Al Pacino and Dan Stevens Struggle in New York’s ‘The Ritual’: Exorcism Flick Fails to Deliver
Flickbites 
David Midell’s latest film, “The Ritual,” attempts to revive the exorcism subgenre but falls short, despite the presence of Hollywood heavyweights Al Pacino and Dan Stevens. Set against a haunting backdrop, the movie also stars Ashley Greene, Patricia Heaton, and Abigail Cowen, but their performances cannot save the film from feeling like a retread of countless similar stories.
Plot and Narrative
The film tries to blend classic horror elements with intense performances, focusing on a demonic possession storyline. However, it soon becomes evident that the narrative offers nothing new or innovative. The plot adheres closely to familiar tropes:
- A possessed individual
- A battle between good and evil
- Desperate attempts at exorcism
This formulaic approach makes the movie predictable and uninspired.
Performances
Al Pacino, known for his commanding screen presence, and Dan Stevens, with his versatile acting skills, both deliver competent performances. However, they seem constrained by the underdeveloped script. Their characters lack depth and clear motivation, which diminishes the emotional impact of the story. Supporting actors Ashley Greene, Patricia Heaton, and Abigail Cowen add presence but are ultimately underutilized.
Visuals and Atmosphere
Visually, “The Ritual” offers some eerie and atmospheric moments, with cinematography capturing dark, suspenseful scenes reminiscent of classic horror thrillers. The setting contributes significantly to the mood. Despite this, pacing often drags, and jump scares feel overused without genuine buildup.
Conclusion
In summary, “The Ritual” is a missed opportunity. Despite the cast’s efforts, it fails to inject freshness into a well-worn genre, resulting in a film that feels like pure regurgitation rather than an exciting new take on exorcism horror.
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