The Exorcist: Believer: How Did William Friedkin Feel About the Sequel?

As The Exorcist: Believer releases this weekend, the film community continues to mourn the loss of the original movie’s director on its 50-year anniversary. Writer/director/producer William Friedkin was one of the most important contributors to the New Hollywood movement during the 1970s when he pulled off one of the best one-two punches any filmmaker has ever had. It began with 1971’s crime thriller The French Connection; a critical darling, the highest-grossing film of the year and a recipient of five Academy Awards including Best Director and Picture. Then, against all odds, Friedkin managed to top himself with his astonishing follow-up.