1. The Exorcist (1973)
I first saw this movie when I was 7 and it scared the hell out of me. I blocked those memories out of my mind for the most part but I do remember being on my bed scared out of my wits, clawing at anyone or anything that came near me like a caged puppy frightened out of his mind. I have since grown to love this movie, and have watched it many times. I guess I wanted to overcome any fears I had as a kid. This film is without a doubt the best possession film ever made. Extremely intense and I think ahead of its time in so many ways. Linda Blair did an unbelievable job in this role, topping anyone else who has tried to play a possessed victim since. Max Von Sydow, as Father Merrin is perfect, a combination of strength and frailty, someone who had just fought one too many battles to win. Jason Miller as Father Karras is a great choice, he is someone that you wouldn’t normally see play a priest but is very believable. As good as the possession scenes in “The Exorcism of Emily Rose” are, they still can’t compete with the scenes in “The Exorcist.” From the brutal “fuck me” scene to the scenes when Father Merrin begins the exorcism and the unforgettable climax of sacrifice, “The Exorcist” is one of the greatest horror movies ever made.
