Review of The Exorcist (1973) by Alasdair B — 21 May 2015

During a time when horror films simply are horrible, it's nice to watch a classic. Last year, one of the best modern horror films made was released. The Babadook was an incredible film, with wonderful performances and brilliantly scary horror. If there is one classic horror film that has inspired every horror film to come, i's this one. "The Exorcist" is directed by William Friedkin and stars Ellen Burstyn, Max von Sydow, Lee J. Cobb, Kitty Winn, Jack MacGowran, Jason Miller, and Linda Blair.

The film begins with an archaeological dig lead by Lankester Merrin, a former Catholic priest. Amidst the rubble, Merrin discovers an amulet of an evil demon. Meanwhile, Chris MacNeil (Burstyn) and her young daughter are living on location. Chris is a famous actress, and she is working on a film in Washington D.C. One night she hears a scuffling sound in the attic. Investigating, she finds nothing. The sounds continue, until one night, the violent screams of her daughter indicate something is wrong. Rushing into her room, Chris beholds her daughter's bed rocking back and forth violently. Her daughter begins to develop what seems to be serious mental issues. Seeking medical help, Chris worries for her child. As her illness progresses, the child begins to swear and speak in different voices. A demon has taken over her body, and Chris has no other choice except to find an exorcist.

Ellen Burstyn is a phenomenal actress, and she gives a fantastic performance in this film. Linda Blair should win best child actress. Her performance as the demon child was possibly the best performance in the entire film. What works so well about this movie, is the mother daughter relationship. If a horror film does not have a strong central story, then the film falls apart. Chris is desperate to help her child, and you really feel for her. When the conflict is resolved, you heave a sigh of relief.

Obviously, this film is scary. This is first rate horror, and it's incredibly horrifying. Rising tension is felt throughout. It's a steady rising that rears it's head briefly, but saves it for later. The actual exorcism is probably the most spine chilling sequence of the film. The director uses brilliant creepy imagery and wonderful special effects during the exorcism. The cinematography by Owen Roizman is absolutely stunning, and the script is very well written.

"The Exorcist" is quite possibly he greatest horror film of all time. It's a horrifying experience that's masterfully directed. The performances are top notch, the score is creepy, and the makeup and special effects are superbly done.