Review: The Exorcist
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"What an excellent day for an exorcism..."
4 stars. I'm such a fan of horror - classic horror included - that opening this felt nothing but delightful, like sliding into a warm bath. Yes, reading one of the most terrifying and violent scary stories in history felt completely pleasant and familiar and warm to me, and yes, I've disturbed myself.
We all know it - the screenplay was adapted directly from the book. When actress Chris MacNeil's daughter Regan falls ill, she turns to the church in desperation. Two priests - young Father Karras and worldly Father Merrin - must conduct an exorcism to save the little girl. It is a classic tale of good versus evil that culminates in a shocking and brutal conclusion.
I just love this story. The characters, the subject matter, the controversy - it's a fascinating study of what we fear, what we question and what we value. The pace and the plot development is entirely unique, and despite some corny dialogue, I was really impressed with the writing.
Yes, we have all the juicy (literally) details, the filthy language and the moments of true horror and evil. Regan's possession is investigated through a medical, a scientific and a religious lens, without lending any answers that are certain (unlike the movie). But there are moments of true and hopeful wisdom that made even this cold heart catch feelings.
“We mourn the blossoms of May because they are to whither; but we know that May is one day to have its revenge upon November, by the revolution of that solemn circle which never stops---which teaches us in our height of hope, ever to be sober, and in our depth of desolation, never to despair.”
I'm happy to confirm that this book deserves the "icon" status. I consume so much horror and it made me want more! It's truly compelling (get it ... compelling ...). The movie is a masterpiece, and the book adds so many new layers. I'm just a really big fan of this. It's a classic.
DON'T FUCKING PLAY WITH OUIJA BOARDS.