‘The Ritual’ Review: Al Pacino and Dan Stevens Battle Demons in Lackluster Exorcism Film in Hollywood
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David Midell’s horror film ‘The Ritual’ adds yet another chapter to the crowded exorcism genre but unfortunately falls short of delivering a fresh take. Starring industry veterans Al Pacino and Dan Stevens, the movie aims to blend star power with supernatural chills, yet ends up feeling like a rehash of familiar themes rather than a compelling new story.
Set against a dark and foreboding backdrop, ‘The Ritual’ follows a storyline that is all too recognizable in the exorcism subgenre. Alongside Pacino and Stevens, Ashley Greene, Patricia Heaton, and Abigail Cowen also contribute to the cast, each bringing their own flair but ultimately caught in a script that struggles to innovate. The film’s atmosphere often leans heavily on traditional horror tropes, making it predictable for seasoned horror fans.
Al Pacino’s portrayal of a priest grappling with demonic forces and personal demons is passionate, yet the character development lacks depth. Dan Stevens offers a solid performance but is limited by the screenplay’s recycled nature. The supporting cast, including Greene, Heaton, and Cowen, provide steady performances but are unable to elevate the film past its clichés.
Visually, the film does employ some effective cinematography and eerie settings to build tension, but these moments are sporadic and insufficient to compensate for the overall lack of originality. The narrative pacing feels sluggish at times, with scenes that could have delivered scares instead dragging on, reducing the film’s impact.
In the realm of exorcism flicks, innovation is key to capturing audience interest. Unfortunately, ‘The Ritual’ leans heavily on well-worn narrative beats without injecting fresh ideas or unexpected twists. Fans of the genre may appreciate the familiar elements and the strong cast, but newcomers might find the story uninspiring and predictable.
While the movie presents itself as an intense battle against malevolent spirits, it ultimately serves as a reminder of how oversaturated the exorcism film market has become. Midell’s direction is competent but does not break new ground, and despite the talents of Pacino and Stevens, the film feels like a missed opportunity.
For movie enthusiasts seeking a horror experience with depth and innovation, ‘The Ritual’ may not satisfy. However, those interested in seeing iconic actors in a supernatural setting might still find some entertainment value here.
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