It’s not far-fetched to consider Mike Flanagan as the future master of the horror genre. While he still has a journey ahead to attain iconic status, he has already produced some of the most impressive movies in the genre, such as “Doctor Sleep” and “Hush.”
However, it’s his ventures in the realm of television that set him apart from other filmmakers in his field. “The Haunting of Hill House” remains acclaimed by specialized critics as the best horror series of the last two decades.
In simple terms, he turns everything he touches into gold. That’s why the recent rumors of Blumhouse and Universal Pictures asking for Mike Flanagan’s help to revive “The Exorcist” franchise aren’t hard to believe. Here, check the likelihood of his involvement.
Will Mike Flanagan direct The Exorcist: Deceiver?
The reason the production companies behind “The Exorcist: Believer” reached out to Flanagan is not only because they have already invested millions in making a complete trilogy, but also because the director of its first installment, David Gordon Green, stepped away from directing the other two parts.
Considering whether Flanagan would accept to direct the next films of “The Exorcist” according to his work ethic, it could be said that it’s very plausible he would. Firstly, he wouldn’t be daunted by reimagining a cult horror classic, as he has already done with “Doctor Sleep,” the sequel to “The Shining,” even casting a different actor to play Jack Nicholson’s iconic role.
Secondly, he has previously accepted the challenge of revitalizing franchises with poorly received first installments. He took on “Ouija,” one of the worst horror movies of the last decade, and crafted a successful prequel titled “Ouija: Origin of Evil,” breathing new life into the Jason Blum universe.
Thirdly, Flanagan currently has only one upcoming project on his agenda, “The Life of Chuck,” an adaptation of Stephen King’s acclaimed novella that is already in post-production. In fact, it’s very likely that he has been awaiting an opportunity like the one Blumhouse could offer him.
The principal reason why Mike Flanagan would accept to take the helm of “The Exorcist” universe is his quest for a project that will establish him as the best horror director of his generation and those to come. Taking on such an iconic franchise as the one created by William Friedkin would undoubtedly solidify his status in the genre.
