Review: Cursed Films Season 1, Ep. 1

People are fascinated by the filmmaking process, which I find interesting because, having been involved in the making of a few films, it's more frustrating than interesting.

But there are some movies with truly storied histories, and Shudder's new five-part documentary series looks at the urban legends surrounding some popular horror movies.

The series kicks off with The Exorcist, a movie alleged to have caused audiences to faint, lured demons into movie theatres, and even had a murderer among the crew.

Director Jay Cheel approaches the subject with an open mind, and includes interviews with cast members Linda Blair and her demonic counterpart, Eileen Dietz. He also talks with journalists, historians, and a real-life exorcist about The Exorcist, it's cultural impact, and the stories that surround it.

I appreciate how Cheel isn't interested in rumours, but in getting to the facts as best he can. We learn Exorcist director William Friedkin could be a real jerk to his cast, all in the name of getting the shot, but a lot of directors are like that. It's also revealed most of the allegations about the film were the product of a marketing campaign by a studio that had little faith in the film, if you'll pardon the pun.

The story about the murderer is true though. Spoiler alert.

At a half hour, Cursed Films is too short. I wanted more! But I'm compelled enough to watch the remaining four episodes, which are being released weekly. The pilot is a Good, so bring on the rest!

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