Would love to know about your first reactions to this demonic masterpiece. Did anyone else cry? Drop a comment below! If you’re enjoying Movie Date With Kate please subscribe to the channel: youtube.com/@moviedatewithkate?si=4b50kqUERC3aHofO
Great reaction. I watched this movie 30years ago. No, i didn't cry, but wish i'd never watch it at all. It's so scary and disturbing. I feel sorry to those who will watch this movie for the first time, because their life will never be the same again, (but it's just a movie lol). This is the best horror movie of all time by the way.
No tears, but when I was 9 it came on tv for the very first time. This was before cable, so basically everyone was tuning in. It was a lot of fun talking to all my friends about it the next day, because everyone had watched it. ( obviously they had to cut it up quite a bit )
Much respect to her!! Her mother’s strife to protect her child was SO powerful. Loved her! Then loved too how she approached Karras to ask for his help. And screaming on the phone to the Italian hotel! What a lady!! Thanks so much for checking out my video.
She was really hurt badly in the scene where she violently hit the wall. It severely hurt her back, that still troubles her today. She blamed director William Friedkin, who was described, by some, to be an on-set tyrant.
@@sjd5750 I think many of those male big-name Hollywood directors were a bit like that. I remember Wynona Ryder mentioning how difficult it was to work with Francis Ford Coppola and how he would repeatedly berate her and call her a whore to her face.
The film was robbed at the Oscars. It deserved best movie - at every level such a masterpiece of writing, filming and direction. Not to mention the performances across the board.
The Academy Awards have been the scene of several daylight robberies. Bonnie& Clyde and The Graduate, both 1967, and both changed the culture. The Sting and not The Exorcist? That was pure Old Hollywood Studios revenge on the New Hollywood Movement. Rocky and not All The President's Men? That was pure white backlash. Rosemary's Baby not getting Mia Farrow even a nomination? Ruth Gordon was Hollywood's basic move: old timer who never won anything finally getting rewarded. Crash and not Broke back Mountain? Jack Nicholson over Matt Damon for Good Will Hunting? On the other hand, The Exorcist got 10 nominations, and was a horror film. Midnight Cowboy got Best Picture with an X rating. Annie Hall, a comedy, got Best Picture and Woody Allen Best Director. For a comedy! And an anti-romcom comedy, at that. Gandhi and Chariots Of Fire both Best Picture winners. MASH 1970 nominated for Best Picture when it probably had more bite than The Exorcist. And it won Best Adapted Screenplay. For a movie that was largely improvised! People have forgotten about MASH the 1970 movie. It was as anti-religious as The Exorcist was pro-Christianity. The characters were as anti-hero as any of the cops in The French Connection. They were cruel and even sadistic to other characters. They treated racism as a bad joke that would not be allowed when it popped up, and simply said, "no, you're one of us and you can't act that way." And they lived up to it by terrorizing black nurses as well as white. Even Fred Williamson (Spearchucker Jones) nearly jerked Tim Brown's head off when Brown let an "old pro trick" nearly get him tossed from the climactic football game. I.e. Brown took a racist remark from an opponent seriously. The TV show that ran for 11 years bore little resemblance to the movie and was quite defanged. So the Oscars cut both ways now that I write about it. For every Exorcist and Brokeback Mountain, there is a Midnight Cowboy and Annie Hall, both of which broke.tradition. Longstanding traditions. And both Friedkin and Blatty were Oscar winners in a 2 year period. And Ellen Burstyn won for Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore, in 1975, I think.
I watched your reaction, and I was thinking " how have I missed this gals reaction videos" because I watch alot of reactors, not knowing you are new. What a great reaction, the editing, your thoughts, you're a pro! You are going to do great with picking up new subscribers. Bravo!
What a lovely comment to read! I can’t thank you enough. That’s so super, because it’s always a bit scary starting out with something new but I really enjoyed watching this movie, and learning more about the background from the comments is so cool! What’s more is, keeping an open mind & heart when watching films can be daunting when you’re putting it ‘out there’ on film but when you find ‘your people’ in the comments who appreciate it just the same, if not more so, it’s really encouraging and inspiring. Thanks again for your high praise and solid support! I hope to see you at the next movie reaction release on the channel :) take care!
I just saw Linda Blair Oct 19th. I drove up to get an autographed photo of her as the demon for a friend's Christmas gift. I got my own autographed photo when I met her in 2018.
That’s really awesome. I’d laugh if she did her handwriting all spidery and gothic for a little playful joke. So cool you got to see her just before Halloween!
@@MovieDateWithKate I have an autographed photo still from the movie signed by Linda Blair. it reads "Sweet Dreams", Linda Blair. the photo is Reagan in full makeup staring at the camera, very impressive job by a 12-year old.
Thank you for the kind words and support! It’s reassuring you understand too how the film can make you emotional when you’ve grown up attending mass… some things never leave you, or rather, are interwoven in the fabric of our being. Seriously powerful film making! I’m so glad I watched it. See you at the next video reaction release. :)
the statue in the beginning is pazuzu. demon of the south wind and dogs. she’s possessed by pazuzu through the ouija board. the priest left Iraq because he knew he had to do something like save Regan.
Thank you for pointing me in the right direction of who the demon actually was. That’s really cool too to learn Pazuzu is connected to wind and dogs - I remember now the Shepard dogs fighting and barking as Merrin stood in front of the demon, as well as the wind blowing. What an uncomfortable scene! Many thanks for supporting the channel!
Thanks so much!!! That’s nice to read. More relaxing than Regan’s anyway haha. Really awesome encouragement and I appreciate the support when I’m just starting out. Definitely cheers to more!
@@MovieDateWithKate this was based on a true story about a boy in the 1940s, but of course it was all a lie, like all 'religion' so don't worry about mass but when my grandma saw this in the theatre, a woman behind her threw up all over my grandma!
I've never seen anyone else react with the emotion you did during that "the power of Christ compels you!" scene and I really appreciated your authenticity, this movie is not only scary but a powerful and meaningful film. Damien squeezing his hand while accepting confession at the bottom of the stairs gets me every time.
Thank you so much for your comment. That was really nice to read just now, and reassuring. Golly, honestly, that scene was sooo powerful to my heart, to my surprise. It was their persistence and the tone of Father Merrin’s voice. I suppose now thinking about it I interpret it that God never leaves you, and his power is so almighty. Even when the situation looks as bad as it did for Regan! :) and also that they didn’t shy away from her, and deem her as a lost cause. Like, Christ will always want you. But seriously, the chanting made tears spring into my eyes instantly. It made me think of so many things :) You know when you think you’ve pushed something down. Or you didn’t even know it was dormant lying in you, then something just hits. And you’re flawed. Damien at the end further shows his commitment to do the most unto others so they suffer least. What a giving soul. And a tender end. Thanks again for supporting the channel! Hope to see you at the next movie reaction release. Happy Halloween!
That scene gets me too. I think the acting job that the actor that portrayed the priest that gave Damien last rites, did an amazing job. His raw emotion on display in that moment is so intense.
@@ace1usmc Off the top of my head, William O'Malley was having trouble getting emotional enough for the scene so William Friedkin (director) slapped him across the face to make him cry, started rolling and that's the take. They were close friends so they embraced afterwards 😅
Church involvement: Fr. Dyer is played by a Jesuit priest named William O'Malley. The brief appearance of a priest named Tom (the one advising the Bishop about using Merrin) is also a Jesuit priest. That priest, Fr Thomas Bermingham, taught William Blatty (The Exorcist novelist and screenwriter) at Regis High and at Georgetown. It was at Georgetown that Bermingham encouraged Beatty to use demonic possession especially the story of Roland Doe in a school project. A third Jesuit also was technical advisor to the film along with Fr Bermingham and Fr O'Malley. Obviously, there are many scenes filmed at the Jesuit-run Georgetown University campus...other interior scenes were done at the NYC based Jesuit-run Fordham University. The Church was critical of the release date (Dec 26th). Some individual priests and priest-psychologists criticized elements of the film,. But the loudest critics were US Protestant leaders including Billy Graham.
That’s really awesome to know! I had no clue it was released just after Christmas Day! Wow. I’m imagining people huddled in queues in the snow waiting for tickets. That makes sense now to learn Blatty was taught by a priest at university. (He must have studied Theology?) I admire greatly that priests were involved in the making of the film and even acted in it. Thank goodness Father Bermingham steered the story towards demonic possession; that was very forward thinking of him as well as daring. And boy did it pay off! Thanks so much for commenting and for supporting the channel! :)
@@MovieDateWithKate I have a pretty good list of about 50 horror movies, but in all honesty some are a sci-fi combo, they are just excellent at suspense, special and practical effects. 3 I consider here are Bladerunner, Alien, the Thing, but for horror strictly and I would put number 2 all time behind the exorcist? Hereditary! And the cast is all Oscar caliber. And how Toni Collette didn't win for best actress, is a pure crime.
The proselytes of St Ignatius from Loyola (post templars), They know very well how to argue with the devil, because many of them worship him. Company of Jesus, the greatest and most powerful religious order (nowadays even more than the Vatican itself) of the planet.
Kate, this is my favourite film and have watched probably 95% of all reactions to this film on YT. (i know, I need to get a life). You have just given the best most nuanced reaction ever to this film. Bravo. If you are sticking with the horror theme then try "Rosemary's Baby" and "The Wicker Man". Hope your channel grows - you deserve it!
What a fantastic message to read! Thank you so much! I really appreciate your support and encouragement as I start out with my videos. That’s such high praise! :) and no, I totally get how watching others’ reactions to this outstanding film is gripping and intriguing :) Today at work I asked a colleague who I know is a devout Christian if they had watched it and when they said no I explained how I thought they might really enjoy the horror film because of the religious themes shining through. I hope to do the future films i watch justice as well. Thank you so much again for supporting the channel and taking the time to comment!
Agreed. You put the pieces together very well. More than just scares, it is the story of a person reaffirming their faith by way of sacrifice, like Jesus did on the cross. Karras was the ideal candidate to be exorcist, and I'm glad you got the religious implications while eliciting some well-placed emotions. BTW, I loved Jason Miller in this. Also I believe the theatrical release was the best version to have chosen. If you liked this, I'd be excited to see reactions to other movies with religious undertones such as Contact and The Green Mile. You're now on my favorites list. ...and The Wicker Man (original) - absolute stunner!
Thanks so much. I’m very pleased you enjoyed my reaction. Your suggestions are great. I’ve had Wicker Man suggested a few times so I’m mulling over that :)
Agree with you about Kate's reaction. Nice suggestions as well. Don't forget: The Omen Magic John Carpenter's The Fog The Changeling (Along with your two movies, I think these are among the best horrors made)
Just came across this reaction. Psychological horror at its best. The Director's Cut is even more disturbing but the original version does the job well enough. It was many years before I was able to watch this a second time and it completely put me off watching horror for a very long time. I enjoyed the way you went about this and will check out your other reactions. Thanks. xx
Thanks so much for your reaction!! Definitely psychological horror at its best! It totally got me! I’m keen to watch the third movie Legion at some point. Honestly though, my respect for this movie absolutely soared after it finished and since understanding the depth of the plot from people commenting here. So great to learn. What a movie!! Thanks so much for checking out my other videos. :)
Boy, you really jumped into the deep end of the pool with this one. You have a new subscriber. Well done. I saw this when I was 13 years old. Messed. Me. UP. They really don't make horror movies this viscerally gripping anymore. The only contemporary movie that even comes close in my opinion is maybe _Hereditary_ (which I'd recommend, especially seeing how you jumped straight into this one).
Thanks ever so much! I’m really glad you enjoyed my video and subscribed to the channel. I definitely want to do more key pieces of cinema; horror is always so fun (though at the time of watching I wouldn’t quite use the word fun haha) but on reflection I really enjoyed the rollercoaster. I bet this movie messed you up.. I’ve been thinking about it non stop since watching. And reading into Mesopotamian evil deities lol. Thanks for the recommendation! Hereditary seems like it would entice me to dive into the deep end again :) see you at the next movie reaction!
Hello Kate, welcome to TH-cam. It looks to me like the channel is pretty new, so I will wish you great success. You already have over 5K subscribers, so that portends well for your future! I really enjoyed your reaction to this difficult and controversial movie. I'm glad that you focused on the making of the movie in regards to the talent, the makeup, etc., as much as the content. You are correct that it caused quite a commotion when it came out in 1973. When you have a chance, check out some of the old videos (well back then they were actual news reports ), about all of the hype, plus interviews with people waiting in line to see it, people that came out after seeing it, people hanging out in the lobby who had to leave during part of it, etc. people were fainting in the aisles, the church was condemning it of course ... it will really give you a perspective of place and time. Luckily I was too young to see it when it came out, because it would have been very troubling. Back then people were not nearly as desensitized to the violence that is shown in movies today, or even on the nightly news. The internet wasn't around ... so again, people were not nearly as desensitized. You have a charming personality and an engaging manner, so I am going to Subscribe today, and will look forward to future reactions. Are you seeking suggestions for other movies to react to at this time? ☮️ Best wishes from Steve in Dallas
Hi Steve, What a lovely message to read. I so appreciate your support & optimism for the channel. It’s exciting venturing with a new idea & I’m enjoying doing my reactions & hearing peoples’ thoughts on the films. I was honestly really impressed with The Exorcist. Even more so after watching & realising how much depth and intent went into the directing and securing the portrayal of Catholicism. I’ve got a number of films lined up till the New Year & then I hope to introduce ways of incorporating suggestions and ideas for future ones :) Thank you again for your kind praise & for subscribing. I have my next reaction coming out this weekend - The Last Samurai. I think it’ll be a nice bit of escapism and wonder. I hope you can join for a viewing of my video :) Wishing you a lovely weekend!
Hello Kate, I've just discovered you and your channel through this reaction and have now subscribed. I'm a British person like yourself I presume? Something about this film which you might have missed, the reason why the demon knew Father Merrin was that it was the same demon who he had fought and exorcised in Africa, this why Father Karras hears the demon on the tape say, "Fear the Priest Merrin", and then calls out Merrin's name once he arrives at Reagan's house. I enjoyed seeing your reaction watching this, Kate, I shall check out your other reactions in the next few days.
What a great comment to read! Thank you. I’m so pleased you enjoyed my reaction & have subscribed! My fellow Brits supporting me!! Love it :) I’m glad too because it’s a bit nerve wracking starting a new channel. But I thoroughly LOVED The Exorcist. It was nothing like I expected. And I totally missed so many things, like what you said about Merrin in Africa. It makes so much sense that it was the same demon and he followed him to plague him and deal with ‘unfinished business’ I guess. So unsettling that the entity used Regan so badly just to get to the older priest, when the whole time I thought it was about Regan, if you see what I mean. I have really been wowed by everyone’s knowledge about the film from the comments! The depth of this movie is on a whole other level. I’m really in awe of Blatty and Friedkin, seriously. As well as the actors of course. Thanks so much for supporting my channel. I can’t wait to release my next movie reaction now that we’re in November. :) see you then!
Best part of this reaction: "A priest walks into a bar..." ROFL And then there's: "I hope this video edit turns some heads! " *Groan* ROFLMAO First saw this flick as a kid... back in the early '80s. My parents decided my sisters and I were ready to handle heavy stuff like this, and so we watched it back to back with 'The Omen'. Scared us all outta our minds. We were so scared of sleeping in our beds that night, we slept in sleeping bags on the floor of my sisters' room, all huddled together. Had the stereo on all night and each of us were convinced that the volume was going up and down. The light from the tuning dial was also casting eerie shadows, and we all saw stuff moving around the room... LOL Anyhoo, I've seen just a few of your videos so far, but am enjoying every second... keep 'em comin'...
Thanks so much!! That made me smile. I’m really glad you enjoyed my video. Haha I also had to sleep with my lights on after watching the film but luckily they didn’t flicker!! 😅😂😂 I would have cried again if they had! Thanks for supporting my new channel.
😎👍 If it's of interest, all three of the female leads in this movie are still alive and well. Ellen Burstyn is 91, Kitty Wynn is 81 and Linda Blair is 65. 😉
That’s insane!! And so wonderful they’re all still here and had continuous acting careers. I was saddened to hear Linda Blair suffered with her terrible back injury from the bed thumping scene :( but hopefully she could afford good medical care.
oh wow. I saw it for the first time in the 80s as a child and even if it literally traumatized me at the time, it grew up to be one of my favorite movies of all time for its powerful storytelling and acting. I've seen many reactions to this movie because i'm interested in seeing what new generations think of it and if it still resonates with audiences used to contemporary horror movies where, with rare exceptions, stories are told in a very different path. I've enjoyed a lot of genuine, smart and sensitive reactions over the years but i must say not only yours is all that at the same time, but i've never seen anyone respond to it with such empathy and kindness. (Your tears during the exorcism moved me a lot) You are now among my three favorite "the exorcist first time watching" videos of all time (and i've watched them all). So bravo Kate. I've subscribed to your channel and will most certainly have another movie date woth you soon :)
Wow! Truly, this is the best comment to receive. I am very humbled and happy that you enjoyed my reaction so much and to be regarded as one of your favourites is just brilliant. Thank you very much indeed. That’s so interesting too to acknowledge how different generations view this powerful film. I suppose growing up in an Irish Catholic family made me regard our family priest and my grandparents priest friends as caring and kind individuals (actually, three of my great uncles were priests in Africa as well) so it just made me think of poor Regan and how helpless she was. And it moved me that these priests were there for her no matter what, as I had experienced as a child. The film really moved me (I’m getting teary eyed typing now), and I’m in total awe of Blatty as a writer and human for having the courage to tell this story. Thanks again for your wonderful support & for giving me confidence! See you at the next movie date.
@@danielfortier2629 they didn't ! what do you think ? 😅 But i had an uncle just 5 yrs older than me who would show me the best horror movies ("Aliens", "Jaws", "Amityville", "The entity", "Invasion of the body snatchers" and more... ) I am eternally grateful to him for educating me so young to the new Hollywood even if some of those movies scared the beep out of me at that time. They shaped my passion for movies and horror/fantastic flicks from the 70s/80s remain my favorite niche of all genres.
@@danielfortier2629 they didn't! (even if they were very liberal) 😅 But i had an uncle who was just 5 yrs older than me and he would show me the best horror movies behind their back ("Aliens", "Jaws", "Amityville", "The entity", "Invasion of the body snatchers" and many more...) I will always be grateful to him for educating me so young to the New Hollywood. It shaped my passion for movies and to this date, horror/fantastic flicks from the 70s/80s remain my favorite niche of all genres.
my parents didn't allow me to watch "The exorcist", even if they were very liberal Daniel 😅 I had an uncle who was just 5 yrs older than me and he would show me all the best horror movies behind their back ("Aliens", "Jaws", "Amityville", "The entity", "Invasion of the body snatchers" and many more...) Even if those movies scared the beep out of me back then, i will always be grateful to him for educating me so young to the New Hollywood. It shaped my passion for movies and horror/fantastic flicks from the 70s/80s remain to this date my favorite niche of all genres.
The film itself is amazingly well-made, especially for a horror film. I think a lot of people miss what you picked up on. It's actually a very sad story, particularly for Father Karras. A man who feels like a failure as a son, and a priest, but who in those final moments finds a purpose in protecting an innocent.
I totally agree with everything you said, and thanks for acknowledging I picked up on this part. It was sad, and how could the audience not feel these things when the characters were written so well. I loved the ending, in part, when Karras crashes through the window because it was like the biggest moment of clarity! Even though the action would suggest the opposite. Super enjoyed it! Thank you very much for liking my video.
Great reaction to a truly freaky movie. I never think of this as a scary movie, just disturbing as all get out. Still, a top shelf horror movie. Happy Halloween!!!
It’s strengths lay in its slow burn story telling, it’s adherence to the book that it can from and its ability to ask questions about spirituality and Catholic Dogma. It really takes it time with character development so you genuinely care about what happens to them.
Beautiful British girl. 😊 I saw this movie when I was a kid and it scared me for many years. I've seen it a thousand times, still scary but not as before. Great reaction.
Thank you so much for the support and kind compliment too. Man, I can’t even fathom watching this as a child. I think it would have caused deep insomnia in me. That, or convinced me to become a nun. :) thanks for watching my video. See you at the next movie date!
Terrific reaction and commentary 😊 Very quick sub! Really appreciate your combo of genuine emotion with thoughtful insight. To me that makes a great reactor! Wonderful job Kate! 🇬🇧
Thank you so much for the high praise! That’s really kind and helpful to know. I’m so enjoying it and can’t wait to release my next reaction video. Hope to see you there :) thanks for subbing! :)
That’s a great age to watch this movie. Not too young but also young enough where it makes you wonder for years afterwards about good vs. bad and what’s possible in the universe, is the devil truly real, and could a demon possess a human soul (?)… the kinds of things you might contemplate as a teen. I’m glad it made an impactful impression on you, and you still enjoy the movie to this day. I absolutely loved it. I thought it was a brave piece of cinema. Thanks for watching my video!
That made me laugh 🤭 I know! I needed a bit old fright for Halloween. Thanks so much for checking out my channel. And thank you for the film recommendation. I’m going to take a closer look at it now. See you at the next movie date.
KATE: EXCELLENT MOVIE REACTION. I was 20 in 1973 when I saw The Exorcist in a darkened movie theater with a terrified sold-out audience. A 7 things most young reactors like you miss because of your youth: 1. Those tiny white pills in the tiny metal container were recognizable to us 1973 audiences (before stints were used to unblock the blood flow to the heart) were nitroglycerin tablets that heart doctors gave their patients to put under their tongues (as Father Merrin did) to open the blood flow when having chest pains. It was the movie's way of telling us Father Merrin had a severe heart condition the demon would exploit to cause Father Merrin to have a fatal heart attack in the end. 2. We 1973 audiences weren't desensitized to the idea of demonic possession so often presented in other movies after The Exorcist. 3. Nor were we desensitized to the graphic language & violence. 4. Most of us knew it was based on a true-life story of a 14-year-old allegedly possessed boy in the '40s who was cured by an exorcism. 5. In the crucifix scene, the demon speaks with a British accent in Burt Denning's voice, with Reagan's head facing backward (like Burt Dennings, who was found at the bottom of the stairs with his head facing backward) to tell Mom in the most terrifying way possible that Reagan killed him so that Mom would pursue the Exorcism so the demon could pursue its real target for possession, Father Karis, whom the demon possessed in the end. 6. The realism of the characters & slow build-up, combined with all of the above, made The Exorcist a hundred times more frightening for us 1973 audiences than any movie experience we ever had, or ever will have. 7. There were traumatized audience members who couldn't take it running down the movie aisles to the theater lobby during the showing of the movie I experienced, which made the movie & realization that demonic possession might be possible, made it even more scary - like I said - a hundred times scarier for us 1973 audiences than any other movie experience ever did or will.
Thanks so very much for the high praise! And many thanks indeed for explaining the ideas & points above; I can see why now how audiences in 1973 were so deeply troubled by the film because demonic possession was never really shown in cinemas before. That’s a good phrase to use - they weren’t desensitised to the startling depictions, and even for me, they were grossly unsettling. I can see why people fled. That must have been crazy watching it in a huge darkened room with strangers crying out and fighting to get out into the aisles. Some atmosphere!! Thanks as well for explaining about Father Merrins pills. It’s all making more sense to me now. Thanks to everyone’s knowledge on here I’m understanding the full story Friedkin and Blatty worked hard to create. Whilst watching I didn’t note that everything the devil did to Regan was a lure to entice in Karras and thus Merrin. Maybe next October I’ll read the book. Thanks again for the support! I appreciate it. :)
@@MovieDateWithKate It's my turn to thank you. I'm an anti-war political junkie. Today's news, political corruption, & never-ending warfare is so bleak that it is depressing. I momentarily escape the despair by watching reaction videos like yours that give me a break from the despair. Thank you (and your ilk) for your excellent work & giving me an enjoyable break from all the political BS. People like you give me a sliver of hope for humanity. Again, thank you.
Another interesting tidbit is that just as disturbing for many audience members, if not more so than the supernatural subject matter, were the graphic medical procedures. Many have stated that it was watching the doctor tap into Regan's artery and seeing her blood spurt from her neck that sent them running for the door. In those days, medical dramas and the like didn't depict such true-to-life surgeries and such, so most people weren't as enlightened (or jaded) as we are today.
There's a short doc on TH-cam called The Cultural Impact of The Exorcist. News reports and footage of people leaving the auditorium, some are very upset, some even faint.
Thank you so much for letting me know. There’s a lot to explore with this film even after watching it. I could never have guessed the cultural impact it shifted in the 70s. Thanks for supporting the channel as well!
Thank you very much for saying so. I’m delighted you enjoyed my movie reaction to The Exorcist. So encouraging as I start my channel :) Hope to see you at the next movie reaction release.
I saw this movie at 8 years old on broadcast TV at Halloween, can you imagine my trauma. I have recovered from it now but I am absolutely gobsmacked by what an amazing artistic effort this truly was
As a tuff h.s football player I watched this alone at the theater when it came out. I locked the car doors on the way home scared shitless! Loved your reaction, movie is still today disturbing! Peace from Northern Michigan.
That made me smile! I bet you were so scared! I slept with my lanterns on the night of watching it haha. Much respect to you in Michigan! Thank you for watching my reaction video.
@MovieDateWithKate Lanterns on, I sure hope that worked lol! Wish you the best going forward! Have you watched jaws from the same year? Different kind of terror, but right there with exorcist. Peace from Northern Michigan!
Thanks ever so much! Really awesome you enjoyed watching it with me (such a good movie, isn’t it). I appreciate you subscribing - very nice, and I’ll see you at the next movie date.
Good reaction. Made in the 70’s but still one of the scariest ever made. I have heard that when the film first came out there were people in the theatre who fainted, some just ran out.
So utterly scary! What a timeless piece of cinema to be fifty years old and still be scary as you like!!! I thought it was flawless. Glad you enjoyed it too and had fun watching my movie reaction video.
Hiya Kate 😌 What a great reaction and l subscribed to the channel because of it. The Exorcist is not only one of the best horror films ever made but in my opinion one of the best movies of any genre ever made. The casting, acting, directing, story, pacing and atmosphere is just near perfect and for 1973 was just another one of the moments in cinema where things changed. You just didn’t get horror films up to this point that where so well made, let alone ever got close to be recognised by the academy and this broke those barriers and then some. I really enjoy watching reactors experiencing this masterpiece for the first time and your summing up pretty much nailed it. Fantastic stuff Kate and l look forward to the next upload, take care ☺️👍🏼
That’s a truly great comment to read! Thank you so much for the high praise!! When I learned the movie was nominated for Academy Awards I was so delighted and impressed! Rightly so, but as you say, that must never have been the case before at all! (And probably never since as far as true horror movies go). I said I’d never watch it again but that was only because I was emotionally spent :) I will totally watch it again. I thought it was a revelation, honestly. So glad you appreciate it too and thanks for sharing your insight & thoughts. Many thanks too for subscribing, that’s awesome!! See you at the next movie release. :)
Great reactions. You're a natural at this. "The Sixth Sense" is the best movie I've seen in 20 years. I _HIGHLY_ recommend it. Looking forward to more of your videos.
Thank you so much for the brilliant compliment! I appreciate your reassurance as I’m starting out with my new channel. Ooo I have not seen The Sixth Sense. Thanks for the ace recommendation!! Hope to see you at the next movie reaction video. :)
What a great response! Thanks so very much. I appreciate the awesome encouragement as I’m just starting out with my channel! Groovy babyyy! 🌻🎬 See you at my next reaction video!
@ why you are most welcome, ha and I guess my my response was inspired by YOUR comments & review, so let’s hear it for Connectivity and “We Are All One”! 🙌😎🙃 Groovy babyyy inDEED! 😉😀 Oh, also, I hope that my and EVERYONE’s encouragement ultimately fuels your channel to go thru the roof and be ultra-successful (I get the feeling that EXACTLY what will happen!)🔥 you iz gonna have a LOT of fun with it 🌝 All the BESTEST, have amazing moments and most def I shall be checkin in on your next reaction, psyched! 🤩✌️🌻 Groooove ON
My wife and I were in our mid twenties when we saw this at the drive in. It scared the crap out of her. I had to take the long way home and she wanted every light in the apartment left on all night. You just never knew what was going to happen in that room. There was dialogue in that movie that would never be allowed today.
Dropping in to give you my experience with this film. I have never watched it nor will I, not even here on your reaction. Let me tell you why. When this film was released in 1973, a young friend, Bruce Smith 18, came by my apartment after dropping off his date. They had watched in the cinema this film. Bruce often came by after a date to hang out. He was an affable person simple in nature. This particular visit was unusual because Bruce was extremely upset. He told me he had just seen this film. He went on to say how he was going to change his life around. He was going to give up smoking, cussing, drinking beer and go to church more often. He also said how he was going to be more respectful to his parents. As he was saying all this, I was thinking that this is one film I won't be watching. Fifty-one years later I can say I've been true to this vow.
Well I too was a bit wary to watch it but it ended up being a fantastic watch. Your friend was wanting to make big changes.. we all don’t have to. It’s certainly worth watching, in my opinion.
~~ I was 10 yrs old in 1973 and I was most certainly NOT permitted to see this film - ( but I was required to attend Catholic mass every Sunday ) - my family lived just outside of Washington D.C. - so with friends we did go to Georgetown and we "walked the steps" next to the home where some scenes were shot - as others there who had seen it quoted lines from the film - ( especially the most vulgar ones ) - a few years later I did finally see the film - and it still holds up today as one of the best films ever made - from ANY genre ..
Yeah same as me with Mass on Sundays. Ten is super young lol but I think this film ultimately makes you feel grateful if you’re religious - to have a protective realm around you. Loved that you visited the steps. I laughed imagining young people dancing the steps using the lines from the film that involve the C word haha. Totally though, it’s a stupendous film in any category. I was stunned by how much I enjoyed it. Deep deep and meaningful and DAMN SCARY! Thanks for supporting the channel.
I think you missed it ... the name the demon kept calling out was Merrin ... the name of the father (Father Lankester Merrin), so the entity always knew the confrontation was going to happen, and who would be involved. It was calling out for him almost from the beginning. Brilliant reaction, Kate 👍👍!!!
Thanks so much for noting here! Yes, I did miss it in the film! I actually can’t wait to watch it again.. definitely next Halloween if not before. It was so good, and now I really understand the depth of the plot so much more with thanks to everyone in the comments helping me unravel what I missed & wasn’t aware of. Thank you very much for the support and for checking out my channel. :)
@@MovieDateWithKate Love it. I also (because of this one) watched your E.T. reaction and, though I didn't leave a comment, I thought it w3as adorable. Keep up the good work and I hope to see more of your work soon 🤗😊
Very good reaction. I've watched a lot of Exorcist reactions but I really liked your edit. I saw this movie in the theaters when I was 14 years old with some friends. It was scary but we did well. There were stories of people fainting and getting sick in the theaters.
Thanks so much for your kind comment and support. You and your buddies definitely did do well seeing this on a massive screen in a darkened room. What a memory, I bet! Thank you for the support and I’m looking forward to reviewing more films.
lol great reaction especially 18:50 imagine the terror coursing through movie theaters in 1973. I’d still shit my pants today. The gold standard for horror IMO
Very charming reactions all things considered. Fun fact: in the language lab scene there is the Japanese word "tasukete" on a banner which means "help me" presenting a clever foreshadowing of Regan's tacit plea to Karras. Good luck with your channel.
This is a true story. My mom and my 2 elder sisters used to bring my brother and I to watch The Exorcist when I was only 5 years old in first year of kindergarten. Most of the time I felt a bit bored and bothered my mom for snacks/drink or just to gain her attention. Only 3 scenes made me stop and watch: the opening desert archaeology scene with the red blood movie title; the crucifix masturbation scene; the final exorcism scene. My sisters were annoyed and complained to mom that I don’t know how to watch a movie in a cinema. Almost 2 decades later, I gained respect for this vintage classic as a young adult who is also a movie buff. So when it was playing on tv for its 25th anniversary close to midnight, I recorded it on vhs tape but since there were commercial ads the original duration is inflated. I let the tape continue recording the show In Living Color after the Exorcist ended until the tape ran out. One fine day, my parents were out sleeping over at my sister’s house leaving me all alone at home at night. I am not insane enough to watch The Exorcist in such situation but I needed to reel the tape fast forward in order to access and watch In Living Color. I remember of fast forwarding only about 2 hours and 7 minutes then press play on the remote control. Imagine my horror and shock when the scene that exploded on tv at cranked up volume was that of Regan roaring and sticking out and flicking her tongue at the 2 priests. That completely freaked me out; I turned off the tv and turned on all the lights that night while sleeping. It’s ok if I watched it from start to finish but not smack right in the middle of a scene from this movie.
Oh my goodness!!! I was totally there with you as I imagined myself in the darkened room and then bam! Disgusting tongue flicking with her beastly voice screaming out and putrid eyes popping!! That would have freaked me out too! I had to sleep with my lanterns on after filming! I could hardly believe it when DVDs were introduced and you had movie chapters. Forwarding and rewinding VHS tapes was hardcore. Thanks so much for sharing your Exorcist experience and for supporting the channel.
Congrats on getting through one of the most scary movies ever! Some reactors won't even watch it because they're so afraid. So cheers to you! I hope that you will react to other horror movies sometime soon.
Oh thank you!! Cheers to you too! :) it was a journey :) but I did really like it. Yes, I’d love to do more horror movies :) thanks so much for watching.
The person who plays the flashing demon is a woman named Eileen Dietz. How does someone so beautiful take the form of that grotesque demon?! Amazing! Great reaction by the way!
Thanks so much for the awesome support! Really kind of you to cheer me on. So glad you enjoyed my reaction to The Exorcist. I honestly thought it was a sensational horror. (My respect for the movie skyrocketed after watching it).
Great reaction...I have watched at least 10 reactions on this movie, and you are my favorite...you seem very into the story and got very emotional with it...other reactors I have seen just focus on the special effects and just make faces and wince whenever they see the disturbing parts...that's really all they have for their reactions...you seem to feel the story more...good luck with your new channel...I subbed...
That’s so awesome to read! Thank you for saying that. It totally took me by surprise how upset I got. But that just proves what an incredible movie it is :) maybe I’ll come back to watch it every Halloween, or maybe every other Halloween because it was rather scary. I loved the roller coaster of emotion it took me on, and it’s so great you appreciate what an iconic movie it is too. Thanks again for subscribing and for the encouragement! :)
I was like 10 years old when I first watched this film Don't quiet remember how or why I watched it but I couldn't sleep for myself like 2-3 days Still my favorite horror film of all time 😁 Love your reaction Kate!
Thanks for the compliment!! It’s definitely my favourite horror movie now too. I can’t get enough of the depth of it! Thanks for supporting my new channel. Hope to see you at the next movie reaction release. :)
First time i saw this film was when i was about 16 watching a banned copy as it was banned in the uk in the late 80’s and removed from shelves, it was re-released around 2000. You can skip Exorcist 2 and go straight to Exorcist III, where we pick up with Father Karras story.
Love it!! By hook or by crook. I have only just realised it was banned in the UK! God bless those who circulated the few copies. I’m super keen to check out the third movie. I liked Karras a lot! Thanks for checking out the channel!
@@MovieDateWithKate if you haven’t seen The Lost Boys, vampire film from 1987, the character Michael is Jason Patric, the son of Father Karras (jason miller). 100 percent react the Lost Boys. Best vampire film in the 80’s, 2nd to Fright Night 1985. Also these two films have the most awesome soundtracks in movie history
The Exorcist was parodied in Scary Movie along with Scream, Scream 2, I Know What You Did Last Summer, The Blair Witch Project, The Matrix and The Usual Suspects. The Exorcist was parodied again in Scary Movie 2.
Great reaction, Kate! I particularly liked that you gave your thoughts on the film at the end. I always appreciate hearing what someone thinks of what they've just seen. I also thought your "A priest walks into a bar ..." joke was great! I've seen a bunch of reactions to this movie and, surprisingly, I haven't seen a single person has ever made that joke. I had to subscribe just for that😁
Thanks so much!! Your message really made me smile. I just couldn’t resist! I actually made myself laugh when I said it because I said the first bit, and then thought, I don’t actually have a joke to tell 🤣😂 at least, not a punchline lol. But growing up in an Irish family I heard priest jokes a lot. It was cool at the end to reflect on the film.. there was a lot to unpack, and I realise now too there was so much I didn’t even notice. I can’t wait to watch it again actually! Thanks so much for your kind words of encouragement and for subscribing. I’m so pleased you enjoyed my movie reaction video! :)
@@MovieDateWithKate You're welcome! It's nice to find a thoughtful reactor who can provide some insight into their experience. I'm planning to watch your other two reactions as soon as I can, and I'm looking forward to seeing your future reactions as well.
The author of the novel, who also did the screenplay for the film, was William Peter Blatty. Blatty was a devout Roman Catholic. He was a Maronite Catholic, which is an Arabic Rite of the Roman Catholic Church. So, he was very diligent about the particulars of the Rite of Exorcism, and also how the community of Jesuit priests around Georgetown University were portrayed, which he attended. A scene from the director's cut, that I think should have been included in the theatrical cut, is a conversation of Fathers Merrin and Karras. Father Merrin tells Karras that the innocent girl was attacked by the demon so that they, as believing Catholics, would despair of the love of God. By reducing her to such a terrible state the demon was working to convince the priests that God could not love us if he let such a horror happen to an innocent child. Father Damien was guilty about his encounter with the older homeless man who asked for money for "an old altar boy". Damien reacted to this man in a dismissive manner, as if he was repulsed by him. I think this was a way of showing that Damien wasn't living up to his calling as a priest. Damien was losing his faith, and doubting his worthiness to be a good priest. The demon used this against Father Karras in their encounter.
Such wonderful points to read. I do agree with you that the exchange between the two priests should have been included. It sounds like it would have married up the idea of Karras losing his faith but Merrin’s response totally reaffirmed him to stay true to following God. Because we all think that when something awful happens to a child.. “how could God do this?”.. but to not let it sway us is a true testament to faith. I assumed Blatty was religious but I wasn’t sure. I think I thought it might be deeply philosophical but not necessarily Catholic. Interesting to know where he stood with his own religion. Very true about Karras being repulsed by the man on the platform. Sad really. And so smart of the demon to bring it up to scare and shake Karras further. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and for checking out the channel.
Thanks for doing the thoughtful reaction! Mr. Blatty died several years ago, and he told a story about an incident that happened to him while writing the book. His mother had passed away. He had a very special rosary that he had blessed by the Pope years before. He intended on having his mother buried with it. He searched everywhere for it, but it couldn't be located. On the first night of her wake, as he went to pray at her open coffin, the first thing he noticed she was holding the very distinctive rosary in her hands. He went on to finish writing the novel, which he had stopped because of doubts he was having about the troubling nature of things he was researching as he tried to finish the book. He took this incident as a sign to keep going.
Oh, how beautiful. And I love how life gives us these little signs if we keep our eyes open and adhere to what they could mean. That was great to read. Thank you so much for sharing. Man, I’m so glad he continued writing lol. To write something like that - so epic, controversial, and huge in plight - takes masses of strength. Many thanks for supporting the channel. :)
The one quibble between the film and the Church's stance is the insinuation that exorcisms weren't done any longer. There are multiple dioceses that have an office of exorcist. It'd be normal for Fr. Karras to not know the nuts and bolts of it, but he would be aware of the office of exorcist. Another minor issue would be the "we are gonna get this done in a day" notion. Its common for exorcisms to take months or years.
That’s crazy to learn! Whoah!!! What a gigantic battle it would be.. to cast out the demons from someone’s soul that had planted themselves into their being so rigidly. I thought they’d say a prayer and that’d be it. Even needing to go over the prayers caught me off guard. I can see how the Church wouldn’t have supported the film 100% because it had to contain movie drama after all but I felt like the whole movie in general really shone Catholicism in a good light. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and for checking out the channel.
Thank you so much!! Yes, it’s so exciting! 🥳 Reached 1K subscribers today. So cool! Thanks for the support. Hope you can enjoy the next Movie Date With Kate release. Thanks again! :)
I went to college in Washington, D.C., where the film takes place. The "Exorcist Steps", which connect M Street at the bottom to Georgetown University at the top, are still quite famous (and quite a workout, too; the Army ROTC detachment at Georgetown uses them for training sometimes). In regards to the demon's knowledge of Fr. Karras's experiences, the general consensus is the target was never Reagan-it was Fr. Karras (and Fr. Merrin, as revenge for being exorcised the first time in Africa). That's why the demon says an exorcism would "bring us together", and why so many psychological attacks toyed with his wavering faith. From what I've read, the Church's response (to the limited extent it offered one) was kind of mixed, though some priests were involved with the production; many of Fr. Merrin's lines are taken faithfully from the Rite of Major Exorcism, although, when the victim of possession is female, there's supposed to be a female observer present. As a Catholic myself, I like it-not only does it affirm the faith, it also makes clear that, while demonic possession (and so the need for major exorcism) is a rarity, it's also not something to play around with. Although, as some Catholic commentators observed, turning an exorcism into a fistfight (let alone using a "take me instead" strategy) is _not_ how you go about major exorcism, I do like, as you noted, that Fr. Karras's actions were essentially heroic and self-sacrificial (and that he got a chance for Confession to Fr. Dyer)-after all, "No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends".
That’s really awesome you have seen The Exorcist steps for real! What a workout though!! I can’t even imagine doing sets on those! I’d probably trip and suffer an ending like Burke’s :) That’s very interesting to learn a lot of Fr. Merrin’s lines were actually taken from the official documents of text used by the Catholic Church. And I see now why Karras was plagued by nightmares and the unfortunate passing of his mother; the circumstances in which she died was all constructed by the Devil. In the hope of eradicating his faith, as you kindly pointed out. As a Catholic (I was raised in an Irish Catholic family) I really appreciated the approach Merrin took in his role. It was like I felt in awe at the power of his faith. It made me think quite deeply about my upbringing and how I view prayers personally - what they can do for you in those moments of despair. Honestly, the film was so teriffic! I wonder what that was like having a scene with an actual priest… probably quite sobering. Karras was a sensational character & so well played by Max von Sydow. Thanks for supporting the channel!
Hello, first time to your channel. I’m only a few mins into your reaction. I’m here after clicking off another reaction to this movie that was being totally disrespectful to this classic film and another commenter suggested your video. I’m already impressed. Looking forward to the rest of this one and then checking out some of your others.
What a lovely comment to read; I’m delighted! And pleased you’re enjoying my interpretation of the film. Thank you for checking out my channel. I hope you enjoy future movie reactions I release.
This is a strange niche but Kate is thw best and most thoughtful of the movie reactors I have seen so far. She brings a lot of lucid intelligence and sincerity to her reactions. It would be interesting to send Kate on a post-watch fact-finding mission as she discusses her reaction to the film with a scholar or critic.
Oh what a super and cool comment to read!!! Thank you so so much! And I was actually thinking this morning how much I would love to host mini chats/discussions with someone who’s a critic or scholar or massive fan of the film & the genre surrounding it. In person would be cool but it could also be over the internet. Really appreciate you sharing your thoughts on that… stay tuned! Perhaps that could be a 2025 project. :) thank you again for your support.
I first saw this in 73 when it was released, when I was only seven years old. Needless to say, it scared the hell out of me. It was and is a very complex story. Amazing in every way. Great reaction!
The power of Christ compelled me to watch your reaction, and I loved it! I saw this movie in the theater when it premiered. If you search TH-cam for "Exorcist Premiere", you'll see some news segments covering the premiere, showing audience members who fainted, and interviews with theater ushers. I'm glad this part of the film's history is preserved. I haven't seen anything that covered the reaction of the Catholic church, though.
Loved your comment haha! Thank you so much for watching! Yes, I wouldn’t mind looking at reactions documented from high up in the church. See you at the next movie date.
Dear Miss,thank you so much for this video and your so great,brilliant reactions. I really appreciate that. Very warm greetings from the Central Europe ( the Czech Republic). And btw - I admire your perfect British accent! Have a nice,pleasant,peaceful time and take care.
What a lovely comment! That’s super cool you’re watching from Czech Republic! Děkuju! I’m so pleased you’re enjoying my movie reactions - and accent :) have a pleasant week also & enjoy celebrating Halloween. Till the next video!
Thanks for saying that! I’m so glad too! It felt right to connect to the original, and I can always watch the other scenes separately. Thanks for supporting my video! :) Hope to see you at the next one.
Personally i like Kinderman and Dyer becoming friends at the end. Kinda softens the edge a bit. Because yes, the world continues on. But not all of it is hard and cold and indifferent.
I agree, I far prefer the theatrical version. I like the ending much better, I really don;t recommend Blatty’s version. I do however recommend The Ninth Configuration.
This was based on a true story but was changed a bit. If I remember correctly the person that was possessed was a ten or twelve year old boy in the St Louis area around 1947-1948 time period. If I remember recall correctly the boy's first name was "Steven."
Outstanding reaction video 👍 📹 The demon is Pazuzu, Prince of the air.... It is the only demon arrogant and egotistical enough to proclaim it is the Devil itself. The only thing you missed out on with the theatrical version was the "spider walk" coming down the stairs right after Mrs McNeil is informed of Burk's death. It's a pretty alarming jumpscare Exorcist 2 is garbage, but Exorcist 3 is outstanding. It's super creepy and suspenseful without the shock value scenes of the original. George C Scott portrays detective Kinderman and Brad Douriff portrays the possessed . Incredible performances by both.... Definitely worth reacting to. 🏆 😱 🎥
The spiderwalk does not fit the movie and so i find it was a good choice to have it removed in the theatrical version. The best version of the movie in my opinion.
Loved reading your comment just now! Thanks so much for the awesome praise. So interesting about Pazuzu. I just scanned read a bit about the demon. Like you say, Prince of air and travels on winds.. makes sense how they had the window open so much in the Devil scenes, and made the air super cold. I really will watch The Exorcist 3 then. I’d love for the story to continue.. it has so much belly to it. Ahhh yes, the spider walk. So I’ve watched a clip of that now after filming the reaction video. It made me shudder big time. Where they got the idea for that is beyond me! So so creepy!! Thanks again for supporting my video & passing on your knowledge - very pleased you enjoyed it.
On your question on consultation, three priests advised on the movie. Two of them acted in the film. Tom, Damien’s superior, was Fr Tom Bermingham SJ (a former Jesuit provincial) and Fr Dyer was played by Bill O’Malley SJ. The rite of exorcism used in the film was the official rite of exorcism used by the Catholic Church at the time. And the story is based on a 1949 case in the USA- a (now dead) priest I knew was friends with the Jesuit priests who did the exorcism.
Watched it at 7 when it came out. My father who I miss everyday took me. So yea fun times . I’m 58 and I still see with thenight light. And I scroll down to almost the end to see your reaction. Don’t need to see that again .
I’m so sorry you lost your dear dad. What a special memory you have now of him taking you to see it. I slept that night of watching with my lanterns left on. It affected me deeply. Awesome film but devastating. I have a lovely memory of my uncle taking me to the cinema when I was 9 and I smelt my hair all the way home and in bed because it smelt of popcorn. Makes me teary eyed thinking about it. Thank you so much for checking out my reaction video. I hope you can keep watching more films that make you feel connected to your dad.
@ my father would take two steps further and hide underneath my bed shake it or go around the house to my bedroom window and scratch it and make weird noises so yeah I miss that man, but I don’t know what the fuck he was doing . And it kind of messed w my sleep to this day. Yes
There’s no denying this film is so powerful and it permanently etches your mind. Few, if any movies leave such a lasting impression on you for years after watching it, as this one does. The entity inside Reagan was not the Devil, it was a demon named Pazuzu. This becomes evident in the other sequels after this one
Thanks so much and I totally agree. I’ve been pondering this movie for days, along with Father Karras’ journey. I’m certainly keen to watch Legion. Thank you so much for checking out the channel.
Very happy that I came across your video. Think you are an awesome movie reactor. One of the best I have seen, so it was an easy decision to subscribe to your channel. At the time of its release 'The Exorcist' was widely considered to be the scariest horror movie of all time. Surpassing Hitchcock's 'Psycho', as well as 'Rosemary's Baby.' It was said that people were so disturbed by the movie that they slept with a light on. The film definitely could cause one to cry. The plight of the young girl, her mother, and the priest was a very sympathetic character. It is a movie that one could never forget upon seeing. Good luck with the channel Kate. Look forward to watching more videos.
Thanks so much for the high praise! And thank you for subscribing too. I smiled when I read your comment about viewers leaving lights on because I left on my lanterns into the night, I did feel pretty perturbed by the movie, I have to say. It was more the sudden image of the devils face in Karras’ dream. So deeply disturbing! Though, I do love the thrill of horror movies :) see you at the next movie reaction release!
Good reaction and you are very right about thinking of how the original audiences took this in. I am glad you mentioned how the "older priest was hardcore". Actor Max Von Sydow delivers the prayers and ceremony with such conviction. When he says "It is God himself who commands you" it's seems powerful.
So powerful! So so powerful as he was stern and his directive was executed with amazing conviction. Yes, when he delivers that line as well as saying, “there is only one.” When Karras goes on about the three voices. Incredible acting. Thank you very much for watching! :)
Hi Kate! Thank you for your reaction! Really enjoyed re-experiencing this masterpiece through your eyes. You're such an expressive person - it makes it more fun! Looking forward to following your adventures.
That’s so wonderful you enjoyed the video! Thank you for your comments. I’m pleased you got to re-experience this terrific movie. It was honestly so good! :) I’ve been thinking about the theology behind the plot for days since. Looking forward to seeing you at the next movie reaction video. Thanks again for the support!
I love that the movie builds suspense and tension instead of just throwing meaningless jump scares everywhere. The performances were too shelf all around. Some fun facts about the movie: In the scene where Regans mother is hit and thrown to the floor, Ellen Burstyn suffered a shattered tailbone. Her scream of pain is real. Paul Bateson, who appeared as the radiographer in the hospital scene, was a real radiographer. He was also a muderer. He would be convicted of murder and suspected of committing several others. Exorcist author William Peter Blatty appears in the movie set scene. Jason Miller is the father of Jason Patrick, who starred in The Lost Boys. Linda Blair suffered a fractured spine when a harness malfunctioned in one of the bedroom scenes.
Really cool to know! I never knew Blatty is actually in one of the scenes - love that!! And I really want to watch The Lost Boys :) the pics look fantastically 80’s! Thank you for watching my video.
The book author was also the author of the screenplay. I highly recommend the book. It it almost reads more like a detective novel than a horror. Very fun reaction! Thanks!
Thank you so much for sharing that!! What a gifted writer he was. And so brave too to explore this area of life & spiritual conflict - that’s probably not the best phrase to use but you know what I mean :) I do love reading books after movies, if it’s not possible to do it visa versa. Understanding the depth of Blatty now, and what he studied at university, I would totally read his novel. Many thanks, and thank you for the encouragement and praise! :)
Hahaha afterwards I did think, oh God, we’re not even with the satanist girl yet! So pleased you enjoyed my movie reaction video with all the jumps haha!
When the movie came out there were reports of people running screaming from the theaters. It was a different time back then ... society was different and the way we regarded religion was different. There are original videos on youtube of people leaving the theaters after seeing the movie. My sister was in her late teens at the time and went and saw it at the theater, she was so traumatized that she would not sleep at night with the lights off at all for about 3 weeks. I remember overhearing my parents talking about whether to get her help.
I was a child when this film was released. "Shocking" is an understatement for the early 1970s. I also vividly remember local protests outside of the local movie theater that was showing the movie. I never watched "The Exorcist" until I was a teen. And then that film scared me so much, I refused to watch again until I was in my late 20s.
I don’t blame you at all. Watching it in my early thirties is ok because I have a fairly good knowledge of myself and how I view life and spirituality, but my goodness I could not have watched this as a teenager. It would have been far too upsetting. And scary! Just the most exceptional horror film. I have come to love the depth of it. Thank you for checking out my channel.
You have a new subscriber!! I will tell you that here in the states when this film was released it was very disturbing. There were actual reports of suicide and people being admitted to the hospital upon viewing it.
That’s really awesome! Thanks so much for subscribing! Since posting I’ve watched a bit of media footage of cinema goers in the seventies and the scenes are absolutely bonkers! Even on here people were saying when the film was released priests were trying to dissuade them from going into the theatres! Very sad though that people who must have been suffering anyway actually took their own lives. 😢 thank you again for visiting my channel.
There's a couple of versions of The Exorcist spider walk scene on you tube - the scene from the directors cut and the original spider walk scene which got deleted.
I was a kid when this came out, but I remember a big tough biker guy down our road went to see it. He used to hang with Hells Angels, but the film scared him so much he didn't go out after dark for ages afterwards.
That made me smile! I’m imagining him wrapped up in a blanket with his leather sleeveless jacket and tatts with his legs curled up haha. And who can blame him!! The film was petrifying! I had to sleep with the lights on afterwards and I played a nice audiobook. What a rollercoaster! I’m so glad you enjoyed it too! Thanks for supporting the channel.
Extraordinary cast. Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Jason Miller, the great Lee J. Cobb. Wonderful actors all. And then there’s Max von Sydow as Father Merrin. He was in his early 40s when he played this old priest. The makeup helped, for sure. But really it was his impeccable acting that made us believe him as an old man. In addition to some American movies, von Sydow had a lifetime of experience on stage and film working with Ingmar Bergman. Most famously, he starred in Bergman’s "The Seventh Seal" - one of the finest films ever made. I once asked a rather well known director who was the greatest actor of all time. His answer: "You mean besides Max von Sydow?"
That’s sooo cool!! Ooo I really want to know who the director was! Right answer though. He was utterly unwavering in this performance. Thanks for noting The Seventh Sea. I haven’t heard of that film before but will look it up now. Wasn’t the makeup insane. Even how he let his face hang, and his shoulders stoop. He had me thinking he was seventy! Thanks so much for supporting the channel!
Thank you so much for saying so! Absolutely love that you’re watching me from Argentina! Many thanks for the support & hope to see you at the next movie date. 🇬🇧
I’ve watched lots of reactions to this film and yours is up there with the best. I first saw The Exorcist on a really bad pirate VHS copy around 1990 when I was 16 and it was banned here in England. Didn’t watch it again until about 5 years ago, and now it’s probably my favourite film.
What a great comment! I so appreciate your encouragement, thank you. I know I said in the video I wouldn’t watch it again but I totally will. It’s insanely powerful and since I posted my reaction I have learned so much about the background of the movie and my respect for it has increased tenfold. I’m pleased it’s your favourite and I’m sure when you watched it the second time with a better restored version (absolutely bonkers it was forbidden here for twenty years!) you realised the depth to it as well. Cheers for supporting my new channel. Hope to see you at the next reaction video. :)
@ yes, I’ve definitely got to fully appreciate it. That first time was mainly us as kids getting to watch a banned scary film without taking much in. I do remember someone knocked the front door during the crucifix scene and we all jumped a mile! I think everyone involved from actors, directors to make up and practical effects was absolutely at the top of their game.
I enjoyed your reaction! Saw it in the theatre in Toronto in 1973. Yes, people screamed, left the theatre, & protests outside. Please react to another classic from the same era ... The Godfather ... recognized as one of the top three movies of all time.
Thanks so much for the ace feedback. I’m glad you enjoyed my reaction video. What a great suggestion re The Godfather. Apt timing too because I think a movie is coming out very soon about Marlon Brando staring Billy Zane. Thanks so much for commenting on my video.
![NEVER AGAIN!! | NON-Horror Fan Watches THE EXORCIST (1973) *Reaction* [YouTube Edit]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/xEhZ3kxgI4M/mqdefault.jpg)
Would love to know about your first reactions to this demonic masterpiece. Did anyone else cry? Drop a comment below!
If you’re enjoying Movie Date With Kate please subscribe to the channel: youtube.com/@moviedatewithkate?si=4b50kqUERC3aHofO
Great reaction. I watched this movie 30years ago. No, i didn't cry, but wish i'd never watch it at all. It's so scary and disturbing. I feel sorry to those who will watch this movie for the first time, because their life will never be the same again, (but it's just a movie lol). This is the best horror movie of all time by the way.
You remind me of if Jamie lee Curtis when young was cast as Mary Poppins God bless you
You would also like Dark Night of The Scarecrow, a 1981 made for TV movie, a great Halloween filem.
No tears, but when I was 9 it came on tv for the very first time. This was before cable, so basically everyone was tuning in. It was a lot of fun talking to all my friends about it the next day, because everyone had watched it. ( obviously they had to cut it up quite a bit )
Check out the audience reaction to it when it came out. It's on TH-cam.
Ellen Burstyn deserved an Oscar for her portrayal of Regan's mother. She's a great actress in general and still active.
Much respect to her!! Her mother’s strife to protect her child was SO powerful. Loved her! Then loved too how she approached Karras to ask for his help. And screaming on the phone to the Italian hotel! What a lady!! Thanks so much for checking out my video.
@MovieDateWithKate You're welcome.
Saw her on Bway back in 75. She won the Tony.
She was really hurt badly in the scene where she violently hit the wall. It severely hurt her back, that still troubles her today. She blamed director William Friedkin, who was described, by some, to be an on-set tyrant.
@@sjd5750 I think many of those male big-name Hollywood directors were a bit like that. I remember Wynona Ryder mentioning how difficult it was to work with Francis Ford Coppola and how he would repeatedly berate her and call her a whore to her face.
The film was robbed at the Oscars. It deserved best movie - at every level such a masterpiece of writing, filming and direction. Not to mention the performances across the board.
The Academy Awards have been the scene of several daylight robberies. Bonnie& Clyde and The Graduate, both 1967, and both changed the culture. The Sting and not The Exorcist? That was pure Old Hollywood Studios revenge on the New Hollywood Movement.
Rocky and not All The President's Men? That was pure white backlash.
Rosemary's Baby not getting Mia Farrow even a nomination? Ruth Gordon was Hollywood's basic move: old timer who never won anything finally getting rewarded.
Crash and not Broke back Mountain?
Jack Nicholson over Matt Damon for Good Will Hunting?
On the other hand, The Exorcist got 10 nominations, and was a horror film. Midnight Cowboy got Best Picture with an X rating. Annie Hall, a comedy, got Best Picture and Woody Allen Best Director. For a comedy! And an anti-romcom comedy, at that. Gandhi and Chariots Of Fire both Best Picture winners. MASH 1970 nominated for Best Picture when it probably had more bite than The Exorcist. And it won Best Adapted Screenplay. For a movie that was largely improvised!
People have forgotten about MASH the 1970 movie. It was as anti-religious as The Exorcist was pro-Christianity. The characters were as anti-hero as any of the cops in The French Connection. They were cruel and even sadistic to other characters. They treated racism as a bad joke that would not be allowed when it popped up, and simply said, "no, you're one of us and you can't act that way." And they lived up to it by terrorizing black nurses as well as white. Even Fred Williamson (Spearchucker Jones) nearly jerked Tim Brown's head off when Brown let an "old pro trick" nearly get him tossed from the climactic football game. I.e. Brown took a racist remark from an opponent seriously.
The TV show that ran for 11 years bore little resemblance to the movie and was quite defanged.
So the Oscars cut both ways now that I write about it. For every Exorcist and Brokeback Mountain, there is a Midnight Cowboy and Annie Hall, both of which broke.tradition. Longstanding traditions.
And both Friedkin and Blatty were Oscar winners in a 2 year period. And Ellen Burstyn won for Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore, in 1975, I think.
Best old age make-up ever applied to an actor on film. Max Von Sydow (Father Merrin) was in his early 40s when The Exorcist was made.
I totally agree!! I truly thought he was an old man. The makeup artists were absolutely elite in this movie!
what's more amazing is that Von sydow looked exacly like that when he got old.
@@MordorProject Yep. Check him out in _The Force Awakens._
He struggled for years getting future roles. Everyone believed he actually was an old man. He was so good it almost ended his career.
He looks like Joe Biden.
I watched your reaction, and I was thinking " how have I missed this gals reaction videos" because I watch alot of reactors, not knowing you are new. What a great reaction, the editing, your thoughts, you're a pro! You are going to do great with picking up new subscribers. Bravo!
What a lovely comment to read! I can’t thank you enough. That’s so super, because it’s always a bit scary starting out with something new but I really enjoyed watching this movie, and learning more about the background from the comments is so cool! What’s more is, keeping an open mind & heart when watching films can be daunting when you’re putting it ‘out there’ on film but when you find ‘your people’ in the comments who appreciate it just the same, if not more so, it’s really encouraging and inspiring. Thanks again for your high praise and solid support! I hope to see you at the next movie reaction release on the channel :) take care!
I just saw Linda Blair Oct 19th. I drove up to get an autographed photo of her as the demon for a friend's Christmas gift. I got my own autographed photo when I met her in 2018.
That’s really awesome. I’d laugh if she did her handwriting all spidery and gothic for a little playful joke. So cool you got to see her just before Halloween!
@@MovieDateWithKate I have an autographed photo still from the movie signed by Linda Blair. it reads "Sweet Dreams", Linda Blair. the photo is Reagan in full makeup staring at the camera, very impressive job by a 12-year old.
I love that shot of Father Merrin and the Pazuzu statue facing one another, symbolising the forces of good and evil facing off against each other.
Same! Loved that shot.
I was raised a strict Roman Catholic, and your emotional reaction is understandable. Great reaction video, I look forward to seeing more of them.
Thank you for the kind words and support! It’s reassuring you understand too how the film can make you emotional when you’ve grown up attending mass… some things never leave you, or rather, are interwoven in the fabric of our being. Seriously powerful film making! I’m so glad I watched it. See you at the next video reaction release. :)
I too grew up Catholic, of course the rite of exorcism is extremely secretive, but the ritual of the thing reminds me of my youth.
the statue in the beginning is pazuzu. demon of the south wind and dogs. she’s possessed by pazuzu through the ouija board. the priest left Iraq because he knew he had to do something like save Regan.
Thank you for pointing me in the right direction of who the demon actually was. That’s really cool too to learn Pazuzu is connected to wind and dogs - I remember now the Shepard dogs fighting and barking as Merrin stood in front of the demon, as well as the wind blowing. What an uncomfortable scene! Many thanks for supporting the channel!
You’ve got such a relaxing voice! ☺️
Great movie, will always be a classic! Glad to be part of the first 100 subs, to many many more 🍻
Thanks so much!!! That’s nice to read. More relaxing than Regan’s anyway haha. Really awesome encouragement and I appreciate the support when I’m just starting out. Definitely cheers to more!
@@MovieDateWithKate
this was based on a true story about a boy in the 1940s, but of course it was all a lie, like all 'religion' so don't worry about mass
but when my grandma saw this in the theatre, a woman behind her threw up all over my grandma!
I thought the same.
Absolutely, as an englishman in his late 50's who attended grammar school, I love your pronunciation and eloquence.
I've never seen anyone else react with the emotion you did during that "the power of Christ compels you!" scene and I really appreciated your authenticity, this movie is not only scary but a powerful and meaningful film. Damien squeezing his hand while accepting confession at the bottom of the stairs gets me every time.
Thank you so much for your comment. That was really nice to read just now, and reassuring. Golly, honestly, that scene was sooo powerful to my heart, to my surprise. It was their persistence and the tone of Father Merrin’s voice. I suppose now thinking about it I interpret it that God never leaves you, and his power is so almighty. Even when the situation looks as bad as it did for Regan! :) and also that they didn’t shy away from her, and deem her as a lost cause. Like, Christ will always want you. But seriously, the chanting made tears spring into my eyes instantly. It made me think of so many things :) You know when you think you’ve pushed something down. Or you didn’t even know it was dormant lying in you, then something just hits. And you’re flawed. Damien at the end further shows his commitment to do the most unto others so they suffer least. What a giving soul. And a tender end. Thanks again for supporting the channel! Hope to see you at the next movie reaction release. Happy Halloween!
@MovieDateWithKate I'll be there, we smaller channels and believers in Christ trying to get a foot hold need to stick together 🤝
That scene gets me too. I think the acting job that the actor that portrayed the priest that gave Damien last rites, did an amazing job. His raw emotion on display in that moment is so intense.
@@ace1usmc Off the top of my head, William O'Malley was having trouble getting emotional enough for the scene so William Friedkin (director) slapped him across the face to make him cry, started rolling and that's the take. They were close friends so they embraced afterwards 😅
Corrr blimey!! 😅😂
Church involvement: Fr. Dyer is played by a Jesuit priest named William O'Malley. The brief appearance of a priest named Tom (the one advising the Bishop about using Merrin) is also a Jesuit priest. That priest, Fr Thomas Bermingham, taught William Blatty (The Exorcist novelist and screenwriter) at Regis High and at Georgetown. It was at Georgetown that Bermingham encouraged Beatty to use demonic possession especially the story of Roland Doe in a school project. A third Jesuit also was technical advisor to the film along with Fr Bermingham and Fr O'Malley. Obviously, there are many scenes filmed at the Jesuit-run Georgetown University campus...other interior scenes were done at the NYC based Jesuit-run Fordham University. The Church was critical of the release date (Dec 26th). Some individual priests and priest-psychologists criticized elements of the film,. But the loudest critics were US Protestant leaders including Billy Graham.
I find that weird that Billy graham would dislike a movie that’s overall pro religion particularly Christianity
That’s really awesome to know! I had no clue it was released just after Christmas Day! Wow. I’m imagining people huddled in queues in the snow waiting for tickets. That makes sense now to learn Blatty was taught by a priest at university. (He must have studied Theology?) I admire greatly that priests were involved in the making of the film and even acted in it. Thank goodness Father Bermingham steered the story towards demonic possession; that was very forward thinking of him as well as daring. And boy did it pay off! Thanks so much for commenting and for supporting the channel! :)
@@MovieDateWithKate I have a pretty good list of about 50 horror movies, but in all honesty some are a sci-fi combo, they are just excellent at suspense, special and practical effects. 3 I consider here are Bladerunner, Alien, the Thing, but for horror strictly and I would put number 2 all time behind the exorcist? Hereditary! And the cast is all Oscar caliber. And how Toni Collette didn't win for best actress, is a pure crime.
Nice suggestions for real! I do want to watch Alien!! :) thank you for checking out my new channel.
The proselytes of St Ignatius from Loyola (post templars), They know very well how to argue with the devil, because many of them worship him. Company of Jesus, the greatest and most powerful religious order (nowadays even more than the Vatican itself) of the planet.
Kate, this is my favourite film and have watched probably 95% of all reactions to this film on YT. (i know, I need to get a life). You have just given the best most nuanced reaction ever to this film. Bravo. If you are sticking with the horror theme then try "Rosemary's Baby" and "The Wicker Man". Hope your channel grows - you deserve it!
What a fantastic message to read! Thank you so much! I really appreciate your support and encouragement as I start out with my videos. That’s such high praise! :) and no, I totally get how watching others’ reactions to this outstanding film is gripping and intriguing :) Today at work I asked a colleague who I know is a devout Christian if they had watched it and when they said no I explained how I thought they might really enjoy the horror film because of the religious themes shining through. I hope to do the future films i watch justice as well. Thank you so much again for supporting the channel and taking the time to comment!
Agreed. You put the pieces together very well. More than just scares, it is the story of a person reaffirming their faith by way of sacrifice, like Jesus did on the cross. Karras was the ideal candidate to be exorcist, and I'm glad you got the religious implications while eliciting some well-placed emotions. BTW, I loved Jason Miller in this. Also I believe the theatrical release was the best version to have chosen.
If you liked this, I'd be excited to see reactions to other movies with religious undertones such as Contact and The Green Mile. You're now on my favorites list.
...and The Wicker Man (original) - absolute stunner!
Thanks so much. I’m very pleased you enjoyed my reaction. Your suggestions are great. I’ve had Wicker Man suggested a few times so I’m mulling over that :)
Agree with you about Kate's reaction. Nice suggestions as well. Don't forget:
The Omen
Magic
John Carpenter's The Fog
The Changeling
(Along with your two movies, I think these are among the best horrors made)
I saw this at The Lakeview drive Inn Double feature Exorcist and Texas Chainsaw Massacre. The Exorcist scared the bejeebers out of me. LOL
Just came across this reaction. Psychological horror at its best. The Director's Cut is even more disturbing but the original version does the job well enough. It was many years before I was able to watch this a second time and it completely put me off watching horror for a very long time. I enjoyed the way you went about this and will check out your other reactions. Thanks. xx
Thanks so much for your reaction!! Definitely psychological horror at its best! It totally got me! I’m keen to watch the third movie Legion at some point. Honestly though, my respect for this movie absolutely soared after it finished and since understanding the depth of the plot from people commenting here. So great to learn. What a movie!! Thanks so much for checking out my other videos. :)
The mom is such a great actress! You should watch "Requiem for a dream". She nails it, and you'll cry some more..
Super suggestion, thank you! That one has been on my list to watch for years. Thanks for checking out my video. :)
Boy, you really jumped into the deep end of the pool with this one. You have a new subscriber. Well done.
I saw this when I was 13 years old. Messed. Me. UP. They really don't make horror movies this viscerally gripping anymore. The only contemporary movie that even comes close in my opinion is maybe _Hereditary_ (which I'd recommend, especially seeing how you jumped straight into this one).
Thanks ever so much! I’m really glad you enjoyed my video and subscribed to the channel. I definitely want to do more key pieces of cinema; horror is always so fun (though at the time of watching I wouldn’t quite use the word fun haha) but on reflection I really enjoyed the rollercoaster. I bet this movie messed you up.. I’ve been thinking about it non stop since watching. And reading into Mesopotamian evil deities lol. Thanks for the recommendation! Hereditary seems like it would entice me to dive into the deep end again :) see you at the next movie reaction!
Hello Kate, welcome to TH-cam. It looks to me like the channel is pretty new, so I will wish you great success. You already have over 5K subscribers, so that portends well for your future!
I really enjoyed your reaction to this difficult and controversial movie. I'm glad that you focused on the making of the movie in regards to the talent, the makeup, etc., as much as the content. You are correct that it caused quite a commotion when it came out in 1973. When you have a chance, check out some of the old videos (well back then they were actual news reports ), about all of the hype, plus interviews with people waiting in line to see it, people that came out after seeing it, people hanging out in the lobby who had to leave during part of it, etc. people were fainting in the aisles, the church was condemning it of course ... it will really give you a perspective of place and time. Luckily I was too young to see it when it came out, because it would have been very troubling. Back then people were not nearly as desensitized to the violence that is shown in movies today, or even on the nightly news. The internet wasn't around ... so again, people were not nearly as desensitized.
You have a charming personality and an engaging manner, so I am going to Subscribe today, and will look forward to future reactions.
Are you seeking suggestions for other movies to react to at this time?
☮️ Best wishes from Steve in Dallas
Hi Steve,
What a lovely message to read. I so appreciate your support & optimism for the channel. It’s exciting venturing with a new idea & I’m enjoying doing my reactions & hearing peoples’ thoughts on the films. I was honestly really impressed with The Exorcist. Even more so after watching & realising how much depth and intent went into the directing and securing the portrayal of Catholicism. I’ve got a number of films lined up till the New Year & then I hope to introduce ways of incorporating suggestions and ideas for future ones :) Thank you again for your kind praise & for subscribing. I have my next reaction coming out this weekend - The Last Samurai. I think it’ll be a nice bit of escapism and wonder. I hope you can join for a viewing of my video :)
Wishing you a lovely weekend!
Hello Kate, I've just discovered you and your channel through this reaction and have now subscribed. I'm a British person like yourself I presume?
Something about this film which you might have missed, the reason why the demon knew Father Merrin was that it was the same demon who he had fought and exorcised in Africa, this why Father Karras hears the demon on the tape say, "Fear the Priest Merrin", and then calls out Merrin's name once he arrives at Reagan's house.
I enjoyed seeing your reaction watching this, Kate, I shall check out your other reactions in the next few days.
What a great comment to read! Thank you. I’m so pleased you enjoyed my reaction & have subscribed! My fellow Brits supporting me!! Love it :) I’m glad too because it’s a bit nerve wracking starting a new channel. But I thoroughly LOVED The Exorcist. It was nothing like I expected. And I totally missed so many things, like what you said about Merrin in Africa. It makes so much sense that it was the same demon and he followed him to plague him and deal with ‘unfinished business’ I guess. So unsettling that the entity used Regan so badly just to get to the older priest, when the whole time I thought it was about Regan, if you see what I mean. I have really been wowed by everyone’s knowledge about the film from the comments! The depth of this movie is on a whole other level. I’m really in awe of Blatty and Friedkin, seriously. As well as the actors of course. Thanks so much for supporting my channel. I can’t wait to release my next movie reaction now that we’re in November. :) see you then!
@@MovieDateWithKateYour Irish next door neighbor is supporting you too😅😅😅... love your reactions
Best part of this reaction: "A priest walks into a bar..."
ROFL
And then there's:
"I hope this video edit turns some heads! "
*Groan* ROFLMAO
First saw this flick as a kid... back in the early '80s. My parents decided my sisters and I were ready to handle heavy stuff like this, and so we watched it back to back with 'The Omen'. Scared us all outta our minds. We were so scared of sleeping in our beds that night, we slept in sleeping bags on the floor of my sisters' room, all huddled together. Had the stereo on all night and each of us were convinced that the volume was going up and down. The light from the tuning dial was also casting eerie shadows, and we all saw stuff moving around the room... LOL
Anyhoo, I've seen just a few of your videos so far, but am enjoying every second... keep 'em comin'...
Thanks so much!! That made me smile. I’m really glad you enjoyed my video. Haha I also had to sleep with my lights on after watching the film but luckily they didn’t flicker!! 😅😂😂 I would have cried again if they had! Thanks for supporting my new channel.
😎👍 If it's of interest, all three of the female leads in this movie are still alive and well. Ellen Burstyn is 91, Kitty Wynn is 81 and Linda Blair is 65. 😉
That’s insane!! And so wonderful they’re all still here and had continuous acting careers. I was saddened to hear Linda Blair suffered with her terrible back injury from the bed thumping scene :( but hopefully she could afford good medical care.
oh wow. I saw it for the first time in the 80s as a child and even if it literally traumatized me at the time, it grew up to be one of my favorite movies of all time for its powerful storytelling and acting. I've seen many reactions to this movie because i'm interested in seeing what new generations think of it and if it still resonates with audiences used to contemporary horror movies where, with rare exceptions, stories are told in a very different path. I've enjoyed a lot of genuine, smart and sensitive reactions over the years but i must say not only yours is all that at the same time, but i've never seen anyone respond to it with such empathy and kindness. (Your tears during the exorcism moved me a lot) You are now among my three favorite "the exorcist first time watching" videos of all time (and i've watched them all). So bravo Kate. I've subscribed to your channel and will most certainly have another movie date woth you soon :)
Wow! Truly, this is the best comment to receive. I am very humbled and happy that you enjoyed my reaction so much and to be regarded as one of your favourites is just brilliant. Thank you very much indeed. That’s so interesting too to acknowledge how different generations view this powerful film. I suppose growing up in an Irish Catholic family made me regard our family priest and my grandparents priest friends as caring and kind individuals (actually, three of my great uncles were priests in Africa as well) so it just made me think of poor Regan and how helpless she was. And it moved me that these priests were there for her no matter what, as I had experienced as a child. The film really moved me (I’m getting teary eyed typing now), and I’m in total awe of Blatty as a writer and human for having the courage to tell this story. Thanks again for your wonderful support & for giving me confidence! See you at the next movie date.
What kind of IRRESPONSIBLE parent allows their child to watch this movie is beyond me!
@@danielfortier2629 they didn't ! what do you think ? 😅 But i had an uncle just 5 yrs older than me who would show me the best horror movies ("Aliens", "Jaws", "Amityville", "The entity", "Invasion of the body snatchers" and more... ) I am eternally grateful to him for educating me so young to the new Hollywood even if some of those movies scared the beep out of me at that time. They shaped my passion for movies and horror/fantastic flicks from the 70s/80s remain my favorite niche of all genres.
@@danielfortier2629 they didn't! (even if they were very liberal) 😅 But i had an uncle who was just 5 yrs older than me and he would show me the best horror movies behind their back ("Aliens", "Jaws", "Amityville", "The entity", "Invasion of the body snatchers" and many more...) I will always be grateful to him for educating me so young to the New Hollywood. It shaped my passion for movies and to this date, horror/fantastic flicks from the 70s/80s remain my favorite niche of all genres.
my parents didn't allow me to watch "The exorcist", even if they were very liberal Daniel 😅 I had an uncle who was just 5 yrs older than me and he would show me all the best horror movies behind their back ("Aliens", "Jaws", "Amityville", "The entity", "Invasion of the body snatchers" and many more...) Even if those movies scared the beep out of me back then, i will always be grateful to him for educating me so young to the New Hollywood. It shaped my passion for movies and horror/fantastic flicks from the 70s/80s remain to this date my favorite niche of all genres.
The film itself is amazingly well-made, especially for a horror film. I think a lot of people miss what you picked up on. It's actually a very sad story, particularly for Father Karras. A man who feels like a failure as a son, and a priest, but who in those final moments finds a purpose in protecting an innocent.
I totally agree with everything you said, and thanks for acknowledging I picked up on this part. It was sad, and how could the audience not feel these things when the characters were written so well. I loved the ending, in part, when Karras crashes through the window because it was like the biggest moment of clarity! Even though the action would suggest the opposite. Super enjoyed it! Thank you very much for liking my video.
Great reaction to a truly freaky movie. I never think of this as a scary movie, just disturbing as all get out. Still, a top shelf horror movie. Happy Halloween!!!
Thanks for the brilliant comment! Top shelf indeed!! Happy Halloween right back atcha!
It’s strengths lay in its slow burn story telling, it’s adherence to the book that it can from and its ability to ask questions about spirituality and Catholic Dogma.
It really takes it time with character development so you genuinely care about what happens to them.
100% every thing you said!
Beautiful British girl. 😊 I saw this movie when I was a kid and it scared me for many years. I've seen it a thousand times, still scary but not as before. Great reaction.
Thank you so much for the support and kind compliment too. Man, I can’t even fathom watching this as a child. I think it would have caused deep insomnia in me. That, or convinced me to become a nun. :) thanks for watching my video. See you at the next movie date!
Terrific reaction and commentary 😊 Very quick sub! Really appreciate your combo of genuine emotion with thoughtful insight. To me that makes a great reactor! Wonderful job Kate! 🇬🇧
Thank you so much for the high praise! That’s really kind and helpful to know. I’m so enjoying it and can’t wait to release my next reaction video. Hope to see you there :) thanks for subbing! :)
I saw this in 1973 when I was 12 years old,...it made an impression to say the least.
That’s a great age to watch this movie. Not too young but also young enough where it makes you wonder for years afterwards about good vs. bad and what’s possible in the universe, is the devil truly real, and could a demon possess a human soul (?)… the kinds of things you might contemplate as a teen. I’m glad it made an impactful impression on you, and you still enjoy the movie to this day. I absolutely loved it. I thought it was a brave piece of cinema. Thanks for watching my video!
How could you see that film when you were 12 years old when it was eighteen certificate in nineteen seventy three.
@jamessewell5636 anyone accompanied by a parent or guardian could get in. I saw dozens of R rated movies as a kid.
@brettharlow7010 x rated not r
@@jamessewell5636 "The Exorcist" was rated R in the states.
E.T., Sleepy Hollow, The Exorcist. Your playlist escalated quickly.😂
PLEASE add Tucker and Dale vs Evil to your reaction list!
That made me laugh 🤭 I know! I needed a bit old fright for Halloween. Thanks so much for checking out my channel. And thank you for the film recommendation. I’m going to take a closer look at it now. See you at the next movie date.
KATE: EXCELLENT MOVIE REACTION. I was 20 in 1973 when I saw The Exorcist in a darkened movie theater with a terrified sold-out audience. A 7 things most young reactors like you miss because of your youth:
1. Those tiny white pills in the tiny metal container were recognizable to us 1973 audiences (before stints were used to unblock the blood flow to the heart) were nitroglycerin tablets that heart doctors gave their patients to put under their tongues (as Father Merrin did) to open the blood flow when having chest pains. It was the movie's way of telling us Father Merrin had a severe heart condition the demon would exploit to cause Father Merrin to have a fatal heart attack in the end.
2. We 1973 audiences weren't desensitized to the idea of demonic possession so often presented in other movies after The Exorcist.
3. Nor were we desensitized to the graphic language & violence.
4. Most of us knew it was based on a true-life story of a 14-year-old allegedly possessed boy in the '40s who was cured by an exorcism.
5. In the crucifix scene, the demon speaks with a British accent in Burt Denning's voice, with Reagan's head facing backward (like Burt Dennings, who was found at the bottom of the stairs with his head facing backward) to tell Mom in the most terrifying way possible that Reagan killed him so that Mom would pursue the Exorcism so the demon could pursue its real target for possession, Father Karis, whom the demon possessed in the end.
6. The realism of the characters & slow build-up, combined with all of the above, made The Exorcist a hundred times more frightening for us 1973 audiences than any movie experience we ever had, or ever will have.
7. There were traumatized audience members who couldn't take it running down the movie aisles to the theater lobby during the showing of the movie I experienced, which made the movie & realization that demonic possession might be possible, made it even more scary - like I said - a hundred times scarier for us 1973 audiences than any other movie experience ever did or will.
Thanks so very much for the high praise! And many thanks indeed for explaining the ideas & points above; I can see why now how audiences in 1973 were so deeply troubled by the film because demonic possession was never really shown in cinemas before. That’s a good phrase to use - they weren’t desensitised to the startling depictions, and even for me, they were grossly unsettling. I can see why people fled. That must have been crazy watching it in a huge darkened room with strangers crying out and fighting to get out into the aisles. Some atmosphere!! Thanks as well for explaining about Father Merrins pills. It’s all making more sense to me now. Thanks to everyone’s knowledge on here I’m understanding the full story Friedkin and Blatty worked hard to create. Whilst watching I didn’t note that everything the devil did to Regan was a lure to entice in Karras and thus Merrin. Maybe next October I’ll read the book. Thanks again for the support! I appreciate it. :)
@@MovieDateWithKate It's my turn to thank you. I'm an anti-war political junkie. Today's news, political corruption, & never-ending warfare is so bleak that it is depressing. I momentarily escape the despair by watching reaction videos like yours that give me a break from the despair. Thank you (and your ilk) for your excellent work & giving me an enjoyable break from all the political BS. People like you give me a sliver of hope for humanity. Again, thank you.
Another interesting tidbit is that just as disturbing for many audience members, if not more so than the supernatural subject matter, were the graphic medical procedures. Many have stated that it was watching the doctor tap into Regan's artery and seeing her blood spurt from her neck that sent them running for the door. In those days, medical dramas and the like didn't depict such true-to-life surgeries and such, so most people weren't as enlightened (or jaded) as we are today.
There's a short doc on TH-cam called The Cultural Impact of The Exorcist. News reports and footage of people leaving the auditorium, some are very upset, some even faint.
Thank you so much for letting me know. There’s a lot to explore with this film even after watching it. I could never have guessed the cultural impact it shifted in the 70s. Thanks for supporting the channel as well!
Enjoyed your viewing and your thoughtful and enormous comments.
Thank you very much for saying so. I’m delighted you enjoyed my movie reaction to The Exorcist. So encouraging as I start my channel :) Hope to see you at the next movie reaction release.
Thank you Kate for a great reaction! I can understand the emotional reaction. I wish you all the best with your channel. Happy Halloween!🎃♥
Thank you so much for the lovely praise! And support! :) wishing you a very Happy Halloween as well. See you at the next movie reaction video. :)
I saw this movie at 8 years old on broadcast TV at Halloween, can you imagine my trauma. I have recovered from it now but I am absolutely gobsmacked by what an amazing artistic effort this truly was
Same! I was astounded as well. I really enjoyed the whole journey of emotion I felt watching it. :)
As a tuff h.s football player I watched this alone at the theater when it came out. I locked the car doors on the way home scared shitless! Loved your reaction, movie is still today disturbing! Peace from Northern Michigan.
That made me smile! I bet you were so scared! I slept with my lanterns on the night of watching it haha. Much respect to you in Michigan! Thank you for watching my reaction video.
@MovieDateWithKate
Lanterns on, I sure hope that worked lol! Wish you the best going forward! Have you watched jaws from the same year? Different kind of terror, but right there with exorcist. Peace from Northern Michigan!
Loved your reaction. So thoughtful and so sincere. Have subscribed and look forward to many more.
Thanks ever so much! Really awesome you enjoyed watching it with me (such a good movie, isn’t it). I appreciate you subscribing - very nice, and I’ll see you at the next movie date.
Good reaction. Made in the 70’s but still one of the scariest ever made. I have heard that when the film first came out there were people in the theatre who fainted, some just ran out.
So utterly scary! What a timeless piece of cinema to be fifty years old and still be scary as you like!!! I thought it was flawless. Glad you enjoyed it too and had fun watching my movie reaction video.
Hiya Kate 😌 What a great reaction and l subscribed to the channel because of it. The Exorcist is not only one of the best horror films ever made but in my opinion one of the best movies of any genre ever made.
The casting, acting, directing, story, pacing and atmosphere is just near perfect and for 1973 was just another one of the moments in cinema where things changed.
You just didn’t get horror films up to this point that where so well made, let alone ever got close to be recognised by the academy and this broke those barriers and then some.
I really enjoy watching reactors experiencing this masterpiece for the first time and your summing up pretty much nailed it.
Fantastic stuff Kate and l look forward to the next upload, take care ☺️👍🏼
That’s a truly great comment to read! Thank you so much for the high praise!! When I learned the movie was nominated for Academy Awards I was so delighted and impressed! Rightly so, but as you say, that must never have been the case before at all! (And probably never since as far as true horror movies go). I said I’d never watch it again but that was only because I was emotionally spent :) I will totally watch it again. I thought it was a revelation, honestly. So glad you appreciate it too and thanks for sharing your insight & thoughts. Many thanks too for subscribing, that’s awesome!! See you at the next movie release. :)
Great reactions. You're a natural at this. "The Sixth Sense" is the best movie I've seen in 20 years. I _HIGHLY_ recommend it. Looking forward to more of your videos.
Thank you so much for the brilliant compliment! I appreciate your reassurance as I’m starting out with my new channel. Ooo I have not seen The Sixth Sense. Thanks for the ace recommendation!! Hope to see you at the next movie reaction video. :)
What a great and insightful reaction, kudos, you are a total natural at this, keep on Groooooovin’! 🙌🙃🌻
What a great response! Thanks so very much. I appreciate the awesome encouragement as I’m just starting out with my channel! Groovy babyyy! 🌻🎬 See you at my next reaction video!
@ why you are most welcome, ha and I guess my my response was inspired by YOUR comments & review, so let’s hear it for Connectivity and “We Are All One”! 🙌😎🙃 Groovy babyyy inDEED! 😉😀
Oh, also, I hope that my and EVERYONE’s encouragement ultimately fuels your channel to go thru the roof and be ultra-successful (I get the feeling that EXACTLY what will happen!)🔥 you iz gonna have a LOT of fun with it 🌝
All the BESTEST, have amazing moments and most def I shall be checkin in on your next reaction, psyched! 🤩✌️🌻
Groooove ON
❤️🙏🏻🥇🍿🌻🌞🤙🏻
Still makes me jump! Love your reactions and insights. You're good company ❤
That’s so nice to hear!!! I jumped so much, didn’t I 😂
My wife and I were in our mid twenties when we saw this at the drive in. It scared the crap out of her. I had to take the long way home and she wanted every light in the apartment left on all night. You just never knew what was going to happen in that room. There was dialogue in that movie that would never be allowed today.
Dropping in to give you my experience with this film. I have never watched it nor will I, not even here on your reaction. Let me tell you why. When this film was released in 1973, a young friend, Bruce Smith 18, came by my apartment after dropping off his date. They had watched in the cinema this film. Bruce often came by after a date to hang out. He was an affable person simple in nature. This particular visit was unusual because Bruce was extremely upset. He told me he had just seen this film. He went on to say how he was going to change his life around. He was going to give up smoking, cussing, drinking beer and go to church more often. He also said how he was going to be more respectful to his parents. As he was saying all this, I was thinking that this is one film I won't be watching. Fifty-one years later I can say I've been true to this vow.
Well I too was a bit wary to watch it but it ended up being a fantastic watch. Your friend was wanting to make big changes.. we all don’t have to. It’s certainly worth watching, in my opinion.
Thanks for the quite good reaction!
Thank you so much for checking out the video!
~~ I was 10 yrs old in 1973 and I was most certainly NOT permitted to see this film - ( but I was required to attend Catholic mass every Sunday ) - my family lived just outside of Washington D.C. - so with friends we did go to Georgetown and we "walked the steps" next to the home where some scenes were shot - as others there who had seen it quoted lines from the film - ( especially the most vulgar ones ) - a few years later I did finally see the film - and it still holds up today as one of the best films ever made - from ANY genre ..
Yeah same as me with Mass on Sundays. Ten is super young lol but I think this film ultimately makes you feel grateful if you’re religious - to have a protective realm around you. Loved that you visited the steps. I laughed imagining young people dancing the steps using the lines from the film that involve the C word haha. Totally though, it’s a stupendous film in any category. I was stunned by how much I enjoyed it. Deep deep and meaningful and DAMN SCARY! Thanks for supporting the channel.
Has anyone mentioned that this film was released in 1973 as rated "X"?!? That was one step below pornorgraphic material.
I never actually knew what X meant! Thanks for sharing. X for explicit lol
I think you missed it ... the name the demon kept calling out was Merrin ... the name of the father (Father Lankester Merrin), so the entity always knew the confrontation was going to happen, and who would be involved. It was calling out for him almost from the beginning. Brilliant reaction, Kate 👍👍!!!
Thanks so much for noting here! Yes, I did miss it in the film! I actually can’t wait to watch it again.. definitely next Halloween if not before. It was so good, and now I really understand the depth of the plot so much more with thanks to everyone in the comments helping me unravel what I missed & wasn’t aware of. Thank you very much for the support and for checking out my channel. :)
@@MovieDateWithKate Love it. I also (because of this one) watched your E.T. reaction and, though I didn't leave a comment, I thought it w3as adorable. Keep up the good work and I hope to see more of your work soon 🤗😊
Very good reaction. I've watched a lot of Exorcist reactions but I really liked your edit. I saw this movie in the theaters when I was 14 years old with some friends. It was scary but we did well. There were stories of people fainting and getting sick in the theaters.
Thanks so much for your kind comment and support. You and your buddies definitely did do well seeing this on a massive screen in a darkened room. What a memory, I bet! Thank you for the support and I’m looking forward to reviewing more films.
lol great reaction especially 18:50 imagine the terror coursing through movie theaters in 1973. I’d still shit my pants today. The gold standard for horror IMO
Gold standard!! 🌟 it was unreal!
lol 😂😂😂 I went back to watch my reaction and I completely shattered myself 🤣
Very charming reactions all things considered. Fun fact: in the language lab scene there is the Japanese word "tasukete" on a banner which means "help me" presenting a clever foreshadowing of Regan's tacit plea to Karras. Good luck with your channel.
This is a true story. My mom and my 2 elder sisters used to bring my brother and I to watch The Exorcist when I was only 5 years old in first year of kindergarten. Most of the time I felt a bit bored and bothered my mom for snacks/drink or just to gain her attention. Only 3 scenes made me stop and watch: the opening desert archaeology scene with the red blood movie title; the crucifix masturbation scene; the final exorcism scene. My sisters were annoyed and complained to mom that I don’t know how to watch a movie in a cinema. Almost 2 decades later, I gained respect for this vintage classic as a young adult who is also a movie buff. So when it was playing on tv for its 25th anniversary close to midnight, I recorded it on vhs tape but since there were commercial ads the original duration is inflated. I let the tape continue recording the show In Living Color after the Exorcist ended until the tape ran out. One fine day, my parents were out sleeping over at my sister’s house leaving me all alone at home at night. I am not insane enough to watch The Exorcist in such situation but I needed to reel the tape fast forward in order to access and watch In Living Color. I remember of fast forwarding only about 2 hours and 7 minutes then press play on the remote control. Imagine my horror and shock when the scene that exploded on tv at cranked up volume was that of Regan roaring and sticking out and flicking her tongue at the 2 priests. That completely freaked me out; I turned off the tv and turned on all the lights that night while sleeping. It’s ok if I watched it from start to finish but not smack right in the middle of a scene from this movie.
Oh my goodness!!! I was totally there with you as I imagined myself in the darkened room and then bam! Disgusting tongue flicking with her beastly voice screaming out and putrid eyes popping!! That would have freaked me out too! I had to sleep with my lanterns on after filming! I could hardly believe it when DVDs were introduced and you had movie chapters. Forwarding and rewinding VHS tapes was hardcore. Thanks so much for sharing your Exorcist experience and for supporting the channel.
Congrats on getting through one of the most scary movies ever! Some reactors won't even watch it because they're so afraid. So cheers to you! I hope that you will react to other horror movies sometime soon.
Oh thank you!! Cheers to you too! :) it was a journey :) but I did really like it. Yes, I’d love to do more horror movies :) thanks so much for watching.
Ellen Burstyn who played Regan's mother Chris is still alive she's 91. She reprised her role of Chris McNeil in The Exorcist Believer (2023).
The person who plays the flashing demon is a woman named Eileen Dietz. How does someone so beautiful take the form of that grotesque demon?! Amazing! Great reaction by the way!
Thanks so much! My goodness, it was a woman!
@@MovieDateWithKate I couldn't believe it when I saw it was her. I was like no way!
Love your reactions.❤ best wishes with this new endeavor , and for your channel. 😊
Thanks so much for the awesome support! Really kind of you to cheer me on. So glad you enjoyed my reaction to The Exorcist. I honestly thought it was a sensational horror. (My respect for the movie skyrocketed after watching it).
Great reaction...I have watched at least 10 reactions on this movie, and you are my favorite...you seem very into the story and got very emotional with it...other reactors I have seen just focus on the special effects and just make faces and wince whenever they see the disturbing parts...that's really all they have for their reactions...you seem to feel the story more...good luck with your new channel...I subbed...
That’s so awesome to read! Thank you for saying that. It totally took me by surprise how upset I got. But that just proves what an incredible movie it is :) maybe I’ll come back to watch it every Halloween, or maybe every other Halloween because it was rather scary. I loved the roller coaster of emotion it took me on, and it’s so great you appreciate what an iconic movie it is too. Thanks again for subscribing and for the encouragement! :)
I was like 10 years old when I first watched this film
Don't quiet remember how or why I watched it but I couldn't sleep for myself like 2-3 days
Still my favorite horror film of all time 😁
Love your reaction Kate!
Thanks for the compliment!! It’s definitely my favourite horror movie now too. I can’t get enough of the depth of it! Thanks for supporting my new channel. Hope to see you at the next movie reaction release. :)
First time i saw this film was when i was about 16 watching a banned copy as it was banned in the uk in the late 80’s and removed from shelves, it was re-released around 2000.
You can skip Exorcist 2 and go straight to Exorcist III, where we pick up with Father Karras story.
Love it!! By hook or by crook. I have only just realised it was banned in the UK! God bless those who circulated the few copies. I’m super keen to check out the third movie. I liked Karras a lot! Thanks for checking out the channel!
@@MovieDateWithKate if you haven’t seen The Lost Boys, vampire film from 1987, the character Michael is Jason Patric, the son of Father Karras (jason miller). 100 percent react the Lost Boys. Best vampire film in the 80’s, 2nd to Fright Night 1985. Also these two films have the most awesome soundtracks in movie history
Definitely agree with skipping 2 but 3 is excellent.
That’s ace! Thank you :) I haven’t watched the Lost Boys. Adding to my list now…
The Exorcist was parodied in Scary Movie along with Scream, Scream 2, I Know What You Did Last Summer, The Blair Witch Project, The Matrix and The Usual Suspects.
The Exorcist was parodied again in Scary Movie 2.
It’s Reining supreme the Horrors, clearly!! :)
Great reaction, Kate! I particularly liked that you gave your thoughts on the film at the end. I always appreciate hearing what someone thinks of what they've just seen. I also thought your "A priest walks into a bar ..." joke was great! I've seen a bunch of reactions to this movie and, surprisingly, I haven't seen a single person has ever made that joke. I had to subscribe just for that😁
Thanks so much!! Your message really made me smile. I just couldn’t resist! I actually made myself laugh when I said it because I said the first bit, and then thought, I don’t actually have a joke to tell 🤣😂 at least, not a punchline lol. But growing up in an Irish family I heard priest jokes a lot. It was cool at the end to reflect on the film.. there was a lot to unpack, and I realise now too there was so much I didn’t even notice. I can’t wait to watch it again actually! Thanks so much for your kind words of encouragement and for subscribing. I’m so pleased you enjoyed my movie reaction video! :)
@@MovieDateWithKate You're welcome! It's nice to find a thoughtful reactor who can provide some insight into their experience. I'm planning to watch your other two reactions as soon as I can, and I'm looking forward to seeing your future reactions as well.
That’s ace! Thank you.
I haven't been on a movie date in a long time, pleased to meet you ;)
Thanks for checking out the channel! Lots of movie reactions to embark on.
The author of the novel, who also did the screenplay for the film, was William Peter Blatty. Blatty was a devout Roman Catholic. He was a Maronite Catholic, which is an Arabic Rite of the Roman Catholic Church. So, he was very diligent about the particulars of the Rite of Exorcism, and also how the community of Jesuit priests around Georgetown University were portrayed, which he attended.
A scene from the director's cut, that I think should have been included in the theatrical cut, is a conversation of Fathers Merrin and Karras. Father Merrin tells Karras that the innocent girl was attacked by the demon so that they, as believing Catholics, would despair of the love of God. By reducing her to such a terrible state the demon was working to convince the priests that God could not love us if he let such a horror happen to an innocent child.
Father Damien was guilty about his encounter with the older homeless man who asked for money for "an old altar boy". Damien reacted to this man in a dismissive manner, as if he was repulsed by him. I think this was a way of showing that Damien wasn't living up to his calling as a priest. Damien was losing his faith, and doubting his worthiness to be a good priest. The demon used this against Father Karras in their encounter.
Such wonderful points to read. I do agree with you that the exchange between the two priests should have been included. It sounds like it would have married up the idea of Karras losing his faith but Merrin’s response totally reaffirmed him to stay true to following God. Because we all think that when something awful happens to a child.. “how could God do this?”.. but to not let it sway us is a true testament to faith. I assumed Blatty was religious but I wasn’t sure. I think I thought it might be deeply philosophical but not necessarily Catholic. Interesting to know where he stood with his own religion. Very true about Karras being repulsed by the man on the platform. Sad really. And so smart of the demon to bring it up to scare and shake Karras further. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and for checking out the channel.
Thanks for doing the thoughtful reaction! Mr. Blatty died several years ago, and he told a story about an incident that happened to him while writing the book. His mother had passed away. He had a very special rosary that he had blessed by the Pope years before. He intended on having his mother buried with it. He searched everywhere for it, but it couldn't be located. On the first night of her wake, as he went to pray at her open coffin, the first thing he noticed she was holding the very distinctive rosary in her hands. He went on to finish writing the novel, which he had stopped because of doubts he was having about the troubling nature of things he was researching as he tried to finish the book. He took this incident as a sign to keep going.
Oh, how beautiful. And I love how life gives us these little signs if we keep our eyes open and adhere to what they could mean. That was great to read. Thank you so much for sharing. Man, I’m so glad he continued writing lol. To write something like that - so epic, controversial, and huge in plight - takes masses of strength. Many thanks for supporting the channel. :)
Never seen the whole movie, but I'm Catholic too, so I've always known about it, I like your commentary at the end Kate.
The one quibble between the film and the Church's stance is the insinuation that exorcisms weren't done any longer.
There are multiple dioceses that have an office of exorcist. It'd be normal for Fr. Karras to not know the nuts and bolts of it, but he would be aware of the office of exorcist.
Another minor issue would be the "we are gonna get this done in a day" notion. Its common for exorcisms to take months or years.
That’s crazy to learn! Whoah!!! What a gigantic battle it would be.. to cast out the demons from someone’s soul that had planted themselves into their being so rigidly. I thought they’d say a prayer and that’d be it. Even needing to go over the prayers caught me off guard. I can see how the Church wouldn’t have supported the film 100% because it had to contain movie drama after all but I felt like the whole movie in general really shone Catholicism in a good light. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and for checking out the channel.
wow your channel is pretty brand new! welcome and congrats on the 1K subscribers already! 🙂
Thank you so much!! Yes, it’s so exciting! 🥳 Reached 1K subscribers today. So cool! Thanks for the support. Hope you can enjoy the next Movie Date With Kate release. Thanks again! :)
I went to college in Washington, D.C., where the film takes place. The "Exorcist Steps", which connect M Street at the bottom to Georgetown University at the top, are still quite famous (and quite a workout, too; the Army ROTC detachment at Georgetown uses them for training sometimes).
In regards to the demon's knowledge of Fr. Karras's experiences, the general consensus is the target was never Reagan-it was Fr. Karras (and Fr. Merrin, as revenge for being exorcised the first time in Africa). That's why the demon says an exorcism would "bring us together", and why so many psychological attacks toyed with his wavering faith.
From what I've read, the Church's response (to the limited extent it offered one) was kind of mixed, though some priests were involved with the production; many of Fr. Merrin's lines are taken faithfully from the Rite of Major Exorcism, although, when the victim of possession is female, there's supposed to be a female observer present. As a Catholic myself, I like it-not only does it affirm the faith, it also makes clear that, while demonic possession (and so the need for major exorcism) is a rarity, it's also not something to play around with. Although, as some Catholic commentators observed, turning an exorcism into a fistfight (let alone using a "take me instead" strategy) is _not_ how you go about major exorcism, I do like, as you noted, that Fr. Karras's actions were essentially heroic and self-sacrificial (and that he got a chance for Confession to Fr. Dyer)-after all, "No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends".
That’s really awesome you have seen The Exorcist steps for real! What a workout though!! I can’t even imagine doing sets on those! I’d probably trip and suffer an ending like Burke’s :) That’s very interesting to learn a lot of Fr. Merrin’s lines were actually taken from the official documents of text used by the Catholic Church. And I see now why Karras was plagued by nightmares and the unfortunate passing of his mother; the circumstances in which she died was all constructed by the Devil. In the hope of eradicating his faith, as you kindly pointed out. As a Catholic (I was raised in an Irish Catholic family) I really appreciated the approach Merrin took in his role. It was like I felt in awe at the power of his faith. It made me think quite deeply about my upbringing and how I view prayers personally - what they can do for you in those moments of despair. Honestly, the film was so teriffic! I wonder what that was like having a scene with an actual priest… probably quite sobering. Karras was a sensational character & so well played by Max von Sydow. Thanks for supporting the channel!
Hello, first time to your channel. I’m only a few mins into your reaction. I’m here after clicking off another reaction to this movie that was being totally disrespectful to this classic film and another commenter suggested your video. I’m already impressed. Looking forward to the rest of this one and then checking out some of your others.
What a lovely comment to read; I’m delighted! And pleased you’re enjoying my interpretation of the film. Thank you for checking out my channel. I hope you enjoy future movie reactions I release.
This is a strange niche but Kate is thw best and most thoughtful of the movie reactors I have seen so far. She brings a lot of lucid intelligence and sincerity to her reactions. It would be interesting to send Kate on a post-watch fact-finding mission as she discusses her reaction to the film with a scholar or critic.
Oh what a super and cool comment to read!!! Thank you so so much! And I was actually thinking this morning how much I would love to host mini chats/discussions with someone who’s a critic or scholar or massive fan of the film & the genre surrounding it. In person would be cool but it could also be over the internet. Really appreciate you sharing your thoughts on that… stay tuned! Perhaps that could be a 2025 project. :) thank you again for your support.
max von sydow who played the part of father merrins was only 44 at the time , he passed away in 2020 at the age of 90 ! damned good actor !
God bless him! What an actor, how he commands his voice and whole stance is amazing. I was transported watching him. :)
I'm a huge horror fan, but this movie has always freaks me out! Tubular Bells still gives me the chills!
Nice to know that’s the name of the song!! That’s one to watch when the sun’s up as opposed to not! Haha. Thanks so much for checking out my video!
I first saw this in 73 when it was released, when I was only seven years old. Needless to say, it scared the hell out of me. It was and is a very complex story. Amazing in every way. Great reaction!
Thanks ever so much for the support!
The power of Christ compelled me to watch your reaction, and I loved it! I saw this movie in the theater when it premiered. If you search TH-cam for "Exorcist Premiere", you'll see some news segments covering the premiere, showing audience members who fainted, and interviews with theater ushers. I'm glad this part of the film's history is preserved. I haven't seen anything that covered the reaction of the Catholic church, though.
Loved your comment haha! Thank you so much for watching! Yes, I wouldn’t mind looking at reactions documented from high up in the church. See you at the next movie date.
Dear Miss,thank you so much for this video and your so great,brilliant reactions. I really appreciate that. Very warm greetings from the Central Europe ( the Czech Republic). And btw - I admire your perfect British accent! Have a nice,pleasant,peaceful time and take care.
What a lovely comment! That’s super cool you’re watching from Czech Republic! Děkuju! I’m so pleased you’re enjoying my movie reactions - and accent :) have a pleasant week also & enjoy celebrating Halloween. Till the next video!
So happy you watched the original version, it is the best version by far.
Thanks for saying that! I’m so glad too! It felt right to connect to the original, and I can always watch the other scenes separately. Thanks for supporting my video! :) Hope to see you at the next one.
Personally i like Kinderman and Dyer becoming friends at the end.
Kinda softens the edge a bit. Because yes, the world continues on. But not all of it is hard and cold and indifferent.
I agree, I far prefer the theatrical version. I like the ending much better, I really don;t recommend Blatty’s version. I do however recommend The Ninth Configuration.
I prefer the directors cut.
The added effects are subtle and the crab stair scene great.
This was based on a true story but was changed a bit. If I remember correctly the person that was possessed was a ten or twelve year old boy in the St Louis area around 1947-1948 time period. If I remember recall correctly the boy's first name was "Steven."
Outstanding reaction video 👍 📹
The demon is Pazuzu, Prince of the air.... It is the only demon arrogant and egotistical enough to proclaim it is the Devil itself.
The only thing you missed out on with the theatrical version was the "spider walk" coming down the stairs right after Mrs McNeil is informed of Burk's death. It's a pretty alarming jumpscare
Exorcist 2 is garbage, but Exorcist 3 is outstanding. It's super creepy and suspenseful without the shock value scenes of the original. George C Scott portrays detective Kinderman and Brad Douriff portrays the possessed . Incredible performances by both.... Definitely worth reacting to. 🏆 😱 🎥
The spiderwalk does not fit the movie and so i find it was a good choice to have it removed in the theatrical version. The best version of the movie in my opinion.
Loved reading your comment just now! Thanks so much for the awesome praise. So interesting about Pazuzu. I just scanned read a bit about the demon. Like you say, Prince of air and travels on winds.. makes sense how they had the window open so much in the Devil scenes, and made the air super cold. I really will watch The Exorcist 3 then. I’d love for the story to continue.. it has so much belly to it. Ahhh yes, the spider walk. So I’ve watched a clip of that now after filming the reaction video. It made me shudder big time. Where they got the idea for that is beyond me! So so creepy!! Thanks again for supporting my video & passing on your knowledge - very pleased you enjoyed it.
On your question on consultation, three priests advised on the movie. Two of them acted in the film. Tom, Damien’s superior, was Fr Tom Bermingham SJ (a former Jesuit provincial) and Fr Dyer was played by Bill O’Malley SJ. The rite of exorcism used in the film was the official rite of exorcism used by the Catholic Church at the time. And the story is based on a 1949 case in the USA- a (now dead) priest I knew was friends with the Jesuit priests who did the exorcism.
That’s fascinating! Thank you so much for explaining. And for supporting my new channel.
Watched it at 7 when it came out. My father who I miss everyday took me. So yea fun times . I’m 58 and I still see with thenight light.
And I scroll down to almost the end to see your reaction. Don’t need to see that again .
I’m so sorry you lost your dear dad. What a special memory you have now of him taking you to see it. I slept that night of watching with my lanterns left on. It affected me deeply. Awesome film but devastating. I have a lovely memory of my uncle taking me to the cinema when I was 9 and I smelt my hair all the way home and in bed because it smelt of popcorn. Makes me teary eyed thinking about it. Thank you so much for checking out my reaction video. I hope you can keep watching more films that make you feel connected to your dad.
@ huh ?? Crazy comedic father I had
@ my father would take two steps further and hide underneath my bed shake it or go around the house to my bedroom window and scratch it and make weird noises so yeah I miss that man, but I don’t know what the fuck he was doing . And it kind of messed w my sleep to this day. Yes
There’s no denying this film is so powerful and it permanently etches your mind. Few, if any movies leave such a lasting impression on you for years after watching it, as this one does. The entity inside Reagan was not the Devil, it was a demon named Pazuzu. This becomes evident in the other sequels after this one
Thanks so much and I totally agree. I’ve been pondering this movie for days, along with Father Karras’ journey. I’m certainly keen to watch Legion. Thank you so much for checking out the channel.
Linda Blair who played Regan auditioned for the part of Carrie White in the 1976 horror movie "Carrie".
Oh wow! I never knew that. She was marvellous in this film! I heard she really hurt her back in the bed scene. Poor thing.
Very happy that I came across your video. Think you are an awesome movie reactor. One of the best I have seen, so it was an easy decision to subscribe to your channel. At the time of its release 'The Exorcist' was widely considered to be the scariest horror movie of all time. Surpassing Hitchcock's 'Psycho', as well as 'Rosemary's Baby.'
It was said that people were so disturbed by the movie that they slept with a light on. The film definitely could cause one to cry. The plight of the young girl, her mother, and the priest was a very sympathetic character. It is a movie that one could never forget upon seeing. Good luck with the channel Kate. Look forward to watching more videos.
Thanks so much for the high praise! And thank you for subscribing too. I smiled when I read your comment about viewers leaving lights on because I left on my lanterns into the night, I did feel pretty perturbed by the movie, I have to say. It was more the sudden image of the devils face in Karras’ dream. So deeply disturbing! Though, I do love the thrill of horror movies :) see you at the next movie reaction release!
Good reaction and you are very right about thinking of how the original audiences took this in. I am glad you mentioned how the "older priest was hardcore". Actor Max Von Sydow delivers the prayers and ceremony with such conviction. When he says "It is God himself who commands you" it's seems powerful.
So powerful! So so powerful as he was stern and his directive was executed with amazing conviction. Yes, when he delivers that line as well as saying, “there is only one.” When Karras goes on about the three voices. Incredible acting. Thank you very much for watching! :)
First reaction of yours that I have watched. I subscribed. Good show.
Thanks so much! That’s awesome. Very pleased you enjoyed watching!!
Hi Kate! Thank you for your reaction! Really enjoyed re-experiencing this masterpiece through your eyes. You're such an expressive person - it makes it more fun! Looking forward to following your adventures.
That’s so wonderful you enjoyed the video! Thank you for your comments. I’m pleased you got to re-experience this terrific movie. It was honestly so good! :) I’ve been thinking about the theology behind the plot for days since. Looking forward to seeing you at the next movie reaction video. Thanks again for the support!
I love that the movie builds suspense and tension instead of just throwing meaningless jump scares everywhere. The performances were too shelf all around. Some fun facts about the movie:
In the scene where Regans mother is hit and thrown to the floor, Ellen Burstyn suffered a shattered tailbone. Her scream of pain is real.
Paul Bateson, who appeared as the radiographer in the hospital scene, was a real radiographer. He was also a muderer. He would be convicted of murder and suspected of committing several others.
Exorcist author William Peter Blatty appears in the movie set scene.
Jason Miller is the father of Jason Patrick, who starred in The Lost Boys.
Linda Blair suffered a fractured spine when a harness malfunctioned in one of the bedroom scenes.
Really cool to know! I never knew Blatty is actually in one of the scenes - love that!! And I really want to watch The Lost Boys :) the pics look fantastically 80’s! Thank you for watching my video.
The book author was also the author of the screenplay. I highly recommend the book. It it almost reads more like a detective novel than a horror.
Very fun reaction! Thanks!
Thank you so much for sharing that!! What a gifted writer he was. And so brave too to explore this area of life & spiritual conflict - that’s probably not the best phrase to use but you know what I mean :) I do love reading books after movies, if it’s not possible to do it visa versa. Understanding the depth of Blatty now, and what he studied at university, I would totally read his novel. Many thanks, and thank you for the encouragement and praise! :)
AT 6:20 . . Frightened by the candle flare up,
Well then this is going to be G O O D ! Because the gals are the best ! 😁😆😅😂🤣
Hahaha afterwards I did think, oh God, we’re not even with the satanist girl yet! So pleased you enjoyed my movie reaction video with all the jumps haha!
When the movie came out there were reports of people running screaming from the theaters. It was a different time back then ... society was different and the way we regarded religion was different. There are original videos on youtube of people leaving the theaters after seeing the movie.
My sister was in her late teens at the time and went and saw it at the theater, she was so traumatized that she would not sleep at night with the lights off at all for about 3 weeks. I remember overhearing my parents talking about whether to get her help.
I was a child when this film was released.
"Shocking" is an understatement for the early 1970s.
I also vividly remember local protests outside of the local movie theater that was showing the movie.
I never watched "The Exorcist" until I was a teen. And then that film scared me so much, I refused to watch again until I was in my late 20s.
I don’t blame you at all. Watching it in my early thirties is ok because I have a fairly good knowledge of myself and how I view life and spirituality, but my goodness I could not have watched this as a teenager. It would have been far too upsetting. And scary! Just the most exceptional horror film. I have come to love the depth of it. Thank you for checking out my channel.
As soon as I heard your voice and saw your demeanor, i was thinking "oh no. she's not ready".
😂 safe to say it rocked my world so much I slept with the light on after!
You have a new subscriber!!
I will tell you that here in the states when this film was released it was very disturbing. There were actual reports of suicide and people being admitted to the hospital upon viewing it.
That’s really awesome! Thanks so much for subscribing! Since posting I’ve watched a bit of media footage of cinema goers in the seventies and the scenes are absolutely bonkers! Even on here people were saying when the film was released priests were trying to dissuade them from going into the theatres! Very sad though that people who must have been suffering anyway actually took their own lives. 😢 thank you again for visiting my channel.
There's a couple of versions of The Exorcist spider walk scene on you tube - the scene from the directors cut and the original spider walk scene which got deleted.
Beautiful heartfelt reaction. I look forward to seeing more of your responses!
That’s really awesome to hear. I’m glad you enjoyed it! Thanks a lot. See you at the next movie reaction release!
Really enjoyed your reaction. Keep it going
Thanks ever so much for the support and encouragement!! That’s really awesome. Can’t wait to see everyone back for the next movie reaction!
in'73 theater goers passed out many had to leave crying
Yes, it was very shocking in the 70s. There are stories of people fainting, some vomiting, and others running from the theater screaming.
Entertaining watch...honest reaction...and a amazing accent😂...Thank you👍
Thanks ever so much! Super glad you enjoyed it! See you at the next movie date.
I was a kid when this came out, but I remember a big tough biker guy down our road went to see it. He used to hang with Hells Angels, but the film scared him so much he didn't go out after dark for ages afterwards.
That made me smile! I’m imagining him wrapped up in a blanket with his leather sleeveless jacket and tatts with his legs curled up haha. And who can blame him!! The film was petrifying! I had to sleep with the lights on afterwards and I played a nice audiobook. What a rollercoaster! I’m so glad you enjoyed it too! Thanks for supporting the channel.
@@MovieDateWithKate Forgot to mention my mother was friends with his mother and she was told he used to lock his bedroom door at night :-)
Extraordinary cast. Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Jason Miller, the great Lee J. Cobb. Wonderful actors all. And then there’s Max von Sydow as Father Merrin. He was in his early 40s when he played this old priest. The makeup helped, for sure. But really it was his impeccable acting that made us believe him as an old man. In addition to some American movies, von Sydow had a lifetime of experience on stage and film working with Ingmar Bergman. Most famously, he starred in Bergman’s "The Seventh Seal" - one of the finest films ever made. I once asked a rather well known director who was the greatest actor of all time. His answer: "You mean besides Max von Sydow?"
That’s sooo cool!! Ooo I really want to know who the director was! Right answer though. He was utterly unwavering in this performance. Thanks for noting The Seventh Sea. I haven’t heard of that film before but will look it up now. Wasn’t the makeup insane. Even how he let his face hang, and his shoulders stoop. He had me thinking he was seventy! Thanks so much for supporting the channel!
Great reaction! One of the best I have seen of this true masterpiece of horror. I loved your analysis. Greetings from Tandil, Argentina! 🇦🇷🤗
Thank you so much for saying so! Absolutely love that you’re watching me from Argentina! Many thanks for the support & hope to see you at the next movie date. 🇬🇧
I’ve watched lots of reactions to this film and yours is up there with the best. I first saw The Exorcist on a really bad pirate VHS copy around 1990 when I was 16 and it was banned here in England. Didn’t watch it again until about 5 years ago, and now it’s probably my favourite film.
What a great comment! I so appreciate your encouragement, thank you. I know I said in the video I wouldn’t watch it again but I totally will. It’s insanely powerful and since I posted my reaction I have learned so much about the background of the movie and my respect for it has increased tenfold. I’m pleased it’s your favourite and I’m sure when you watched it the second time with a better restored version (absolutely bonkers it was forbidden here for twenty years!) you realised the depth to it as well. Cheers for supporting my new channel. Hope to see you at the next reaction video. :)
@ yes, I’ve definitely got to fully appreciate it. That first time was mainly us as kids getting to watch a banned scary film without taking much in. I do remember someone knocked the front door during the crucifix scene and we all jumped a mile!
I think everyone involved from actors, directors to make up and practical effects was absolutely at the top of their game.
I enjoyed your reaction! Saw it in the theatre in Toronto in 1973. Yes, people screamed, left the theatre, & protests outside.
Please react to another classic from the same era ... The Godfather ... recognized as one of the top three movies of all time.
Thanks so much for the ace feedback. I’m glad you enjoyed my reaction video. What a great suggestion re The Godfather. Apt timing too because I think a movie is coming out very soon about Marlon Brando staring Billy Zane. Thanks so much for commenting on my video.