The Exorcist Sequels Are Looking Like They Might Get Canceled
Director David Gordon Green has officially parted ways with The Exorcist: Deceiver. The film, which was set to be the sequel to the franchise reboot that began with The Exorcist: Believer has officially been taken off Universal’s release schedule as the production studio searches for a new director.
In the meantime, the franchise’s future is left uncertain, with the possibility of being canceled if no replacement is found.
Focus On Other Movies
Green, known for his work on the horror genre and acclaimed projects like Halloween (2018), cited his commitment to other ventures as the primary reason for his exit.
He is currently focused on the production of Nutcrackers, a comedy-drama starring Ben Stiller who plays a workaholic who must travel to Ohio to look after his recently orphaned nephews.
Meanwhile, Green will also be working on the fourth season of HBO’s hit series, The Righteous Gemstones, leaving little time left over for continuing The Exorcist franchise.
Originally Planned For 2025
The Exorcist: Deceiver was originally scheduled for a theatrical release on April 18, 2025.
However, in light of Green’s departure, Universal has removed the film from its release calendar. Instead, the studio has opted to utilize the date for the international rollout of Lionsgate’s Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, directed by Antoine Fuqua, which will follow the life and four-decade-long career of the King of Pop.
The Exorcist: Believer A Disappointment
This setback comes on the heels of disappointment with Green’s previous installment, The Exorcist: Believer. Despite Universal’s ambitious plans for a trilogy and a hefty $400 million investment in the franchise rights, Believer underperformed at the box office, earning only $136.2 million globally.
The domestic box office figures were particularly lackluster, with just $65.5 million in revenue.
Lack Of Originality
The Exorcist: Believer faced widespread criticism for its lack of originality and scares, resulting in predominantly negative reviews.
However, some critics highlighted specific performances, in particular Leslie Odom Jr., and thematic elements as positive aspects.
Despite these scattered praises, the overall consensus remains one of disappointment with the film’s execution and failure to meet expectations.
Still Up In The Air
With Universal already committed to a new The Exorcist trilogy, fans have been hoping for more from the sequel, though whether or not Green would continue to direct has always been up in the air.
Green himself had hinted at the possibility of not returning for the sequel ahead of Believer‘s release.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, he expressed uncertainty about taking on The Exorcist: Deceiver, stating, “My intention is just to start making things, and as those plans come together, if I find myself in that director’s chair, I’d be thrilled. But right now, I’m navigating it from a story perspective and looking at my realities of life as I pivot.”
Change For The Better?
With Green’s departure, the future of The Exorcist franchise remains uncertain, leaving fans and industry insiders eagerly awaiting news of the new director who will helm The Exorcist: Deceiver and shape the course of this iconic horror series.
Hopefully, the series will continue, and the change in director will help steer the next film to be a better success than the first movie.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
