A new documentary titled "Boorman and the Devil," directed by David Kittridge, offers an in-depth look at the making and legacy of the 1977 film "Exorcist II: The Heretic." The original film, directed by William Friedkin in 1973, remains a highly regarded horror classic, but its sequel has long been regarded as a divisive and unconventional follow-up. The documentary revisits this controversial film, shedding light on its complex production and artistic ambitions.

John Boorman, who took over as director for the sequel, approached the project with a markedly different vision. In the documentary, Boorman describes "Exorcist II: The Heretic" not as a traditional sequel but as a direct response to the original film, aiming to explore broader themes of spiritual renewal. This departure in tone and style contributed to the movie’s initial rejection by critics and audiences alike.

Despite the film’s narrative challenges and mixed performances, including that of Richard Burton, the documentary highlights Boorman’s innovative use of cinematic techniques. According to "Boorman and the Devil," the director employed a range of visual effects—such as optical illusions, matte paintings, and early Steadicam technology—in an effort to push the boundaries of visual storytelling and create a distinctive sensory experience.

The documentary includes interviews with cast members Linda Blair and Louise Fletcher, as well as crew involved in the original production. They provide insight into the difficulties faced during filming, including a notable incident in which Boorman unknowingly filmed 37 stories high suspended from a skyscraper with a malfunctioning safety harness. Film critics also weigh in to recount the mixed reception and enduring fascination surrounding "Heretic."

While the documentary offers valuable behind-the-scenes details and celebrates Boorman’s artistic intentions, it has been noted that some contextual information about 1970s Hollywood may feel excessive given the film’s already unusual nature. Nevertheless, "Boorman and the Devil" succeeds in presenting a nuanced account of a film that remains a unique and polarizing entry in horror cinema history.

With a runtime of nearly two hours, the documentary aims to reconsider the legacy of "Exorcist II: The Heretic," framing it not as a failure but as a bold, if flawed, cinematic experiment from an accomplished filmmaker. It currently is screening in select theaters.