1973 classic has Blair in her most famous role as a young girl displaying unusually violent behaviors that science cannot explain. Priest Miller (in his first film role), who is facing down his own demons following the death of his mother (Maliaros, her only film role and died before its release), is recruited by Regan's mother (Burstyn) to put the exorcism into affect. Max von Sydow plays the title role in a modestly subtle way, yet he masters it perfectly. Doesn't date a bite. Friedkin has mood and story revolve around the characters, their ideals and personal conflicts; a style Friedkin is best at, and there's no better place for it than in this film. Sudden cutaways from intense scenes are a bit annoying at times, but it ultimately works itself out. 2000 version restored the haunting spider-walk scene… ewwwww!
Gosling plays an LA stuntman who moonlights as a heist getaway driver in this wittingly modest thriller. Anti-hero protagonist adds edginess à la TAXI DRIVER, while characters are linked to action in very cool realism not unlike PULP FICTION. Nice payoff for an underwhelming year of film. Unfitting soundtrack works surprisingly well, and even has a haunting effect that may not be intention but is still perfect. MPAA forced director Refn to trim one scene heavily to achieve an R-rating; hasn't everyone seen IRREVERSIBLE yet, who are we sheltering? Can pass as art-house, but is far too appealing and meek to deter the traditional moviegoer.
