Key Highlights
- The role of Father Philip Lamont in “Exorcist II: The Heretic” was initially intended for Jon Voight.
- John Boorman ultimately cast Richard Burton despite his initial reluctance.
- Christopher Walken, who was considered but not chosen, had a part that suited his acting style better than Burton’s did.
- “Exorcist II: The Heretic” is often cited as one of the worst films ever made, tarnishing Linda Blair’s career.
The Unfulfilled Role for Christopher Walken in “Exorcist II”
In the tumultuous world of Hollywood filmmaking, directors often find themselves at the mercy of studio demands and casting choices. This was certainly the case when John Boorman was tasked with directing Exorcist II: The Heretic. The film, a sequel to William Friedkin’s Oscar-winning original, was intended to bring a new dimension to the horror genre but ended up being one of its most controversial entries.
The Role and Original Intentions
Boorman had envisioned casting Jon Voight in the role of Father Philip Lamont, believing that the actor’s established presence would add gravitas to the spiritual narrative. However, Voight ultimately decided against the project due to personal reasons, leaving Boorman to reconsider his options.
Richard Burton: The Studio Choice
Boorman was initially resistant to having Richard Burton in the film. According to an interview with Vulture, he explicitly stated, “I never wanted Richard Burton, really.” However, studio pressures dictated that Burton would play the role instead of Voight. Boorman admitted, “The studio kind of imposed him. I thought his character would be much younger, so I wanted Jon Voight to play the part.” Despite this, Burton was cast in a role that was not suited for him.
Christopher Walken: The Better Fit
Boorman’s interest then turned to Christopher Walken, who had yet to achieve his breakout role in “The Deer Hunter.” Walken’s potential for the part was recognized, and Boorman saw a unique opportunity. Speaking about Walken, he noted, “There was something brittle about him that I found interesting. You always felt that Walken could break at any point, that he could snap. And that was something that could be used.” However, Walken was not chosen for the role due to concerns over his fame and the critical nature of the part.
The Film’s Reception: A Disaster
Exorcist II: The Heretic became a major disappointment in both critical reception and box office performance. It was widely criticized, with some calling it one of the worst films ever made. This backlash significantly impacted not only the film but also the careers of several involved parties, including Linda Blair, who struggled to reclaim her status as a leading actress after this debacle.
Boorman’s and Burton’s involvement in “Exorcist II: The Heretic” serves as a cautionary tale about the unpredictable nature of Hollywood.
While it’s easy to speculate on what could have been, it’s clear that the project was marked by a series of unfortunate decisions that led to a film that is now remembered more for its failures than its successes.
Meanwhile, Walken’s absence from this role allowed him to focus on other projects that would eventually cement his status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and acclaimed actors. The story of “Exorcist II: The Heretic” remains a fascinating case study in the complexities of casting and creative control in the film industry.