Rotten Tomatoes score: 83%
Plot: Adapted from a 1971 novel by William Peter Blatty, "The Exorcist" is easily one of the most recognizable horror movies ever made. Linda Blair stars as a young girl who has become possessed by demonic spirits while her mother, Chris (played by Ellen Burstyn) desperately looks for answers before ultimately seeking help from a priest (played by Max von Sydow).
"The Exorcist" was nominated in a total of 10 Oscar categories: best picture, director, best actress, supporting actor, supporting actress, art direction, cinematography, and editing. It won top honors for best adapted screenplay and sound.
The horror cult classic had the rare honor of being the first horror movie to be nominated for the best picture Oscar.