Good news for horror movie fans! The 2009 super hit horror movie ‘Orphan’ is coming back with its third part. After ‘Orphan: First Kill’ (2022), now ‘Orphan 3’ has been officially confirmed, in which Isabel Furman will once again be seen in the role of the terrifying Esther. This news has created a buzz among horror fans in X. What do we know about this new movie? What will Esther do this time? Come on, let’s take a look!
‘Orphan’ series is a refresher
The horror fans were shocked when the movie ‘Orphan’ came out in 2009. Isabel Furman played the role of an orphan girl named Esther in this psychological horror thriller directed by Jaime Collette-Serra. An American couple (Vera Farmiga, Peter Sarsgaard) adopts her, but the twists in the story that reveal that Esther is not an ordinary child, but has a dark secret behind her are mind-blowing. Esther’s character, her manipulative nature, brought the film to life.
Then came the prequel ‘Orphan: First Kill’ in 2022. Directed by William Brent Bell, the film showed Esther’s origin story—with details on how she arrived in America and how she hid her past. Although Isabel Furman once again excelled as Esther, the film received mixed reviews. Some praised Isabel’s performance, but felt that the story was a bit dull. Now, the franchise is back on track with ‘Orphan 3’!
What do we know about ‘Orphan 3’?
Lionsgate and Dark Castle Entertainment have officially announced the film. ‘Orphan: First Kill’ director William Brent Bell is once again helming the project, with David Coggeshall writing the script. Isabel Furman is returning as Esther, who will also serve as a co-producer! Producers include James Tomlinson, Gary Lucchesi, John Fox, and Robert Simmonds.
Full details about the film’s story have not yet been released, but there is a chance that this will be a new story that takes place after ‘Orphan’ and ‘First Kill’. Esther could target a new family again or reveal another dark secret from her past. The film is said to be released in theaters in 2026, and pre-production has already begun. It is likely to be released in multiple languages in India, including Telugu dubbing.
Isabel Furman returns as Esther
The biggest plus point of this film is Isabel Furman's return as Esther. Isabel, who played a 12-year-old child in 'Orphan' in 2009, pulled off the same childish look perfectly even at the age of 25 in 'First Kill' in 2022. The way she recreated Esther with de-aging technology, makeup, and body doubles is amazing. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how she plays this iconic character in 'Orphan 3' as well. Isabel recently said in an interview, "Esther has a special place in my heart, and I am excited to retell her story."
What to expect?
‘Orphan’ became a cult classic in the horror genre with its psychological depth and shocking twists. The first film stunned everyone with its unexpected reveal, but ‘First Kill’ left some people disappointed in terms of story and pacing. Fans are hoping that ‘Orphan 3’ will remedy this shortcoming and bring back the thrill and tension of the original film. Since we have already seen Esther’s story in two films, this sequel could bring a new take—perhaps she could target another family or reveal more secrets from her past. With horror films like ‘Smile 2’ and ‘Terrifier 3’ recently being hits with psychological elements, it would be good if ‘Orphan 3’ also explored Esther’s mind in depth. But since sequels often miss the magic of the original, it is crucial for the writers to write a fresh and interesting story.
Technical Team & Release
The full cast and crew details of ‘Orphan 3’ are yet to be announced, but William Brent Bell’s direction and David Coggeshall’s script are expected to provide a solid foundation for the film. The de-aging techniques and visual effects were well worked out in ‘First Kill’, so we can expect similar technical quality in this film as well. The film is set to release in theaters in 2026, and there is a chance that it will also be screened in India with a Telugu dubbed version.
Final Take
The ‘Orphan 3’ announcement is a crazy excitement moment for horror fans. Isabelle Furman’s return as Esther and William Brent Bell’s direction have increased the hype for the film. Everyone is waiting to see how this sequel showcases the thrill of the original ‘Orphan’, Esther’s dark side, and what new twists it will bring. Get ready to enjoy this horror ride in theaters in 2026! How excited are you for ‘Orphan 3’? How do you want Esther’s story to be? Share your thoughts on X or in the comments!