While watching The Exorcist: Believer, many assumed that the demon possessing Angela and Katherine was Pazuzu, a common demon in the Exorcist franchise. However, makeup effects artists Chris Nelson and Vincent Van Dyke have confirmed that the central demon in the new film is actually a different entity called Lamashtu. Nelson explained that they created a full prosthetic suit for Lamashtu, including a head-to-toe ensemble, wings, and horns. Despite only glimpses of the creature being shown during the film's climax, full-body images of Lamashtu have been shared by Van Dyke on Instagram, revealing a horrifying creature with a decrepit appearance, a witch-like face, a third eye, horns, and large bird-like wings. Van Dyke also described the challenges and pride associated with working on the demonic design.
Unfortunately, she has a very brief appearance, but she is a source of great pride for all of us. This project was complicated and required extensive collaboration among multiple departments. It involved a lot of careful planning, thinking ahead several steps in advance. We began by scanning the talented @lizejohnston at 3D Scan LA and obtaining dental casts. Then, @theejasonjames created dentures based on the scanned data, while @dantiri digitally prepared the core on which we would sculpt the suit element.
Who is Lamashtu?
Lamashtu, a female entity from folklore, is known for targeting pregnant women and seeking to consume their infants post-birth. Considered the adversary of Pazuzu, it is conceivable that the approved sequel to Exorcist: Believer could showcase a confrontation between Lamashtu and the demon that previously inhabited Regan MacNeil.
Exorcist: Believer, having already amassed a staggering $109 million worldwide, has garnered significant attention. Take a look at the compelling visuals of the demon below: