Nell Tiger Free stars as Margaret in the new prequel of The Omen franchise, produced by David S. Goyer and Keith Levine. The original 1976 film, directed by Richard Donner, was a significant success that captured the religious terror of its time. When approached by 20th Century Fox to revisit the franchise, Goyer expressed interest in creating a standalone story akin to the approach taken with Batman Begins.
The new film, titled The First Omen, introduces Margaret as a troubled young woman working at an orphanage, setting the stage for eerie occurrences. While paying homage to the original Omen universe, the movie ventures into modern themes of religion and faith, exploring their impact on society and women's rights.
The producers aimed to create a film that stands on its own while offering a fresh perspective on the franchise. Director Arkasha Stevenson brought a personal touch to the project, delving into fears and anxieties in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences.
Despite being a prequel, The First Omen surprises viewers with unexpected twists that expand the narrative without contradicting the original canon. The team behind the film sought approval from David Seltzer, the writer of the original Omen, who praised the new installment as a worthy companion to his work.
Looking to the future, Goyer and Levine draw parallels with successful prequels like X-Men: First Class, which opened new storytelling avenues within established franchises. While focused on delivering a satisfying standalone experience, the team remains open to continuing the story if audiences show interest.
The First Omen is set to premiere on April 5th, 2024, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a fresh take on the iconic Omen universe.
