Where to start
The Exorcist
4 versions · originally a book, 1971
The Exorcist franchise explores the harrowing intersection of ancient demonic malevolence and the fragile, modern boundaries of human faith.
✦ 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 an intimate, psychological dive into the theological debates and internal struggles of the priests tasked with saving Regan MacNeil.
1973 film
✦ Start hereThe Exorcist
William Friedkin · Film · 1973
The Exorcist (1973) is a cinematic landmark that translates the novel's visceral dread into a haunting visual experience, perfect for those seeking the quintessential, high-tension horror masterpiece of the era.
2016 series
The Exorcist
Jeremy Slater · Series · 2016
The Exorcist (2016) reimagines the core premise as a contemporary television series, expanding the narrative scope to explore long-form investigations into demonic possession across a wider, modern-day cultural landscape.
2023 film
The Exorcist: Believer
David Gordon Green · Film · 2023
The Exorcist: Believer (2023) functions as a modern legacy sequel, directly connecting the frightening behavior of a new generation to the original 1973 possession case for franchise completionists.
Common questions
What order should I watch The Exorcist adaptations in?
You can begin with the 1973 movie adaptation of The Exorcist book. After that, you may watch the 2016 television series or the 2023 film titled The Exorcist: Believer. These entries function as separate expansions of the original story and do not follow a strict linear narrative sequence.
Is The Exorcist 2023 movie a direct sequel to the 1971 book?
The Exorcist: Believer, released in 2023, serves as a modern follow-up to the franchise established by the 1971 book and the 1973 film. While it references the events surrounding the original possession, it functions as a distinct entry within the broader series of adaptations.
How does the 2016 TV show relate to The Exorcist movie?
The 2016 television series titled The Exorcist is an adaptation that exists within the same thematic universe as the 1973 movie. It explores new cases of demonic possession while maintaining the core tone and lore established by the original source material and the debut film adaptation.
Should I read The Exorcist book before watching the 1973 movie?
Reading the 1971 book The Exorcist before viewing the 1973 movie is a common choice for fans. The book provides the foundational source material for the film, allowing you to see how the original narrative was adapted for the screen while maintaining the core story elements.