Key Takeaways:
– Mike Flanagan set to direct the latest film in The Exorcist universe.
– Executives expressed concerns about Flanagan's well-known narrative style, influencing the new film's direction.
– Flanagan agrees with executives about the film's approach, planning to avoid extended monologues.
– The renowned director aims to update the horror sequences fit for contemporary audiences.
Mike Flanagan Ready To Reshape Horror Genre
Well-known horror filmmaker Mike Flanagan is set to take control of the latest creation from The Exorcist universe. Reputed for both his ability to create captivating and suspenseful horror scenes and his ability to tell compelling, human stories, Flanagan has been successful with projects like The Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass. His unique storytelling technique and focus on deep dialogue, however, were cause for concern for some executives and fans.
Flanagan and Executives Align Visions
In a recent appearance at the ATX TV Festival, Flanagan discussed his approach to the new film from the famed Exorcist series. Notably, he shared the concerns raised by the film executives, particularly pertaining to his typically dialog-heavy style of storytelling. They indicated a contemporary audience might not connect with extended monologues about religion. Much to everyone's relief, it seems that this time Flanagan and the executives share a similar vision.
Moving Away From Extended Monologues
Known for his intentional, theatrical communication style in his projects, Flanagan has always allowed his characters to navigate intense monologues, explaining a significant part of the story. While this technique works brilliantly in some instances, it doesn't align with every film. The Exorcist's new audience might not appreciate a film filled with monologue, as per the executives. Consequently, they expressed concerns about his approach to this highly anticipated project.
However, Flanagan agreed with their reservations and emphasized his belief that lengthy monologues aren't essential for this project. It's a surprising revelation considering the original Exorcist was notorious for its long sermon and prayer-laden scenes, central to its distinct appeal.
Bringing Contemporary Approach
Addressing the issue, Flanagan stated, “Part of what I said to Blumhouse and Universal when we were discussing this was I don't think this is a monologue project”. According to him, the same types of scenes that worked 50 years ago might not resonate with today's audience. He aims to deviate from these traditional practices, stating that such religious scenes no longer inspire fear among viewers.
Flanagan seems keen to break away from the conventional in favor of a more modern take on horror. His mission is to make a movie that is, fundamentally, scary without being vocally chilling. With this new approach, he might pave the way for a new form of horror narrative that resonates with contemporary viewers, capturing their fascination and fear without using lengthy monologues.
His collaborative approach with the studio and receptiveness to adapt his iconic style to the needs of a new audience promises a horror film that will both pay homage to the original Exorcist's legacy and reinvigorate its universe. Fans and newcomers alike eagerly anticipate a chilling experience true to the Exorcist legacy yet innovative in its approach to horror.
