As anticipation builds for “The Exorcist: Believer,” director David Gordon Green has shed light on a burning question surrounding the film’s demonic entity. Green clarifies that the demon featured in the new movie is not Pazuzu, the infamous antagonist from the original 1973 “The Exorcist.” In an interview, the director also hints at the mysterious identity of the new demon, suggesting that expert demonologists might recognize it.
“The Exorcist: Believer” marks the return of original star Ellen Burstyn as Chris MacNeil, a character who is sought after for advice when two young girls go missing under disturbing circumstances, hinting at a possession. While many associate the possession in the iconic horror movie with the Devil, it’s actually Pazuzu who serves as the central demonic force in the original film.
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Addressing the nature of the demon in the upcoming sequel, Green confirmed that they’ve opted for a new demonic entity rather than rehashing Pazuzu. He stated, “We use a new demon, no Pazuzu. We feature a demon who studied demonologists might know.”
“The Exorcist” franchise has experienced multiple incarnations over the years, comprising five movies and a two-season television show. Throughout these iterations, Pazuzu has remained a consistent presence as the primary or secondary antagonist. Following his appearance in the original film, Pazuzu returned in “Exorcist II: The Heretic” (1977), and subsequently in “The Exorcist III” (1990), “Dominion,” “Exorcist: The Beginning” (both 2004), and the 2016 TV series “The Exorcist.”
Despite Pazuzu’s enduring legacy, “The Exorcist: Believer” takes a different narrative approach by introducing a fresh demon. The legacy sequel aims to maintain the franchise’s spirit while exploring new avenues within the established mythos. With the return of Chris MacNeil, the film aligns itself more closely with the legacy of the original series.
Over the years, the sequels to “The Exorcist” have centered around various characters from the 1973 original rather than solely focusing on Pazuzu’s malevolent influence. This approach has allowed the franchise to evolve while paying homage to its roots. The decision to shift the spotlight to characters like Chris MacNeil and explore their trajectories within the demonic realm adds depth and complexity to the series.
As “The Exorcist: Believer” continues its development amid the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, it’s important to acknowledge the significant contributions of the writers and actors from both unions to the movie’s creation. While the demon in the new film may not be Pazuzu, the legacy of the franchise remains intact, promising an intriguing and chilling continuation of the horror saga.
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of “The Exorcist: Believer,” the new demon’s identity, along with Chris MacNeil’s return, promises a captivating exploration of the supernatural and the unseen forces that continue to haunt the characters and audience alike. With the legacy of “The Exorcist” franchise spanning decades, the upcoming sequel seeks to usher in a new chapter while honoring its storied history.