"Something almost beyond comprehension is happening to a girl on this street, in this house…And a man has been sent for as a last resort. This man is The Exorcist."
The Exorcist - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
The power of Christ compels you!
— Father Merrin
Context:
During the climax of the exorcism, as Merrin and Karras sprinkle holy water on the levitating Regan.
Meaning:
The ultimate assertion of faith and divine authority over evil, repeated as a mantra of spiritual warfare.
What an excellent day for an exorcism.
— The Demon (Regan)
Context:
Spoken to Father Karras when he first enters the room and introduces himself, establishing the entity's awareness and malice.
Meaning:
A chilling display of the demon's confidence and mockery of the priests' efforts.
I think the point is to make us despair. To see ourselves as... animal and ugly. To reject the possibility that God could love us.
— Father Merrin
Context:
Spoken quietly to Karras during a break in the exorcism, explaining the demon's psychological strategy.
Meaning:
The thematic thesis of the film: the demon's target is not just the girl's body, but the observers' faith in humanity and God.
There are no experts.
— Father Karras
Context:
Karras explaining to Chris that modern exorcisms are rare and there is no simple 'fix' available.
Meaning:
Highlights the isolation of the characters; even the Church is unprepared for this level of ancient evil.