Exorcism horror films have long captivated audiences with their blend of supernatural terror, psychological tension, and the eternal battle between good and evil. This curated list of 10 films delves into the eerie world of demonic possession and the desperate attempts to expel these malevolent entities. From classics that have defined the genre to modern takes that offer fresh scares, this collection promises to deliver spine-chilling experiences that will linger long after the credits roll.

The Exorcist (1973)
Description: Often hailed as the greatest horror film ever made, "The Exorcist" set the standard for exorcism movies with its harrowing tale of a young girl's demonic possession and the subsequent exorcism by two priests.
Fact: The film was nominated for 10 Academy Awards, winning two, and its release was surrounded by numerous reports of audience members fainting or leaving screenings due to the intensity of the scenes.


The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005)
Description: Based on the true story of Anneliese Michel, this film blends courtroom drama with horror, exploring the legal and spiritual ramifications of an exorcism gone wrong.
Fact: The film was shot in sequence to capture the gradual deterioration of Emily's condition, enhancing the realism of her possession.


The Possession (2012)
Description: A young girl becomes possessed by a malevolent spirit after buying an antique box at a yard sale, leading her family to seek help from an expert in Jewish mysticism.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of the "Dibbuk Box," which has been linked to numerous paranormal events.


The Rite (2011)
Description: A skeptical seminary student is sent to study exorcism at the Vatican, where he witnesses real demonic possessions, challenging his faith and beliefs.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist" by Matt Baglio, which recounts the experiences of an American priest training in Rome.


The Last Exorcism (2010)
Description: This found-footage film follows a disillusioned priest who agrees to let a documentary crew film his final exorcism, only to encounter a genuine case of possession.
Fact: The film was initially conceived as a mockumentary but evolved into a more traditional narrative due to the compelling nature of the story.


Deliver Us from Evil (2014)
Description: A New York police officer teams up with an unconventional priest to investigate a series of bizarre crimes linked to demonic possession.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the book "Beware the Night" by Ralph Sarchie, a real-life NYPD sergeant who claims to have performed exorcisms.


The Exorcism of Anna Ecklund (2016)
Description: Based on the real-life case of Anna Ecklund, this film explores the exorcism of a woman believed to be possessed by multiple demons, conducted by a priest in the 1920s.
Fact: The case of Anna Ecklund is one of the most documented exorcisms in history, with detailed accounts from the priests involved.


The Exorcist III (1990)
Description: Detective Kinderman investigates a series of murders linked to the demon Pazuzu, leading him to confront the legacy of the original exorcism.
Fact: The film features a cameo by George C. Scott, who plays the role of Detective Kinderman, originally portrayed by Lee J. Cobb in the first film.


The Exorcist: The Beginning (2004)
Description: A prequel to the original "The Exorcist," this film follows Father Merrin's early encounters with evil in post-World War II Kenya, setting the stage for his later battles.
Fact: The film was initially directed by Paul Schrader, but his version was deemed too cerebral, leading to a reshoot with Renny Harlin.


The Vatican Tapes (2015)
Description: A young woman becomes the target of a demonic possession, prompting the Vatican to intervene with an exorcism that could have apocalyptic consequences.
Fact: The film was originally titled "The Devil Inside" but was changed to avoid confusion with another film of the same name.
