The Exorcist Movie Review 1973

Truly terrifying story of a young girl who is possessed by a malevolent spirit. Brilliantly directed by Friedkin, with underlying themes of the workings and nature of fate. Impeccable casting and unforgettable, thought-provoking performances. A rare film that remains startling and engrossing with every viewing, it spawned countless imitations and changed the way horror films were made. Based on the bestseller by Blatty, who also wrote the screenplay. Not for the squeamish. When first released, the film created mass hysteria in theatres, with people fainting and paramedics on the scene.

Distribution

Warner Home Video, Inc., 5775 Linder Canyon Rd., Westlake Village, CA 91362, URL: http://whv.warnerbros.com, Remarks: Does not handle retail queries from consumers; contact your local video distributor.

Available on VHS, DVD
Running time 120 minutes.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Supernatural Horror, Occult, Satanism, Nuns & Priests, Special FX Extravaganzas: Make-Up, Special FX Wizards: Dick Smith, Technicolor Yawn, Classic Horror, Top Grossing Films of 1973, Special FX Extravaganzas, Grim Reaper

Screenplay

William Peter Blatty

Cast

Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Jason Miller, Max von Sydow, Jack MacGowran, Lee J. Cobb, Kitty Winn, Barton Heyman, Peter Masterson

Cinematography

Owen Roizman, Billy Williams

Director

William Friedkin

Music

Jack Nitzsche

Other

Mercedes McCambridge

Awards

Oscars 1973: Adapt. Screenplay, Sound; Golden Globes 1974: Director (Friedkin), Film--Drama, Screenplay, Support. Actress (Blair).