David Kittredge’s new documentary, Boorman and the Devil, shines a light on the often-maligned sequel, Exorcist II: The Heretic, directed by John Boorman. Released in 1977, the film was met with harsh criticism and disappointing box office returns, leading many to label it one of the worst films ever made. However, Kittredge’s documentary aims to rehabilitate the legacy of this controversial sequel, exploring its production, release, and the artistic vision behind it.
A Reappraisal of a Cult Classic
Initially, Exorcist II was panned by critics, including Gene Siskel, who famously gave it a zero-star review. The film grossed $30.7 million, a stark contrast to the original’s $441.3 million, solidifying its reputation as a cinematic failure. Over the years, however, perceptions have shifted. Kittredge notes that the film’s outrageousness and its divergence from the original have become points of celebration, with Boorman’s unique artistic vision finally receiving recognition.
The documentary features interviews with Boorman, as well as commentary from filmmakers like Joe Dante and Mike Flanagan, who discuss the film’s legacy and its ambitious score by Ennio Morricone, which remains a highlight.
The Making of the Documentary
Kittredge was inspired to create Boorman and the Devil after discussions with documentarian Jeffrey Schwarz, who emphasized the urgency of capturing the stories of the aging principals involved in the film. Kittredge reached out to Boorman, who agreed to an interview at his home in Ireland. This interview became the emotional core of the documentary, allowing Kittredge to delve into the complexities of Boorman’s career and the risks he took during the making of Exorcist II.
Kittredge reflects on the era of the 1970s, a time when filmmakers had the freedom to take significant risks with large budgets. He expresses a desire to celebrate this spirit of creativity and risk-taking in cinema, emphasizing the importance of artistic expression, even in the face of failure.
The Challenges of Production
The documentary also highlights the challenges faced during the production of Exorcist II. Despite being the most expensive film in Warner Bros. history at the time, the budget was relatively modest at around $15 million. Kittredge explains the concept of “blind bidding,” which forced studios to commit to release dates before films were completed. This practice ultimately hindered Exorcist II, as Boorman fell ill during production, leading to rushed post-production and a final cut that did not meet his artistic vision.
Kittredge notes that Boorman continued to edit the film even after its release, attempting to address the criticisms that arose, particularly regarding its unconventional happy ending. However, Warner Bros. executives decided against re-releasing a new cut, believing the damage to the film’s reputation was already done.
Legacy and Current Reception
As appreciation for Boorman’s work grows, Kittredge’s documentary arrives at a time when new restorations of Boorman’s films, such as Excalibur and Point Blank, are being celebrated. Critics are beginning to recognize the unique qualities of Boorman’s films, and Kittredge himself acknowledges that while he loves Exorcist II for its flaws, his favorite Boorman film remains Excalibur.
Boorman and the Devil is currently screening in New York and will expand to additional locations soon. This documentary not only seeks to rehabilitate the legacy of Exorcist II but also serves as a tribute to the boldness of artistic expression in cinema.
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