The Exorcist

The Exorcist

Year: 1973

Runtime: 122 min

Language: English

Director: William Friedkin

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A chilling tale of demonic possession unfolds when a tormented young girl's mysterious afflictions defy medical explanation. As desperation sets in, a local priest suspects the devil's hand is at work and requests an exorcism. An expert from the church arrives to aid in the treacherous ritual, setting the stage for a heart-pounding struggle between good and evil.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Exorcist (1973)
Trace every key event in The Exorcist (1973) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

Archaeological Expedition Begins

Father Lancaster Merrin embarks on an archaeological expedition in Iraq, driven by curiosity and a sense of duty. As he navigates through the ancient landscape, he encounters a series of eerie omens that hint at an impending calamity, suggesting that darker forces are at play.

Iraq
2

Discovery of the Pazuzu Statue

During his expedition, Father Merrin uncovers a statue depicting a demonic figure known as Pazuzu. This discovery marks a critical turning point in his journey, as it signals the presence of dark forces that will soon wreak havoc.

Iraq
3

Ominous Events in Georgetown

Back in Georgetown, Chris MacNeil, a successful actress, begins to experience a series of ominous occurrences in her home. The atmosphere in her affluent neighborhood thickens with unease as strange noises originate from the attic, unsettling her and her twelve-year-old daughter Regan.

Georgetown
4

Regan's Behavior Changes

As the strange occurrences escalate, Regan starts to exhibit troubling signs of anxiety and depression. Her fearful behavior culminates in a haunting night when she climbs into Chris's bed, terrified that her own bed has begun to shake, alarming both mother and daughter.

Chris MacNeil's home
5

Meeting Father Karras

Chris meets Father Damien Karras during a film shoot, unaware of the struggles he faces with his faith and family. Their meeting serves as a pivotal connection that will draw him into the tumultuous events transpiring in Chris’s household.

Film Set
6

Regan's Ouija Board Incident

In a misguided attempt to seek answers, Regan uses a Ouija board, claiming to connect with a spiritual presence. This act unleashes a series of malevolent events that intensify the mystery surrounding her unsettling behavior, leaving Chris anxious and bewildered.

Chris MacNeil's home
7

Escalation of Strange Events

As Regan's condition deteriorates, Chris hosts a glamorous party where Regan shocks the guests with her bizarre and erratic behavior. Her alarming prediction about an astronaut's fate sends chills through the gathering, marking a clear shift to the supernatural.

Chris MacNeil's home
8

Burke's Mysterious Death

The situation spirals further into chaos when Burke, a close friend and colleague of Chris, is found dead outside their home under mysterious circumstances. This tragic incident deepens Chris's desperation and propels her to confront the dark reality of her daughter’s condition.

Outside Chris's house
9

Investigation into Possession

Despite initial skepticism, Chris is urged to explore the idea of demonic possession as an explanation for Regan's severe symptoms. This investigation leads her to reach out to Father Karras, who becomes increasingly involved in their distressing situation.

10

Regan's Disturbing Transformation

An encounter with Regan reveals a chilling transformation as she speaks in tongues, demonstrates unnatural strength, and embodies something truly sinister. Father Karras realizes the gravity of the situation and recognizes the signs indicating her possession.

Chris MacNeil's home
11

Father Merrin Returns

After Karras’s revelations, Father Merrin returns to confront the demonic presence within Regan. Their confrontation culminates in a grueling exorcism, pitting the forces of good against the darkness that has claimed the girl.

Chris MacNeil's home
12

The Exorcism Battleground

The exorcism escalates into a terrifying battle as Regan's body becomes a vessel for unimaginable horror. Attacks on both priests reveal the intense struggle between good and evil, testing their faith and resolve.

Chris MacNeil's home
13

Karras's Sacrifice

In a moment of ultimate self-sacrifice, Father Karras offers himself to save Regan from the demonic grip. This desperate act confirms his commitment to the fight against evil, sealing his fate as Regan finds her freedom.

Chris MacNeil's home
14

Aftermath and Recovery

In the wake of the harrowing exorcism, Chris and Regan prepare to leave their haunted home. They receive a visit from Father Dyer, and Chris expresses her relief that Regan has no memory of the traumatic events, emphasizing a hopeful return to normalcy.

Chris MacNeil's home
15

A Bittersweet Farewell

As they bid farewell to Father Dyer, Chris reflects on their ordeal and expresses gratitude for Regan's innocence. Despite the darkness that once loomed over their lives, Regan's cheerful demeanor suggests that they can finally move forward.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 19:10

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