The Exorcist (1973)

Potential Kermode February 16, 2017

★ 6/10

**Shocking rather than frightening.** Friedkin's The Exorcist is a film that shocks rather than scares. A well made film that achieved notoriety via pea soup. A slow and intelligent film with strong performances - yet also a mostly disappointing one for those who dare to go beyond the hype and actually _experience_ it for the first time. For a film that _does_ succeed in frightening the audience and with none of the hype - I recommend The Changeling starring George C Scott. Now **THAT** is a scary movie.

griggs79 October 15, 2024

★ 10/10

The 4K restoration of The Exorcist is absolutely stunning. Every frame has been enhanced to reveal richer textures, making the eerie details of Regan's demonic possession even more unsettling. The colours in key scenes are now more vivid, adding depth to the already tense atmosphere. Iconic moments, such as Father Merrin's arrival under the streetlight and Regan's head spin, have been revitalized, making them feel even more intense. The film's haunting interiors, from Regan's dimly lit bedroom to the unsettling atmosphere of Father Karras's moments of doubt, now have a newfound clarity that enhances the immersive terror.

RalphRahal February 13, 2025

★ 9/10

The Exorcist (1973) is one of those horror films that sticks with you long after the credits roll. It sets itself apart with an eerie, slow-building tension rather than relying on cheap scares. The story follows a young girl who begins exhibiting disturbing behavior, leading her mother to seek help from both medical professionals and, eventually, the church. The plot is simple but highly effective, creating an unsettling atmosphere that feels grounded in reality. It doesn’t waste time on unnecessary subplots, keeping the focus tight and the tension high. William Friedkin’s direction is masterful, balancing realism with the supernatural in a way that makes everything feel disturbingly possible. The opening in the desert is a great example, setting up the film’s themes with a quiet unease before shifting to the main story. The cinematography reinforces the horror without feeling o…