The Exorcist (1973)
When a charming 12-year-old girl takes on the characteristics and voices of others, doctors say there is nothing they can do. As people begin to die, the girl's mother realizes her daughter has been possessed by the Devil. Her daughter's only possible hope lies with two priests and the ancient rite of demonic exorcism.
Details
Budget
$12,000,000
Rating
8/10 (8086 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Hoya Productions, Warner Bros. Pictures
About The Exorcist
Released in 1973, "The Exorcist" is a horror film centered on demonic possession and the ancient ritual of exorcism. The story follows a mother seeking help for her 12-year-old daughter, whose behavior doctors cannot explain. When it becomes clear that her daughter is possessed, two priests are called upon as a last resort.
The film explores themes of religion and the supernatural, depicting the struggle between good and evil through the lens of a crisis of faith. Its narrative focuses on the unsettling reality of possession, employing elements of paranormal phenomena and religious horror. The setting, Washington D.C., grounds the fantastical events in a familiar context, enhancing the sense of dread.
Critically, the movie has an IMDb rating of 8.1, a Rotten Tomatoes score of 78%, and a Metacritic score of 83/100, indicating broad recognition for its impact. Despite its age, "The Exorcist" continues to be discussed for its bold approach to horror and its suspenseful storytelling.
Why you might be searching for The Exorcist
People often search for "The Exorcist" due to its reputation for disturbing and iconic horror scenes, particularly those involving the possessed child. The film's themes of demonic possession and religious horror, deeply rooted in a crisis of faith, also draw search interest. Its status as a benchmark in the horror genre and its lingering impact on viewers contribute to its enduring search popularity.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer found the film more shocking than genuinely frightening, praising its strong performances and slow-burn approach but noting that it might not live up to inflated expectations for first-time viewers.
Read the full reviewA reviewer highlighted the effectiveness of the 4K restoration, noting how it enhances the visual details and colours, making the unsettling aspects of the film even more intense and clear.
Read the full reviewA review described the movie as a horror film that stays with the viewer, building tension slowly rather than relying on jump scares. The reviewer also praised William Friedkin's masterful direction, which they felt balanced realism with supernatural elements, and the strong acting, especially Linda Blair's performance.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can watch *The Exorcist* on digital platforms like Amazon Instant, Google Play, iTunes, Vudu, and YouTube. It is also available for purchase on 4K UHD Blu-ray and DVD from retailers such as Amazon.com, Walmart.com, and Gruv.
Yes, *The Exorcist* is loosely based on actual events, specifically the reported 1949 possession of a 13-year-old boy. Author William Peter Blatty adapted this case into his 1971 novel, which then became the basis for the film.
During the exorcism, Father Merrin dies from a heart attack, leaving Father Karras to confront the demon. Karras, enraged, challenges the demon to possess him instead of Regan. The demon complies, and Karras sacrifices himself by jumping out a window, freeing Regan from the possession. Regan later has no memory of the ordeal.
*The Exorcist* is often considered one of the greatest horror films ever made and was the first horror film to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture. Critics on Rotten Tomatoes praised its special effects and eerie atmosphere, with 78% of 177 critics giving it a positive review.