[90’s Horror Movie Month] The Exorcist III (1990)

Ever since I first discovered THE EXORCIST III it has been one of my favourite horror sequels, but one of my favourite horror films. This is a genuinely terrifying film, with top notch performances and a very interesting link to the original film (aside from William Peter Blatty). I’ll say this now if you have not yet seen this film, but you have seen the original, you do owe it to yourself to check this one out and as soon as possible!

The story here involves Father Dyer (Ed Flanders) and Lt. Kinderman (George C. Scott), two friends who on the anniversary of the death of their mutual friend Father Karras go see It’s A Wonderful Life. But all is not wonderful as a young boy is found butchered, there is a killer on the loose and the MO of this victim looks like that of the believed to be dead Gemini Killer. The investigation is on as this case leads Kinderman down a road he never expected and to people he never thought he would come across.

Yes I left that vague on purpose for those who haven’t yet seen this film. There is so much to love about this gem, the storyline takes the series in a new direction and it does leave Reagen out completely, which works extremely well. The introduction of George C. Scott’s Kinderman is another plus, he has extreme presence here and he carries this film like an absolute champion. This deals with possession and murder, in some very frightening and chilling scenes, ones that certainly will always stick with me. Credit goes to the actors here who manage to give extraordinary performances, including the man pictured above Brad Dourif. The atmosphere and amazing visuals give this film an edge that definitely brings it above a typical sequel.

There is one scene in this film that still makes me jump, it is strangely subtle and almost in the background, it involves some sheers … definitely watch out for that moment! If there was anything flaw this film on it would be the end, it felt forced upon and it would have worked better if it had indeed gone in a different direction. My gut tells me that was a studio input, but what can you do about that?

A highly recommended film and a true gem of 90’s horror!

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