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Ellen Burstyn Criticizes New Exorcist Sequel

Ellen Burstyn Criticizes New Exorcist Sequel

By TheWorldNews7 News Desk

Ellen Burstyn, the star of the 1973 horror classic The Exorcist, has expressed her disapproval regarding the franchise's continued expansion. Ahead of a new sequel's release, the 93-year-old actress suggested that the series has been explored extensively enough, stating, 'Isn't there enough already of the Exorcist thing? It's enough already.'

New Direction for the Franchise

The upcoming film, titled The Exorcist: Martyrs, is set to be directed by Mike Flanagan, known for his work on The Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass. Burstyn, who famously played the mother of the possessed child Regan in the original film, recently returned to her iconic role in the 2023 production The Exorcist: Believer, which received critical backlash.

Cast and Production Details

The new installment features a high-profile cast, including Scarlett Johansson as a police detective and Chiwetel Ejiofor as a prison chaplain. Other notable actors joining the production are Diane Lane, Laurence Fishburne, John Leguizamo, Scoot McNairy, Sasha Calle, Jacobi Jupe, and Gil Bellows.

Director's Perspective on Horror IP

Director Mike Flanagan addressed the ongoing debate regarding the film industry's heavy reliance on existing intellectual property. While acknowledging the criticism of studios attempting to profit from established names, Flanagan noted the complexity of the issue, pointing out that while audiences flock to familiar franchises, original stories often struggle to find support.

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