The Take
Exorcist: The Beginning is a pointless prequel that trades the 1973 original's creeping atmospheric terror for loud CGI demons and jump scares. Renny Harlin's version after Paul Schrader's cut was shelved delivers commercial sludge instead of genuine horror.
The Verdict
The practical dig sets remain the sole highlight in an otherwise diluted cash grab. Skip it. Watch the 1973 original instead — pure dread, no prequel baggage.
Common Questions
Why is Exorcist: The Beginning controversial?
No, the backlash stems from the botched studio reshoot, not any deeper cultural clash.
Is Exorcist: The Beginning based on a true story?
No, it is pure fiction like the 1973 classic.
What happened to the Schrader cut?
Morgan Creek shelved it after completion and hired Harlin to reshoot nearly the entire film.
