The Ritual

The Ritual offers a blend of horror and psychological tension, but its execution sometimes stumbles. While it has moments that evoke genuine fear, it doesn't quite sustain that dread throughout its runtime.

A Grieving Group in the Woods

A group of college friends—Luke, Phil, Hutch, and Dom—set out for a hiking trip in the Swedish wilderness to honor a late friend. As they make their way through the dense forest, they stumble upon a series of eerie occurrences that set them on edge. The atmosphere shifts drastically as the tension escalates, revealing the group's unresolved guilt and trauma. They soon find themselves being stalked by a malevolent presence, forcing them to confront not only the horrors of the woods but also their inner demons. The film explores themes of grief and survival against an unsettling backdrop.

Strong Lead, Weak Supporting Roles

Rafe Spall as Luke carries the emotional weight of the story well, effectively portraying his character's guilt and fear. The supporting cast, including Arsher Ali and Robert James-Collier, provide solid performances but are often overshadowed by Spall's more developed arc. Unfortunately, some characters feel underwritten, leading to moments where their fates become less impactful. Particularly, Dom's character lacks depth, making it hard to connect with him as the situation intensifies. Their dynamic could have benefitted from more exploration to enhance the overall tension.

Atmospheric Yet Confusing

David Bruckner's direction has its strong moments, particularly in the use of atmospheric tension to build dread. The dense forest setting is effectively employed, creating an eerie ambiance that often feels claustrophobic. However, the pacing dips, making some scenic shots linger longer than necessary, which detracts from the urgency of the plot. The utilization of shadows and dim lighting is commendable, yet at times, it blurs the action to the point of confusion. This stylistic decision is a double-edged sword, as it occasionally heightens suspense but can also frustrate viewers trying to grasp what's happening.

Slow Build with Frustrations

Watching The Ritual often feels like a slow build-up to inevitable dread, but it’s not always rewarding. While the initial atmosphere is thick with tension, there are moments of stagnation that disrupt the flow, leaving the audience hanging in limbo. Emotional beats surrounding grief feel genuine, yet they can get lost amid the more supernatural elements. Some sequences, particularly the climactic moments, may come off as predictable or drawn-out, leading to a sense of frustration rather than catharsis. It’s a mixed bag of haunting imagery and pacing issues.