First Glimpse of The Exorcist Reboot as Stars Film in New York
Horror enthusiasts have received their initial sneak peek at the upcoming Exorcist reboot, with principal photography underway in New York City. On Tuesday, acclaimed actors Scarlett Johansson and Chiwetel Ejiofor were captured on set, generating significant buzz for this highly-anticipated project.
Set Photos Reveal Casual Looks and Tense Scenes
The first images from the production showcase Scarlett Johansson, aged 41, embracing a more natural aesthetic by forgoing makeup, which highlights her inherent beauty. Between takes, she was seen flashing a radiant smile outside what appeared to be a crime scene, complete with extras in police uniforms, NYPD vehicles, and yellow caution tape.
For her role, Johansson sports noticeably longer blonde hair and a relaxed outfit consisting of jeans, trainers, and a button-up shirt, layered with a plaid jacket for warmth. In one scene, she appeared concerned while filming alongside co-star Chiwetel Ejiofor, 48, who wore a grey tracksuit beneath a long coat. Their characters were engaged in a tense conversation as they descended an outdoor stairwell, hinting at the film's suspenseful narrative.
Fresh Take on a Horror Classic
This new installment is penned, directed, and produced by horror maestro Mike Flanagan, who describes it as a fresh, bold update and a radical new take on the original. It is not a remake or sequel but exists within the same cinematic universe. Scarlett Johansson leads the cast as a mother confronting a supernatural threat, with Jacobi Jupe portraying her son.
While specific roles remain under wraps, sources indicate Chiwetel Ejiofor will play an ex-convict turned priest. Additional cast members spotted filming include Rahul Kohli and Sasha Calle, with Kohli seen in a police vest and Calle wearing a badge. The ensemble is rounded out by notable talents such as John Leguizamo, Laurence Fishburne, Diane Lane, Carla Gugino, and Kate Siegel.
Legacy and Challenges of the Original
This reboot marks the seventh entry in the Exorcist franchise, arriving five decades after the 1973 original, which became a cultural phenomenon. That film grossed $441 million worldwide and earned ten Oscar nominations, telling the story of a mother's struggle to exorcise a demon from her daughter.
However, the original production was plagued by a series of misfortunes, often referred to as a curse. These included a mysterious fire that destroyed part of the set, back injuries sustained by actors, and multiple deaths among cast and crew. Director William Friedkin also incorporated unsettling sound effects and filmed scenes in a freezer to create visible breath, adding to the film's eerie atmosphere.
Box Office and Cultural Impact
Despite these challenges, The Exorcist achieved monumental success, becoming the first horror film nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars. When adjusted for inflation, its earnings exceed $1 billion. The reboot aims to capture this legacy while offering a contemporary perspective, with an untitled release scheduled for March 12, 2027.
