SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — It’s been four years since “The Georgetown Project” wrapped production in the area.
The Russell Crowe flick, renamed “The Exorcism,” now has a theatrical release date: June 7.
Deadline originally reported the news that Vertical Entertainment picked up the Miramax film, directed by Joshua John Miller, also an actor and writer known for “Queen of the South” and “The Mao Game.” Miller wrote the script for “The Exorcism” with his “Queen” co-writer M.A. Fortin; the film’s produced by Kevin Williamson (“Dawson’s Creek”) and Outerbanks Entertainment.
It also stars Adam Goldberg (“Dazed and Confused,” “The Equalizer”), Ryan Simpkins (“Revolutionary Road”), Chloe Bailey (“Grown-ish” “The Little Mermaid”), Sam Worthington (“Avatar”) and David Hyde Pierce (“Frasier”).
The psychological thriller centers on the supernatural, particularly troubled actor Anthony Miller (Crowe). He becomes unhinged while filming a horror movie and his estranged daughter (Simpkins) is concerned it’s due to his harried past.
“Joshua has a profound expertise in this genre, and we applaud his creation of a film that reverently nods to classic horror while adding a fresh twist,” Vertical partner Peter Jarowey released in a statement.
“The Exorcism” filmed in Wilmington during late fall 2019, with locations including Front Street, Dock Street, Brooklyn Arts Center and St. Thomas Episcopal Church. It received a little more than $3 million from the film grant program for an in-state spend of more than $13,167,137.
Crowe, who stayed at downtown’s Dudley Mansion while in the Port City, posted on social media upon his exit: “I’ve had a really good time in Wilmington — the sunsets across this river are absolutely beautiful. I’ve been lucky enough to have this little cabin by the river to rest up in. Just a little cabin by the river.”
[Ed. note: The budget numbers have been updated from initial publication; PCD regrets the error.]
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