The Possession of Joel Delaney (1972)

This movie was made one year before "The Exorcist", and I think it helped plow the way for that somewhat over-rated horror staple. I think that the 1972 film has it all over the Friedkin movie. It's more plausible, conveys the frightening power of religion better and it is just plain scarier. (To be honest, I have never really been sure what "The Exorcist" is supposed to be about. Loss of faith = demonic possession?) Shirley MacLaine is excellent as the somewhat spoiled socialite who comes to know a different reality in the most frightening way imaginable. Great early 70s NYC atmosphere. And Perry King is beyond gorgeous. I think the movie was (and maybe still is) ahead of its time.



Does anybody else prefer "Possession" over "Exorcist"?