‘Boorman And The Devil’ Review: New Documentary on Making of Disastrous 1977 ‘Exorcist’ Sequel is a Winner – Someone Release This Film!

The documentary 'Boorman and the Devil,' released on October 31, 2023, delves into the troubled production of the 1977 sequel to the acclaimed horror film, 'The Exorcist.' This sequel, titled 'Exorcist II: The Heretic,' was directed by John Boorman and became notable not only for its controversial reception but also for the chaotic behind-the-scenes dynamics.

This project fits into a broader narrative surrounding cinematic sequels that fail to live up to their predecessors. With 'The Exorcist' (1973) holding the record for ten Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, the sequel's failure at the box office indicated a significant industry shift. According to box office records, 'Exorcist II' grossed only $15 million against a production budget of $14 million, marking a 1970s trend where horror sequels struggled.

The documentary highlights pivotal moments in the production, including Boorman's attempts to bring a more metaphysical perspective to the horror genre, contrasting sharply with the original film's straightforward demonic possession storyline. Similar to the 1987 disaster 'Superman IV: The Quest for Peace,' which attempted to reimagine an established franchise with significant narrative risks, Boorman’s vision was met with widespread criticism and confusion.

According to sources in the industry, 'Boorman and the Devil' features exclusive interviews with cast members, including Linda Blair and Richard Burton, who provide insight into their experiences and the chaos that enveloped the filming process. Blair previously recounted that she was on the verge of quitting acting due to the immense pressure surrounding 'Exorcist II' during a 2020 interview.

The documentary has drawn comparisons to recent retrospectives like 'The Disaster Artist' (2017), which examined the making of 'The Room' (2003), another film linked through its celebrated failure. Both documentaries reveal the often overlooked human stories behind infamous productions.

Released by XYZ Productions, the documentary surfaces as part of a wave of recent horror documentaries rekindling interest in classic horror narratives. Industry patterns show a 56% increase in projects focusing on horror film history since 2020, likely due to the genre's resurgence in popularity.

Following its release, viewers can anticipate additional screenings and festival appearances, with a potential release on streaming platforms expected in early 2024. Such moves follow the trend seen with the 'Cursed Films' series, which achieved significant viewership and critical acclaim.

In conclusion, 'Boorman and the Devil' not only helps to contextualize the legacy of 'Exorcist II: The Heretic' but also paves the way for future explorations into the troubled productions of cinema history. With a documented trend of celebrating filmmaking missteps, this documentary serves as a testament to the intricate dance between ambition and execution in Hollywood.