Delving into the Darkness: A Review of The Ritual
In the realm of horror cinema, The Ritual emerges as a compelling yet flawed exploration of the supernatural, directed by David Midell. Set against the backdrop of 1928 Midwest America, this film seeks to combine elements of faith, fear, and the fight against demonic possession. Let’s dive deeper into this chilling narrative.
A Unique Perspective on Possession
From the outset, Midell demonstrates a commitment to steering clear of sensationalism. Rather than relying heavily on shock value or gruesome special effects, he opts for a more cerebral approach, tackling the psychological nuances of his characters. Unfortunately, this intriguing method doesn’t fully engage the viewer, leading to a somewhat disengaged watching experience.
Star Power: Al Pacino Takes on a New Role
One of the more intriguing aspects of The Ritual is the casting of Al Pacino as Father Theophilus Riesinger, a German-born Capuchin friar. This marks Pacino’s first venture into portraying a priest, adding an element of depth and curiosity to his character. His performance is certainly noteworthy, especially as he becomes embroiled in the plight of Emma Schmidt (played by Abigail Cowen), whose long-standing mental troubles have ultimately led to her being deemed demonically possessed.
A Premise Intertwined with Faith and Doubt
The film introduces us to Father Joseph Steiger (Dan Stevens), the pastor at St. Joseph’s parish in Earling, Iowa, where the exorcism is to take place. The dramatic tension builds as Father Riesinger, with the reluctant support of the parish’s Mother Superior (portrayed by Patricia Heaton), aims to rescue Emma from her torment. However, it’s not just the external battle against evil that weighs heavily on the film; an internal conflict brews between the two clergymen, with Steiger’s rationalist tendencies clashing against Riesinger’s fervent faith.
A Flawed Script: Missed Connections and Uneven Tone
Unfortunately, the screenplay—co-written by Midell and Enrico Natale—struggles to convincingly portray the conflict between the two clergymen. The dynamic feels undercooked, with attempts at passionate dialogue falling flat. The film wavers between dramatic moments and supernatural occurrences, leading to an uneven tone that struggles to strike a balance.
The Dichotomy of Tension and Resolution
As the movie progresses, viewers experience a mix of intense dialogue, unsettling nightmares, and sudden supernatural phenomena. Despite the film’s ambition to grapple with weighty themes surrounding faith and belief, it often lacks the necessary depth to make these explorations truly impactful. The moments of Emma’s levitation and other supernatural manifestations feel more like superficial embellishments than integral parts of the narrative.
Reception and Recommendations
While The Ritual attempts to address a sensitive subject with the gravity it deserves, the end result is a film that neither fully resonates as a coherent story nor successfully delivers the thrills of a true horror experience. The production does contain instances of gory imagery, mature themes, and occasional coarse language, earning an OSV News classification of A-III — suitable for adults.
For those intrigued by psychological horror with a touch of the supernatural, this film may offer a curious viewing experience. However, expect a tonal imbalance that might not fully satisfy die-hard horror enthusiasts.
In summary, The Ritual is a commendable effort that, despite its limitations, engages with profound themes of faith and doubt. Whether you view it for Pacino’s performance or the disturbing subject matter, it’s a film that certainly leaves room for discussion.
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