“The Exorcist: Believer” Revives Ellen Burstyn and Blends Faith with Horror

The Exorcist: Believer – A Nostalgic Yet Ambitious Endeavor

A Half-Century of Horror

The release of “The Exorcist” in 1973 revolutionized the horror genre. Based on William Peter Blatty’s novel about demonic possession, the film shocked audiences and changed the way people looked at horror movies. Now, fifty years later, “The Exorcist: Believer” attempts to recapture the magic of the original with the return of the iconic Ellen Burstyn in her role as Chris MacNeil. Although the film maintains an eerie creepiness, it stumbles in its climactic act, leaving viewers with mixed feelings.

A Challenging Franchise

Franchising a property as iconic as “The Exorcist” presents a formidable challenge. The original film’s fear factor came from its understated dread, rather than relying on jump-scares and excessive gore. However, in the decades that followed, the horror genre evolved, favoring more shocking and in-your-face scares. “Believer” attempts to bridge the gap between these two approaches, resulting in a film that struggles to meet the expectations of modern horror while honoring its roots.

Burstyn’s Role and the Story

Ellen Burstyn’s extended cameo as Chris MacNeil adds a touch of nostalgia to the film. Victor, played by Leslie Odom Jr., reaches out to Chris for help with his 13-year-old daughter, Angela (Lydia Jewett). Victor is a single father, having lost Angela’s mother when she was born. Despite their seemingly happy life, Angela and her friend Katherine (Olivia O’Neill) venture into the woods in search of a ritual to reconnect with Angela’s late mother.

The Tension Rises

As the girls’ behavior becomes increasingly odd and disturbing, the tension in the film builds. “Believer” shines during this stretch, particularly through the performances of Jewett and O’Neill, who bring a terrifying presence to their roles. The parents of Katherine (Jennifer Nettles and Norbert Leo Butz) turn to their church for guidance, and Victor seeks advice from his concerned neighbor, played by Ann Dowd.

A Tale of Two Halves

If “Believer” had stayed within this gripping and eerie atmosphere, it would have been more effective, even if it meant sacrificing some of the hardcore horror fans. Unfortunately, the film takes a misstep in its final act, attempting to transition into more conventional horror. This shift leads to an overload of pyrotechnics and detracts from the overall experience, serving as a reminder that “less is more” when it comes to horror.

A Moderately Worthy Successor

Despite its shortcomings, “The Exorcist: Believer” still proves to be a moderately worthy heir to the original. The inclusion of Burstyn, the incorporation of the spine-tingling original music “Tubular Bells,” and the unsettling first half add to the film’s nostalgic appeal. However, the intention to develop this into another trilogy, following the success of the “Halloween” franchise, raises skepticism about whether there is enough substance to sustain the story over multiple films.

The Ambiguity of Faith

While “Believer” ultimately explores the theme of faith, the film raises questions about the dangers of having too much or too little faith. The original “Exorcist” left viewers with a sense of hope as Regan and her mother moved on with their lives after their harrowing experience. However, “Believer” challenges this notion and introduces the possibility that an excess of faith can be just as harmful as its absence.

A Conclusion: Proceed with Caution

“The Exorcist: Believer” is set to premiere on October 6 in US theaters. With its blend of nostalgia and ambitious storytelling, the film offers a unique perspective on the iconic horror franchise. However, viewers should approach with caution, as the film falls short of fully capturing the essence of the original while attempting to cater to modern horror expectations. Ultimately, it is up to individual viewers to decide whether to embrace the continuation of “The Exorcist” legacy or hold onto the treasured memories of the groundbreaking original.