Classic Horror Rereleased

Rating: 8/10 (25 October 2000)

I first saw the Exorcist as a child many years ago. It was scary then and is still scary 27 years later. This classic horror story has been rereleased with an additional 11 minutes of unseen footage not shown in the original release. However, I was unable to determine where exactly the 11 minutes were thrown in. I do feel that the film concentrated too much on the relationship between mother and daughter, and not enough on the priests and the exorcism itself. After watching the film, I had a personal hatred towards the character of the mother, played by Ellen Burstyn, because of her constant disregard and selfishness for the safety and well-being of all those persons involved in trying to help her daughter. The film follows the gradual deterioration of the young, innocent girl played by Linda Blair as she is overcome and possessed by the devil until she is barely recognizable. Her Mother becomes more desperate as the film goes on until she finally seeks the help of the priest (Father Karras), played by Jason Miller (I), who does an excellent job. Eventually, Father Merrin, played perfectly by Max von Sydow, is called upon to assist Father Karras in the exorcism of the demon from the child. This film includes some very classic scenes which are very graphic for the era it was released. Excellent supporting cast including Lieutenant Kinderman played by Lee J. Cobb and Father Dyer played by Reverand William O'Malley. An erie musical score adds to the films scariness. I am not a big fan of horror films and if this film had spent more time on the Priests and less on the mother, I would have given it a perfect 10. Instead, 8 out of 10.