Boorman and the Devil: A Deep Dive into a Horror Sequel’s Inferno

John Boorman’s name is synonymous with cinematic ambition, but also with controversy. His filmography boasts iconic works like Deliverance and Excalibur, yet it also includes Exorcist II: The Heretic, a film so widely derided that it almost derailed his career. Now, a new documentary, Boorman and the Devil, sheds light on the making of this cinematic disaster, offering a fascinating look at the clash between artistic vision and commercial expectations.

A Descent into Madness

Directed by David Kittredge, Boorman and the Devil traces Boorman’s journey from the high of his previous successes to the low point of Exorcist II. The film delves into the creative process, exploring the challenges he faced while trying to balance his artistic aspirations with the demands of a studio sequel. As Boorman himself famously quipped in an interview, “What do you want me to do, immolate myself on Hollywood Boulevard?” This sentiment encapsulates the immense pressure he felt.

The documentary features interviews with key players involved in the film, including a reflective John Boorman, Linda Blair, and the late Louise Fletcher. Commentary is also provided by crew members, film critics, and filmmakers like Joe Dante, Karyn Kusama, and Mike Flanagan, who is currently working on his own Exorcist trilogy. This diverse range of perspectives offers a comprehensive understanding of the film’s creation and its impact.

The Artist’s Struggle

At 93, John Boorman remains sharp and insightful as he reflects on his career. He candidly discusses the challenges of filmmaking, admitting, “I’ve often felt that I’ve been braver in my filmmaking, and more cowardly in my life.” This honesty is a recurring theme throughout the documentary.

Boorman’s intention with The Heretic (as he prefers to call it) was noble. He recalls how he initially passed on directing the first Exorcist film due to its subject matter, but by the time The Heretic came about, he was eager for a project that would allow him to explore metaphysical themes. However, as he admits, he miscalculated what kind of film audiences were expecting.

Behind the Scenes Chaos

Boorman and the Devil drags slightly in its initial sections, which delve into the history of Hollywood sequels and Boorman’s career trajectory. However, it quickly picks up pace when it focuses on the actual making of The Heretic. The documentary utilizes slick illustrations and animation to depict behind-the-scenes events, often with a comedic touch.

Louise Fletcher, in a posthumous appearance, provides hilarious anecdotes about her time on set. She even jokes that she “would’ve been better in the first one!” Rospo Pallenberg, another key figure, is portrayed as both a creative force and a source of conflict, particularly with Linda Blair.

Boorman and the Devil is ultimately about the struggle to reconcile artistic vision with commercial realities. It’s a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of understanding your audience. While The Heretic almost destroyed John Boorman’s career, this documentary offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and the enduring power of cinema.