The Exorcist opens across the U.S. in 1973. A pop culture sensation in both novel and film form at the time of its release, it is the first horror film to be nominated for Best Picture, and is often considered the greatest horror film in history. The film was added to the Library of Congress’ National Film Registry in 2010.
This Day in Halloween: Pop culture sensation and horror classic "The Exorcist" opens across the U.S. in 1973. / Illustration by Noah Ayub