Here's a breakdown of the controversy and the reasons why some people wanted it banned:
* Religious Concerns: The film's depiction of demonic possession and exorcism, while fictionalized, was seen as blasphemous and disrespectful to the Catholic faith by some religious groups. They argued it trivialized the sacred rituals of exorcism and promoted fear of the demonic.
* Graphic Violence: The film's depiction of violence, particularly towards the possessed child, was considered extremely disturbing and shocking by many viewers. This led to calls for censorship and age restrictions.
* Psychological Effects: Some argued that the film's content was too disturbing and had the potential to cause psychological harm, particularly to children.
* Public Outrage: The film's popularity and the controversy surrounding it led to widespread public debate and protests. This included calls for boycotts and bans.
What Happened:
* Censorship: While not outright banned, The Exorcist was subjected to censorship in some countries. For example, it was banned in some European countries and parts of the film were cut in others.
* Age Restrictions: In the US, the film received an R-rating, meaning those under 17 required an accompanying parent or guardian. This helped to limit the audience and address some of the concerns about its impact.
* Court Case: In 1974, a lawsuit was filed against the film, claiming it was "blasphemous and obscene," but the court ultimately ruled in favor of the filmmakers.
Ultimately, The Exorcist's impact wasn't about being banned but about how it sparked a conversation about censorship, religion, and the boundaries of cinematic expression. The film's success and its controversial nature have made it a landmark film that continues to be discussed and debated today.