The Mysteries and Curse Behind the Filming of The Exorcist

source

If we talk about horror films, there is a film that has exceeded expectations and has become one of the most popular proposals in the history of cinema, today an indisputable classic of the genre and a film that has marked a before and after not only for its director and its protagonists, but also for the spectators, a film that is classified as cursed for all the things that happened during and after its filming, for this reason I want you to accompany me because I have to tell you the story of the exorcist.

The Exorcist is the most famous horror film of all time, directed by William Friedkin and based on the best-selling novel of the same name written by William Vladi, based on a true story. The film tells the strange story of demonic possession suffered by young Regan MacNeil. The film's film adaptation, which was acquired by the studio, hit theaters in 1973 and within days shocked audiences and became a box office phenomenon unprecedented in the history of the genre. The film's success is based on the story's patience in presenting the characters' dark fears and tragic anxieties. An image that envelops the viewer in a diabolical atmosphere. A sound design that thrills any viewer, and memorable performances that marked the careers of its protagonists. However, the project was surrounded by strange events, deaths, and other curiosities that grew the cult following. accompanied the film.

Since its premiere and spanning generations, filming began on August 14, 1972. Amidst a tense atmosphere, some technicians claimed to have noticed strange shadows, and others swore they had heard unexplained noises. Some lights fell while filming, and entire sections of film where scenes had been shot disappeared. Fred Kihn tried to reassure the crew, explaining that they were under pressure, but rumors that the film was cursed had begun a few days before filming began.

Accidents and Delays

• Fire on Set: A fire destroyed much of the set where scenes at the MacNeil home were filmed. Interestingly, Regan's room was the only one left intact. This incident delayed production for six weeks.
• Cast Injuries:
• Ellen Burstyn (Chris MacNeil) suffered a back injury during a scene in which Regan throws her to the floor. Her scream of pain in the film is real.
• Linda Blair (Regan) also suffered a back injury due to the harnesses used to simulate her seizures.

Impact and Legacy

• It was a cultural phenomenon and one of the highest-grossing films in history at the time.
• It caused a huge impact on audiences, with reports of fainting and panic attacks in theaters.
• It received 10 Oscar nominations, winning two (Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Sound).
• Its soundtrack, especially Mike Oldfield's "Tubular Bells," became an icon of horror cinema.
• It spawned several sequels and prequels, though none had the same impact as the original.

It is considered one of the best and scariest horror films of all time.