Unveiling ‘Boorman and the Devil’: A Groundbreaking Look at ‘Exorcist II’ Hits Theaters

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By : Claude Merritt

A New Light on "Exorcist II": David Kittredge’s Documentary Hits Theaters

The haunted legacy of "Exorcist II: The Heretic," often remembered as a significant misstep in horror cinema, finds new life in David Kittredge’s documentary, "Boorman and the Devil." This film, which delves into the chaotic production of the 1977 sequel directed by John Boorman, is set for a theatrical release, and IndieWire is thrilled to premiere the exclusive trailer.

From Festival Circuit to Theatrical Release

Initially showcased at the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival, "Boorman and the Devil" struggled to find a distributor in the U.S., despite the intriguing subject matter and critical praise. IndieWire’s previous review highlighted the film’s need for a broader audience, criticizing its lack of distribution as "frankly, ridiculous." Thankfully, the documentary has now secured its spot in cinemas across various cities, thanks to Yellow Veil Pictures. Starting August 28, audiences in New York can catch the film at the Quad, with subsequent releases in Los Angeles, Columbus, Houston, and other cities.

The Bizarre World of "Exorcist II: The Heretic"

John Boorman’s attempt to follow up William Friedkin’s groundbreaking "The Exorcist" resulted in a film that confounded expectations. With Linda Blair reprising her role as Regan MacNeil, the sequel eschewed straightforward horror for a mix of the strange and the spiritual. Its memorable moments include James Earl Jones in a locust costume and Blair’s unexpected tap-dancing scene. The production faced numerous setbacks, including crew confusion over props, budget overruns, and on-set accidents, echoing the troubled production of its predecessor.

The Vision Behind the Documentary

David Kittredge expressed a nostalgia for audacious filmmaking that "Exorcist II" epitomized, despite its failure to connect with audiences and critics at the time. His documentary not only explores the tumultuous production but also celebrates the risk-taking that defines memorable cinema. IndieWire’s review in 2025 awarded "Boorman and the Devil" a B+, praising it as a compelling introduction to an era of Hollywood history and to Boorman’s ambitious, if misunderstood, directorial efforts.

Catch the Trailer and Mark Your Calendar

For those eager to uncover the layers behind one of Hollywood’s most infamous films, the trailer for "Boorman and the Devil" is available below. Make sure to check it out and mark your calendars for a theatrical experience that promises a deep dive into the chaotic yet fascinating production of "Exorcist II: The Heretic."

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