20 Perfect Shots From Oscar Winning Movies

5. The Exorcist - Father Merrin Arrives

The Exorcist Max Von Sydow
Warner Bros.

Warner Bros. knew they'd struck solid gold with this shot, because they've plastered it over just about every poster for the movie over the last four decades, and with good reason.

When Father Merrin (Max von Sydow) arrives in the movie's third act to perform the exorcism on Regan (Linda Blair), he walks towards the front door in chilling silhouette, as an almost supernatural beam of light shines outward from Regan's window.

It's possibly the most recognisable image from the entire horror genre, and impeccably composed in every way.

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Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.