The trailer for The Ritual showcases Al Pacino and Dan Stevens as they tackle the daunting task of performing an exorcism, albeit with contrasting approaches to their faith. The cast also includes Ashley Greene, Patricia Heaton, Abigail Cowen, and Ritchie Montgomery.
The film centers on Father Theophilus Riesinger (Pacino) and Father Joseph Steiger (Stevens), who are called to help a young woman seemingly possessed by demons. In the trailer, Pacino asserts,
“We are the Lord’s army in this battle,”
emphasizing the spiritual stakes involved. However, Stevens raises a critical question:
“What if what she really needs is a doctor?”
This exchange highlights the tension between faith and reason, prompting Pacino to retort,
“We are paying a price for your lack of faith.”
Inspired by the 1935 book Begone Satan!, which has sparked debate within faith communities for decades, The Ritual is co-written by Midell and Enrico Natale. The film promises to explore themes of belief and skepticism against a backdrop of supernatural horror.
Pacino's recent work includes roles in Modì, House of Gucci, and the Amazon series Hunters. Meanwhile, Stevens has appeared in upcoming films like Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire and the series Zero Day alongside Robert De Niro.
