The Exorcist (1973)
William Friedkin's landmark supernatural horror film remains one of cinema's most terrifying and enduring achievements.
The Exorcist - Movie Information
- Original Title: The Exorcist
- Release Year: 1973
- Directed by: William Friedkin
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Horror
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 2h 2m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: German, French, Latin, Arabic, Greek, English
- Release Date (Theatrical): December 26, 1973 (United States - R), September 22, 1974 (United Kingdom - 18), September 19, 1974 (Germany - 18), September 11, 1974 (France - 18), August 27, 1977 (India), March 15, 2001 (New Zealand - R16), March 22, 2001 (Australia), November 11, 1974 (Brazil - 18), March 9, 2001 (Mexico - B), October 4, 1974 (Italy - VM14), September 1, 1975 (Spain - 18), May 24, 1975 (South Korea - 18)
- Alternative Titles: Manaaja - Ennennäkemätön versio (FI), Der Exorzist - Die neue Fassung (DE), Exorsisten (NO), De Duivel-uitbanner (NL), หมอผีเอ็กซอร์ซิสต์ (TH), Екзорцист (UA), L'exorciste: Montage prolongé du réalisateur (CA), エクソシストディレクターズカット版 (JP)
- Production Companies: Hoya Productions, Warner Bros. Pictures
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Exorcist - Plot
When a mysterious entity possesses a young girl, her mother seeks the help of two Catholic priests to save her life.
The Exorcist - Trailer
Watch the official trailer for this iconic 1973 horror landmark:
Something almost beyond comprehension is happening to a girl on this street, in this house…And a man has been sent for as a last resort. This man is The Exorcist.
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The Exorcist - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- William Friedkin
Main Cast
- Ellen Burstyn
- Linda Blair
- Jason Miller
- Max von Sydow
- Lee J. Cobb
- William O'Malley
- Kitty Winn
- Barton Heyman
- Peter Masterson
- Jack MacGowran
Writers
- William Peter Blatty
Producers
- William Peter Blatty
The Exorcist - FAQs
Is The Exorcist based on a true story?
The Exorcist is based on William Peter Blatty's 1971 novel, which was itself inspired by a real 1949 exorcism case involving a young boy from Maryland, referred to in records as Roland Doe. Blatty fictionalized and dramatized the events considerably, changing the subject to a young girl named Regan.
What is the ending of The Exorcist explained?
At the film's climax, Father Karras invites the demon into himself to save Regan, then hurls himself out a window to prevent the demon from acting through him. His self-sacrifice frees Regan completely. The ending underscores themes of faith, redemption, and the cost of confronting absolute evil.
Where can you stream or watch The Exorcist?
The Exorcist is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fandango At Home, and Plex. Check JustWatch for the most current streaming and rental options available in your region.
Who are the main actors in The Exorcist?
The Exorcist stars Ellen Burstyn as Chris MacNeil, Linda Blair as the possessed Regan MacNeil, Jason Miller as Father Damien Karras, and Max von Sydow as the veteran exorcist Father Lankester Merrin. Lee J. Cobb, Kitty Winn, and Jack MacGowran round out the principal cast.
What is the age rating for The Exorcist?
The Exorcist is rated R in the United States, meaning viewers under 17 require accompanying parental or adult guardian supervision. The film contains intense horror sequences, disturbing imagery, strong language, and themes of demonic possession that make it unsuitable for younger audiences.
Did The Exorcist win any awards?
The Exorcist received ten Academy Award nominations and won two Oscars: Best Adapted Screenplay for William Peter Blatty and Best Sound. It was the first horror film ever nominated for Best Picture. Linda Blair won a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress for her performance.
How long is The Exorcist?
The Exorcist has a runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes (122 minutes) in its original theatrical cut. A director's cut, known as The Version You've Never Seen, runs approximately 132 minutes and includes additional scenes, most notably the famous spider-walk sequence.
How was The Exorcist received by critics?
The Exorcist is widely regarded as one of the greatest horror films ever made. It holds strong approval ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and is frequently cited by critics as a landmark of American cinema. Roger Ebert gave it four stars, praising its seriousness and technical craftsmanship.
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