Modern Film Classics #3

The Exorcist

This classic "horror" film made in 1973, has all but been banned by the Catholic church. It deals with a twelve year old girl, Regan, who mysterioulsy becomes possessed by Satan himself. This film centers around finding a way to exorcise Satan from little Regan, played by a young Linda Blair. Her mother is clueless as to what to do, and no one seems to know how to help Regan. So her mother, Chris (played by Ellen Burstyn, in an Oscar nominated role), turns to the church and asks the help of Father Karras, played by Jason Miller.
The Exorcist is undoubtedly the most controversial film ever made. Upon release the film was heralded as amazing, but some found it too disturbing to sit through. Even I found it to be quite disturbing (and scary as Hell), the first time I watched it. But the key to The Exorcist is it's influence upon the cinematic world. Take a look at recent films, for example Stigmata or End of Days. Take a look at The Omen and Poltergeist. All these films were massively influenced by The Exorcist. Is it scary? Yes. Is it disturbing? Yes. Is it the best "horror" film ever made? Yes. But what happened to the cast? Virtually none were heard from after it was made. Linda Blair starred in the sequel (which sucked), Max Von Sydow, who played Father Merrin, has become a master character actor. William Friedkin, the director, recently shot Rules of Engagement. Of course the 25th Anniversay edition DVD of this is amazing, with deleted scenes and a extended ending. So you are wondering the influence The Exorcist still has? A new prequel to it is in the works right now in Hollywood. Of course the most frightening fact of this movie is that it's based upon actual events.

Visit Other Classics:
Bram Stoker's Dracula
The Shawshank Redemption