#57: The Exorcist
Set Piece: The steps
Location: Georgetown, Washington, D.C., USA
Production Budget: $12 million*
The Exorcist, a terrifying horror film from 1974, left audiences trembling with its spine-chilling depiction of possession. Its disturbing scenes evoked physical reactions from some viewers, contributing to its impressive $441 million box office success and earning a lasting spot in cinematic history.
One unforgettable moment, when Father Damien Karras meets his demise by tumbling down a staircase, was filmed in Georgetown, Washington, D.C. To ensure the safety of the stuntman, rubber padding was utilized on the stairs during filming. Despite its groundbreaking impact, the film faced an uphill battle at the Academy Awards. Only The Silence of the Lambs broke this trend in 1991, clinching the prestigious Best Picture award.