The recent passing of Oscar-winning movie maker William Friedkin on the 7th of August at 87 has seen outpourings of love and affection across the industry. Dozens of columns have been written about the influential talent that brought us The French Connection, Rules of Engagement and the thriller “Cruising” – the subject matter of which saw it banned under the Apartheid government. It was, however, another movie that inked his name among the greats and will ensure he is remembered for many years to come.
In the pantheon of horror cinema, one name stands out as a seminal force that forever altered the trajectory of the genre and film history as a whole: “The Exorcist.” Directed by William Friedkin and based on William Peter Blatty’s chilling novel of the same name, this 1973 supernatural thriller continues to cast a long, eerie shadow over the cinematic landscape. Its unparalleled impact reverberates across not only horror but also the broader film industry, leaving an indelible mark that continues to shape how stories are told and received on the silver screen.
A Cultural Thunderbolt: The Exorcist’s Arrival
Upon its release, “The Exorcist” had an almost seismic impact, shattering box office records and sparking conversations that reached far beyond the confines of the cinema. It was more than just a movie; it was a cultural event that demanded attention and begged to be analyzed, debated, and, in some cases, outright rejected. The film’s potent blend of supernatural horror, gripping performances, and startling special effects pushed boundaries and compelled audiences to confront their deepest fears.
Challenging Taboos: Redefining Horror
While horror had existed as a genre long before “The Exorcist,” Friedkin’s film pushed the envelope in terms of what was considered acceptable onscreen. The visceral and unflinching portrayal of possession and exorcism tested the limits of the medium, both in terms of its visual intensity and its exploration of the spiritual and supernatural. The film’s audaciousness inspired future filmmakers to embrace the horror genre as a platform for tackling complex themes and societal taboos, rather than merely serving as a source of cheap thrills. Martin Scorsese named it one of the scariest films ever made, and said it remains, “as utterly horrifying as it was the day it came out”.
The Birth of Blockbuster Horror
“The Exorcist” was not just a horror film; it was a blueprint for a new breed of cinematic experience. The film’s astronomical success at the box office demonstrated the financial potential of the horror genre and paved the way for other blockbuster horror films to follow. Studios began to recognize the value of investing in high-concept, effects-driven horror spectacles that could draw massive crowds and generate substantial revenue. This seismic shift in the industry’s approach to horror laid the groundwork for franchises like “Halloween,” “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” and “Friday the 13th,” forever transforming how studios approached the horror genre.
Technological Marvels: Pioneering Practical Effects
“The Exorcist” remains a testament to the power of practical effects and makeup artistry, which were critical in bringing the film’s terrifying sequences to life. The now-iconic possession scenes, featuring Linda Blair’s unforgettable transformation, showcased a level of visual and visceral impact that had never been seen before. The film’s groundbreaking use of special effects set a new standard for horror visuals, inspiring future filmmakers to push the boundaries of what was possible onscreen. This technological innovation continues to influence contemporary horror filmmakers, who seek to create similarly awe-inspiring and immersive experiences.
A Lasting Legacy: Shaping Modern Horror and Beyond
Nearly five decades after its release, “The Exorcist” remains a touchstone for horror cinema, a cinematic touchstone that has reverberated through generations of filmmakers and filmgoers alike. Its enduring influence is visible in the rise of psychological horror, found footage films, and explorations of the uncanny in modern cinema. Additionally, the film’s success served as a reminder that horror could be more than just a niche genre—it could be a platform for artistic expression, social commentary, and cultural reflection.
