Where to start
The Exorcist
4 versions · originally a book, 1971
Themes: Good vs. Evil, Demonic Possession, Loss of Innocence, Faith, The Power of Belief.
The Exorcist franchise explores the harrowing psychological and spiritual collapse of families besieged by ancient, inexplicable demonic forces.
✦ Most fans start here
The Exorcist (1973)
The original novel
The Exorcist
William Peter Blatty · Book · 1971
The Exorcist (1971) serves as the definitive source material, offering a dense, internal look at the theological struggles and clinical dread that define the original demonic possession narrative.
1973 film
✦ Start hereThe Exorcist
William Friedkin · Film · 1973
The Exorcist (1973) is a masterclass in cinematic tension, translating the novel’s visceral horror into an iconic visual experience that remains the benchmark for the entire possession genre.
2016 series
The Exorcist
Jeremy Slater · Series · 2016
The Exorcist (2016) expands the premise into a serialized format, focusing on the procedural and character-driven aspects of two priests navigating the complexities of modern-day demonic spiritual warfare.
2023 film
The Exorcist: Believer
David Gordon Green · Film · 2023
The Exorcist: Believer (2023) functions as a modern legacy sequel, examining the trauma of possession through the lens of a new generation and the haunting echoes of past events.
Common questions
What order should I watch The Exorcist adaptations in?
You can begin with the 1973 movie, which is based on the 1971 book. After that, you may watch the 2016 television series or the 2023 film The Exorcist: Believer. These adaptations are independent of each other, so there is no required chronological order for viewing.
Is The Exorcist movie based on a book?
Yes, the 1973 movie The Exorcist is a direct adaptation of the 1971 novel titled The Exorcist. William Peter Blatty wrote the original book, which served as the foundation for the film and the subsequent franchise that includes the 2016 television series and the 2023 film.
Does the 2023 movie The Exorcist: Believer follow the 1973 film?
The Exorcist: Believer, released in 2023, is a feature film that functions as a continuation within the franchise established by the original 1973 movie. It serves as a modern entry following the initial story, distinct from the 2016 television series adaptation of the source material.
How many adaptations of The Exorcist exist?
There are four primary adaptations of The Exorcist. These include the original 1971 book, the 1973 feature film, the 2016 television series, and the 2023 film titled The Exorcist: Believer. Each of these projects draws from the core narrative established in the original 1971 novel.