Los Angeles Sees Al Pacino and Dan Stevens Struggle in ‘The Ritual’ – An Exorcism Film Lacking Freshness
Flickbites 
David Midell’s latest effort, ‘The Ritual’, starring Hollywood veterans Al Pacino and Dan Stevens, attempts to breathe new life into the saturated exorcism genre but ends up feeling like pure regurgitation. Despite boasting a cast that includes Ashley Greene, Patricia Heaton, and Abigail Cowen, the film falls short of expectations, offering little beyond familiar tropes and clichés.
Plot and Performances
Set against a conventional horror backdrop, ‘The Ritual’ seems to recycle elements that audiences have seen countless times in similar films. Pacino and Stevens, both skilled actors with impressive portfolios, strive to elevate the material but find themselves shackled by a predictable script and formulaic direction. The story revolves around the classic theme of possession and exorcism but fails to deliver fresh scares or compelling character development.
Ashley Greene, Patricia Heaton, and Abigail Cowen add depth to the supporting roles, yet even their performances can’t inject vitality into the overdone narrative.
Technical Aspects
- The film’s pacing feels uneven.
- It relies heavily on familiar jump scares rather than building genuine suspense.
- Cinematography by David Midell attempts to create an eerie atmosphere but lacks innovation.
Final Thoughts
For horror enthusiasts seeking something new in the exorcism genre, ‘The Ritual’ might prove disappointing. While the cast’s names offer initial appeal, the story’s predictability undermines the potential impact. Fans of Pacino and Stevens may appreciate seeing their performances but should temper expectations regarding the film’s originality.
Overall, ‘The Ritual’ serves as a reminder that star power alone cannot revitalize an exhausted subgenre. Its reliance on worn-out motifs overshadows the talents involved, leaving viewers with a film that retreads familiar horror ground without significant innovation.
Stay tuned for Flick Bites for more latest updates.
About The Author
