"The Exorcist" @ the Paramount

The 1973 film "The Exorcist," one of the most acclaimed and terrifying horror movies to ever appear on the big screen, plays to theater audiences again as part of the Paramount's "Horror Fest," running through July 3. Adapted from the 1971 novel by William Peter Blatty, "The Exorcist" is based on a purported real-life possession in Mount Rainier, Md., and follows the plight of a young girl, Regan (Linda Blair), who is possessed. Through the efforts of her mother (Ellen Burstyn), priests and doctors, Regan undergoes countless tests, examinations and, eventually, an exorcism. Winner of two Academy Awards and four Golden Globes, "The Exorcist" contains graphic scenes suitable for mature audiences only. "Rosemary's Baby," another horror classic, is the first part of the double bill, starting at 7 p.m. The films also play Saturday and Sunday. — Shannon McGarvey (Originally featured in the Austin American-Statesman and on Austin360.com)

"The Exorcist"