Welcome to Episode 77 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

1973’s “The Exorcist” has garnered a reputation and is frequently promoted by it’s studio as “the scariest film of all time.” The movie’s staying power over the years would seem to back that up. Based on the novel by William Peter Blatty, and unlike many so-called scary movies that quickly seem dated and cheesy, “The Exorcist” continues to be regarded fondly, even four and a half decades after its release. Familiarity and imitation over the years have unavoidably diluted its visceral impact, and we as a culture have perhaps grown too jaded to feel scared by any movie (or fiction in general) anymore. Nonetheless, it’s clear why “The Exorcist” stands out as an exemplary model of horror filmmaking. Scary or not, it’s an excellent film.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo, and Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill and Matt O’Neill, is filmmaker Jesse O’Brien – back for another taste of Reel Chat action! Join the team as they discuss the “questionable” directorial techniques of legendary director William Friedkin, the differences between the film and William Peter Blatty’s original novel, the alterations made between the 1973 original and “The Version You’ve Never Seen” in 2000, and, as always – the cast, the music, trivia, home releases, marketing and much, much more!

So does “The Exorcist” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 88 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam          4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND 

Andrew       5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matt            5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jesse          4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND