1 review for The Exorcist Original Theatrical Version (1973)

1. 

   Rated 2 out of 5

   Us – October 5, 2023

   **Blu-ray Review: The Exorcist 4K – 50th Anniversary Edition**

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   **Plot/Story: 9/10**

   Even after 50 years, “The Exorcist” stands as an enduring testament to horror filmmaking. Its tale of a young girl possessed by a demonic entity remains as chilling now as it was during its 1973 debut. William Friedkin’s direction coupled with William Peter Blatty’s story brings forward a narrative that brilliantly melds psychological horror with overt supernatural elements.

   **Video Quality: 3.5/5**

   The new 4K release comes with a bag of mixed feelings. While it does offer outstanding detail in sequences, such as the opening in northern Iraq or the daytime Georgetown exterior scenes, the release is marred by inconsistent color grading. The shift towards a purple hue, especially during the iconic exorcism scene, detracts from the film’s original palette. Fans of Friedkin would note the historical complications with his films on home video; this release is no different. While 70% of the film shines brilliantly in this 4K rendition, the inconsistencies, especially concerning HDR effects, can be off-putting for purists.

   **Audio Quality: 5/5**

   This is where the 50th Anniversary Edition truly excels. The Dolby Atmos remix is nothing short of a revelation, capturing every nuance of the film’s soundscape. Whether it’s the subtle atmospheric creaks or the haunting demonic utterances, the audio delivers an immersive experience. For purists, the inclusion of the original theatrical mono mix is a delightful addition, maintaining the authentic aural atmosphere of the 1970s.

   **Extras: 2.5/5**

   While the details of the extras aren’t explicitly mentioned, the rating suggests there may be room for improvement. Considering the film’s legacy and impact on the horror genre, fans might expect a more comprehensive set of bonus materials.

   **Overall: 8/10**

   This 50th Anniversary Edition of “The Exorcist” is a must-have for fans, especially those with 4K home theater setups. Despite the inconsistencies in video quality, the audio improvements and the iconic nature of the film itself make it a worthy addition to any collection.

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   Recommendation: Ideal for die-hard fans of the horror genre and those who wish to experience “The Exorcist” with enhanced audio-visual fidelity. However, purists might have reservations about the video transfer.