The Exorcist, 1973’s supernatural horror story, launches the 12th season of the Modesto Film Society on Sunday, July 16 at 2 p.m., at Modesto’s historic State Theatre

Directed by William Friedkin and based on William Peter Blatty’s novel, the film recounts a tale of demonic possession, and features a cast including Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair and Max Von Sydow. A major box office hit when released, it generated praise from The Catholic News for its profound spirituality, together with condemnation from evangelist Billy Graham, who branded it “satanic.” Critic Leonard Maltin says the film, which earned an “R” rating, is “calculated to keep your stomach in knots from start to finish.”

Local musician Kyle Barker will provide a pre-film organ concert and there will be a trivia contest based on the film and its cast. General admission is $8. State Theatre members are entitled to a substantial discount. Patrons are encouraged to come in costume.

The Modesto Film Society’s August presentation is the musical Fiddler on The Roof, set for Sunday, Aug. 20.

For more information about the film, or to join The State Theatre and The Modesto Film Society, check The State’s web site, www.thestate.org or call 209-527-4697.