Ep 1. The Exorcist

In the premiere episode of Cursed Films, the show explores the supposed curse surrounding one of the most iconic horror films of all time, The Exorcist. The documentary-style show dives into the myths and legends surrounding the making of the film, including stories of strange coincidences and unexplainable occurrences that plagued the cast and crew.

The episode begins by introducing the director of The Exorcist, William Friedkin, who gives his personal account of the making of the film and the rumors that circulated at the time. He recounts stories of bizarre weather patterns, mysterious fires, and the deaths of several individuals associated with the film, including a special effects technician who lost his life during a stunt gone wrong.

Cursed Films also interviews cast members from The Exorcist, including Linda Blair (who played the possessed young girl Regan) and Max von Sydow (who played the priest Father Merrin). They share their perspectives on the curse and whether or not they believe it had any real impact on the film.

The show also delves into the history of exorcisms and possession, providing context for the audience to better understand the themes of the film. The Exorcist was based on a novel by William Peter Blatty, who was inspired by real-life events surrounding a purportedly possessed boy in the 1940s. The episode includes interviews with experts in the field of demonic possession, who provide insight into the cultural fascination with the supernatural.

One of the key features of Cursed Films is its use of archival footage from the making of the film, including behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the original cast and crew. This material is intercut with present-day interviews and reenactments, creating a rich visual experience that draws the viewer into the story.

Throughout the episode, Cursed Films also explores the reactions to The Exorcist from religious and conservative groups, who protested the film’s explicit imagery and controversial themes. The documentary highlights the ways in which The Exorcist became a cultural phenomenon, influencing not only the horror genre but also popular culture as a whole.

Perhaps most compellingly, Cursed Films investigates the real-life tragedies that befell those associated with the film. The episode includes interviews with family members of some of the individuals who died during or shortly after the making of the film, providing a human dimension to the supposed curse. The show treats these individuals with utmost respect, never sensationalizing their stories but rather using them to contextualize the strange events surrounding The Exorcist.

Ultimately, Cursed Films presents a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the myths and legends surrounding The Exorcist. The episode is well-researched, utilizing expert interviews and archival footage to create a comprehensive account of the film’s production and legacy. It will appeal to fans of horror, as well as anyone interested in the intersection of religion, culture, and the supernatural.