Boorman and the Devil: A Journey into the Heart of a Cinematic Flop
In the world of cinema, few things are as captivating as the story of a director's struggle with a failed masterpiece. The documentary 'Boorman and the Devil' takes us on such a journey, offering a deep dive into the making and unmaking of 'Exorcist II: The Heretic'. This film, directed by John Boorman, is a fascinating case study in the complexities of filmmaking, where good intentions and a talented crew couldn't save a movie from its own hubris.
Boorman, a celebrated director known for his films like 'Point Blank', 'Deliverance', and 'Excalibur', found himself in uncharted territory with 'Exorcist II'. The documentary reveals that Boorman's decision to make a sequel to 'The Exorcist' was driven by a desire to create a riposte to the original, focusing on the power of good rather than evil. This, in his own words, was a mistake. He admits, "I was just the wrong person to make a sequel to something like 'The Exorcist', for the plain fact that I didn't like the original film."
What makes 'Boorman and the Devil' particularly compelling is the director's willingness to take responsibility for the film's failure. He acknowledges that he was a poor match for the material, not understanding or caring what an audience wanted from a movie like this. This honesty is refreshing, especially in a documentary where the director is often the star. Boorman's humility and charisma make him an engaging subject, and his insights into the creative process are invaluable.
The documentary also sheds light on the creative choices that went awry. Boorman and his collaborator, Rospo Pallenberg, wanted to make a dreamlike film, but their choices, from Blair's tap-dancing scenes to the use of a 'synchronizer' that put the audience to sleep, were disastrous. The blame, Boorman admits, falls on his shoulders, and he even made a new version for international audiences, a move he later regretted. This new version, he says, was a huge mistake, and he begged the studio to release the original domestically.
One of the most interesting aspects of the documentary is the interviews with those who appreciate the movie, even if they don't call it a 'good' film. Mike Flanagan, who is directing his own 'Exorcist' movie, highlights the merits of 'Exorcist II', such as the dynamic cinematography and the score by Ennio Morricone. This perspective adds a layer of complexity to the story, showing that even a flop can have its admirers.
In my opinion, 'Boorman and the Devil' is a must-watch for any film enthusiast. It offers a rare glimpse into the creative process and the challenges of filmmaking. It's a reminder that even the most celebrated directors can make mistakes, and sometimes the most interesting stories are the ones that don't turn out as planned. It's a testament to the power of good intentions and the importance of understanding your audience. From my perspective, it's a fascinating exploration of the human side of cinema, where the line between success and failure is often blurred.
The documentary opens in limited release on August 28th, and it's a must-see for anyone interested in the art of filmmaking. It's a reminder that even the flops can teach us valuable lessons about the creative process and the importance of understanding your audience. So, if you're a film buff, don't miss out on this captivating journey into the heart of a cinematic flop.
