The Ritual Review: Al Pacino Exorcism Thriller
Al Pacino confronts demonic forces in “The Ritual,” a chilling new horror film that revisits the infamous 1928 exorcism of Anna Ecklund. Directed by David Midell, this gripping drama sees Pacino and Dan Stevens as priests battling a dark presence, offering a fresh take on a classic tale of possession and mental illness.the movie explores the complex question of whether Ecklund was truly possessed. While avoiding over-the-top special effects,”The Ritual” still delivers intense moments of levitation and speaking in tongues,as the priests attempt to save a woman’s soul. News Directory 3 brings you this exclusive look into the film that is opening in select cinemas.Discover what’s next in the world of horror.
Al Pacino Stars in “the ritual,” a Demonic Possession Drama
Updated June 02, 2025
The new horror film, “The ritual,” revisits the infamous 1928 exorcism of Anna Ecklund, also known as Emma Schmidt. Abigail Cowen portrays the young woman in this low-budget take on the real-life events that unfolded at an Iowa nunnery. The exorcism was led by father Theophilus Riesinger, played by Al Pacino, and Father Joseph Steiger, portrayed by Dan Stevens.
Directed by David Midell, who co-wrote the script with Enrico Natale, “The Ritual” delves into the background and context of the exorcism. While it avoids the over-the-top special effects common in possession movies like “The Exorcist,” the film still features moments of levitation and Emma speaking in strange tongues. Nuns stand by in horror as the priests attempt to save EmmaS soul in this exploration of demonic possession.
The film grapples with the question of whether Emma was truly possessed or suffering from mental illness and childhood trauma. While Pacino delivers a subdued performance with a noticeable accent, Stevens brings a certain energy to the screen. ”The ritual” offers a new perspective on a classic exorcism story.
Stevens seems eager to move on to other roles, perhaps similar to his work in “Cuckoo” or “I’m Your Man.”
What’s next
“The Ritual” is currently playing in UK and Irish cinemas, with an Australian release scheduled for June 5.