A comprehensive analysis of 'Boorman and the Devil' and the legacy of 'Exorcist II'.
In simple terms, Boorman and the Devil is a documentary that provides an introspective look at the making of Exorcist II: The Heretic, directed by John Boorman. Kittredge's film raises the central question: What do we lose when ambitious storytelling is sidelined by commercial expectations? It answers this by presenting a nuanced narrative that reveals the chaos and creativity behind one of horror's most notorious failures.
What happened is that Exorcist II, released in 1977, was intended as a grand sequel to William Friedkin's groundbreaking The Exorcist. However, it turned out to be a spectacular misfire, characterized by bizarre plot choices and unprecedented setbacks. The documentary highlights how Boorman's vision diverged from typical horror conventions, opting for a more spiritual and experimental approach instead. This decision, coupled with crew illnesses, accidents, and mounting budgets, led to a notorious production plagued by difficulties.
The film features unique elements like James Earl Jones portraying a giant locust and Linda Blair tap-dancing, which only adds to the peculiar ambiance of the project. These aspects are juxtaposed with testimonies from cast and crew members, including Karyn Kusama and Mike Flanagan, who reflect on the film's ambitious aims. Kittredge's documentary delves not just into the film's failures, but into the creative spirit that drove Boorman and his team to take such bold risks.
At its heart, Boorman and the Devil interrogates why substantial, risk-taking films have become increasingly rare in modern cinema. Kittredge emphasizes this loss, arguing that Hollywood has become conservative in its storytelling. Despite the negative initial reception, the documentary suggests that Exorcist II serves as an example of what can happen when filmmakers aim for something beyond commercial viability.
This leads to a broader thematic discussion about the cost of creativity. Kittredge posits that while Exorcist II did not connect with audiences at the time, it embodies a spirit of ambition that is essential for the evolution of the medium. The documentary argues for the importance of big swings in filmmaking, even if they don't always land well.
Linda Blair's return as Regan MacNeil showcases the film's continuity with the original Exorcist, yet her evolution throughout the sequel is striking. The documentary dissects her performance and the character’s unusual narrative choices, making a compelling case for Blair's contribution to the film’s unique essence.
While the character grapples with the consequences of past trauma, the documentary hints at deeper interpretations of Regan’s arc, inviting the audience to reconsider how bold storytelling can articulate complex emotional journeys. Kittredge utilizes archival footage and new interviews to paint a comprehensive portrait of Blair, underscoring her remarkable career and the challenges of embodying a once-possessed character now on the path to healing.
Kittredge expands upon Boorman’s vision in the documentary to explore the cultural commentaries woven throughout Exorcist II. For instance, the film’s exploration of spirituality and supernatural elements arose during a time of significant social upheaval in the 1970s. Kittredge suggests that these aspects serve to critique organized religion and societal norms, though they may have been overshadowed by the initial negative reception.
By revisiting these themes through interviews with industry veterans, the documentary urges viewers to see the depth in Boorman's intentions rather than simply his missteps. As those associated with the film reflect on the risks taken, the viewer is challenged to consider what might have been lost if such bold storytelling had not been attempted in the first place.
The documentary's conclusion revisits its central question about the essence of storytelling in Hollywood. By contrasting the commercial expectations with Boorman’s unyielding pursuit of an artistic vision, Kittredge effectively illustrates that failure can be more instructive than success. The film wraps up with a poignant reminder of the importance of visionary filmmaking—encouraging the industry to embrace the chaotic beauty of attempts that may fail but redefine our cultural narratives.
As Kittredge suggests, regaining the courage to embrace ambition in filmmaking is crucial for the future, something that Exorcist II symbolizes in its complexity.
Kittredge's Boorman and the Devil serves not only as a retrospective on a misunderstood sequel but also as a call to action for filmmakers today. By celebrating the chaotic brilliance behind Exorcist II, it argues for the necessity of risk in storytelling, challenging audiences to remember that the essence of cinema lies not solely in its successes but also in its bold failures. As we look forward to the documentary’s release, we are invited to reconsider our appreciation for creative risks in modern filmmaking.
For further discussions about ambitious storytelling and the evolution of horror in cinema, check out our breakdown of Analyzing 'A Working Man' and Exploring Themes and Transformations in 'Wicker'.
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