The Exorcist III (1990) Revisited – Horror Movie Review

The episode of Revisited covering The Exorcist III was Written and Edited by Ric Solomon, Narrated by Kier Gomes, Produced by Tyler Nichols and John Fallon, and Executive Produced by Berge Garabedian.

In 1973 William Friedkin unleashed his iconic horror film The Exorcist upon the masses. Since its release, it has been widely regarded as one of the most influential and iconic horror films of all time and would go on to have a huge cultural impact. It tapped into primal fears and because of its powerful storytelling, was able to captivate and terrify audiences. I think its safe to say this secured its status as a timeless horror classic. But we’re not here to discuss a movie that has been dissected, overanalyzed, added to most people’s Top 4 films on Letterboxd and reviewed by everyone and their mothers. No, in this episode we want to talk about the “true sequel” to this iconic film… and that sequel is The Exorcist III. (Record scratch) Yes, you heard that correctly and are probably asking yourself “Why didn’t they say Exorcist II?”, which is clearly the next film in this franchise. Grab your hedge clippers and hold your crucifix tight as we revisit The Exorcist III (watch it HERE).

William Peter Blatty, who wrote The Exorcist novel and screenplay, had no desire to write a sequel. He would eventually come up with a story titled Legion which was released in 1983. It would involve demonic possession. It picks up years after the events of The Exorcist and follows the character of Lieutenant William F. Kinderman, a homicide detective in Washington, D.C. Kinderman played a minor role in the film, but was heavily involved in the novel. In this story, he is investigating a series of brutal murders that bear a resemblance to the work of a notorious serial killer, the Gemini Killer, who has been dead for over a decade.

As the investigation progresses, Kinderman becomes increasingly convinced that there is a connection between the new murders and the supernatural forces he encountered during the events of The Exorcist. He suspects that the Gemini Killer may be involved in the killings, despite his previous death. Throughout the novel, Blatty delves into themes of faith, redemption, and the nature of evil. He explores the psychological and spiritual battles faced by his characters, creating a tense and thought-provoking narrative. This would become the plot of The Exorcist III… but we’re getting ahead of ourselves.

In 1977, Exorcist II: The Heretic was released in theaters to both critical and commercial failure. It was so bad, that the film inspired derisive audience laughter at its premiere. William Peter Blatty was one of those audiences’ members laughing. Sounds like something out of the Producers if you ask me. I’ve seen some bad reviews for movies, but never have I seen someone give a film 0 out of four stars. Legendary critic Gene Siskel declared it “the worst major motion picture I’ve seen in almost eight years on the job”.

After Legion was released in 1983, Blatty turned the novel into a screenplay. Film companies Morgan Creek and Carolco wanted to make the film, but Blatty decided to go with Morgan Creek. Carolco originally wanted to have Regan MacNeil give birth to possessed twins, which completely turned Batty away from wanting to work with them. Blatty approached John Carpenter about directing Exorcist III. John loved the script but backed out because of creative differences involving the ending of the movie as well as Blatty coming around to wanting to direct the feature himself. Per stipulations for his deal, Blatty would direct it and filming would be on location in Georgetown.

The role of Lt. Kinderman had to be recast since Lee J. Cobb, who played the part in the first film died in 1976. George C. Scott aka General Patton signed up for the role and was impressed by the screenplay. Jason Miller reprised his role as Father Damien Karras. If you watch the credits, you will see he’s billed as “Patient X”. Ed Flanders took on the role as Father Dyer, which was previously played by William O’Malley. Nicol Williamson played Father Morning and a younger Scott Wilson dons the role of Dr. Temple. For any fan of The Walking Dead, it’s weird to see him clean shaven instead of the bearded Hershel Greene.

Besides George C. Scott, we also get to see the legendary Brad Dourif don dual roles of The Gemini Killer and James Venamun. I would say he is the true scene stealer here, even though he’s in two scenes, but man, are they crucial. He gives a bone chilling performance and even says a line regarding child’s play. Any Chucky fan will get a kick out of this!

In mid-1989, with an $11 million budget, Exorcist III was shot in Georgetown. Production lasted eight weeks. Blatty was able to complete principal photography on time and only slightly went over budget. Four months are production was finished; Morgan Creek informed him that the film had nothing to do with The Exorcist…an exorcism was needed. The production company put up an additional $4 million in post-production to film an effects-heavy exorcism instead of the original talky ending Blatty shot. In comes Nicol Williamson’s character, Father Morning, who was added last minute to allow the exorcism to take place. What’s more is that Morgan Creek demanded Jason Miller appear as Patient X. The reshoots were expensive and grueling. Jason Miller’s health was also declining, so some of his performance was completed with an uncredited double lookalike with makeup.

There’s a scene missing from the re-filmed climax but appears in the trailer. It shows Karras/The Gemini killer switching through a variety of faces. This was left out because Blatty was not happy with how the special effects turned out. Blatty told the press that he was happy to re-shoot the film’s ending and have the story climax with a frenzy of special effects but this compromise was forced on Blatty against his wishes.

The Exorcist III released in theaters on August 17, 1990. Upon release, the film was distributed by 20^th Century Fox and not Warner Brothers but later Warner Brothers would gain the distribution rights back. The film received a mixed response from critics. While some praised its atmospheric tension, psychological horror, and George C. Scott’s performance, others criticized its pacing, deviations from the source material, and the inclusion of more traditional horror elements towards the end. The film holds a 56% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on reviews from critics. The Exorcist III had a moderate box office performance, earning around $26 million domestically. It did not replicate the massive success of the original film, which was one of the highest-grossing films of, at that time.

Despite mixed initial reception, it has developed a cult following over the years. Fans appreciate its atmospheric dread, psychological approach to horror, and its connections to the original and has gained a reputation as a hidden gem among horror enthusiasts.

Over time, a director’s cut of the film, closer to William Peter Blatty’s original vision, was talked about and was titled Legion. It reflects Blatty’s original screenplay and directorial intent. Blatty was not satisfied with the changes made to the film during the studio’s interference and aims to present the story as he originally intended, focusing more on psychological horror and atmospheric tension. Certain scenes and elements that were added against Blatty’s wishes have been removed including the exorcism scene and a different ending that featured more explicit supernatural elements. The director’s cut has received positive feedback from some fans and critics who appreciate its closer adherence to Blatty’s original intent.

In 2016, the Gods at Shout Factory dispensed the Blu-ray of the film with both Theatrical and Director’s Cut of the film. The movie comes packed to the brim with special features involving the making of the film. In 2023, Shout Factory said, “Hold My Beer” and decided to release a 4K copy of it. No new special features were added, just an improved 4K scan of the film which looks amazing.

Looking back on this film, it’s a worthy follow up to the original. It doesn’t have the same haunting imagery that still sits with me to this day, but it deserves plenty of praise. George C. Scott’s performance is perfect in every way. I will always have a soft spot for Brad Dourif, but his role here is stupendous. The way he’s written and portrays Venamun/The Gemini Killer is fantastic. I’m a big fan of how this film has little callbacks to the first as well as all the 90’s one liners. It’s things like this that make the film standout and still bring enjoyment to this day. Having seen this countless times and always preferring it to the dreaded first sequel no one talks about. This movie has Fabio as an angel in it… what’s not to like? That being said, this movie is a solid 8 out 10.

Overall, The Exorcist III offers a unique and eerie take on the horror genre, incorporating psychological elements and exploring the themes established in the original film. With some great performances and haunting imagery It may appeal to those who enjoy atmospheric horror and thought-provoking storytelling.

Two previous episodes of Revisited can be seen below. To see more of our shows, head over to the JoBlo Horror Originals channel – and subscribe while you’re at it!