The Exorcist: A Horror Classic
If there’s one horror movie that has stood the test of time, it’s The Exorcist. Directed by William Friedkin and released in 1973, this movie tells the story of a possessed young girl and the two priests who attempt to save her soul.
What Makes The Exorcist So Scary?
There are many reasons why The Exorcist is considered one of the scariest movies ever made. For starters, the special effects used to create Regan’s possession are still impressive even by today’s standards. From her rotating head to her guttural voice, everything about Regan’s possession feels unsettling and otherworldly.
But it’s not just the special effects that make this movie so scary. The tension builds slowly throughout the film until the climactic exorcism scene, which is both intense and terrifying. As Father Karras and Father Merrin struggle against the demon possessing Regan, viewers are left on edge wondering if they’ll be able to save her or if they’ll succumb to evil.
The Real-Life Inspiration Behind The Exorcist
One of the things that makes The Exorcist so chilling is that it was inspired by a true story. In 1949, a young boy named Roland Doe (not his real name) was allegedly possessed by a demon. His family enlisted the help of several priests, who attempted an exorcism over several weeks.
While some details of Roland’s possession have been disputed over the years, there’s no denying that his story had a major impact on William Peter Blatty’s novel (which he later adapted for the screen). Blatty conducted extensive research into exorcisms while writing his book, and many of the details in both the book and movie were taken directly from Roland’s case.
- Some Fun Facts About The Exorcist
- The movie was the first horror film to be nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.
- Linda Blair, who played Regan, received death threats after the movie’s release because some people thought she was actually possessed by a demon.
- The movie’s iconic theme song, “Tubular Bells,” was originally written for a different project but ended up being used in The Exorcist instead.
The Legacy of The Exorcist
Even almost 50 years after its release, The Exorcist continues to influence modern horror movies. From its use of practical effects to its dark and ominous tone, it set the standard for what a truly scary horror movie could be.
But perhaps even more importantly, The Exorcist challenged audiences to confront their own beliefs about good and evil. As Father Karras grapples with his own crisis of faith while attempting to save Regan’s soul, viewers are forced to consider their own beliefs and fears.
In short, The Exorcist is more than just a horror movie – it’s a cultural touchstone that will continue to scare and challenge audiences for years to come.
