The movie lost its horror factor, but it's still a work of art.

Rating: 10/10 (30 August 2009)

The Exorcist was one of those movie which revolutionised the genre. It was perhaps the first horror movie to bring such new elements as demons, possession, religion in it. Granted, it's not very scary now, but try and think as someone from the 70s, who had no idea what to expect and were treated with a shocking movie.
The story is set in Georgetown. The protagonists are, first of all, Ellen Burstyn (Chris MacNeil), an actress and a proud mother of a girl, Regan (Linda Blair). One day strange things start to happen at the local church. At the same time, Regan's behavior makes a sharp turn towards the "dark side" as she starts talking rude and hitting people. As she gains new powers and as her face deteriorates, psychiatrists can no longer be of help and Ellen considers an exorcism.
The second protagonist is Father Karras (Jason Miller), a priest and former psychiatrist, who is part of a sub-plot, which eventually leads him to the main plot. The final mini-protagonist is Father Merrin (Max von Sydow), someone we will see more towards the end.
Commenting about acting in this movie is useless, mainly because it cannot be complained about. But I do have to mention Jason Miller, since he really managed to give life to the depressed, but perseverant Father Karras.
The plot evolves slowly, but seeing the possessed girl is somehow rewarding. I know that back then it was very scary, but I think the possessor is hilarious, all his dirty talking made me laugh. But the exorcism scene is a unique one in cinema history and it has its place among the most memorable ones.
With all honesty, it is a masterpiece, The Exorcist is an essential part of the horror genre and it will still remain an example in the years to come.
Final Score: 5/5 or 10/10