The Exorcist (BFI Modern Classics)
by Mark Kermode
Category: Performing Arts

Inspired by an alleged real case of demonic possession in 1949,The Exorcistbecame an international phenomenon. A blockbusting adaptation of a best-selling novel, it was praised as deeply spiritual by the Catholic Church while being picketed by the Festival of Light and branded satanic by the evangelist Billy Graham. Banned on video in the UK for fifteen years, the film still retains an extraordinary power to shock and startle. The second edition of Mark Kermode'sExorcistvolume has now been updated and expanded; its publication completes a journey of discovery begun by the author in 1997. The new edition documents the deletion and recovery of key scenes that have now been re-integrated into the film to createThe Exorcist: The Verson You've Never Seen.Candid interviews with director William Friedkin and writer/producer William Peter Blatty reveal the behind-the-scenes battles which took place during the production. In addition, exclusive stills reveal the truth about the legendary subliminal images allegedly lurking within the celluloid.