Themes And Memes

On this instalment, we welcome artist and author Thomas Sheridan from thomassheridanarts.com to discuss the 1973 classic-horror film The Exorcist.  The film introduces Washington D.C Actress 'Chris MacNeil' as her 12 year old daughter 'Regan' begins to exhibit increasingly disturbed behaviour. Despite a number of tests and treatments, Regan's condition continues to deteriorate amidst a series of shocking paranormal events. After the medical establishment concedes defeat, it is deemed that a metaphysical approach may be the only option left, and so Chris consults the local Jesuit order to exorcise the demon.  We discuss the historical relevance of the film, in terms of its mythos and cultural significance at the time. The film is widely regarded to be one of the most disturbing horror movies ever made, and traumatised audiences throughout the 70's and beyond.  We look at the social critiques being made in the film in relation to science, rationalism, the medical industry and religion; whereby the backdrop of t