Priests: Hollywood Depiction of Exorcism Not Far from Reality

This surprised me: some priests say that the Hollywood depictions of exorcism are very similar to what actually happens when exorcisms are performed.

Hollywood films have been known to stretch the truth just a little, with wizarding teens, talking dogs and families with superhero powers taking over the widescreen. Even less-family-oriented movies like the “Saw” and “Nightmare on Elm Street” series’ have taken evil to great extremes.

But, some priests say, when it comes to depicting exorcism in films, much of what is shown onscreen is very similar to what really happens during the very rare, highly confidential Catholic rite. Those afflicted with demonic possession express great physical strength and speak unknown languages in a voice that is not their own. Read more