The Ritual review – Al Pacino is priestly mastermind in tale of infamous real-life exorcism

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"The Ritual: A Historical Exorcism Dramatization Featuring Al Pacino"

The Ritual review – Al Pacino is priestly mastermind in tale of infamous real-life exorcism analysis cover image The Guardian 7.0
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Original Article Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/may/27/the-ritual-review-al-pacino-is-priestly-mastermind-in-tale-of-infamous-real-life-exorcism
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TruthLens AI Summary

The film "The Ritual" presents a dramatization of the 1928 exorcism of a young woman, Anna Ecklund, whose real name was Emma Schmidt. Set in a nunnery in Iowa, the narrative follows the elderly German Capuchin priest Father Theophilus Riesinger, portrayed by Al Pacino, alongside local cleric Father Joseph Steiger, played by Dan Stevens. The exorcism, which has historical significance, was documented in a pamphlet titled "Begone Satan!" that has influenced public perception of exorcisms. However, the movie itself suffers from a lackluster script, co-written by director David Midell and Enrico Natale, which prioritizes historical context over the thrilling supernatural elements typically expected in horror films. While the film does include some classic horror tropes, such as levitation and bizarre physical manifestations, it ultimately feels unengaging and fails to fully explore the psychological dimensions of the protagonist's struggles, opting instead to depict her as genuinely possessed.

Despite the intriguing historical backdrop, the film's execution leaves much to be desired. Al Pacino's performance is notably subdued, characterized by a low-volume delivery and an accent reminiscent of his role as Shylock in "The Merchant of Venice." Dan Stevens seems to share a similar sentiment, appearing disinterested and longing for a return to more dynamic roles he has previously enjoyed. The film's ambition to root itself in historical accuracy is commendable, but it ultimately falls short due to its adherence to conventional depictions of demonic possession rather than engaging with the complexities of mental illness and trauma. As a result, "The Ritual" may disappoint viewers seeking a fresh take on the exorcism genre, despite its potential to offer a more nuanced narrative. The film is set to be released in UK and Irish cinemas on May 30.

TruthLens AI Analysis

The review of "The Ritual" provides a critical examination of a horror film that dramatizes the infamous 1928 exorcism of Emma Schmidt, also known as Anna Ecklund. The analysis suggests a disconnect between the film's historical context and its execution, leading to a somewhat disappointing result for viewers familiar with the genre. The review emphasizes the film's low-budget production and the uncharacteristically subdued performance of Al Pacino, who plays a pivotal role in the story.

Film's Intent and Execution

The film attempts to present a historical account of a real-life exorcism, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the events that took place. However, the review criticizes the script for prioritizing conventional horror elements over a deeper exploration of mental illness and trauma. This choice may alienate audiences looking for a more thoughtful narrative, suggesting that the filmmakers' intent was not fully realized in the final product.

Public Perception and Impact

By focusing on the horror aspects of exorcism while neglecting the potential for a richer psychological analysis, the film may reinforce stereotypes about demonic possession. This could create a skewed perception among viewers, particularly those unfamiliar with the historical context. The review indicates the potential for the film to evoke fear rather than provoke thoughtful discussion on mental health issues, reflecting a significant gap in the storytelling approach.

Manipulative Elements

There are indications that the film may inadvertently manipulate viewers' perceptions of exorcism and mental illness. The reliance on sensationalist horror tropes, such as levitation and vomiting, distracts from the more complex realities of mental health challenges. This could lead to a misunderstanding of such phenomena in real life, perpetuating stigma around mental health issues.

Comparative Analysis

In comparison to other horror films, particularly classics like "The Exorcist," "The Ritual" falls short in its ability to blend supernatural elements with psychological depth. This comparison highlights a trend in modern horror that often prioritizes shock value over substantive storytelling, which may resonate differently with audiences today.

Potential Societal Influence

The portrayal of exorcisms in media can have broader implications, affecting societal views on spirituality, mental health, and the treatment of individuals experiencing psychological distress. In a climate where mental health awareness is increasingly critical, films like this could hinder progress by fostering fear rather than understanding.

Target Audience

This film may appeal to niche audiences interested in horror and supernatural themes, particularly those drawn to stories based on true events. However, its execution may limit its appeal to a broader audience seeking a more sophisticated narrative.

Market and Economic Implications

While this film may not have a direct impact on stock markets, its reception could influence the production choices of studios in the horror genre. A lackluster performance at the box office might discourage similar projects that explore real-life horror stories, ultimately shaping the direction of future films.

Global Relevance

The themes of exorcism and mental health resonate with contemporary discussions about spirituality and psychological well-being, linking the film to broader cultural dialogues. As society grapples with these issues, the film's portrayal may reflect or distort public understanding.

The review of "The Ritual" articulates a frustrating disconnect between the film's intentions and its execution, suggesting a missed opportunity to engage with complex themes in a meaningful way. The reliance on familiar horror tropes may inadvertently contribute to misconceptions about mental health, reinforcing stereotypes rather than challenging them.

Unanalyzed Article Content

Source URL: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/may/27/the-ritual-review-al-pacino-is-priestly-mastermind-in-tale-of-infamous-real-life-exorcism

This low-budget, minor-key and – frankly – dreary horror feature offers yet another dramatisation of the 1928 exorcism of a young woman (played here by Abigail Cowen), known byher alias Anna Ecklundand her real name Emma Schmidt. The real-life ritual, which transpired at a nunnery in Iowa, was overseen by elderly German Capuchin priest Father Theophilus Riesinger (Al Pacino) and local cleric Father Joseph Steiger (Dan Stevens) and written up as a pamphlet (“Begone Satan!”) that went on to shape the public understanding of exorcisms.

All that historical detail is transfused into a weak tea of a script, credited to the film’s director David Midell and Enrico Natale. They have generated a work that is a little more interested in background and context instead of sweary pyrotechnics and supernatural fireworks often found in demonic-possession-themed features, the most notably The Exorcist from 1973. But we still get bits of levitation here and there, and moments when poor possessed Emma seems to free-solo the walls of the dank basement room she’s locked in. At other points, she inexplicably vomits what look like tobacco leaves and speaks in a variety of exotic tongues. The men of the cloth stoically soldier on while an assortment of nuns stand by looking petrified and aghast.

It’s perhaps unfair to ask that a film be an entirely different creature than the one the film-makers intended to produce. But in this case, it feels a bit disappointing that the cast and crew worked so hard on the historical roots and verisimilitude stuff, and then insisted on sticking with the idea that Emma was literally possessed, instead of exploring how she might have a mental illness, coupled with childhood trauma.

At least Pacino doesn’t seem to be taking any of it seriously as he phones in an uncharacteristically low-volume performance whose most distinguishing feature is the Mitteleuropean accent that makes him sound as if he’s reprising his performance as Shylock from The Merchant of Venice. Stevens, for his part, just looks as if he’s waiting for all this to be over (not unlike the character he plays) so he can go back to working on the sort of kooky, craft-stretching roles he’s been having so much fun with lately, such as his mad scientist in Cuckoo or his German-speaking android in I’m Your Man. Even so, his presence somewhat improves this schlock.

The Ritual is in UK and Irish cinemas from 30 May

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Source: The Guardian