Welcome to Movie Mondays, a weekly blog series that takes you on a cinematic odyssey through the world of film! Each week, we’ll dive into a list of my 100 least favorite movies, exploring what makes them fall short and discussing the lessons we can learn from their missteps. Remember that these low-ranking films are only that way based on my personal opinion. Something I hate may be something you love and no offense is intended. Wherever these movies fall for you, I invite you to grab some popcorn and join in on the debate over these films’ merits!

Exorcist II: The Heretic

1977

Directed by John Boorman

Ah, Exorcist II: The Heretic… where do I even begin with this cinematic catastrophe? As a sequel to the groundbreaking and utterly terrifying The Exorcist, this 1977 supernatural horror film had some pretty big shoes to fill. Unfortunately, it didn’t just fail to live up to its predecessor – it completely face-planted into a steaming pile of absurdity.

Directed by John Boorman and written by William Goodhart, Exorcist II: The Heretic picks up four years after the events of the first film. Regan MacNeil (played once again by Linda Blair) is now 16 and struggling to move on from her traumatic past. Richard Burton joins the cast as Father Philip Lamont, tasked with investigating the death of Father Merrin (Max von Sydow) during Regan’s exorcism. What follows is a convoluted mess of a plot involving psychic powers, a swarm of locusts, and a bizarre synchronization device that links Regan and her therapist, Dr. Gene Tuskin (Louise Fletcher).

The film’s production was plagued with issues, from Boorman’s illness to constantly rewritten scripts and reshoots. It’s clear that no one really knew what direction this sequel should take, resulting in a hodgepodge of ideas that never quite gel. The metaphysical and philosophical themes Boorman aimed to explore are lost in a sea of unintentional hilarity and head-scratching moments.

While the cast boasts some impressive names, even they can’t save this sinking ship. Richard Burton looks utterly bored throughout the film, and Linda Blair’s performance is a far cry from the powerhouse she delivered in the original. The supporting cast, including Louise Fletcher and James Earl Jones, are wasted in their roles.

Exorcist II: The Heretic is a prime example of how not to make a sequel. It completely fails to capture the atmosphere, terror, and emotional depth that made The Exorcist so unforgettable. Instead, we’re left with a laughable and incoherent mess that tarnishes the legacy of its predecessor.

In conclusion, Exorcist II: The Heretic is a film that should be exorcised from our collective memory. It’s no wonder that it’s often cited as one of the worst sequels ever made. If you’re a fan of The Exorcist, do yourself a favor and pretend this follow-up never existed.

But hey, don’t just take my word for it. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this cinematic disaster in the comments below. Did you find any redeeming qualities in Exorcist II: The Heretic, or do you agree that it’s a complete waste of celluloid? Let’s commiserate together over this disappointing sequel.