William Friedkin’s ‘The Exorcist’ is a groundbreaking masterpiece that explores universal human questions about good versus evil, doubt versus faith, & science versus religion.
William Peter Blatty’s Oscar winning script is amazing, bringing depth to the characters, & presenting the mystery of faith (the novel is scarier than the film!).
William Friedkin did an astounding job of adapting the book into a film by slowly building the narrative with unnerving tension & suspense that lays the groundwork for a head-spinning climax with shocking imagery, gruesome practical effects & psychological terror. Friedkin’s use of long film takes allows the audience to fully immerse themselves in the horror unfolding in front of them.
The performances are outstanding by the entire cast. Jason Miller (Damien Karras) was beautifully vulnerable in his role. Max Von Sydow & Lee J. Cobb provided engaging supporting performances. Ellen Burstyn gave a brutally honest performance as a grief-stricken woman trying to save her daughter. Best of all – 12-year-old Linda Blair gave one of the most terrifying & convincing performances ever shown on film.
The practical effects, including the makeup & prosthetics used to transform Linda Blair’s appearance turned ‘The Exorcist’ into something otherworldly.
The cinematography was hauntingly stunning, & the use of light & shadow is trademark.
The sound design & iconic score by Mike Oldfield perfectly captures the unsettling mood creating a terrifying soundscape.
The menacing atmosphere & pacing is expertly crafted as the film slowly gets more horrifying.
‘The Exorcist’ transcends the battle between good & evil, offering instead a profound exploration of faith, hope, & the human experience. It delves into the complexity of belief, showing how the absence of faith or hope can become a catalyst to confront what we truly struggle to believe. The movie reminds us that beneath the terror lies human fragility, resilience, & the mysteries of faith.