KINORAFIELD GUIDE TO FILM
How we tag
1973 · 122 min · R

The Exorcist

Directed by William Friedkin · Horror, Drama

The Exorcist (1973) is a Horror film, directed by William Friedkin set in Washington, D.C. and New York City during the 1970s. It runs 122 minutes and is rated R.

A psychological horror, with a bleak and tense tone. Themes of faith / religion, madness / loss of sanity, and family & loyalty run throughout.

Composer
Jack Nitzsche
Cinematography
Owen Roizman
Cast
Ellen BurstynLinda BlairJason MillerMax von SydowLee J. CobbWilliam O'MalleyKitty WinnBarton Heyman

The world of this film

Premise & themes

Themes
Faith / ReligionMadness / Loss Of SanityFamily & Loyalty
Tone
BleakTense

Shape

Protagonist
EnsembleFemale Led
Pacing
Slow Burn
Based on
Pure Fiction
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