The Exorcist is an iconic horror movie, admired by critics and fans half a century later – though not everyone was a fan at the time, and many tried to have it banned
In the darkness, as the horrifying scenes on the big screen flickered across their faces, audience members groaned and screamed.
One was sick and several fainted, including a woman who lay motionless on the ground for over a minute as her friend frantically tried to revive her. Others burst out of the cinema, white as sheets. It’s safe to say the first showing of The Exorcist in the UK in February 1974 made an impact.
Directed by William Friedkin, who died on Monday aged 87, it is an iconic horror movie, admired by critics and fans half a century later. Though not everyone was a fan at the time. Bobbi Mitchell, 23, who attended the private screening, said afterwards: “It was absolutely disgusting â the most sickening film I have ever seen.”
Patt Rock, also 23, walked out in outrage. She said: “I found it repulsive. I think it should be banned because it could be mentally disturbing.” Oscar Baker, manager of the West London cinema where the preview took place, said: “At one stage the lounge looked like a casualty ward.”