THE MOVIE

The Exorcist (1973), directed by William Friedkin, was nominated for 10 Academy Awards, winning for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Sound. The film is often regarded as many to be one of, if not the greatest horror film, as notable film critics like Roger Ebert hailing it as “one of the best movies of its type ever made”.

Watch the trailer.

WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

The story follows Chris MacNeil, a famous actress and mother, that tries to help her daughter, Regan, after she begins to show disturbing signs of possession. As medical explanations fail, she turns to Father Karras (Jason Miller), a troubled priest, and experienced exorcist father Merrin (Max Von Sydow), which leads to an unforgettable and terrifying confrontation.

WHY DID IT WORK THEN?

The Exorcist was groundbreaking for its time, with its innovative special effects and psychological depth. The film brought possession-based movies into the mainstream, bringing in $428 million in the box-office. Audiences and critics alike were captivated by the realism of the characters and the gradual build-up of suspense. The cold, eerie atmosphere — from the misty outdoor scenes to the chilled, breath-visible air in Regan’s room — enhanced its terrifying realism.

DOES IT WORK NOW?

Absolutely, especially due to the award winning screenplay. The deliberate pacing and character development in the first half set up ma genuinely harrowing final act. The struggles of Chris and Karras, who both grapple with faith and doubt, resonate deeply and elevate the horror beyond the tacky jump scares a lot of audience members and critics nowadays are growing tired of. While some viewers may find the build-up to be slow paced, it pays off in a third act that is truly scary.

WHO’S IN IT?

The films main cast consists of Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Max von Sydow and Jason Miller.

DO I KNOW THEM?

Ellen Burstyn was already an established actress and would go on to win an Oscar for Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1974). Linda Blair, who was just 14 at the time, gave a breakthrough performance that remains one of the most iconic and memorable portrayals of possession in film history. Blair’s portrayal of Regan, the possessed daughter of a famous actress, earned herself a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress, and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Max von Sydow, who plays Father Merrin, was known for his work with director Ingmar Bergman and became an iconic actor in the world of cinema.

DO I NEED TO SEE IT?

If you’re a fan of horror or even psychological thrillers, The Exorcist is essential viewing. Its influence is still seen in modern horror, and it remains a gold standard for possession films.

RATING:

10/10