After so many production problems, three directors, one completed version of the film being shelved (the version done by director Paul Schrader, and various other setbacks this fourth entry in the series finally gets released - and turns out better than anyone could have expected.

If you're a purist about the original 1973 movie then this prequel will probably not sit well in your stomach due to the abundant violence and more "modern horror" tone; but go in with lowered expectations and you may just come out pleased like I did.

Stellan Skarsgard plays former priest Merrin (who is one of the priests who tried to exorcise Linda Blair in the original movie) who quit the church after witnessing Nazi crimes in World War II to become an archeologist. He's called in to a find in Kenya, East Africa where they've unearthed an ancient church. Once they delve into the mystery of why the church is buried in the first place, they find that it's situated over an evil temple and soon all sorts of mysterious things begin to happen as people fall victim to various Satanic visions and doings that eventually leads to an exorcism deep in the bowels of the temple as Merrin tries to cast away what amounts to the Devil.

This is one solid and visually strong film and manages to actually be the best sequel of the series and a worthy entry thanks to Skargard's steady performance, lots of gruesome moments (check out the massacre and "cross" scenes if you don't believe me), a finale that's pretty decent, and some good creepy mood at times.

Sure, the movies grand ambitions (which are evident from the opening scene and some overwritten moments) aren't realized due to a handful of plot holes (mostly to do with an idol and, really, the Nazi scenes feel unnecessary); but there's enough here (including a hyena attack and exorcism attempt gone wrong) and a script with enough brains for it to work pretty well. (Chris Hartley, 8/20/04)

Directed By: Renny Harlin.
Written By: Alexi Hawley.

Starring: Stellan Skarsgard, Izabella Scorupco, James D'Arcy, Alan Ford.