Possibly the best horror movie of all time

Rating: 9/10 (27 April 2008)

In 1971, William Peter Blatty's novel "The Exorcist" was published and soon became a bestseller. Shortly thereafter, Blatty (who also worked as a screenwriter) adapted his own novel for the movie of the same name. In the capable hands of William Friedkin, the movie became a box office phenomenon that also managed to garner 10 Oscar nominations (resulting in two wins).
The story (which was inspired by actual events) concerns a teenage girl whose personality undergoes a transition that suggests the onset of a mental disorder. However, her symptoms intensify to such a degree that demonic possession seems to be the only possible explanation. After exhausting all conventional avenues, the girl's mother desperately implores the church to aid her in performing an exorcism.
Besides being particularly scary, "The Exorcist" is also dramatically powerful. The story is presented in a realistic way with finely drawn characters whom we can empathize with. The Oscar-winning script is vague enough to be mysterious without obscuring the narrative, while also inviting multiple interpretations.
It must be said that the acting is well above average for a horror film. I was particularly impressed by Jason Miller as Father Karras. The always reliable Ellen Burstyn also delivered an excellent performance. Both were rewarded with Oscar nominations, as was young Linda Blair, whose performance was enhanced by some memorable voice work from Mercedes McCambridge. Max Von Sydow's relatively small role as the titular exorcist is also iconic.
Another reason why this film rises above others of its kind is the direction of William Friedkin. Not only is it technically impressive, it also shows a deep understanding of the building and maintaining of suspense. The editing & cinematography also deserve high praise.
The fact that the film won an Oscar for Best Sound is no surprise since the sound design here is truly outstanding. The soundtrack is also well done, famously featuring Mike Oldfield's "Tubular Bells" along with some well-chosen classical music.
On a final note, it's debatable as to whether or not this is 'the scariest movie of all time', as Warner Bros. is wont to claim. That doesn't mean that it's not a great movie; I'm just saying that although it is arguably the best all-around horror movie of all time that doesn't necessarily make it the scariest.
By the way, these comments are based on the original version of the film. 'The Version You've Never Seen' is worth watching as well but I feel that the original cut is slightly more cohesive.