The Exorcist III: The Underrated Horror Classic You Can Stream for Free on Tubi!

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There’s no question that William Friedkin’s 1973 horror masterpiece, The Exorcist, left a lasting impression. The film about possession, featuring Ellen Burstyn as Chris MacNeil, a mother struggling to save her daughter Regan (played by Linda Blair), revolutionized the horror genre. This movie was both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, spawning a franchise that included the less successful sequel Exorcist II: The Heretic, and The Exorcist III. Remarkably, the latter, often overlooked as a horror classic, can now be streamed for free on Tubi.

Prior to William Friedkin’s “The Exorcist”, horror films were not typically viewed as works of high artistic merit. However, this movie shifted public perception significantly. The film garnered widespread critical acclaim, receiving 10 Academy Award nominations in 1974, among them nods for Best Picture, Best Director (William Friedkin), Best Actress (Ellen Burstyn), and Best Picture – a historic first for a horror movie. Furthermore, it was commercially successful, breaking records as the highest-grossing horror picture for many years.

Regrettably, the sequel to Friedkin’s “The Exorcist” fell short of expectations. Released in 1977 under the direction of John Boorman, the film titled “Exorcist II: The Heretic” was a disappointment compared to its predecessor. While Friedkin’s original was well-received, the follow-up failed to impress. Critics and viewers criticized the movie’s complex plot, and perhaps most importantly, “Exorcist II: The Heretic” lacked the chilling effect that its successful predecessor had. These shortcomings were made even more noticeable due to the success of the original film.

‘The Exorcist III’ Is a Worthy Sequel

In 1990, the movie “The Exorcist III” premiered in cinemas. This edition, penned and directed by William Peter Blatty, who authored the original novel and screenplay, is often regarded as the franchise’s strongest follow-up and a significant improvement. “The Exorcist III” effectively maintained the supernatural ambiance and themes established in Friedkin’s work. George C. Scott played Lieutenant Kinderman, Brad Dourif delivered a chilling portrayal as the Gemini Killer, and Jason Miller starred as the ailing Father Dyer. The film was lauded for its lingering tension, unsettling mood, and suspense. It provided authentic fright, including the infamous hospital corridor scene. Some even argue that the third installment is more terrifying than the initial movie.

15 years after the shocking occurrences at the MacNeil residence, Lieutenant Kinderman is delving into a string of murders in Georgetown that bear an unsettling resemblance to the crimes once attributed to the “Gemini Killer,” who was believed to have been executed long ago. As Kinderman’s investigation deepens, his friend, Father Dyer, falls ill, and Kinderman crosses paths with a puzzling hospital patient. This individual claims to be the Gemini Killer and hints at ties to Regan MacNeil.

Critics and audiences often find The Exorcist III unsatisfying due to its ending and excessive dialogue. It’s worth mentioning that the studio intervened and altered the original conclusion against Blatty’s preferences.

After “The Exorcist III,” the series produced two prequels, delving into Father Lankester Merrin’s past: “Exorcist: The Beginning” (2004), helmed by Renny Harlin, and “Dominion: Prequel to the Exorcist” (2005), under Paul Schrader’s direction. Neither of these films resonated with audiences. In 2023, Blumhouse revisited the franchise with “The Exorcist: Believer” (2023), a sequel to the original that was meant to start a new trilogy. However, it also failed to capture audience interest, leading to Mike Flanagan’s complete overhaul of the next film.

The Exorcist III‘s theatrical cut is available to stream on Tubi.

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2025-04-07 01:01