Released in 2023, The Pope's Exorcist has swiftly gained a devoted following, achieving cult status in a remarkably short time frame. The film's success can be attributed, in large part, to Russell Crowe's captivating portrayal of Father Gabriele Amorth, which has resonated with audiences and sparked a wave of internet memes, with Crowe on a moped becoming an iconic image associated with the movie.
Despite initial concerns about the Pope's return, fans can rejoice as a sequel to The Pope's Exorcist is officially in the works. Producer Jeff Katz recently confirmed the exciting news on social media, expressing gratitude to the dedicated fans who have championed the film. Katz hinted at a naming convention for the sequels inspired by the Planet of the Apes franchise, suggesting titles like 'Pray for the Pope's Exorcist' or 'Heaven Help the Pope's Exorcist' for future installments.
Directed by Julius Avery and penned by Michael Petroni and Evan Spiliotopoulos, The Pope's Exorcist draws inspiration from Father Gabriele Amorth's books, 'An Exorcist Tells His Story' and 'An Exorcist: More Stories.' The plot follows Father Amorth (played by Crowe) as he delves into a child's possession, uncovering a Vatican conspiracy shrouded in secrecy. Alongside Crowe, the film features a talented cast including Daniel Zovatto, Alex Essoe, and Franco Nero.
While The Pope's Exorcist received a mixed critical reception, earning a 49 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it proved to be a commercial success. Despite a modest domestic box office performance of $20 million, the film flourished internationally, grossing $77 million worldwide against an $18 million budget. The movie's post-theatrical release cult following has bolstered prospects for a sequel, with discussions hinting at the potential for a trilogy.
Crowe's involvement in the sequel remains uncertain, but the actor has expressed interest in reprising his role, indicating the possibility of further exploring Father Amorth's character across multiple films. With ample source material from Amorth's extensive literary works, the franchise holds promise for future cinematic endeavors.
For those eager to experience The Pope's Exorcist, the film is currently available for streaming on Netflix, offering viewers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the supernatural world crafted by the movie's creators.
