The Exorcist (1973)

This controversial film took in a whopping $89 million domestically, a certified blockbuster—quite a feat considering the off-putting plot and stomach-turning visuals: a twisting head, spinning bed, and green vomit. (People actually vomited in theaters during the film's original theatrical run.) A tormented priest tries to exorcise the devil from 12-year-old Linda Blair. In the process, he unleashes some of his own demons. Peter Blatty won an Oscar for the riveting screenplay based on his novel.

Related Links

• The Exorcist: Movie Summary
• Exorcist: The Beginning (2004)
• Dominion: A Prequel to the Exorcist (2005)
• Definition of Exorcise