Dish of the Day (The Long Good Friday Edition)
Just some film musings of a more succinct, spontaneous and sometimes seditious nature:
Friday, April 28, 2023
In this series, I’ll briefly compare Director’s Cuts on various films to their Theatrical Releases. The general rule is: if the studio altered the film before it was released, then the Director’s Cut is the preferred version. If the director along with his editor originally took out scenes of his own volition, that were added back in later, chances are the Theatrical Cut is the better version to see. Some home video releases offer both or even multiple versions to choose from which of course is ideal.
Director’s Cut or Theatrical Release: which is better? Part 1 The Exorcist
Today, we will start with The Exorcist (1973) which was recently reviewed here (i.e. the Theatrical Release in 1973).
An edition labeled The Version You've Never Seen (now for all practical purposes known as The Extended Director's Cut) was issued in September, 2000 making many additions and alterations almost all of which were disruptive to the flow of the film and more importantly its ambience, which was so perfectly realised in its theatrical debut.
The most inappropriately egregious of these changes include:
1. Added digital effects of satanic faces and the Pazuzu statue: stupid inserts that look ridiculously out of place, distracting us from the occurring conflicts.
2. A scene of Regan walking backwards on her hands (referred to as the “spider walk”). This happens too early in the story, and with no point of reference, has the effect of mood destroying satire.
3. A completely new coda between Father Dyer and Lt. Kinderman which spoils the seriousness of everything we’ve previously seen, ending the story in an unsuitably light-hearted tone. The 1973 theatrical ending with Father Dyer looking down the stairs is authentically sombre and poignant compared to The Extended Director’s Cut featuring a jovial discussion between the Priest and Detective about free movie passes and Casablanca.
On the plus side:
1. Added is a brief conversation between Father Karras and Father Merrin on the stairs outside Regan’s bedroom that lends further importance to the two priests’ concerns.
Verdict: Stick with the Theatrical Version (as The version you've never seen really is “The version you never want to see.”) At the very least, if you haven’t seen The Exorcist (and both editions are on this month’s recommended Blu-ray set), at least start with The Theatrical Version for the most consistent and fulfilling viewing experience.
(For Part 2: Blade Runner [The Director’s Cut] or Blade Runner [The Theatrical Release] in the series, click here).
I’ve resubmitted April’s recommended Blu-ray package. Click on the image for more information including ordering from Amazon.com
All responses are not only welcomed but encouraged in the comments section below.
Hope to see you on Monday, May 1st.
A.G.