Believe it or not, The Exorcist (1973) was released fifty years ago–and there is much to celebrate in terms of this haunting gem. This film has long been lauded as the scariest film ever made and has continued to intrigue and entertain horror fans for half a century.
Nat Segaloff chronicles the history, production, and reception of The Exorcist in The Exorcist Legacy: 50 Years of Fear. As publicity for the film built anticipation among moviegoers, many audience members had strong reactions to the film, notably fainting or even vomiting (yuck!) in the theatres. After so many decades of what could and could not be portrayed on screen, The Exorcist was among the films that spurred outrage and controversy. To this day, the film’s visual imagery and symbolism remain memorable and shocking.
Segaloff’s book shines in its use of interviews with the cast and crew of the film in addition to offering his unique perspective on the history–Segaloff himself was the studio publicist for the original Exorcist film and is a biographer of the film’s director, William Friedkin.
This book is not to be missed by horror and psychological thriller fans.
The Exorcist Legacy: 50 Years of Fear is available for purchase via Citadel Press.
Hometowns to Hollywood 