Exorcist II: The Heretic Review – Boorman's Disaster Revisited 2026

In the annals of film history, Exorcist II: The Heretic stands as a monument to misguided ambition. David Kittredge's new book, Boorman and the Devil, offers a thoroughly enjoyable re-evaluation of this 1977 catastrophe. The sequel to William Friedkin's horror masterpiece was widely derided, yet it brims with unintentional comedy and visual boldness. This review explores Kittredge's detailed account of how John Boorman's film became a legendary flop and why it remains fascinating.

The Vision and the Disaster

John Boorman, coming off the success of Deliverance, was offered the original Exorcist but turned it down, disliking the story. He was later induced to take on the sequel, which promised a more ambitious, metaphysical exploration. The result was a bizarre fantasy rhapsody that baffled audiences. Linda Blair and Max von Sydow returned, joined by Richard Burton as a troubled priest and Louise Fletcher as a psychiatrist with a ridiculous "mind-reader" contraption. The film was visually bold, pioneering in its use of Steadicam, but its narrative was incoherent.

Audience Reactions and Legacy

According to an apocryphal tale repeated by Friedkin, one night an enraged audience turned around and booed Warner Brothers executives in the back row, then chased them out of the building and down the street. At the first film, people screamed in terror; now they screamed with laughter. Boorman desperately recut the film, removing the sillier bits, but the damage was done. The film became a cult classic for all the wrong reasons.

Kittredge's Re-evaluation

David Kittredge's book provides a detailed, sympathetic account of Boorman's painful experience. Boorman himself is interviewed and generously discusses his mortifying ordeal. Kittredge argues that despite its flaws, the film has moments of brilliance and is ripe for re-evaluation. The book delves into the production challenges, the studio interference, and the creative missteps that led to the disaster.

Comparison: Original vs. Sequel

Key Takeaways from the Book

• Boorman originally turned down The Exorcist but was persuaded to direct the sequel.
• The film's use of Steadicam was innovative but overshadowed by its flaws.
• Audience reactions shifted from terror to ridicule, damaging the franchise.
• Kittredge's book offers a balanced, entertaining look at a legendary flop.

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