Banned Horror Movies Exorcist | Under Lens

Exorcist pretty much defines the term “cult-classic”. This 1973 release directed by William Friedkin, has had popularity in every sense of the word, both positive and negative.

Several Directors refused the movie one of which did so stating that the movie is “cruel to children”.Controversy started early for Exorcist, right from the trailer. It had a simple trailer concept, with the face of the possessed girl bobbing in and out of darkness, but had a horrifying effect specially on young girls and was thus changed. Below is the same banned trailer.



As the movie released protestors in UK gathered outside the theaters to ask people not to see the movie, and this resulted in theaters being packed. British MP Rhodes Boyson asked for the movie to be banned.

Though actual ban wasn’t really implemented and is more of a legend than truth. Ban therefore was in 4 countries viz. Burma, Iran, Malaysia and Tunis. In Tunis it was banned for the silly reason after being branded as “Christian propaganda”.

As the film’s reputation grew, people in New York used to stand upto 4 hours before ticket windows opened in lines for hours just to be able to watch the movie. The same New York theater there were many reported incidents of vomiting, fainting, in some cases heart stroke and also a miscarriage. So much so that at some places catholic priests were present at the screenings and stretchers were kept ready to take out audience who would faint.

Later it was adopted by the catholic community and is still screened at some church sermons. Father Kenneth Jadoff's claim in The Catholic News that 'The Exorcist is a deeply spiritual film.'

The movie went on to get 10 Oscar nominations, won 4 Golden Globes including best picture, is still in 20 most grossing movies of all time and always be considered a cult classic.

Written by Ali Naqvi.