{"id":3703,"date":"2023-07-26T18:14:03","date_gmt":"2023-07-26T12:44:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thereadingorder.com\/?p=3703"},"modified":"2023-07-26T18:14:03","modified_gmt":"2023-07-26T12:44:03","slug":"the-exorcist-movies-in-order","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thereadingorder.com\/the-exorcist-movies-in-order\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Watch The Exorcist Movies in Order of Story Chronology"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Exorcist Movies in Order:<\/strong> Unleashing spine-chilling horror and gripping audiences for decades, “The Exorcist Movies in Order” is an American media franchise that has left an indelible mark on the horror genre. The terrifying journey began with William Peter Blatty’s 1971 horror novel of the same name, which soon found its way to the big screen with a chilling 1973 film adaptation. Since then, this formidable franchise has spawned numerous prequels and sequels, all centered around the nightmarish concept of individuals possessed by the malevolent Pazuzu, the series’ primary antagonist. With relentless intensity, the films delve into the harrowing efforts of religious authorities as they confront the forces of darkness and seek to banish the demonic presence.<\/span><\/p>\n

The haunting tales have not only terrified but also captivated global audiences, amassing a staggering $661 million in box office revenue, while the novel itself has sold over 13 million copies worldwide. Not content with just dominating the silver screen, “The Exorcist” further expanded its haunting legacy with a well-received 2016 television series, serving as a worthy continuation of the original film. And now, as we approach 2023, fans can brace themselves for a new chapter in this enduring saga, as a highly anticipated reboot-turned-direct sequel to the iconic 1973 film is in development, set to be helmed by the talented David Gordon Green and released by Universal Pictures on October 13, 2023. So, let’s embark on a hair-raising journey through the twisted, terror-filled realm of “The Exorcist Movies in Order.”<\/span><\/p>\n

The Exorcist Movies Film Series in Order to Watch (Story Chronology)<\/span><\/h2>\n
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Original The Exorcist Movies Order: <\/span><\/h3>\n
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  1. The Exorcist (1973)<\/span><\/strong><\/li>\n
  2. Exorcist II: The Heretic\u00a0(1977)<\/span><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    \"The<\/p>\n

    “The Exorcist” (1973) is the seminal film that launched “The Exorcist” franchise, delivering an unforgettable and horrifying cinematic experience. Directed by William Friedkin and based on William Peter Blatty’s chilling novel, the movie follows the demonic possession of young Regan MacNeil. As her behavior becomes increasingly sinister and uncontrollable, her desperate mother seeks help from two priests, Father Merrin and Father Karras, who confront the malevolent entity within her. The film’s shocking and groundbreaking special effects, coupled with its exploration of faith and the battle between good and evil, made it an instant classic and a box office sensation. “The Exorcist” has since become a benchmark in the horror genre, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture and paving the way for the franchise’s subsequent prequels, sequels, and adaptations across various media.<\/span><\/p>\n

    “Exorcist II: The Heretic” (1977) continued the saga of “The Exorcist” franchise, but it took a different and divisive direction from its predecessor. Directed by John Boorman, the film picks up four years after the events of the first movie. Regan MacNeil, now a teenager, seeks therapy to overcome her traumatic possession. Father Lamont, played by Richard Burton, is sent to investigate the circumstances surrounding the original exorcism and to explore the concept of synchronicity. Uncovering links to the late Father Merrin’s past, Lamont finds himself on a perilous quest to confront Pazuzu once again.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Upon its release, “Exorcist II: The Heretic” faced harsh criticism and disappointed many fans who expected a direct follow-up to the horror masterpiece that preceded it. Despite its controversial reputation, the film has garnered a cult following over the years, with some appreciating its ambitious and unconventional approach. However, it remains a polarizing entry in “The Exorcist” franchise.<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Altermate Exorcist Movie Order to Watch<\/span><\/h3>\n
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    1. The Exorcist (1973)<\/span><\/strong><\/li>\n
    2. The Exorcist III (1990)<\/span><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      \"The<\/p>\n

      “The Exorcist III” (1990) resurrected the horror and intrigue of “The Exorcist” franchise, offering a return to the terrifying roots of the original film. Directed by William Peter Blatty, who also wrote the screenplay based on his novel “Legion,” the movie serves as a direct sequel to the first installment, ignoring the events of “Exorcist II: The Heretic.”<\/span><\/p>\n

      Set fifteen years after the initial exorcism, “The Exorcist III” follows Lieutenant William F. Kinderman, played by George C. Scott, as he investigates a series of gruesome murders that bear a disturbing resemblance to the modus operandi of the long-deceased Gemini Killer. Throughout his chilling pursuit, Kinderman encounters a surprising revelation involving a possession case from his past, leading to a harrowing confrontation with the malevolent forces that continue to haunt him.<\/span><\/p>\n

      Critically acclaimed for its atmospheric storytelling, gripping performances, and psychological horror, “The Exorcist III” rekindled the fear that the original film instilled in audiences. It demonstrated that a return to the franchise’s core elements could yield an unsettling and captivating experience, earning the film its place as a noteworthy installment in “The Exorcist” series.<\/span><\/p>\n

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      The Beginning Order of The Exorcist Film Series<\/span><\/h3>\n
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      1. Exorcist: The Beginning (2004)<\/span><\/strong><\/li>\n
      2. The Exorcist (1973)<\/span><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n