The Ritual: A Classic Exorcism Tale with a Stellar Cast
One seemingly ordinary morning, Father Joseph (Dan Stevens), the head of a rural parish, receives unsettling news: a young woman believed to be possessed by a demon is soon to arrive. Reluctant to perform the ritual of exorcism, he initially declines. However, he relents when he learns his role is merely to provide the location, while the exorcism itself will be conducted by the esteemed Father Theophilus (Al Pacino). Once everyone converges, it becomes clear that the situation is more complex than anticipated, but retreat is no longer an option. Their only course of action is to save the innocent soul.
Dan Stevens as Father Joseph in “The Ritual”
“The Ritual” treads familiar ground as another exorcism story, neither exceptional nor subpar. Its primary draw lies in its cast, particularly the legendary Al Pacino. Despite celebrating his 85th birthday, Pacino remains a compelling presence, delivering a solid performance even in relatively straightforward roles. In recent years, for every “Irishman,” Pacino has taken on projects like “The Ritual” or “Hitman.” Stevens, known for his role in the “Legion” series, proves to be a worthy counterpart. Similar to his “Legion” character, Father Joseph grapples with confusion, anxiety, and a futile attempt to control events beyond his grasp. Abigail Cowen, as the possessed Emma Schmidt, completes the trio, flawlessly portraying the character’s shifting states of consciousness.
Al Pacino as Father Theophilus in “The Ritual”
A Familiar Narrative
Unfortunately, despite the actors’ talents, the script offers them limited material. While the exorcism horror genre is inherently conservative, it still allows for experimentation, as demonstrated by Na Hong-jin’s “The Wailing.” While not every possession film needs to be groundbreaking, “The Ritual,” directed and written by David Midell, avoids any attempt at innovation. The film unfolds with a series of exorcism rites, Father Joseph’s growing doubts, Father Theophilus’ insistence on continuing the exorcism, Emma Schmidt’s distorted voice and contorted body, and the nuns’ cries and lamentations.
Al Pacino as Father Theophilus in “The Ritual”
Style Over Substance?
This adherence to tradition can be seen as a strength: “The Ritual” avoids major missteps by staying within established boundaries. Set in 1928 Mississippi, the film eschews politics, modern technology, psychotropic substances, and excessive transgression. The two priests simply perform their duties. However, one significant drawback is the film’s peculiar camerawork, reminiscent of a reality TV show, with sudden zooms and shaky footage even during simple conversations. While the visual style might be tolerable, the numerous shots of the church spire against a gloomy sky become tiresome.
A Mismatch of Styles
Midell’s previous film, “The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain,” was a reconstruction of the final hours of an elderly veteran. He carries this “reconstruction” approach into “The Ritual.” However, while this style suited the story of police violence against a minority, it feels out of place in a film about exorcism sessions from nearly a century ago. Despite the talented cast and a script free of outright heresy, the film ultimately falls short due to its stylistic choices.