One of the major landmark movies of all time in the horror genre is 'The Exorcist. After so many years, this movie still remains on the top list of many people. It was recently that I got to know that this was adapted from a book when I came across the same at the library. So; why would I take it for the weekend!
The story revolves around a case of demonic possession of Regan Mc Neil. Regan is the daughter of an actress, Chris Mc Neil who is currently at Georgetown University for a film shoot. Along with them, are the servants, Karl, his wife, and Sharon who doubles up as manager for Chris and tutor to Regan. Regan falls ill all of a sudden and the house starts experiencing poltergeist disturbances. Chris being an atheist dismisses this at first with rational explanations and medicines. But things start getting worse, and she turns to a local Jesuit priest for help even wanting an exorcism. Is this really a demonic possession or is there a rational explanation in medical terms? Was the priest able to drive the demonic presence if such an entity is present? forms the story.
What I really loved about the book is the way the story was treated. This did not fall into an exorcism level at the start. Once Regan starts falling ill, consultations happened on physical and mental aspects. The helplessness of Chris was shown very well. She was an atheist but the mother in her was ready to try anything for her child. Turning to a suggestion of exorcism even when the priests were cynical about performing the same. The book was not much scary as the movie. But I did get repulsed at many instances when Regan was showing all the characteristics of demonic possession. A handful of characters but each of them had their own thoughts. Regan was well written showing her descent from a sweet innocent girl to a demonized person. Father Karras and Inspector Kindermann were my picks of the lot. Their friendly spar and chemistry were interesting to read. The physical changes Reg had to undergo were well written but I am not sure how realistic it is. The book cover and settings did in fact remind me a lot of the movie.
In short, a good read with a balanced and refined approach to the ever-sensitive subjects of mental health and possession.
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