William Friedkin, the mind behind the 'scariest movie of all time', dies at 87
William Friedkin, the director who defined a generation and infused raw realism into 1970s classics like The French Connection and the groundbreaking cult horror classic, The Exorcist, was swiftly recognised as one of Hollywood's premier filmmakers in his 30s. His passing at the age of 87 marks the end of an era.
An extended illness
Having secured an Academy Award for best director for his work on The French Connection, Friedkin breathed his last in Los Angeles on Monday. His executive assistant of 24 years, Marcia Franklin, conveyed the news on behalf of his family and his wife, former studio executive Sherry Lansing.
His son, Cedric Friedkin, informed the Associated Press that his father succumbed to an extended illness, fondly remembering his father as a role model and a source of immense inspiration for both himself and his brother Jack.
The influential American filmmaker has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema through his innovative storytelling and distinct directorial style. Born on August 29, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, Friedkin's career spanned several decades and encompassed a range of genres, from gritty crime dramas to supernatural horror films.
Breakthrough and legacy
Friedkin's breakthrough came with the 1971 film The French Connection, a gritty and realistic portrayal of New York City detectives pursuing drug traffickers. The film's intense car chase scene became iconic and is still regarded as one of the greatest in cinematic history. This achievement earned him the Academy Award for Best Director, solidifying his position in Hollywood.
His next significant work, The Exorcist (1973), established him as a master of horror. The film's chilling portrayal of demonic possession and its impact on a young girl terrified audiences and set new standards for the horror genre. The Exorcist remains a cultural touchstone and continues to influence filmmakers and storytellers.
Friedkin's commitment to pushing boundaries and experimenting with different genres was evident in Sorcerer (1977), a suspenseful thriller about a group of men transporting nitroglycerin through the treacherous South American terrain. Although not a commercial success upon release, Sorcerer has gained a cult following over the years and is celebrated for its tense atmosphere and technical prowess.
RIP William Friedkin, one of the best to ever do it.
— Christopher Miller (@chrizmillr) August 7, 2023
I got to meet him at his house this year, & told him what an influence SORCERER was on Phil & me. If you haven’t seen it, it’s not about a wizard, it’s about transporting TNT thru the jungle, and is a master class in tension. pic.twitter.com/jtpQL9DxAF
In 1980, Friedkin directed Cruising, a controversial crime thriller starring Al Pacino as an undercover cop investigating a series of murders within New York City's gay community. The film faced backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates who criticised its portrayal of queer culture, and it remains a topic of discussion in terms of its representation and impact on cinema.
William Friedkin records one of the greatest director commentary tracks of all time for the Cruising Blu-raypic.twitter.com/nZLeJew40J
— John Frankensteiner (@JFrankensteiner) August 8, 2023
Friedkin's legacy extends beyond his filmography. His directorial approach, characterised by a commitment to authenticity, intense storytelling, and innovative techniques, has influenced generations of filmmakers. Directors like Quentin Tarantino, Christopher Nolan, and Guillermo del Torro have cited Friedkin as an inspiration in shaping their own cinematic visions.
The world has lost one of the Gods of Cinema. Cinema has lost a true Scholar and I have lost a dear, loyal and true friend. William Friedkin has left us. We were blessed to have him. pic.twitter.com/6Mi0EL1gla
— Guillermo del Toro (@RealGDT) August 7, 2023
Friedkin's impact on the horror genre was particularly profound. His ability to create tension and evoke genuine fear through psychological elements set a new standard for horror filmmaking. Many subsequent horror directors have drawn inspiration from his work, striving to capture the same level of visceral emotion and terror that he achieved with The Exorcist.
Master of horror
William Friedkin's influence on the horror genre is profound and enduring, as he fundamentally reshaped the way horror films are made and perceived. His impact can be seen in his groundbreaking work on The Exorcist, a film that not only terrified audiences but also elevated the genre to new artistic heights.
One of Friedkin's key contributions to horror was his emphasis on psychological horror and the internal struggles of his characters.
- The Exorcist delved into the inner turmoil of a mother confronting her daughter's possession, as well as the crisis of faith faced by a priest tasked with performing the exorcism.
- By delving into the psychological and emotional aspects of horror, Friedkin elevated the genre from mere shock value to thought-provoking storytelling.
Friedkin's directorial choices, such as his use of practical effects and meticulous attention to detail, lent an air of authenticity to the film.
- The use of grotesque makeup, disturbing visuals, and eerie sound design enhanced the film's realism, making the supernatural events feel chillingly plausible.
“All of the films I have made, that I have chosen to make, are all about the thin line between good and evil. And also the thin line that exists in each and every one of us. That's what my films are about.”
— La femme merveilleuse invisible (@larwoolf) August 7, 2023
Behind the scenes
The Exorcist William Friedkin, 1973 pic.twitter.com/fiqKfH3xav
This commitment to authenticity set a new standard for horror filmmaking, encouraging subsequent directors to prioritise practical effects and immersive storytelling.
R.I.P. William Friedkin - no film ever meant more to me than “The Exorcist”… it’s a long story: pic.twitter.com/IsmNQrJnce
— Larry Karaszewski (@Karaszewski) August 7, 2023
The Exorcist also had a significant impact on the portrayal of religious themes and supernatural horror in cinema. The film's exploration of faith and its confrontation with evil resonated deeply with audiences, sparking discussions about spirituality and the nature of good and evil.
- Friedkin's willingness to confront these complex themes head-on marked a departure from more conventional horror films of the time, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers to tackle profound and thought-provoking subject matter within the genre.
Friedkin's legacy in horror continues to influence contemporary filmmakers. His emphasis on psychological horror, realistic storytelling, and the exploration of profound themes has become a touchstone for modern horror films.
In honor of William Friedkin…
— Vintage Los Angeles (@alisonmartino) August 7, 2023
In 1973, THE EXORCIST had the longest running engagement at the Mann National Theater in Westwood. This historic footage shows audience members reacting to the film. The subject matter truly rattled people to their core. What an astonishing… pic.twitter.com/yzBYe5RVJM
Directors like James Wan (The Conjuring) and Ari Aster (Hereditary) have cited Friedkin's work as inspiration for their own horror projects, seeking to replicate the intense emotional impact and authentic atmosphere he achieved.
I am personally indebted to William Friedkin and saddened by his loss. More than any other filmmaker, he changed both the way directors approached horror films and also the perception of horror films in the broader culture. We are deeply saddened to hear of his passing and…
— Jason Blum (@jason_blum) August 7, 2023
Friedkin's influence on the horror genre cannot be overstated. His willingness to take risks, experiment with different styles paved the way for future filmmakers to explore new creative territories. Friedkin's contributions to the art of filmmaking continue to be celebrated, analysed, and emulated by cinephiles and professionals alike, making him a true icon of the silver screen.