The Exorcist retains the extraordinary power to shock and unsettle audiences which led to it being banned on video in the UK. Released in 1973, it presented a credible and harrowing account of the modern urban world ripped apart by an obscene, ancient evil. Produced by a major studio, adapted from a best-selling novel and directed by an Oscar-winning film-maker, The Exorcist put into question everything that was considered most wholesome and good about the fading American dream - the home, the family, the church and (most shockingly) the child. Mark Kermode's book traces the history of The Exorcist back to the alleged 'real life' case of demonic possession which was the inspiration for William Peter Blatty's novel. In a definitive study of the film, Kermode provides new insights into: scenes cut from the released version; the truth about 'subliminal images'; filming of the shocking special effects sequences; and details of the disagreements between Blatty and director William Friedkin over the final cut. This revised and expanded edition includes an exclusive new interview with Blatty and Friedkin, as well as previously unseen stills from the legendary missing scenes, providing an in-depth, behind-the-scenes account of one of the most disturbing horror films ever made.