The Exorcist: Out of the Shadows

by Bob McCabe

Published to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the film's release, this book explores the shocking truths and myths that surround the film.

Genres: Horror, Film, Nonfiction

190 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Steve Wiggins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since I'm writing a book on demons, I figured it can't hurt to read up on The Exorcist. McCabe's treatment ranges widely from the novel to the events behind it to the various lives of the actors involved in it and the impact that the movie had. Those who enjoy actor and director interviews will find plenty to like here. This isn't a book for substance, but it's more of a guilty pleasure read.

There can be no doubt that William Peter Blatty's novel, and the subsequent movie, had a huge impact on the culture of the early 1970's. It was considered so scary (and I was still a minor then) that it took decades before I was brave enough to watch it. It really is a well-done film. This book indicates, and it may be true, that much of the impact derives from the deft hand of director William Friedkin. Some of his choices make the film quite impactful, although the novel, as he acknowledged in the process, started it all on a high bar.

Pretty much what the title indicates, this is a quick read about a cultural phenomenon. For those interested, I wrote a bit more about it on my blog, here: Sects and Violence in the Ancient World.

[Lil D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scared the crap out of me when I read this as a teenager. So I didn't see the movie until much later and wasn't scared by it the way millions had been affected at the time it was released. But the book...that's another thing. Read it if you have the stomach for it.

One's own imagination is far greater and more vile than what the movie screen can ever project...

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This making-of was a great companion to my viewing of The Exorcist and Exorcist III for my first time. It addressed the supposed "curse" of the films as well as discussed the intricate makeup and Blatty and Friedkin's stubbornness. A good read for anyone who appreciates how movies are made.

[Jinann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this in high school because I wasn't allowed to see the movie. I read it in a matter of days - and couldn't put it down!

[Allie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Read it in one sitting and, surprisingly for me, who was an avid Exorcist fan as a teenager and even now I remain remarkably fond of it, I actually learned some new facts as well!

[Ryan Splenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice read about many of the back stories involved in the making of the greatest horror movie of all time. McCabe does a good job of providing some interesting and scary stories about the cast and crew.

[Quentin · Rating 5 out of 5]

spooky

[Tracypick77 · Rating 4 out of 5]

You like scary books, you must read this.

[Lenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of many mind chilling books that I enjoy reading from time to time. It's one of my favorites

[Simon S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

McCabe excels at this stuff. A great book about the making of an excellent film.