
Los Angeles Buzz: Fans of horror and supernatural thrillers were anticipating a chilling experience with the release of The Ritual, starring iconic actor Al Pacino alongside Dan Stevens. Unfortunately, this exorcism-themed horror film has failed to meet expectations despite its promising cast.
Plot Overview
The movie centers on a young woman who becomes possessed by a malevolent entity, leading her family to seek the help of a seasoned priest to perform an exorcism. The narrative attempts to blend intense emotional drama with classic horror elements, but it ultimately struggles to find a cohesive tone.
Performance Highlights
Al Pacino delivers a committed performance as the priest wrestling with his own doubts and faith, while Dan Stevens plays the woman’s brother, providing a grounded emotional core. Despite their efforts, the script offers limited depth for the characters, making it difficult to connect fully with their journeys.
What Went Wrong?
- Pacing Issues: The film’s slow build-up diminishes tension instead of amplifying it.
- Predictable Plot: It relies heavily on familiar exorcism tropes without offering fresh perspectives.
- Weak Script: Dialogue and character development leave much to be desired, impacting audience engagement.
Conclusion
While The Ritual had the ingredients for a compelling exorcism horror — including a strong cast and a potentially gripping premise — it unfortunately falls flat in execution. Horror aficionados may find moments of interest, but the film overall struggles to leave a lasting impact.