Mike Flanagan dreams of directing a Jaws or Jurassic World movie
Mike Flanagan is rapidly establishing himself as a bold filmmaker, skillfully navigating the landscape of cinematic horror while proving he can handle massive, established franchises. Having delivered acclaimed sequels like Doctor Sleep and contributing to the Exorcist legacy, Flanagan is now eyeing a fascinating new direction: diving into the world of epic adventure and spectacle.
When asked about other cinematic properties he would want to tackle, the showrunner revealed a surprising appetite for two massive suggestions, both rooted in the work of Steven Spielberg: the Jaws saga and a Jurassic World film.
Flanagan explained that while he has spent his career prioritizing original storytelling, he deeply loves exploring worlds he knows and respects, and then infusing them with his own unique perspective. “I really love getting to play in a world I know and respect and adore, and put my own spin on it,” he noted. “Honestly, I wish to hell I could make a Jaws movie.”
This pivot from supernatural entities to massive prehistoric creatures presents an interesting challenge for Flanagan. Having built a reputation for generating intense fear through demonic possessions and supernatural dread, shifting focus to dinosaurs or colossal marine life would require a different kind of cinematic magic.
The Jurassic film prospect is particularly compelling. While the franchise has seen its directors change hands—with Gareth Edwards moving on from Jurassic World Rebirth due to creative differences—there are lingering possibilities. Rumors suggest that director J.A. Bayona might return to give the dinosaurs a new, thrilling tour.
A Flanagan-directed dinosaur adventure could offer a compelling blend of terror and awe. He possesses a unique talent for making audiences feel intense emotion, and he could bring that same visceral engagement to the scale of a dinosaur horror film.
In the meantime, Flanagan is currently focusing his creative energy on his next major project, The Exorcist: Martyrs, which is slated for release in March 2027. This next endeavor promises to continue his signature exploration of the darkest facets of human experience, ensuring that whether he tackles giant reptiles or demonic possession, the result will be unforgettable.
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