Los Angeles Review: Al Pacino and Dan Stevens Star in ‘The Ritual’ – An Exorcism Film That Feels All Too Familiar
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‘The Ritual,’ directed by David Midell, is an exorcism thriller that assembles Hollywood veterans Al Pacino and Dan Stevens in a story deeply rooted in supernatural horror. Despite the star power and inclusion of Ashley Greene, Patricia Heaton, and Abigail Cowen, the film struggles to offer a fresh take on a genre often marked by repetitive themes.
Plot and Performances
The movie explores classic themes of possession and spiritual warfare, a territory extensively explored in Hollywood. While Pacino delivers his characteristic intensity and Stevens brings a brooding presence, both actors appear constrained by a script that relies heavily on predictable clichés. Supporting performances help to bolster the storyline but cannot overcome the overall feeling of déjà vu.
Direction and Atmosphere
David Midell’s direction maintains a steady pace, creating moments of tension and an unsettling atmosphere fitting for an exorcism tale. The cinematography uses moody visuals effectively to enhance the eerie tone, while sound design and effects attempt to heighten suspense. However, the familiarity of the plot twists reduces their impact.
Challenges and Impact
This film highlights the difficulty horror movies in this subgenre face when trying to introduce innovative elements. While it may appeal to die-hard fans of exorcism horror, the lack of originality in storytelling makes it less engaging for those seeking deeper or novel narratives.
Summary
- Strong performances by Al Pacino and Dan Stevens
- Predictable and cliché-ridden script
- Effective but familiar direction and atmosphere
- Supportive but insufficient contributions from the supporting cast
Ultimately, ‘The Ritual’ is a competent yet forgettable entry in the horror genre. It reinforces the need for fresh perspectives on exorcism and possession stories to capture audience interest more effectively.
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