A Fresh Perspective on Horror’s Rich Legacy

Read Time:3 Minute, 18 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Exorcist: Untold
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 10m
Director(s): Robin Bextor
Where To Watch: arrives on DVD (www.amazon.co.uk) and digital on December 11, 2023, courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films

RAVING REVIEW: THE EXORCIST UNTOLD looks into horror cinema's history, presenting a documentary that digs deep into the origins of a genre-defining classic. Timed perfectly with the 50th anniversary of the legendary film, this documentary takes a refreshing and deep dive into the iconic horror film’s birth, cultural ripples, and ongoing influence on the celluloid landscape. While it's not the first documentary on THE EXORCIST, it was a unique take that gives you a satisfying experience in a short runtime.

Robin Bextor, an experienced director in documentary filmmaking, steers THE EXORCIST UNTOLD with finesse. Their direction unveils the less explored intricacies of the original film's genesis, spotlighting the ambition and the obstacles they overcame. This documentary promises to mesmerize horror enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by cinema's transformative journey, and it doesn’t let me down; I think I learned more about the history of the film in this than I have in several other documentaries on it combined.

THE EXORCIST UNTOLD underlines the profound impact that THE EXORCIST echoed through film history, its impact on the genre, and the industry itself. Through Bextor's adept lens, the documentary navigates the socio-historical terrain that influenced the seminal film’s reception, highlighting its trailblazing role in sculpting the horror genre.

The documentary is enriched with insights from a spectrum of industry stalwarts, scholars, and visionaries. Dan Perri, Rich Cline, Dr. Sarah Crowther, and Prof. Chris McGlothlin contribute to a layered narrative. Adding to its depth are rare archival materials and interviews, notably with William Peter Blatty and his wife, Julie Blatty, offering a profound look into the minds behind THE EXORCIST. If you want to know why THE EXORCIST exists, this film is for you; I promise you’ll learn something new.

A standout feature of THE EXORCIST UNTOLD is its exclusive sneak peek into the creative process of renowned director William Friedkin. This unique perspective offers a glimpse into the inner workings of the film industry, broadening the documentary’s appeal beyond the conventional horror audience.

One can't help but admire the meticulous attention to the origins of THE EXORCIST and its subsequent impact on filmmaking. Bextor's narrative pays a fitting tribute to the film’s historical significance while sparking discussions about the evolution of horror cinema and its resonance in modern storytelling.

The documentary, however, misses an opportunity to delve into the broader societal impact of horror films, particularly their reflection on contemporary fears and societal anxieties. Exploring the evolution of horror themes since THE EXORCIST and their current relevance would have added a compelling layer to the film’s narrative. I feel like this documentary may have been edited down or intentionally made short for use as part of a series or something other than a standalone documentary.

THE EXORCIST UNTOLD is an homage to a horror legend, inviting us all to explore the artistic challenges and complexities behind its creation. It beckons viewers to delve into the interplay of horror, culture, and the art of filmmaking. For anyone intrigued by the evolution of a genre and its ability to captivate audiences through the ages, this documentary is a captivating and insightful journey through the evolving panorama of horror cinema.

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[photo courtesy of REEL 2 REEL FILMS]