A horror film that reportedly caused fainting, vomiting and even heart attacks among audiences is now available for streaming, despite previously being banned in the UK.
The Exorcist, widely regarded as one of the greatest horror films ever made, tells the chilling tale of a desperate mother (Ellen Burstyn) who seeks help when her daughter Regan's (Linda Blair) bizarre behaviour spirals out of control.
It soon becomes apparent that rather than a medical condition, her child is possessed by a demon, leading to two Catholic priests (Max von Sydow and Jason Miller) being called upon to save her before it's too late.
Directed by William Friedkin and based on the novel of the same name by William Blatty, The Exorcist is infamous for its exorcism scenes which pushed practical effects and gore to their limits, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. Its iconic head-spinning scene has been voted one of the all-time scariest moments in a horror film, according to research from Sky Cinema and NOW.
Despite now being considered a classic, the film was highly controversial at the time of its release. During its 1973 run in US cinemas, audiences reportedly experienced various health issues during screenings, reports the Mirror. A security guard at Midtown East cinema told the New York Times in 1974 that there had been multiple heart attacks and even a miscarriage at the venue.
Over in the UK, The Exorcist had its VHS releases pulled from shelves in 1988 due to concerns about its effect on viewers at home, with the video ban lasting 11 years. Despite this, cinema screenings were allowed to continue.
It wasn't until the end of 1998 that the ban was lifted, as advancements in film special effects were deemed to have reduced the likelihood of the film causing distress by the film classification board.
Now, over half a century since it first shocked audiences, The Exorcist remains a spine-chilling experience. For those seeking a fright this Halloween, the movie is available on Sky Cinema and for streaming on NOW.
One recent viewer shared their thoughts, writing: "I recently watched this again for the first time in a long time, and needless to say, it was every bit as terrifying, but I also realized why that is: it's an emotional rollercoaster, a seamless blend of both horror and tragedy that amplifies the film's impact. THE EXORCIST has much more to offer than simply being a 'scary movie'."
Another enthusiast praised the film, saying: "The Exorcist is simply a masterpiece. Great Cinematography darkens the atmosphere and a superb screenplay enhances the dialogue." Meanwhile, a third fan gushed: "Best Movie Ever! It blows all of these other so-called modern horror films out of the water in every possible [way]."
The Exorcist is now available to watch on Sky Cinema and NOW
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English (US) ·