Prepare to be terrified like never before as the renowned horror classic, “The Exorcist,” makes its way to 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and digital platforms this fall, precisely on September 19, 2023. As part of Warner Bros.’ centennial celebration, this iconic film is getting a stunning restoration in honor of its 50th-anniversary milestone. Though no specific details about special features have been disclosed yet, given the significance of this occasion for one of the most acclaimed horror films in history, it’s highly likely that the five-disc set will come with exciting extras.
Adapted from William Peter Blatty’s 1971 novel, “The Exorcist” recounts the chilling story of a young girl’s demonic possession. Her mother, a prominent actress, goes to extraordinary lengths to free her child from the devil’s grasp, seeking the aid of two Catholic priests to perform an exorcism. The film introduced the world to the unforgettable scream queen, Linda Blair, who portrayed the possessed Regan MacNeil, alongside stellar performances by Ellyn Burstyn, Max von Sydow, and Jason Miller. This sinister tale of demonic possession was ahead of its time and ignited a global discourse, with various religious groups attempting to ban it from theaters. However, this backlash only backfired, as it not only boosted box office revenues but also earned critical acclaim, receiving nine Academy Award nominations and winning two.
Becoming a cornerstone in American horror, “The Exorcist” spawned a lucrative franchise, with a sequel released in 1977 and a third installment in 1990. Directors Renny Harlin and Paul Schrader later took the reins from the original team of Friedkin, Blatty, and John Boorman to continue the story. Moreover, David Gordon Green, known for the “Halloween” (2018) trilogy, is set to unleash terror with “The Exorcist: Believer,” the first part of his chilling trilogy series.
As devoted fans of “The Exorcist” are aware, the production was riddled with eerie incidents and mysterious happenings. Tragedies, including fatalities and bizarre accidents like a circuit box igniting and parts of the set burning down, plagued the shooting. Furthermore, Ellyn Burstyn endured traumatic injuries due to a stunt gone wrong. Yet, the most notorious occurrence was the involvement of Paul Bateson, who played a minor role as a radiologic technologist in a medical scene with Regan. Shockingly, Bateson was later convicted of murdering a film industry journalist in 1979 and sentenced to a minimum of 20 years in prison, finally being released in 2003. Additionally, he was considered a prime suspect in a series of serial killings that occurred in Manhattan during the mid-70s, a case that remains unresolved with Bateson still under suspicion.
Prepare yourself for spine-chilling horror by watching the trailer for “The Exorcist” below, and mark your calendars for September 19 when the film’s 4K UHD version hits the screens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about horror classic
When will “The Exorcist” be released in 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and digital formats?
“The Exorcist” is set to be released in 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and digital formats on September 19, 2023.
What is the reason for the restoration of “The Exorcist”?
The restoration of “The Exorcist” is in celebration of Warner Bros.’ 100th anniversary and the film’s own 50th-anniversary milestone, making it an iconic title receiving a restorative makeover.
Are there any special features included in the release?
As of now, specific details about the special features have not been announced. However, given the significance of the film’s anniversary, it is highly likely that the five-disc set will come with some exciting extras.
Who are the key cast members of “The Exorcist”?
The film features renowned actors such as Linda Blair, Ellyn Burstyn, Max von Sydow, and Jason Miller. Linda Blair, in particular, gained fame as the possessed character, Regan MacNeil, and her performance became iconic in the horror genre.
Has “The Exorcist” received any recognition or awards?
Yes, “The Exorcist” received critical acclaim and earned nine Academy Award nominations. It went on to win two Academy Awards, cementing its place as one of the most celebrated horror films in history.
Is “The Exorcist” part of a larger franchise?
Yes, “The Exorcist” became a money-making franchise with a sequel released in 1977 and a third installment in 1990. Additionally, a new trilogy series titled “The Exorcist: Believer” is in development, directed by David Gordon Green.
Were there any notable incidents during the production of “The Exorcist”?
Yes, the production of “The Exorcist” was marked by strange occurrences, including accidents, deaths, and even a fire that burned parts of the set. Moreover, one of the minor actors, Paul Bateson, who appeared in a medical scene, was later convicted of murder and became a suspect in a series of serial killings.
Where can I watch the trailer for “The Exorcist”?
You can watch the trailer for “The Exorcist” below and get a glimpse of the spine-chilling horror that awaits in the 4K UHD version releasing on September 19, 2023.
More about horror classic
- 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and Digital Release
- Warner Bros. 100th Anniversary
- The Exorcist 50th-Anniversary Milestone
- Linda Blair’s Performance as Regan MacNeil
- Academy Award Nominations for The Exorcist
- The Exorcist Sequels
- David Gordon Green’s “The Exorcist: Believer”
- Strange Occurrences During The Exorcist Production
- Paul Bateson’s Involvement in The Exorcist
- Watch The Exorcist Trailer
3 comments
linda blair’s perf as regan is iconic!!! one of the best horror films evr. warner bros annivrsary is a big deal.
omg the exorcist is like sooo scary!!! cant wait 4 the 4k blu-ray release its gonna b epic
the exorcist got 9 academy award nods??? wow, impressive! def a must-watch 4 all horror genre fans.