By MICHAEL GINGOLD
No relation to THE POPE’S EXORCIST, it was previously titled THE GEORGETOWN PROJECT.
Vertical has announced that it has picked up North American rights to THE EXORCISM, with an exclusive theatrical release set to begin June 7. Shudder has grabbed streaming rights. It was directed by Joshua John Miller (son of THE EXORCIST’s Jason Miller, who began as an actor in films like NEAR DARK) and written by Miller and M.A. Fortin, the duo who scripted the modern cult fave THE FINAL GIRLS, and the producers include SCREAM-meister Kevin Williamson, Outerbanks Entertainment and Miramax. Russell Crowe, Ryan Simpkins (FEAR STREET, ANGUISH), Sam Worthington (AVATAR), Chloe Bailey, Adam Goldberg and David Hyde Pierce star; the synopsis: “THE EXORCISM follows Anthony Miller [Crowe], a troubled actor who begins to unravel while shooting a supernatural horror film. His estranged daughter [Simpkins] wonders if he’s slipping back into his past addictions or if there’s something more sinister at play.”
“Vertical has been a great partner in helping us complete and realize our vision for this story,” Miller and Fortin say. “Their level of enthusiasm and support are rare to find.”
Vertical partner Peter Jarowey says, “Joshua has a profound expertise in this genre, and we applaud his creation of a film that reverently nods to classic horror while adding a fresh twist. We want to thank everyone at Miramax for their partnership and are looking forward to bringing the film to theaters nationwide this summer.”
