THE RITUAL (2025) – An Exorcism Film That Dares To Be Different

The film boldly claims to be based on the true story of Emma Schmidt’s exorcism in 1928, an event extensively documented in the 1935 book Begone Satan!. While Hollywood has often tackled this subject matter—most famously with the 1973 classic The Exorcist—The Ritual stands apart by opting for a restrained and authentic approach to an often-sensationalized genre.

While many exorcism films lean heavily on exaggerated depictions of demonic possession, The Ritual refreshingly prioritizes grounded storytelling. Shot entirely with handheld cameras, the film’s visual style evokes a documentary-like atmosphere, immersing the audience in the narrative despite the occasional dizzying effect of this technique. The portrayal of possession is intentionally subdued, steering clear of overtly dramatic bodily distortions or gravity-defying moments. Instead, the focus lies on unnerving vocal outbursts, speech in Latin, and chilling psychological manipulation of the healers. Though the film occasionally indulges in more traditional displays of supernatural strength, these moments are kept to a minimum, preserving its overall tone of restrained realism.

A major strength of the movie lies in its casting. Al Pacino delivers a compelling performance as Father Theophilus, the seasoned priest leading the exorcism, while Dan Stevens brings depth and vulnerability to his role as Father Joseph, a young priest grappling with his faith and responsibilities. Pacino treats the role with gravitas, portraying Father Theophilus as disciplined and experienced, while Stevens complements him with an emotional portrayal of inner conflict. Together, they elevate the film and lend credibility to its narrative—a noticeable departure from the campier approach seen in recent films, such as Russell Crowe’s ventures in the genre.

However, the film’s budget constraints are evident. The handheld camerawork and predominantly indoor settings minimize the effort required to depict the late 1920s period, resulting in visuals that lack richness and detail. While this simplicity serves the story’s intimate focus, it does detract from the overall atmosphere. Additionally, the resolution feels anticlimactic, underwhelming compared to the tension and intrigue built up throughout the film.

Despite these flaws, The Ritual is a refreshing addition to the exorcism genre. In an era where many films in this category rely on gratuitous horror and shock value, The Ritual proves that authenticity and restraint can be more impactful. By eschewing vulgarity and gore, it delivers a thoughtful and compelling exploration of its subject matter, positioning itself as a welcome departure from the norm.