Flickbites 
Los Angeles finds itself once again immersed in a wave of familiar horror clichés with the release of The Ritual, a film that, despite its promising premise, fails to deliver original scares or a compelling narrative. The movie attempts to weave together elements of ancient folklore and psychological terror but ends up treading well-worn paths that horror aficionados have seen too many times before.
Set against the eerie backdrop of dense forests and shadowy landscapes, The Ritual tells the story of a group of friends confronting supernatural forces tied to an ancient ritual. While the atmospheric setting initially hints at a gripping tale, the film soon succumbs to predictable jump scares and a storyline that lacks depth.
Key Issues in The Ritual
- Recycled Themes: The storyline borrows heavily from previous horror films without adding fresh perspectives or twists, which makes the plot feel derivative.
- Predictability: The film’s scare tactics are predictable, relying on familiar horror tropes rather than innovative scares that challenge the audience’s expectations.
- Character Development: Characters are not fleshed out meaningfully, reducing emotional engagement and lowering the stakes of their perilous situations.
Why Horror Fans Might Look Elsewhere
Despite its atmospheric visuals and competent cinematography, The Ritual fails to capitalize on its potential, leaving viewers longing for more nuanced storytelling. The lack of originality could disappoint those seeking a unique horror experience, emphasizing the need for filmmakers to innovate within the genre rather than rely on formulaic approaches.
About The Author
