Sizzling Samachar: Mike Flanagan to revamp 'The Exorcist' franchise; Sandra Hüller joins Ryan Gosling in 'Project Hail Mary'

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Mike Flanagan to revamp 'The Exorcist' franchise

Horror enthusiasts can celebrate as Mike Flanagan is set to bring a fresh vision to The Exorcist franchise, following the disappointing performance of David Gordon Green's The Exorcist: Believer. Universal's original plan for a trilogy was scrapped after Believer underwhelmed, despite grossing $137 million. Flanagan, known for his work on Doctor Sleep and The Haunting of Hill House, promises a radical new take within the Exorcist universe. Excited to collaborate again with Blumhouse, Flanagan aims to honor the 1973 classic's legacy while offering something bold and terrifying for modern audiences.

Glenn Close joins 'Knives Out 3' cast

Glenn Close has been cast in Wake Up Dead Man, the third instalment of the Knives Out franchise, joining an ensemble that includes Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Josh O'Connor, and Cailee Spaeny. Directed and written by Rian Johnson, this new mystery film will begin production this summer. Close’s role, like those of the other new cast members, remains under wraps. Known for her illustrious career and numerous awards, Close's participation adds significant star power to the film. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery is set to premiere on Netflix in 2025.

Sandra Hüller joins Ryan Gosling in 'Project Hail Mary'

Sandra Hüller, fresh off an Oscar nomination for Anatomy of a Fall, joins Ryan Gosling in Project Hail Mary, directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller and scripted by Drew Goddard. Based on Andy Weir's novel, the film follows scientist Ryland Grace played by Gosling, who wakes up alone on a spaceship with a mission to save Earth. Hüller's role remains undisclosed but is speculated to be Eva Stratt, the project's authoritative leader. Shot for IMAX with Greig Fraser as cinematographer, the movie is set to premiere on March 20, 2026.

'Masters of the Universe' live-action movie casts Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man

Nicholas Galitzine has been cast as He-Man in the upcoming live-action Masters of the Universe film from Amazon MGM Studios. Directed by Travis Knight and scripted by Chris Butler, the film is scheduled for release on June 5, 2026. The project has faced numerous delays over the years, including a cancelled Netflix version that spent $30 million in development. Galitzine, known for roles in Cinderella and Red, White & Royal Blue, will portray the iconic hero Prince Adam, who transforms into He-Man to defend Eternia. The film aims to revive the beloved 1980s franchise with a fresh take for new and old fans alike.

Mark Pellegrino to lead new dramedy series ‘A Motel’ set in Las Vegas

Mark Pellegrino, known for his roles in Supernatural and 13 Reasons Why, will star in and executive produce the new dramedy series A Motel. Directed by Asif Akbar and written by Brian A. Metcalf, the series follows outcasts at a shady motel who uncover a mafia drug ring. Filming starts in June in Las Vegas, reuniting Pellegrino with Metcalf from Underdeveloped. With Akbar's direction, the series promises humour and drama. Pellegrino’s extensive TV experience, including American Rust and Supernatural, positions him well for this lead role.

Jack Reynor joins cast of ‘Citadel’ season 2

Jack Reynor, known for his roles in Midsommar and Transformers: Age of Extinction, has joined the cast of "Citadel" for its second season. While details about his character and the plot remain undisclosed, the series continues to expand with multiple spinoffs exploring diverse cultural backgrounds. Directed by Joe Russo, production is set to begin later this year. The first season introduced skilled agents Mason Kane and Nadia Sinh, whose memories were wiped after a mission gone wrong. As the story progresses, viewers can expect more thrilling twists and turns. A release date for season two is yet to be confirmed.

Camila Morrone joins Tom Hiddleston in ‘The Night Manager’ season 2

Camila Morrone, known for her role in Daisy Jones & The Six, will join Tom Hiddleston in the eagerly awaited second season of The Night Manager. With Elizabeth Debicki not returning, Morrone might either replace her or take on a new role. The season, set eight years after the first, will see David Farr as the writer/creator and Georgi Banks-Davies as the new director. Hiddleston, fresh from his role in Loki Season 2, continues his leading role. Production begins later this year, with a 2025 release anticipated.

Well that's all for this episode , until the next time it's your host Nikhil signing out.

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-Written by Apurva Dutta

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