Story perspectives

Exorcist II: Troubled Production, Mixed Legacy Explored in New Doc

9/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

"Exorcist II: The Heretic," released in 1977, failed at the box office despite the success of "The Exorcist."
Directed by John Boorman, the film encountered production challenges, including Boorman's illness and cast issues.
Critics widely condemned the film, resulting in a negative reception and audience schadenfreude.
Some later recognized its originality, with critic Stephanie Zacharek calling it unique.
The documentary "Boorman and the Devil" examines the film's troubled production and artistic value.
The film had a budget of $15 million, reflecting high expectations from its predecessor's success.

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Story summary

"Exorcist II: The Heretic," released in 1977, failed at the box office despite the success of "The Exorcist."
Directed by John Boorman, the film encountered production challenges, including Boorman's illness and cast issues.
Critics widely condemned the film, resulting in a negative reception and audience schadenfreude.
Some later recognized its originality, with critic Stephanie Zacharek calling it unique.
The documentary "Boorman and the Devil" examines the film's troubled production and artistic value.
The film had a budget of $15 million, reflecting high expectations from its predecessor's success.