How Long Was Exorcist Banned For?

If you’ve ever wondered about the fascinating history of horror movies, you might have come across the controversial film “The Exorcist.” This iconic horror flick has garnered a cult following and has been the subject of much debate and speculation over the years. One burning question that often arises is, “How long was The Exorcist banned for?” In this article, we’ll delve into the intriguing story behind the ban and uncover the truth behind its duration.

When it comes to horror films that push the boundaries, few have achieved the notoriety of “The Exorcist.” Released in 1973, the movie shocked audiences with its terrifying depiction of demonic possession. However, what many may not know is that the film faced significant censorship and was banned in several countries. So, how long was “The Exorcist” banned for? Well, my friend, buckle up and prepare for a chilling journey into the world of banned movies as we unravel the story behind the ban and explore the impact it had on the film’s legacy.

How Long Was “The Exorcist” Banned For?: The Controversial History

“The Exorcist” is a renowned horror film that has captivated audiences for decades. However, it also faced significant controversy and censorship upon its release. The movie, directed by William Friedkin and based on the novel by William Peter Blatty, tells the chilling story of a young girl possessed by a demonic entity and the priests who attempt to save her soul. Its graphic and unsettling content sparked a moral panic and led to bans and restrictions in various countries. In this article, we will delve into the history of “The Exorcist” and explore how long it was banned for in different parts of the world.

The Release and Immediate Impact

When “The Exorcist” was first released on December 26, 1973, it quickly became a box office sensation. The film’s terrifying and realistic portrayal of demonic possession shocked audiences and challenged societal norms. However, its success was accompanied by controversy and calls for censorship due to its explicit content and disturbing imagery. Religious groups and conservative organizations protested against the film, claiming it was blasphemous and morally corrupting.

The controversy surrounding “The Exorcist” reached its peak when the film was banned in several countries. Censors feared that the movie’s explicit scenes, including the use of crucifixes and profanity, would offend religious sensibilities and corrupt public morals. As a result, the film’s release was either delayed or completely prohibited in various regions, prompting heated debates about freedom of expression and artistic integrity.

Banned in the United Kingdom

One of the countries where “The Exorcist” faced a significant ban was the United Kingdom. Shortly after its release, the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) refused to grant the film a certificate, effectively banning it from public exhibition. The BBFC cited the film’s disturbing content, including scenes of violence, sexualized language, and sacrilegious imagery, as reasons for the ban.

The ban in the UK lasted for more than a decade. It was not until 1999 that “The Exorcist” was finally granted a certificate for theatrical release, allowing audiences in the UK to experience the film on the big screen. This decision came after a reevaluation by the BBFC, which recognized the cultural significance of the movie and its enduring impact on the horror genre.

Controversy in Other Countries

While the ban in the UK garnered significant attention, “The Exorcist” also faced censorship in other parts of the world. In Australia, the film was initially banned in several states, including Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia. However, these bans were eventually lifted, albeit with strict age restrictions and warning labels.

In other countries, such as Ireland and Finland, “The Exorcist” faced temporary bans or restrictions. Authorities in these countries believed that the film’s content was too explicit and could potentially harm viewers, particularly young audiences. However, as time passed and societal attitudes evolved, the bans were lifted, allowing the film to be seen by a wider audience.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Despite the initial bans and restrictions, “The Exorcist” has become a seminal work in the horror genre and a cultural phenomenon. The film’s realistic portrayal of demonic possession, combined with its strong performances and atmospheric direction, continues to captivate audiences to this day. It has inspired countless imitations and is often cited as one of the greatest horror films of all time.

“The Exorcist” also sparked important discussions about censorship and the boundaries of artistic expression. Its controversial history serves as a reminder of the power of cinema to challenge societal norms and provoke emotional responses. While the bans may have limited its initial reach, they ultimately contributed to the film’s mystique and added to its enduring legacy.

Influence on Horror Films

“The Exorcist” revolutionized the horror genre, ushering in a new era of psychological and supernatural horror. Its success paved the way for other iconic films, such as “Rosemary’s Baby” and “The Omen,” which explored similar themes of demonic possession and religious terror. The film’s impact can still be felt in contemporary horror movies, as filmmakers continue to draw inspiration from its groundbreaking storytelling and unsettling atmosphere.

Reevaluation and Critical Acclaim

Over the years, “The Exorcist” has been reevaluated by critics and scholars, who have recognized its artistic merit and cultural significance. It has received numerous accolades and is often included in lists of the greatest films ever made. The American Film Institute, for instance, ranked it as the ninth greatest thriller of all time.

The film’s enduring popularity has also led to various re-releases and special editions, allowing new generations of viewers to experience its chilling narrative. Despite the initial controversy and bans, “The Exorcist” has become a timeless classic that continues to terrify and captivate audiences around the world.

The Impact on William Friedkin’s Career

“The Exorcist” catapulted director William Friedkin to international fame and solidified his reputation as a master of suspense and horror. The film’s success opened doors for Friedkin, leading to more opportunities in the film industry. He went on to direct other acclaimed movies, such as “The French Connection” and “To Live and Die in L.A.,” cementing his status as a visionary filmmaker.

In conclusion, “The Exorcist” faced significant bans and censorship upon its release due to its explicit content and disturbing imagery. Countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, and Finland prohibited or restricted the film’s exhibition, fearing it would offend religious sensibilities and corrupt public morals. However, over time, societal attitudes shifted, leading to the lifting of bans and the recognition of the film’s cultural significance. “The Exorcist” has since become a landmark horror film, inspiring countless imitations and leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Its enduring popularity and critical acclaim are a testament to its lasting impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Exorcist is a classic horror film that garnered both critical acclaim and controversy upon its release. Here are some frequently asked questions about the ban placed on the movie and its duration.

1. What led to the ban on The Exorcist?

The Exorcist was banned in several countries due to its explicit content, which included scenes of graphic violence, profanity, and the depiction of demonic possession. The film pushed the boundaries of what was deemed acceptable at the time, leading to widespread outrage and calls for its removal from theaters.

The realistic portrayal of demonic possession and the controversial nature of the film’s content were major factors in the decision to ban The Exorcist in many regions.

2. How long was The Exorcist banned for?

The duration of the ban on The Exorcist varied depending on the country and region. In some places, the ban lasted for several years, while in others it was lifted relatively quickly. Overall, the ban on The Exorcist lasted for an average of 2-3 years in most countries.

It’s important to note that the ban was not universal, and there were regions where the film was not banned at all. However, the controversy surrounding The Exorcist led to its limited availability in many parts of the world for a significant period of time.

3. Which countries banned The Exorcist?

Several countries banned The Exorcist upon its release, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and several countries in the Middle East. The ban was also imposed in certain states within the United States, such as Ohio and Kansas.

While the film faced widespread opposition and was banned in many regions, it was eventually released after undergoing edits and censorship in some countries.

4. Was the ban on The Exorcist justified?

The justification for the ban on The Exorcist is subjective and varies depending on individual beliefs and cultural norms. Some argued that the explicit content and portrayal of demonic possession were too disturbing and had the potential to incite fear and anxiety among viewers.

Others believed that the ban was an infringement on artistic freedom and that the film should be viewed as a work of fiction rather than a threat to public morality. The controversy surrounding The Exorcist sparked debates about censorship and the boundaries of artistic expression.

5. Did The Exorcist have any lasting impact despite the ban?

Despite the ban and controversy, The Exorcist left a lasting impact on the horror genre and popular culture as a whole. The film’s groundbreaking special effects and intense storytelling revolutionized the way horror movies were made.

The Exorcist also sparked a renewed interest in the supernatural and demonic possession, leading to a wave of similar films and TV shows in the following decades. Its cultural significance and enduring popularity have cemented its status as a classic in the horror genre.

The Exorcist | Banned/Unreleased Trailer – “Flash Image”

Final Summary: The Duration of the Exorcist Ban

In the world of cinema, there have been several movies that have faced controversy and even bans for pushing the boundaries of what is deemed acceptable. One such film that sparked widespread debate and was banned in many countries for a significant period of time is “The Exorcist.” This iconic horror film, directed by William Friedkin, shocked audiences worldwide upon its release in 1973. But how long exactly was “The Exorcist” banned for?

The ban on “The Exorcist” varied in duration depending on the country and the specific censorship regulations in place. In some countries, the ban lasted for a few years, while in others, it was lifted relatively quickly. The reasons for the ban were primarily due to the film’s explicit and disturbing content, which was considered highly controversial at the time. The portrayal of demonic possession and the intense scenes of violence and profanity led to the film being deemed too shocking and inappropriate for public viewing. However, despite the ban, “The Exorcist” continued to gain notoriety and became a cult classic, solidifying its place in horror film history.

Over time, as societal norms and attitudes towards censorship evolved, “The Exorcist” gradually found its way back into theaters and home video releases, often with certain cuts or modifications to appease censorship boards. The ban on the film served as a testament to its impact and the powerful reaction it elicited from audiences. Today, “The Exorcist” is recognized as a groundbreaking piece of cinema that pushed the boundaries of the horror genre and left a lasting impact on the industry.

In conclusion, the ban on “The Exorcist” varied in duration depending on the country, with some bans lasting for several years. However, despite the initial controversy and bans, the film has stood the test of time and continues to be regarded as a classic in the horror genre. The duration of the ban serves as a testament to the film’s power to shock and provoke, solidifying its place in cinema history as one of the most influential and controversial films of all time.