Mike Oldfield’s “Tubular Bells” was appropriated into perhaps one of the most iconic horror themes ever imagined when it was used in William Friedkin’s 1973 classic The Exorcist. The slight offset of the 6/8 theme wonderfully sets up the uncertainty and tension that follows throughout the film. However, it appears that FOX’s upcoming TV series adaptation of the beloved movie won’t make strong use of Oldfield’s theme and it all boils down to money.
Executive producer Jeremy Slater told the Television Critics Association, “I don’t think you’ll be hearing it too many times in the future, because it costs a fair chunk of change every time it shows up,” per TheWrap. But that doesn’t mean that we won’t be hearing it, it’ll just be used tastefully and when the budget allows for it.
Meanwhile, Slater wanted to make it very clear that the show is NOT a remake.
If you watch the pilot, you’ll see that we have some…homages to some of the famous moments [from the film]. You’ll see there’s a scene where they reference the original exorcisms in Georgetown. That’s our way of letting fans know that the story you love isn’t being written out of existence. [But] this is a new story with new characters that takes place in the same universe as the original film.
Alan Ruck plays Henry, the Rance family’s patriarch. Once a successful civil engineer, Henry suffered a traumatic accident that left him permanently impaired. Now he finds himself a prisoner inside his own body, frustrated by his lack of progress and his inability to help his family in their time of need. Despite all this, he remains a warm, loving presence, and someone who will go to any lengths to protect the ones he loves.
Ruck will co-star alongside Herrera, Daniels, Geena Davis as matriarch Angela Rance, Brianne Howey as elder daughter Katherine Rance, Hannah Kasulka as younger daughter Casey Rance, Kurt Egyiawan as Brother Bennett.
“The Exorcist” pilot was written by Jeremy Slater and directed by Rupert Wyatt. The two executive produces with Rolin Jones, James Robinson, David Robinson, Barbara Wall and Roy Lee. 20th TV produces with Morgan Creek Prods.
“The Exorcist” debuts Friday, September 23rd at 9pm.
