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Boorman's 'Exorcist II' Failure Reexamined
1 Sep
Summary
- John Boorman discusses his notorious film 'Exorcist II' decades later.
- The 1977 sequel was widely panned, despite a record budget and stars.
- A new documentary reassesses the film, featuring cast and crew insights.

Filmmaker John Boorman, celebrated for "Deliverance," has revisited his controversial 1977 sequel, "Exorcist II: The Heretic," in the documentary "Boorman and the Devil." Released decades after its initial lambasting, the film attempts a critical reassessment of the notorious flop. Boorman, speaking candidly, details the challenging period following the first "Exorcist" and the impact of his sequel's reception.
The production of "Exorcist II" was fraught with issues, including a record $14 million budget, a troubled star, and Boorman's own illness. Despite these challenges and a star-filled cast, the film was critically panned, with audiences expecting scares but instead finding a film with different thematic interests.
"Boorman and the Devil" incorporates scenes from "Exorcist II" and interviews with cast and crew members, offering a unique perspective. Despite its initial failure, the film has gained a cult following over the years, with some critics praising its ambitious vision and unique visual style.