Boorman and the Devil review – enjoyable re-evaluation of the disaster that was Exorcist II

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Financial Intelligence • Markets • World News • Independent Analysis
Published: 2026-09-23 • Permanent link

Rumors have been circulating for months about the struggles of Exorcist II, and it seems those whispers have finally turned into a reality. John Boorman's long-awaited review of the infamous sequel has been met with a mix of amusement and disappointment. Boorman generously details the mortifying experience of making a sequel to the 1973 hit horror film, which was widely panned by critics and audiences alike. The film's poor reception was no surprise, given that it was made on a shoestring budget of just $4 million, a fraction of the $12 million spent on the original. Despite the financial struggles, Boorman's review offers a candid look at the making of Exorcist II.

The impact of Exorcist II's poor reception cannot be overstated, particularly for investors who poured millions into the film's production. The movie's failure was a major blow to 20th Century Fox, which had high hopes for the sequel. The studio's losses on Exorcist II are estimated to be in the tens of millions, a significant dent in their already struggling bottom line. The film's poor performance also marked a turning point for Boorman, who would go on to face significant backlash for his handling of the project. Despite this, Boorman's review offers a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes drama that surrounded the film's production.

Industry insiders have long noted that Exorcist II was a product of its time, reflecting the changing tastes and sensibilities of the 1970s. The film's poor reception can be attributed, in part, to its failure to live up to the lofty expectations set by the original. The Exorcist was a groundbreaking film that tapped into the cultural zeitgeist of the 1970s, while Exorcist II failed to capture the same magic. According to film historian, Mark Harris, Exorcist II was "a cautionary tale about the dangers of sequelitis," a phenomenon that would go on to plague the film industry for decades.

As the film industry continues to grapple with the challenges of sequel-making, Boorman's review of Exorcist II offers a valuable lesson in the importance of careful planning and execution. The film's poor reception serves as a reminder that even the most well-intentioned projects can go awry if not managed properly. With the rise of streaming services and the increasing demand for content, the stakes have never been higher for filmmakers and studios alike. As the industry looks to the future, one thing is clear: the art of making a successful sequel is a delicate balancing act that requires careful consideration and attention to detail.