Top Horror Movie: The Exorcist 1973

Where did the top horror movie of 1973 come from? A: The movie The Exorcist was developed from a book by William Peter Blatty, which all credit should be given. William Friedkin, however, made the book into a real work of art by making the movie. We can't say that there is anything in this article that hasn't already been said about The Exorcist. We will say that the movie is more of a psychological thriller then gory. Friedkin showcases the struggle between good and evil in this film. That is its core. Then the visuals of the priests in their fleshly world fighting against the spiritual realm of the devil as projected out of the little girl, Regan, is a sight to behold. To say that the film is art would be a true statement. It does make you think, and should.

William Peter Blatty	William Friedkin

The one thing that does disturb us about this top horror movie here at Horror Stew.com...how did Regan get possessed? We can't figure that one out. We know that Father Merrin has performed other exorcisms before he starts on Regan. We understand he's tussled with the devil. The movie, we think, doesn't explain her possession or any connection between the priest or the girl. Father Merrin's assistant in the exorcism is a young priest, Father Karras, who's hinging on losing his faith in God because of all the evil he's seen. He's also a psychologist. In reality, he has more faith in secular psychology, then God or the Catholic Church. Indeed, when Karras sees Regan for the first time at the beginning of her possession, he rationalizes her condition, not recognizing what's really happening to her. But that soon changes!

Father Karras	Karras & Father Merrin

Ellen Burstyn does a great job as Regan's concerned mother (and actress) who's personal non-belief in God, the Devil, or any of this is turned upside down as medical doctors can't give a medical reason for what's going on with Regan. The great Lee J. Cobb does a great job as Detective Kinderman, suspicious of Regan's involvement, investigates the death of Burstyn's director and close friend who took a major fall down fifty concrete stairs.

Regan's Mother	Detective Kinderman

All of this is a great set up for the major finale of this awesome top horror movie! Fathers Merrin and Karras face the demon head on. Regan's possession is a cold dash of water in Father Karras's face as he confronts the evil, ultimately regenerating his faith in God. We promise (wink!) not to tell you anymore if you haven't seen it, but, see it if you can, in the dark, late at night, and alone.

Opening Ceremony	Regan

Green Puke	Evil Incarnate!

Father Merrin Arrives

Return from Top Horror Movie to 100 Top Horror Films