The Exorcist III (1990)

In most horror and critic circles, The Exorcist is considered one of the greatest horror movies of all time. And rightfully so. While I personally don't have it in my top whatever list, The Exorcist is one of the only "classics" which (a) still evokes a visceral response and (b) still stands the test of time and doesn't look retarded when being watched today [as opposed to "classics" like The Omen]. Unfortunately movie studios felt this ridiculous need to capitalize on the fanfare for The Exorcist, and released one of the worst sequels/movies ever made, The Exorcist 2: Heretic in 1977.

Thirteen years later, another "sequel" was released under the radar, The Exorcist III: Legion. And it's a serious shame that this movie is so under-rated and automatically dismissed as some bullshit third part. The Exorcist III is truly one of the best made, awesomest horror flicks ever. Originally it was it's own story (written by The Exorcist author William Peter Blatty), but studio execs once again took the story and wanted it to tie into the original Exorcist, and made changes accordingly. Regardless of the changes, this movie is creepy and doused in atmosphere and mood.

Bringing in George C. Scott, Brad Dourif and the original Damian Karras (Jason Miller), it's set up as a crime drama shrouded in religious horror. And it works. Everytime you see Dourif or Miller on screen, there is this awful, foreboding, gurgling/growling score that just oozes. There are scenes where nothing happens and people are simply having a conversation, but the tension is hanging and palpable. And The Exorcist III features one of the most terrifying scenes in all movie history, with a young unfortunate nurse who is on the receiving end of some oversized medical shears (and a sound effect to give you a massive heart attack)

To say I love this movie is an understatement. If you haven't seen it, do so immediately.