DVD Corner

The Exorcist 4K UHD Review

“The Exorcist” is an undeniable horror classic. 

Based on the novel by William Peter Blatty (who also wrote the script), 1973’s “The Exorcist” is a horror film that doesn’t really need an introduction, but will get one anyway. Largely set in Georgetown, the plot revolves around an actress mother (Chris) and her daughter (Regan) whose lives become upended when Regan begins to act abnormally. After a series of medical tests, it’s clear that something is wrong with Regan, but it’s not something medical. She has become possessed by a demon. In desperate need of help, Chris turns to Father Karras- a Priest and psychiatrist who is losing faith and mourning the loss of his mother. Karras becomes aided by Father Merrin who has experience in exorcisms before, but this particular exorcism may be his most challenging. Elsewhere in the story is a subplot involving Detective Kinderman investigating the death of a director which may be linked to Regan. 

Often cited as the scariest film ever made, “The Exorcist” is a movie that shocked a nation back in the 70’s. Looking at it now, it might be the type of film you had to be there for given how many imitators there have been over the years. Then again, it still might freak you out. What makes the late great director William Friedkin’s movie so effective is that it doesn’t feel like your standard horror movie. It isn’t paced like one (plays more like a drama with a mystery element) and it’s rather grounded in reality. When we see the innocent Regan spasming, speaking in tongues, vomiting green liquid and so forth it’s deeply unnerving because it takes you out of that known reality. It’s the horror of the unknown and the horror of the demonic possession that looks and feels so jarring. Add in the highly effective subliminal flashes and Mike Oldfield’s “Tubular Bells” music and it only makes the movie more chilling. It’s also a credit to Linda Blair who gives one of the great performances in horror movie history with a truly physical and transformative performance as Regan.

Linda Blair isn’t the only actor here who delivers a memorable performance though as Friedkin gathers an impressive ensemble containing Ellen Burnstyn (who will be appearing in the forthcoming “The Exorcist: Believer”), Max Von Sydow (who always classes up every movie), and Jason Miller (an underrated actor).

It should be noted that this set contains the theatrical cut and the extended director’s cut. As cool as the spider walk is, the theatrical cut is the way to go. It’s a better paced version.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 2160p. How does it look? From the opening sequence in Iraq, it’s clear this transfer is a massive upgrade. You’ll practically feel like you are on those creepy steps because the transfer is so crisp and clean.

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? Whether you’re hearing Regan’s changed voice or “Tubular Bells,” the Atmos track delivers. 

Extras:
* Digital copy
* Commentary by William Friedkin (on both cuts)
* Commentary by William Peter Blatty on the theatrical cut (with special sound effects).
* An intro to the theatrical cut by William Friedkin.

September 19, 2023 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | 70's Movie, Ellen Burnstyn, Horror Movie, Linda Blair, Possession Movies, Scary Movies, The Exorcist 4K UHD Review, The Exorcist: Believer, William Friedkin