Blatty Looks To Remake 'The Exorcist'

Blatty Looks To Remake 'The Exorcist'

A new incarnation of the 1973 film may possess the small screen, with William Friedkin at the helm

By BRYANT GRIFFIN
11-17-2009
Source: Cemetery Dance

"The Exorcist" author William Peter Blatty is looking to remake the original 1973 film as a TV mini-series with William Friedkin returning to direct.

Blatty was recently asked by Cemetery Dance magazine if he'd change anything in the original film; he gave an interesting response.

"Yes and no," he said. "I would love to have been able to include the subplot involving Karl and his daughter Elvira which I did in my first draft, but that script ran to 172 pages, much, much too long.

"But I might have it my way in the near future, inasmuch as I've written an 'Exorcist' miniseries script that not only faithfully includes all the main elements of the novel, but also some rather spooky new material and scenes, as well as a totally new ending. I've also updated it. Billy Friedkin has agreed to direct."

"The Exorcist" chronicles a young girl possessed by a mysterious entity claiming to be the devil. In desperation, her mother seeks the help of two priests to save her daughter.

The original film earned 10 Oscar nominations when it was released, winning Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Sound.

About the Author: Bryant Griffin is the assistant news editor for Airlock Alpha and sister site Rabid Doll. He served as a journalist in the U.S. Army, as well as while a civilian. In 2002, he joined Quantum Global Media Inc., contributing to many early design concepts before shifting his focus back to writing. Bryant hails from Tampa, Fla.