The 'totally disturbing masterpiece' so scary it was banned in some countries

A classic horror film has been named as the "scariest" of all time, and continues to send shivers down the spines of modern audiences. The Exorcist (1973) centres on the story of single mother Chris Regan (played by Ellen Burstyn) whose 12-year-old daughter Regan (Linda Blair) begins to show worrying behaviour after playing with a Ouija board.

Chris grows increasingly desperate at the apparent demonic possession that has overtaken Regan. She decides to enlist the help of two Roman Catholic priests Lankester Merrin (Max von Sydow) and Damien Karras (Jason Miller) who try to carry out an exorcism. The film, which was directed by William Friedkin, ranked at the top of the list put out by Rotten Tomatoes of the 10 Scariest Horror Movies Ever based on audience feedback.

The outlet acknowledged The Exorcist's "dramatic pacing and somewhat dated effects may seem quaint compared to some contemporary horror, but there's no denying the power the film continues to have over those who see it for the first time".

The film, which was written by William Peter Blatty, with the screenplay on his own 1971 novel, proved hugely controversial.

Audiences shocked by its graphic depictions of possession and gritty realism and the movie was condemned by various religious groups and even banned in some countries, along with claims of cinema-goers fainting or vomiting.

Nevertheless, it proved to be a monumental success at the box office, reportedly grossing more than $430million worldwide against a budget of $12million.

A TimeOut reviewer said the film "remains genuinely unnerving to this day - ridiculous in places, faintly despicable in others, but gorgeous to look at and possessed with a sense of absolute, ruthless gravity".

One Rotten Tomatoes Audience Reviewer gave it five stars, calling it a "totally disturbing masterpiece has pushed the boundaries beyond comprehension!".

"The performances, special effects, writing and direction are top tier of all time in cinematic history," they added.

Another said it has "not lost any of its' power to frighten and shock, and create an atmosphere of dread".

A third added: "No horror movie comes close to this classic and no horror movie ever will."

The film is rated 18 and features contains strong horror, language and sex references, so it may not be for everyone.

The Exorcist is available to rent or buy on various platforms including YouTube, Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video.