In the 1970s
In the 1970s, the release of The Exorcist turned movie theaters into true stages of tension. Directed by William Friedkin and based on William Peter Blatty’s novel, the production was considered so disturbing for its time that it went beyond fiction, provoking intense physical reactions in audiences. Historical reports indicate that during several screenings, spectators fainted, became ill, or left the theater before the film ended. The impact was so great that some cinemas adopted extraordinary measures: ambulances were stationed outside, ready to handle any emergency. This episode reinforced the aura of mystery and dread surrounding the film, which quickly became an absolute milestone in the horror genre. More than just a movie, The Exorcist turned into a cultural phenomenon, dividing opinions between shock, fear, and fascination. What might have seemed frightening as a strategy only fueled public curiosity, attracting crowds eager to face the experience. Half a century later, the film remains a reference point, remembered not only for its narrative and groundbreaking effects, but also for the unprecedented psychological impact it had on its audience.
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