Disambiguation: The Movie The Exorcists vs. The Legacy Franchise
Before you dive into the deep end of demonic lore, let's clear up the confusion that's currently clogging your search history. There are two very different paths people take when searching for the movie the exorcists, and mixing them up is the difference between an iconic horror experience and a low-budget surprise.
- The Exorcists (2023): This is a standalone film directed by Jose Prendes. It is a 'mockbuster' or a budget-friendly supernatural thriller that is NOT part of the official Linda Blair or Blumhouse franchise.
- The Exorcist (Franchise): This is the multi-billion dollar legacy including the 1973 original, the recent 'Believer' (2023), and the upcoming Mike Flanagan reboot.
- The Reboot (2026): Currently in development with a focus on a 'radical new take' on the possession sub-genre.
Picture this: You’ve dimmed the lights, grabbed the expensive popcorn, and settled in for what you think is the next chapter of the Regan MacNeil saga. Five minutes in, the actors look different, the vibes are off, and you realize you've accidentally clicked on the 2023 plural title instead of the legendary franchise. That sinking feeling of 'wait, is this the right one?' is exactly why we're here to map this out.
Understanding the landscape of the movie the exorcists requires a sharp eye for detail. The 2023 film by Jose Prendes leans into the trope of a group of exorcists banding together to fight a demonic force, whereas the main franchise usually focuses on a singular, grueling battle for a soul. From a psychological perspective, we crave these stories because they externalize our internal battles with 'demons' like anxiety or trauma, making them something we can visualize—and eventually defeat.
Mike Flanagan and the Future of Movie The Exorcists
For those of you tracking the latest movements in the horror world, the situation is evolving rapidly. The official franchise is currently undergoing a massive creative shift after the mixed reception of 'Believer.'
Latest Signals (24h)
- Director Confirmation: Mike Flanagan (Haunting of Hill House) is officially confirmed to write, direct, and produce a 'fresh take' for Blumhouse [Source: IMDB News].
- Casting Rumors: Industry buzz suggests Scarlett Johansson is in talks for a lead role, signaling a shift toward A-list 'prestige' horror.
- Release Window: Universal Pictures has internally slated the untitled project for a late 2026 or early 2027 theatrical debut.
From a psychological standpoint, the 'Flanagan Era' represents a move toward 'elevated horror.' This means the focus will likely shift from jump scares to deep, systemic family trauma—a hallmark of his storytelling. If you've felt let down by recent sequels, this change is designed to rebuild trust by focusing on character-driven dread rather than just franchise expansion. This 'fresh take' isn't just a marketing buzzword; it's a structural necessity to save the brand's prestige.
The Official Movie The Exorcists Franchise Timeline
Navigating the timeline of the movie the exorcists legacy is like trying to solve a puzzle where some pieces don't even belong in the same box. Because 'Believer' (2023) acted as a direct sequel to the 1973 original, it effectively 'erased' several other sequels from the primary timeline, though they still exist as cult favorites.
| Film Title | Release Year | Director | Timeline Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Exorcist | 1973 | William Friedkin | The Original Foundation |
| The Exorcist II: The Heretic | 1977 | John Boorman | Non-canon in new timeline |
| The Exorcist III | 1990 | William Peter Blatty | Cult Classic (Alternative) |
| Exorcist: The Beginning | 2004 | Renny Harlin | Prequel A |
| Dominion: Prequel to the Exorcist | 2005 | Paul Schrader | Prequel B (Alt Vision) |
| The Exorcist: Believer | 2023 | David Gordon Green | Direct 1973 Sequel |
| The Exorcists | 2023 | Jose Prendes | Independent Release |
| Untitled Flanagan Film | 2026 | Mike Flanagan | The 'Radical' Reboot |
When you look at this list, notice how often the series tries to 'restart' itself. In psychology, this is known as a search for purity. The creators are constantly trying to return to the 'original trauma' of the 1973 film because that's where the most emotional resonance lives. If you're planning a marathon, I highly recommend watching the 1973 original followed immediately by 'Believer' or the TV series to see the most coherent narrative threads.
The Psychology of Possession: Why We Can't Look Away
Why are we still talking about the movie the exorcists fifty years after the first one hit theaters? It’s not just about the pea soup or the rotating heads. It’s about the concept of 'the intruder.' In psychological terms, possession horror taps into our fear of losing autonomy—the idea that something 'else' can take the wheel of our bodies and minds.
- Loss of Control: Seeing a character lose their voice or movement mirrors our own fears of illness or aging.
- The Violation of the Home: Horror that happens in a bedroom is inherently more invasive than horror in a dark alley.
- Crisis of Faith: These movies often force characters to confront what they believe in when logic fails.
When we watch these films, we are participating in a controlled exposure therapy. We face the 'ultimate evil' from the safety of our couch, which helps us process smaller, real-world anxieties. The movie the exorcists (plural) specifically plays on the 'strength in numbers' trope—the idea that we need a community (the exorcists) to survive a psychological or spiritual onslaught. This reflects our social reality: we are rarely equipped to handle our darkest moments alone.
Where to Stream and How to Watch
If you are looking to watch the movie the exorcists tonight, your strategy depends entirely on which version you want. The 2023 independent film is widely available on VOD platforms, while the main franchise is scattered across various streaming giants due to licensing shifts.
- The Exorcists (2023): Currently available for rent/purchase on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. It also frequently pops up on ad-supported services like Tubi.
- The Exorcist (1973): This is often a 'prestige' title, rotating between Max (formerly HBO Max) and seasonal runs on AMC+.
- The Exorcist: Believer: Usually resides on Peacock, as it's a Universal Pictures release.
- The TV Series: If you want a deep dive into the lore, the 2-season Fox series is often available on Hulu or Disney+ (depending on your region).
Always check the 'Director's Cut' for the 1973 film if you have the choice. It includes the infamous 'spider walk' scene that was initially deemed too disturbing for audiences. For the 2023 plural version, keep your expectations calibrated for an indie budget; it's a different kind of fun that works best for a 'bad movie night' with friends. Remember, the movie the exorcists experience is about the atmosphere you create around it.
Final Verdict: Preparing for the 2026 Possession
As we look toward 2026, the strategy for the official franchise is clearly one of 'elevation.' By hiring Mike Flanagan, Blumhouse is signaling that they want to move away from the 'legacy sequel' trap that caught 'Believer.' They aren't just making another movie; they are trying to redefine what the movie the exorcists means for a new generation.
- Mechanism of Change: Moving from 'nostalgia bait' to 'original dread.'
- Visual Language: Expect more atmospheric, long-take cinematography rather than rapid-fire jump scares.
- Thematic Depth: Anticipate a focus on the 'why' of the possession rather than just the 'how' of the exorcism.
For you, the viewer, this means the next few years will be a golden age for the genre. Whether you're a fan of the indie grit found in the 2023 movie the exorcists or you're waiting for the high-budget 2026 reboot, the possession sub-genre is healthier than ever. Just remember to protect your peace—sometimes the best way to handle a 'demon' is to simply turn off the screen and remind yourself that you are in control. If the lore gets too heavy, Bestie AI is always here to help you decompress and find your next favorite lighthearted watch.
FAQ
1. Is there a movie called The Exorcists 2023?
The movie the exorcists (2023) is a standalone supernatural thriller directed by Jose Prendes. It is not part of the official Exorcist franchise but is often confused with it due to the similar title. It features a group of exorcists coming together to fight an ancient evil.
2. Who is directing the new Exorcist movie 2026?
The upcoming 2026 Exorcist movie will be directed by Mike Flanagan, known for 'The Haunting of Hill House' and 'Midnight Mass.' He replaced David Gordon Green after Universal decided to take a 'radical new direction' for the franchise.
3. Is The Exorcist: Believer a sequel to the original?
Yes, 'The Exorcist: Believer' (2023) is a direct sequel to the original 1973 film, bringing back Ellen Burstyn as Chris MacNeil. However, it serves as the start of a new timeline that ignores the events of the previous sequels.
4. How many Exorcist movies are there in order?
For the best narrative flow, you should watch them in this order: The Exorcist (1973), The Exorcist III (1990), and then 'The Exorcist: Believer' (2023). If you want chronological history, start with 'Dominion' or 'Beginning' as prequels.
5. What is the Mike Flanagan Exorcist movie release date?
While a specific day hasn't been set, Mike Flanagan's film is currently targeted for a 2026 theatrical release. Production is expected to begin in 2025.
6. Is Scarlett Johansson in the new Exorcist?
There is significant industry buzz and reporting suggesting Scarlett Johansson is in talks for the lead role in the Flanagan reboot, though an official casting announcement from Blumhouse is still pending.
7. Where can I watch The Exorcists (2023)?
The 2023 film 'The Exorcists' is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and occasionally for free on ad-supported services like Tubi or Vudu.
8. What is the scariest Exorcist movie according to critics?
The original 1973 'The Exorcist' remains the highest-rated and most critically acclaimed. 'The Exorcist III' has also gained significant critical respect as a psychological thriller over the years.
9. Is The Exorcist based on a true story?
The 1973 film was inspired by the 1949 case of Roland Doe, a young boy in Maryland who underwent a series of exorcisms performed by Jesuit priests. William Peter Blatty based his novel on these accounts.
10. Did they remake The Exorcist?
The franchise hasn't had a direct 'remake' of the first movie, but it has had several 'reboots' and 'legacy sequels' that attempt to recapture the magic of the original 1973 story.
References
imdb.com — Untitled Mike Flanagan Exorcist Film (2026) - News
en.wikipedia.org — The Exorcist (franchise) - Wikipedia
mashable.com — Everything to know before seeing 'The Exorcist: Believer'