Author: Nat Segaloff

Summary

Exorcist the Legacy offers readers a comprehensive exploration of both the origin of the exorcist story and the film, shedding light on how this cinematic masterpiece not only defined a genre but also set the standard for prestigious horror films. Released in December 1973, “The Exorcist” swiftly established itself as one of the most terrifying films ever produced. For those unfamiliar with the storyline, “The Exorcist” follows the harrowing tale of two priests, Father Karras, and Father Merrin, as they grapple with the malevolent force possessing a pre-teen girl named Regan.

Beyond the chilling narrative, the book delves into the intricate details of the movie-making process, providing an intimate behind-the-scenes view. You’ll gain insights into how director William Friedkin and author William Peter Blatty brought their shared vision to life. Furthermore, the book unpacks the rationale behind the creation of two sequels, a prequel, and a two-season television series, all while examining the critical reception they received.

Most surprising revelation

Max Von Sydow faced a unique challenge during the filming of the exorcism scenes. Von Sydow was not a practitioner of Catholicism. Consequently, he found it challenging to fully immerse himself in the character while reading the script. This lack of personal connection to the faith made it particularly hard for him to deliver the level of commitment required for scenes where his character was actively engaged in exorcising the demon from the protagonist, Regan

Are there pictures 

Yes. The exorcist steps, the original house, production photos, movie posters, and more.

Is it worth your time

“Exorcist: 50 Years of Fear” is a must-read for cinephiles, horror enthusiasts, and anyone intrigued by pop culture. This book offers an engaging journey through various facets of filmmaking, from behind-the-scenes glimpses into movie production to the intricate financial decisions that shape a cinematic masterpiece.

What sets this book apart is its wealth of intriguing notes and asides, enhancing our collective understanding of one of the most spine-chilling movies of all time. Particularly captivating is the exploration of the differences between the original 1973 release and the 1998 re-release, shedding light on how these additions continue to intensify the fear factor, even years after the initial screening.

As someone who saw the re-release in theaters, I found that these insights deepened my connection to the film, making it an even more profound and gripping cinematic experience.

While the book offers in-depth examinations of the films and, to a lesser extent, the TV show, it shines brightest when it delves into the unique storytelling, practical effects, and the eerie presence of the demonic antagonist. However, one noticeable gap is the absence of a broader discussion on The Exorcist’s cultural impact within the horror genre and how it influenced other filmmakers. This missing perspective would have provided a valuable counterpoint to a book that occasionally delves deeply into minutiae. 

There is another movie in the exorcist universe that is scheduled to be released in October of 2023. It is remarkable that a movie almost 50 years old still has the ability to command attention and hopefully scare a new generation of moviegoers. Now that William Friedkin the director of the original expertise has passed this is a testament to his enduring legacy. In short, we will all see if the movie can live up to the expectations that are so well spelled out in ’50 Years of Fear’ 

Photo Credit: Kensington Book Publishing