The Exorcist Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "The Exorcist" delivers an exemplary visual presentation, showcasing two remastered and re-timed 1080p/VC-1 transfers approved by director William Friedkin and cinematographer Owen Roizman. This meticulous restoration results in a remarkably clean, crisp, and stable image, free from significant damage. Both the theatrical and extended versions maintain a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, bringing the film into 1080p with remarkable fidelity. While slight fluctuations in grain levels may be observed—most prominently in certain dimly lit indoor scenes—the grain generally enhances the film’s authentic cinematic feel without becoming intrusive. Contrast and color re-timing introduce a warmer and brighter palette, rendering outdoor scenes with vivid detail and lifelike hues. Notably, some pivotal exorcism scenes display marginal inconsistencies in contrast, though these minor imperfections do not detract from the overall high-quality experience.

Detail resolution stands out in both versions, with fine textures, material patterns, and facial details rendered with striking clarity that exceeds expectations for a film nearing its fortieth anniversary. The depth of field, particularly in the dense, atmospheric scenes set in Iraq, adds impressive dimensionality. Subtle makeup flaws become more apparent under this enhanced scrutiny but underscore the transfer's fidelity. While the color scheme appears realistic and natural for most parts, certain sequences exhibit exaggerated hues to bolster the atmosphere. The film exhibits strong black levels that occasionally verge on excessive, possibly leading to slight light crushing. Edge enhancement is minimal and judiciously applied, while digital noise reduction (DNR) is well-controlled, preserving the film’s grain integrity without introducing significant digital artifacts.

Both transfers are generally consistent in quality; however, some instances of banding and minor digital clutter are present, largely around specific structured elements and sunrise scenes. These issues are minimal and do not significantly detract from the overall presentation. The extraordinary visual quality of this release positions it as a must-have for all "The Exorcist" fans.

The Blu-ray release of "The Exorcist" comes equipped with two distinct lossless audio mixes: the Extended Director's Cut featuring DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 ES and the Original Theatrical Cut in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. Both tracks preserve the film’s aural integrity with remarkable clarity and fidelity, especially given the source material's age. Dialogue remains clean and well-prioritized despite occasional challenges from environmental noise and slight hiss. Though some lines are submerged under demonic chaos, this hardly detracts from the overall auditory experience. The subwoofer (LFE) channel is particularly noteworthy, delivering visceral impacts that reverberate aggressively throughout the soundstage, transforming Regan's possession into an immersive 360-degree auditory nightmare.

Notably, the film's extensive use of directional cues and ambient effects is both chilling and captivating. The sound design expertly employs varying sound elements—from subtle atmospheric noises to startlingly abrupt auditory jabs—which significantly amplify the film’s intense scenes. Classic sequences, such as the thumping of bed-legs and the supernatural cacophony during exorcism scenes, are rendered with precise directional accuracy and substantial bass, enhancing their impact. Despite these accomplishments, some sound effects betray their age through occasional tinny or muddied reproduction, but these instances are minimal and likely due to the original elements' condition.

The sonic landscape of "The Exorcist" is further enriched by well-crafted and immersive environmental sounds that seamlessly envelop the listener. Quiet sections, like Chris and Kinderman’s conversations, exhibit a nuanced authenticity, whereas intense moments such as the demon’s roars are delivered with forceful precision. The transition of sound across different channels is impressively smooth and natural. Overall, whether you prefer the Director's Cut or the Theatrical Version, "The Exorcist" on Blu-ray offers an audio experience that is deeply engrossing and technically proficient, effectively enhancing this iconic horror film’s unsettling atmosphere.

The extras on the Blu-ray release of "The Exorcist" deliver an impressive array of additional content that expands the viewer's understanding and appreciation of the film. Both discs include multiple insightful audio commentaries from director William Friedkin and author William Peter Blatty, each providing unique perspectives and making this collection indispensable for fans. Friedkin's commentary is heavily scene-specific, offering a meticulous analysis of his directorial choices, while Blatty’s track delves into broader theological and philosophical themes. The package also includes several high-definition featurettes that offer behind-the-scenes insights, location retrospectives, and a look at various versions of the film. A notable inclusion is Mark Kermode's feature-length documentary "Fear of God," which remains an exemplary piece on the making of the film. This detailed assortment of extras leaves no stone unturned, presenting a rich, engaging exploration of this cinematic classic.

Extras included in this disc:

• Director's Audio Commentary: Friedkin dissects his directorial choices in detail.
• Raising Hell: Filming the Exorcist: Covers the film’s production with behind-the-scenes footage.
• The Exorcist Locations: Georgetown Then and Now: Compares filming locations from 1973 and 2010.
• Faces of Evil: The Different Versions of The Exorcist: Examines various film versions.
• Trailers, TV Spots and Radio Spots: Includes promotional material from different periods.
• The Fear of God: A comprehensive documentary by Mark Kermode.
• Filmmaker Interviews: Friedkin and Blatty discuss production challenges and revisions.
• Sketches and Storyboards: Pre-production artwork montage.
• Original Ending: Includes never-before-seen extended audio.

"The Exorcist" remains a landmark of horror cinema, acclaimed for its impactful storytelling and masterful execution. Directed by William Friedkin and penned by William Peter Blatty, the film draws inspiration from Blatty's novel, itself loosely based on an actual 1949 exorcism. Ellen Burstyn stars as Chris MacNeil, a Georgetown actress desperately seeking answers as her once-sweet daughter, Regan (Linda Blair), exhibits increasingly disturbing behaviors. The narrative crescendos with Regan's transformation, climaxing in an exorcism led by priests Father Merrin (Max von Sydow) and Father Karras (Jason Miller), delivering some of horror's most iconic and unsettling scenes.

From a technical standpoint, "The Exorcist" excels through Friedkin's meticulous direction and Owen Roizman's haunting cinematography. The film deftly balances visceral shock with a deep psychological and theological examination, supported by intensely committed performances from the cast. Special effects like Regan's head-spinning and projectile vomiting have etched themselves into cinematic history, while Friedkin's focus on authentic character reactions underscores the story's emotional gravity. This blend of raw human experience with supernatural terror ensures the film’s lasting impact, inducing unease that transcends time and technology.

The Blu-ray release offers both the 132-minute Extended Director's Cut and the 122-minute Original Theatrical Cut on separate discs, each presenting unique enhancements. High-definition enthusiasts will appreciate the presentation quality and plethora of special features included. While some fans may favor the director’s extended cut for its additional scenes, others might prefer the original for its conciseness and pure narrative drive. Both versions nevertheless affirm "The Exorcist" as a timeless horror masterpiece, gripping viewers with powerful imagery, profound themes, and an enduring ability to disturb.

The Exorcist" Blu-ray release stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the most influential horror films ever made. Warner's offering is a meticulously crafted package that includes both the original theatrical cut and the extended director's cut, each presented with sterling video and audio transfers. The restoration effort is impeccable, breathing new life into the film's haunting visuals and atmospheric soundscape. The DTS-HD Master Audio surround tracks, in particular, lend an invigorating clarity and depth to the film’s eerie sound design, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

The supplemental material included is both expansive and invaluable for fans and genre aficionados. From in-depth behind-the-scenes documentaries to interviews with cast and crew, the special features are generous and insightful. This release ensures a comprehensive understanding of the film's production and its cultural impact over the decades. Warner’s attention to detail is evident not just in the technical merits of this release but also in its presentation, making it a worthwhile addition to any serious Blu-ray collection.

With fabulous performances across the board, a complex and controversial narrative that openly challenges faith and belief structures, and an emotional ferocity that has been difficult to replicate, "The Exorcist" secures its (un)hallowed place in the Horror Hall of Fame. William Friedkin’s groundbreaking work sparked a cultural revolution that dared to make God "fashionable" again through a horror lens filled with shocking blasphemies and vile acts. It may not be as conventionally terrifying by today's standards, but its pervasive creepiness lingers long after viewing. This Blu-ray release is an essential purchase for any horror enthusiast. "The Power of Christ compels you!