The Exorcist: Believer, released in 2023, is a direct sequel to the iconic 1973 horror film, attempting to reignite the franchise with a modern twist. Directed by David Gordon Green, the story follows Victor Fielding, whose daughter Angela and her friend Katherine disappear in the woods, only to return three days later with no memory and exhibiting terrifying, synchronized behavior indicative of demonic possession. In a desperate bid for help, Victor seeks out Chris MacNeil, played by Ellen Burstyn reprising her role, whose life was forever scarred by the events five decades prior. The film explores themes of faith, trauma, and parental dread as the two families confront an ancient evil.

Performances are a mixed bag; Leslie Odom Jr. delivers a compelling portrayal of Victor's anguish, while Burstyn brings gravitas, though her role feels underutilized. The direction leans into atmospheric tension rather than relying solely on jump scares, but the plot struggles with pacing and originality, often feeling like a retread of familiar exorcism tropes. With an IMDb rating of 4.8, it has divided audiences and critics, criticized for lacking the profound horror of the original.

Despite its flaws, The Exorcist: Believer is worth watching for horror enthusiasts curious about the legacy continuation and its attempts to blend classic elements with contemporary storytelling. The 111-minute runtime offers chilling moments and a connection to horror history, making it a decent choice for a spooky movie night. Stream it online to see if it lives up to its terrifying predecessor.