The Exorcist: A Journey Through Iconic Filming Locations
“The Exorcist,” a cornerstone of horror cinema directed by William Friedkin in 1973, continues to captivate audiences. Featuring performances by Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, and Max von Sydow, the film’s groundbreaking narrative of a young girl’s possession and subsequent exorcism has influenced countless films within the genre. If you’re interested in more film reviews and celebrity news, you can find it on PSC Notes.
Filming Locations: Bringing Horror to Life
The chilling atmosphere of “The
Exorcist” was meticulously crafted through its diverse filming locations. Each location contributed to the film’s unsettling realism, enhancing its impact on viewers. For in-depth coverage on film and entertainment, check out the articles on PSC Notes.-
Mosul, Iraq: The film’s production began at an actual archaeological excavation site in Mosul, Iraq. This decision presented logistical challenges, primarily due to the lack of diplomatic relations between the United States and Iraq at the time. Director William Friedkin personally intervened, navigating permissions and managing the harsh desert conditions that limited filming to brief periods between dusk and dawn.
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Warner Bros. Studios, Burbank, California: Numerous indoor scenes were filmed at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California. This iconic studio has been a hub for cinematic production for over a century, with credits including “Blade Runner,” “Tenet,” “Barbie,” and “Ready Player One.”
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New York City, New York: Several key locations in New York City contributed to the film’s eerie setting:
- Hospital scenes were filmed at Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan.
- Interior shots of the MacNeil residence were captured at CECO Studios.
- Additional indoor scenes took place at a now-defunct studio on West 54th Street.
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Fordham University & Goldwater Memorial Hospital, New York: The iconic exorcism scenes were filmed at Fordham University’s Keating Hall in Rose Hill. The hallways of Goldwater Memorial Hospital at Coler Specialty Hospital on Roosevelt Island were used for the psychiatric ward scenes.
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Washington, D.C.: While the film is set in Washington D.C., many of the exterior shots were filmed in Georgetown. The production team constructed a false wing and added a prop on the roof of the exterior MacNeil residence to create a specific visual effect for the character Regan’s windows. For more details on the filmmaking process, explore articles on PSC Notes.
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Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.: Georgetown University’s campus was used for several scenes, including the desecration sequence, an interview in the Archbishop’s office, and some indoor bar scenes. Locations such as New North Hall, Dahlgreen Chapel, and The Tombs bar were utilized.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Where did the filming of “The Exorcist” commence?
- A: The film’s production started at an archaeological excavation site in Mosul, Iraq.
- Q: Where were the scenes set in a hospital filmed?
- A: The hospital scenes were filmed at Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan, New York City.
- Q: Which university’s campus served as the backdrop for particular scenes in the movie?
- A: Georgetown University’s campus was used for scenes in the film, including the desecration sequence, an interview, and various bar scenes. For further insights into film facts, consider exploring PSC Notes.