Audiences can unintentionally turn serious films into comedies when outdated scenes, effects or cultural attitudes clash with modern expectations. The article argues that disruptive, “performative” laughter can ruin the atmosphere for other viewers and undermine the intentions of filmmakers, particularly in repertory cinemas such as London’s Prince Charles Cinema.

John Boorman’s Exorcist II: The Heretic illustrates the problem: audiences expecting another frightening film were confused by its ambitious, fantastical approach and responded with laughter. The $14m sequel quickly developed a disastrous reputation, prompting Boorman to re-edit it during its theatrical run, although the changes came too late to reverse its commercial and critical failure.