Exorcist II: The Heretic

Exorcist II: The Heretic (1977) Movie Review

“Exorcist II: The Heretic,” directed by John Boorman, is a sequel to the acclaimed 1973 horror film “The Exorcist.” Released four years after the original, this film takes a bold departure from its predecessor, opting for a more surreal and experimental approach. Despite its ambitious vision, it failed to capture the same critical acclaim as the first installment. This review will explore the film’s plot, characters, special effects, and current streaming options in America.

Plot Summary

“Exorcist II: The Heretic” picks up where “The Exorcist” left off, focusing on the aftermath of the exorcism performed on young Regan MacNeil (Linda Blair). The film follows Father Lamont (Richard Burton), who is sent by the Vatican to investigate the exorcism and the death of Father Merrin (Max von Sydow). Father Lamont’s investigation leads him to a series of disturbing revelations about Regan’s condition and the demon that possessed her.

Regan, now living with her mother Chris (Ellen Burstyn), appears to have recovered, but unsettling events suggest that the demon’s influence may still linger. Father Lamont’s quest to uncover the truth about the demon brings him into contact with the mysterious Dr. Gene Tuskin (Louise Fletcher), who specializes in hypnosis. Together, they delve into the origins of the demon, leading to a climactic confrontation with supernatural forces.

Characters and Performances

Richard Burton as Father Lamont

Richard Burton stars as Father Lamont, a troubled priest with a dark past. Burton’s performance is intense and brooding, reflecting the character’s inner turmoil and commitment to his mission. However, his portrayal sometimes feels disconnected from the film’s surreal elements, creating a dissonance between character and story.

Linda Blair as Regan MacNeil

Linda Blair reprises her role as Regan MacNeil, but her character is now depicted as a more stable young woman struggling with her traumatic past. Blair’s performance is solid, though she has less screen time compared to the original. The film’s portrayal of Regan is less focused on possession and more on psychological and emotional recovery.

Louise Fletcher as Dr. Gene Tuskin

Louise Fletcher plays Dr. Gene Tuskin, a hypnotist who helps Father Lamont in his investigation. Fletcher’s performance is one of the film’s highlights, bringing a sense of gravitas and professionalism to her role. Her character provides a rational counterpoint to the supernatural elements and adds depth to the story.

Ellen Burstyn as Chris MacNeil

Ellen Burstyn returns as Chris MacNeil, Regan’s mother. Burstyn delivers a nuanced performance, capturing Chris’s ongoing struggle with her daughter’s trauma. Her portrayal adds emotional weight to the film, though her character’s involvement is somewhat limited.

Visuals and Special Effects

“Exorcist II: The Heretic” is notable for its experimental visual style, featuring surreal imagery and abstract sequences. The film’s use of special effects is ambitious but uneven, with some scenes being visually striking while others appear dated and ineffective. The film’s attempt to incorporate symbolic and hallucinatory elements contributes to its unique but often disorienting atmosphere.

The use of practical effects and miniatures is reminiscent of 1970s horror aesthetics, with a mix of innovative techniques and less convincing moments. The film’s attempt to visually represent the demon’s influence is imaginative, though it often comes across as heavy-handed and confusing.

Script and Direction

John Boorman’s direction is one of the film’s most distinctive features. His approach is highly stylistic, with a focus on dreamlike sequences and symbolic imagery. While this creative vision sets the film apart, it also contributes to its disjointed narrative. The script, co-written by William Goodhart, attempts to explore complex themes of faith and redemption but struggles with coherence and pacing.

The film’s dialogue can be melodramatic and awkward, detracting from the emotional impact of the story. The narrative’s reliance on supernatural elements and psychological exploration results in a film that is both ambitious and confusing, failing to deliver a cohesive or satisfying horror experience.

Nostalgia Factor

For fans of the original “Exorcist,” “Exorcist II: The Heretic” offers a different take on the franchise’s mythology. While it diverges significantly from the first film’s grounded horror, it provides a unique perspective on the aftermath of the exorcism and the nature of evil. The film’s experimental style and thematic ambition may appeal to those interested in unconventional horror cinema.

Streaming and Rental Options in America

As of 2024, “Exorcist II: The Heretic” (1977) is available on several streaming platforms and rental services in the United States:

• Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase in HD quality.
• iTunes: Offers both rental and purchase options.
• Google Play Movies: Available for rent or purchase.
• Vudu: Can be rented or purchased.
• YouTube Movies: Available for rent or purchase.

These options ensure that you have access to the film whether you prefer to own a digital copy or just watch it once.

Conclusion

“Exorcist II: The Heretic” (1977) is a bold but flawed sequel that diverges from the original film’s straightforward horror approach. Its experimental style, ambitious themes, and surreal visuals make it a distinctive entry in the genre, though it may not resonate with all viewers. Richard Burton’s intense performance and Louise Fletcher’s compelling portrayal provide some highlights, but the film’s disjointed narrative and uneven special effects detract from its overall impact. For those interested in exploring the unconventional side of horror sequels, “Exorcist II: The Heretic” is worth a watch, but it is advisable to approach it with tempered expectations.