My favorite kind of documentary.
Cinemas
Directed by David Kittredge
Boorman and the Devil
A grounded, ensemble documentary.
Documentary
2025
1h 52m
Featuring commentary from surviving participants, as well as other filmmakers and critics, this documentary chronicles the career of director John Boorman and the tumultuous production of his film Exorcist II: The Heretic, exploring its critical and commercial failure, how it changed the industry, and the importance of risk-taking in art.
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Cast & crew
6What people say
John Boorman disliked The Exorcist and so set out to create an anti-Exorcist when he was hired to direct the sequel. The results were literally laughed off the screen - but now, decades later, I think the consensus on Exorcist II: The Heretic has shifted to some mix of “It’s not that bad” and “It’s actually kinda interesting in parts.” I’m not sure if word of this has reached Boorman, who in this documentary is still palpably wounded by the film’s apocalyptic initial reception. His interview is the heart and soul of this comprehensive look at the production and release of the film, which is full of great stories and strikes the perfect bemused-but-respectful tone.
a beautiful documentary about one of the best “bad” horror sequels of all time, and a gorgeous and hopeful horror film about the sadomasochistic life we choose as filmmakers. fantastic movie. moved me. needed this cinematic medicine today watched at Overlook Film Festival 2026
Common questions
What is Boorman and the Devil about?+
It is a documentary that explores the career of director John Boorman and the notoriously difficult production of his 1977 horror sequel, 'Exorcist II: The Heretic'.
Who directed Boorman and the Devil?+
The film was directed by David Kittredge and released in 2025.
