressive cast, talented director, and plans for a trilogy that continues the iconic horror tale, “The Exorcist: Believer” is highly anticipated among horror enthusiasts. Fans of the original film and newcomers alike can expect a refreshing take on the story while maintaining the essence that made “The Exorcist” a classic in film history.