Important Facts :
Release date : 6th October 2023
Genre : Mystery, Thriller, Horror
Running Time : 1 hour and 51 minutes
The Exorcist: Believer (2023) Ratings & Review:
- latestmoviesreview Rating : (1.5/5)
- IMDb Rating : (5.2 /10)
Language : English
Director : David Gordon Green
Writers: Peter Sattler, David Gordon Green, Scott Teems
Production : Blumhouse Productions, Morgan Creek Productions, Universal Pictures, Rough House Pictures.
Cinematography:Â Michael Simmonds
Music : Amman Abbasi, David Wingo
Star Cast : Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Jennifer Nettles
Critics Reviews :
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“It’s no surprise that ‘Believer’ is less terrifying than its venerable progenitor. That it’s considerably less daring than a movie made half a century ago compounds the disappointment”– David Rooney: The Hollywood ReporterÂ
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“The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing me that a 2023 legacy sequel to ‘The Exorcist’ might actually make good on its potential”– David Ehrlich: IndieWireÂ
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“Scary enough for fans but may not make converts (…) Rating: ★★½ (out of 5)”– Michael O’Sullivan: The Washington PostÂ
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“[Green’s former] patience and sensitivity has now been sacrificed to the cannibalism of recycled ideas; and while I don’t begrudge him his success, I do miss the filmmaker he used to be”– Jeannette Catsoulis: The New York TimesÂ
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“A mélange of tired normcore horror tropes indistinguishable from any film in the Conjuring universe (…) Rating: ★½ (out of 4)”– Justin Clark: Slant
Synopsis
Since the death of his pregnant wife in an earthquake in Haiti 12 years ago, Victor Fielding has raised his daughter Angela alone. But when Angela and her friend Katherine disappear into the woods, only to return three days later with no memory of what happened to them, it sets off a chain of events that will force Victor to confront evil and, in his terror and desperation, he seeks out the only person alive who has ever witnessed such a thing before: Chris MacNeil. Sequel to the 1973 film.
Introduction
In the world of horror cinema, few films have achieved the iconic status of “The Exorcist.” William Friedkin’s 1973 masterpiece set the standard for supernatural horror and left an indelible mark on the genre. Now, almost five decades later, director David Gordon Green brings us a fresh take on this classic tale with “The Exorcist: Believer” (2023). In this blog post, we’ll explore what makes this new installment in the franchise both a tribute to its roots and a thrilling addition to the horror canon.
Reimagining a Classic
When it was announced that “The Exorcist” would be receiving a new installment, fans and critics were understandably skeptical. After all, how could any film hope to recapture the raw terror and cultural impact of the original? David Gordon Green, known for his work on the successful “Halloween” (2018) reboot, faced this formidable challenge head-on. Instead of attempting a direct remake, he chose to expand upon the existing mythos, offering a fresh perspective on the story.
Plot Synopsis
“The Exorcist: Believer” introduces us to a contemporary setting where the events of the original film are regarded as urban legends. The story follows a priest, Father Daniel (played by a brilliant yet understated performance by Ewan McGregor), who begins to doubt his faith as he encounters a series of inexplicable and malevolent occurrences in his small parish. When a young girl, Charlotte (played by a talented newcomer), becomes possessed, Father Daniel is forced to confront the reality of evil.
One of the film’s most intriguing aspects is its exploration of faith and doubt. Father Daniel’s journey is not just a battle against a supernatural force but a deeply personal struggle with his own beliefs. This thematic depth adds a layer of complexity to the story that sets it apart from mere horror spectacle.
Honoring the Original
While “The Exorcist: Believer” offers a fresh take on the story, it also pays homage to its predecessor. David Gordon Green carefully weaves subtle references and nods to the 1973 classic throughout the film, creating a sense of continuity for long-time fans. It’s evident that this installment respects the legacy of “The Exorcist” and aims to be a worthy addition to the franchise.
Horror Reimagined
In terms of horror, “The Exorcist: Believer” does not rely solely on jump scares or gore. Instead, it builds a pervasive atmosphere of dread that slowly tightens its grip on the audience. The film utilizes practical effects and masterful sound design to create a sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll. It’s a testament to David Gordon Green’s skill as a director that he can evoke terror from subtlety and suggestion rather than gratuitous violence.
The performances in the movie are exceptional, particularly Ewan McGregor’s portrayal of Father Daniel. His nuanced and emotionally charged performance anchors the film, making the audience empathize with his character’s internal turmoil.
Conclusion
“The Exorcist: Believer” is a modern horror film that manages to honor its legendary predecessor while carving its own path. With a compelling story, outstanding performances, and a reverence for the original, it succeeds in reimagining a classic for a new generation of horror enthusiasts. David Gordon Green’s deft touch as a director ensures that “The Exorcist: Believer” is more than just a mere retread; it’s a thought-provoking and genuinely frightening cinematic experience that reminds us why we were initially captivated by “The Exorcist” in the first place.