How to Watch The Exorcist Movies in Order
The Exorcist franchise is one of horror’s most iconic and influential series, dating back to the original 1973 film, which shocked audiences and set a new standard for supernatural horror. The franchise has since expanded with sequels, prequels, and a recent reboot, all connected through the theme of demonic possession and the terrifying struggles faced by those who try to combat it.
How to watch the Exorcist movies in chronological order
If you want to follow the story in the order of events rather than how the films were released, begin with the prequels and work your way up through the series.
Exorcist: The Beginning (2004)
The Exorcist (1973)
Exorcist II: The Heretic (1977)
The Exorcist III (1990)
TV continuity
The Exorcist (1973)
The Exorcist (2016-2017)
New continuity
The Exorcist (1973)
The Exorcist: Believer (2023)
Exorcist: The Beginning (2004) is the earliest entry in terms of the timeline, focusing on Father Merrin’s first encounter with a demon. Set in post-World War II Africa, Merrin is called to investigate an ancient church, where he faces a malevolent force that sets the tone for his later battles with demonic entities.
Released just one year after The Beginning, Dominion is essentially the same story but from a different angle. Directed by Paul Schrader, this version was made before The Beginning but shelved in favor of a more action-packed version. Dominion focuses more on psychological horror and theology, offering a more introspective look at Father Merrin's struggles.
The original Exorcist (1973) based on William Peter Blatty’s novel, follows the possession of a young girl named Regan MacNeil and the desperate efforts of her mother, a priest, and an exorcist to save her. It remains a landmark of horror cinema, with its terrifying special effects, unsettling atmosphere, and exploration of faith.
Exorcist II: The Heretic (1977) is set years after the events of the first film. This sequel follows a now-teenage Regan as she undergoes experimental therapy to confront the trauma caused by her possession. The film delves into Father Merrin's backstory and the nature of the demon Pazuzu.
Coming to The Exorcist III (1990), this film takes place 15 years after the original and is more of a psychological thriller than a straightforward horror movie. It focuses on Lieutenant Kinderman as he investigates a series of grisly murders linked to the Gemini Killer.
The Exorcist TV series (2016-2018) serves as a direct continuation of the 1973 film, taking place decades later. It follows two priests, Father Tomas Ortega and Father Marcus Keane, as they confront demonic possessions and unravel deeper, sinister plots involving the Church. The show is notable for its strong connection to the original movie, with the first season containing a major twist revealing ties to Regan MacNeil's character.
The Exorcist: Believer (2023) is the latest entry in the franchise and acts as a direct sequel to the original Exorcist, reuniting some of the original characters while introducing new ones. It continues the theme of possession and explores how the legacy of the original demonic entity affects a new generation.
Here's how to watch the entire Exorcist franchise in both chronological and release order for the best experience. Our guide also shows you all the streaming platforms where you can stream, buy or rent these movies online in India.
