The highly anticipated sequel reboot, The Exorcist: Believer, is generating significant buzz as it gears up for its release. According to sources, the film is expected to open with a strong debut, surpassing the $30 million mark in its opening weekend. This news comes after Universal made the decision to move up the release date, indicating their confidence in the film’s potential success. With a compelling storyline and a talented cast, The Exorcist: Believer is sure to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.
Early tracking for The Exorcist: Believer has been highly promising, particularly among women under the age of 25. This demographic has shown a strong preference for the film, making it their top choice and demonstrating a high level of unaided awareness. This bodes well for the movie’s box office performance, as it indicates a dedicated fanbase and potential for favorable word-of-mouth. Comparisons have been made to Paramount/Spyglass’ 2022 release, Scream, which opened to an impressive $30 million. Even if The Exorcist: Believer falls slightly short of this mark, it can still claim a record-breaking opening for the franchise.
The Exorcist franchise has a long and storied history, with its original installment becoming a cultural phenomenon in 1973. While box office opening weekends were not recorded nationally at that time, the original film went on to gross an impressive $233 million in its lifetime. Subsequent entries in the franchise, such as Exorcist III and the re-release of the original movie in 2000, also enjoyed moderate success at the box office. However, the upcoming sequel reboot has the potential to surpass all previous installments, thanks to a combination of strong marketing and audience anticipation.
The Exorcist: Believer boasts an exceptional cast and crew, promising a fresh and compelling take on the iconic horror franchise. Ellen Burstyn, who earned a Best Actress Oscar nomination for her role in the original film, is set to reprise her role as Chris MacNeil, the mother of the demon-possessed child. Burstyn’s involvement adds credibility and excitement to the project, as fans of the original are eager to see her return to the series. Additionally, director David Gordon Green, known for his work on the successful Halloween reboot trilogy, brings his expertise in revitalizing classic horror properties to The Exorcist: Believer.
Universal’s decision to move The Exorcist: Believer’s release date from October 13 to October 6 indicates careful strategic planning. The initial release date clashed with the premiere of the Taylor Swift: Eras Tour concert film, potentially impacting the horror film’s box office performance. By shifting the release date, Universal ensures that The Exorcist: Believer will have ample opportunity to draw in audiences without facing stiff competition. This move exhibits the studio’s commitment to maximizing the film’s potential and capitalizing on its strong early tracking numbers.
The Exorcist: Believer centers around Victor Fielding, played by Leslie Odom Jr., who has raised his daughter Angela, portrayed by Lidya Jewett, following the tragic death of his pregnant wife. When Angela and her friend Katherine, played by Olivia Marcum, mysteriously disappear in the woods, only to return days later with no recollection of what transpired, Victor is thrust into a nightmarish chain of events. Desperate for answers, he seeks out the only person who has experienced a similar ordeal: Chris MacNeil. This gripping premise promises to provide audiences with an intense and suspenseful viewing experience.
The Exorcist: Believer is poised for a strong opening weekend at the box office, fueled by positive early tracking and a dedicated fanbase. With a talented cast, an experienced director, and a captivating plot, the film is primed to revitalize the franchise and leave a lasting impact on audiences. Don’t miss the chilling return of the iconic horror series in this highly anticipated sequel reboot.