New York Shines in ‘The Ritual’: Al Pacino & Dan Stevens Star in Predictable Exorcism Drama
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The new film ‘The Ritual’, set against the backdrop of New York, features veteran actors Al Pacino and Dan Stevens in a story that revisits the familiar themes of exorcism and possession. Directed by David Midell, the movie attempts to inject new energy into a well-worn horror subgenre but ultimately falls short in delivering a memorable experience.
Cast and Performances
Alongside Pacino and Stevens, the film stars Ashley Greene, Patricia Heaton, and Abigail Cowen. While all performances are competent, they are unable to overcome the film’s unoriginal plot. Each actor contributes to the overall dynamic, but their roles feel underdeveloped within the formulaic structure of the narrative.
Plot and Direction
The storyline follows the conventional path of possession and exorcism, offering minimal innovation or suspense. Despite the atmospheric use of New York’s eerie locations, the film’s pacing reveals moments of drag, and the story largely rehashes themes seen in many prior exorcism horror movies. David Midell’s direction is straightforward but lacks the creative flair needed to distinguish the film in an already overcrowded market.
Highlights and Shortcomings
- Visuals: Effectively uses New York’s atmosphere to set the mood.
- Acting: Al Pacino’s presence raises expectations, but the script underutilizes his talents.
- Predictability: Dan Stevens delivers a strong performance but cannot overcome the film’s predictability.
- Plot originality: Minimal new ideas are presented, leading to a familiar viewing experience.
Conclusion
‘The Ritual’ may satisfy viewers eager for more exorcism stories, but it offers little fresh insight or innovation within the supernatural thriller genre. Fans seeking originality and suspense might want to explore other options. Overall, the film is a forgettable addition to contemporary horror cinema.
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