Quick Reviews!!

Rating: 8/10 (14 March 2005)

Rightfully hailed as one of the scariest and most famous movies off all time, The Exorcist was both critically acclaimed and smashed when it was released. Although 30 years have past, the film is still one which inspires fear, caution and awe. However, does it still live up to the name of 'scariest movie ever', or has time taken its toll? The Exorcist, adapted from Blatty's novel tells of a young girl becoming possessed by a demon. Her mother cannot cope with her sudden change, and being a famous actress, stops at nothing to find out what is wrong with her daughter, employing scientists, doctors, psychiatrists etc. At first they claim her behaviour my be caused by a brain lesion, others think it may be drugs or simply the trauma of growing up in what they feel is an unstable environment. However, her behaviour goes beyond extreme and the doctors know the case is above their understanding. When a friend dies, a cop investigates. It is recommended that perhaps Regan should see a preacher. Chris Macneil tracks down Father Karras who has recently been having a crisis of faith. When he encounters Regan, he too feels out of his depth and becomes even more troubled. Father Merrin, a man who has followed supposed demons around the world, and who is the only one to have performed an exorcism before, is called in to help, and the two men begin. It becomes a struggle of faith and between good and evil, to save Regan's life.
Freidkin's direction here is cold and stylish, and we get a real sense of something, not only lurking inside Regan, but outside the house, throughout the city, and inside many others. Blatty's novel only gets exciting in the last few pages, and Freidkin does well to make the entire film nervy and full of fear. The constant images of the loss of faith in individuals and society greatly add to the growing fear. Butchered statues in churches, priests meeting in shadowy places and having no inner strength etc. Blair steals the film with her brilliant performance, helped by the score, sets and effects of course, but her transformation from innocent 12 year old to monster and back seems effortless for the actress, terrifying for the character. The supporting cast are all flawless too, meaning this is not just another messy horror film banned for content, but a true cinematic classic, rich in theme and substance. Burstyn is strong as Chris, trying to juggle being a single, famous working mother and the attack of this evil force. Von Sydow's performance is small but effective, and he once again commands the screen while on it. Miller is excellent as Karras, a complex character whom he develops fully, and Cobb is also good. The famous theme, although barely heard during the film is one of horror's best, but it is the mix of screams and noises which add to the atmosphere and other-worldliness.
The content- the blasphemy, swearing and actions of Blair, was the main reason for the film's various bans. However, with society as it is now, with all that has happened in the past 30 years, this seems tame, or at least it does not have the same impact it once did. However, this is not to say the film loses its power. It is still frightening, with many moments which will haunt you, the floating, head-spinning, vomiting scenes, and of course, the spider-walk. It is true that now we can watch and understand it more effectively, whereas upon its release we may have been biased, or seen it purely because we had heard that it was evil. The flashes of that demonic face will get a few jumps out of people, while many will continue to avoid seeing it just because of what they have heard about it. This is unfortunate as it is a truly great film, one which lives up to its fame.
8 out of 10