Boorman and the Devil: A Deep Dive into the Flop of Exorcist II
In the world of cinema, few directors have had a career as illustrious as John Boorman's. From the gritty action of Point Blank to the epic historical drama Excalibur, his films have left an indelible mark on the industry. But even the most celebrated directors have their missteps, and Boorman's Exorcist II: The Heretic is a prime example of a film that didn't quite hit the mark.
Boorman and the Devil, a documentary directed by David Kittredge, takes an unflinching look at the making and unmaking of Exorcist II. It's a fascinating exploration of a film that, despite its director's best intentions, became one of the most notorious flops in cinematic history. What makes this documentary particularly compelling is Boorman's willingness to participate, offering a rare and honest insight into the creative process and the challenges that arise when a director's vision doesn't align with the audience's expectations.
A Director's Vision vs. Audience Expectations
Boorman's approach to Exorcist II was bold and unconventional. He aimed to create a riposte to the original The Exorcist, a film he didn't particularly care for. In his mind, he was making a movie about the power of good, a stark contrast to the dark and supernatural themes of the original. However, this was a miscalculation. Audiences in 1977 were not receptive to this shift in tone and narrative. Boorman's attempt to subvert expectations backfired, and the film became a commercial and critical disaster.
The director's own admission of his misjudgment is a crucial aspect of the documentary. He acknowledges that he was the wrong person to helm a sequel to The Exorcist, as he lacked a deep understanding of the audience's desires. This honesty is refreshing, as it highlights the importance of a director's connection with their audience, a connection that Boorman, in this instance, failed to establish.
Creative Choices Gone Wrong
Boorman's creative decisions, influenced by his collaborator Rospo Pallenberg, contributed significantly to the film's flaws. The documentary delves into these choices, revealing how they alienated the audience. From the tap-dancing scenes that felt out of place to the long, monotonous sequences involving a "synchronizer," the film's pacing and tone were off, leaving viewers disengaged.
The documentary also features interviews with other filmmakers, such as Mike Flanagan, who provides a different perspective. While Flanagan appreciates the film's technical achievements, he, like Boorman, admits that as a sequel to The Exorcist, it falls short. This mixed reception adds depth to the documentary, showcasing the varying opinions and interpretations of a film that has become a cautionary tale in filmmaking.
A Filmmaker's Journey and Reflection
Boorman and the Devil is not just a critique of Exorcist II but also a reflection on the filmmaking process. Boorman's journey from a celebrated director to a man grappling with the failure of his most ambitious project is a compelling narrative. His willingness to discuss the film's shortcomings and his personal mistakes is a testament to his professionalism and humility.
The documentary serves as a reminder that even the most talented individuals can make missteps. It encourages viewers to consider the complexities of the creative process and the challenges that arise when a director's vision clashes with the audience's expectations. Ultimately, it's a thought-provoking watch, offering a unique insight into a film that, despite its flaws, has become a fascinating case study in cinema history.
Boorman and the Devil is a must-watch for film enthusiasts and anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of the film industry. It's a powerful reminder that sometimes, even the most ambitious projects can fall short, and it's through these failures that we learn the most about the art of filmmaking.
