Josh Heuston and Ryan Corr Join Greg McLean in New Biblical Horror Film ‘The First Exorcist’; Market Launch at Cannes
EXCLUSIVE: Actors Josh Heuston (Dune: Prophecy) and Ryan Corr (Wolf Creek 2) are set to star in the upcoming Biblical horror-thriller The First Exorcist, directed by Greg McLean, known for his work on Wolf Creek.
The film draws inspiration from one of the most visceral narratives in the Gospels, focusing on Alexios, a revered figure in his farming community. Once a beloved husband and father, Alexios becomes possessed by a legion of demons. As his violent possession escalates and fear sweeps through the village, a young preacher named Jesus, evading Roman authorities, arrives with a small group of followers. He confronts this ancient evil, setting the stage for the original exorcism known as the Miracle of the Swine, a dramatic supernatural battle that would leave lasting historical implications.
Sales for the project will be launched at the upcoming Cannes market, as additional cast members are still being finalized for a planned shoot in the fourth quarter of this year.
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Described as a blend of The Witch and The Passion of the Christ, The First Exorcist is produced by McLean alongside Mark Fennessy through Helium Pictures.
McLean’s debut feature, Wolf Creek, achieved notable box office success and spawned a franchise. He has recently directed episodes for Netflix’s hit series Territory and produced the action film War Machine. With The First Exorcist, McLean is returning to his horror roots.
In discussing the project, McLean remarked, “This is a unique and powerful tale of faith, but it is also the original horror event: a legion of demons, a man beyond saving, and one encounter that changes everything. I approached the story with total respect for what it is, and total commitment to making audiences feel it in their bones. This is where it all begins.”
Jonathan Kier from Upgrade added, “Greg brings a fearlessness to horror that’s genuinely rare, and this story deserves exactly that. We’re thrilled to be taking it to Cannes.”
