The Ritual (2017) – Movie Review
Synopsis
"The Ritual," directed by David Bruckner, is a chilling horror film that explores the themes of grief, friendship, and the darker aspects of the human psyche amidst a backdrop of a haunting Scandinavian wilderness. The narrative follows a group of four friends—Luke, Phil, Dom, and Hutch—who come together in the wake of the tragic death of their fifth member, Rob. Seeking to honour Rob’s memory, they decide to embark on a hiking trip through the remote forests of Sweden, a decision that soon proves to be fraught with danger and foreboding.
As the group navigates the treacherous terrain, they become increasingly unnerved by their surroundings. The beautiful yet eerie landscape is littered with unsettling signs of a sinister presence, including ancient symbols and grim altars. Tensions rise as mysterious events unfold, revealing the frayed bonds of friendship and the deep-seated fears associated with loss and survival. The film builds its horror through a gradual, atmospheric tension rather than relying on jump scares, leading the audience into an exploration of both literal and metaphorical monsters.
As the friends delve deeper into the woods, they are confronted by their own vulnerabilities and secrets, culminating in a terrifying encounter with a malevolent force. The line between reality and madness blurs as they come to terms with their past while grappling with the horrific consequences of their journey. Ultimately, "The Ritual" presents a powerful commentary on how grief can manifest in unsettling ways, resulting in a haunting experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Cast
- Rafe Spall as Luke
- Arsher Ali as Phil
- Robert James-Collier as Hutch
- Sam Troughton as Dom
- Alice Lowe as the Woman
- Paul Kaye as the Stranger
Review
"The Ritual" offers a refreshing take on the horror genre, deftly weaving together elements of psychological drama with traditional folk horror. One of its strongest aspects is the character development, particularly that of Luke, portrayed by Rafe Spall. Luke is burdened with guilt over Rob’s death, which serves as the emotional core of the film. Spall delivers a nuanced performance that captures the complexity of grief. His internal struggles resonate deeply with the audience, and the film successfully uses his character arc to comment on themes of responsibility and trauma.
The ensemble cast, including Arsher Ali as Phil, Robert James-Collier as Hutch, and Sam Troughton as Dom, collectively create a realistic portrayal of friendship tested by external pressures and internal fears. Their performances are authentic, reflecting the dynamics of a group that grapples with unspoken resentments and past transgressions. The chemistry between the actors adds depth and vulnerability to their characters, enhancing the emotional stakes when things take a darker turn.
One of the film’s most striking features is its cinematography. The rugged Scandinavian landscapes serve both as a beautiful escape and a suffocating trap. The camera captures the haunting beauty of the forest, while also framing it in a way that evokes a sense of dread. The use of natural light and the contrast between vibrant scenery and shadowy undergrowth establish a sense of claustrophobia that intensifies as the film progresses. The cinematography becomes a character in itself, subtly influencing the narrative through visual storytelling.
Equally impressive is the film’s sound design. The ambient noises of the forest, coupled with a minimalist score, create an unsettling atmosphere that keeps the viewer on edge. The sound of snapping branches, distant rustling, and echoes of unseen creatures serves to heighten anxiety and foreshadow the impending terror. This meticulous attention to sound enhances the film’s overall tension and invites the audience to immerse themselves in the chilling experience.
Bruckner’s direction is commendable, as he effectively balances the film’s horror elements with its character-driven narrative. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the suspense to build gradually rather than rushing into scare tactics. The film skilfully incorporates psychological horror with supernatural elements, creating an engaging dichotomy that keeps viewers guessing. As the friends’ journey unfolds, the atmosphere shifts from camaraderie to discord, mirroring the strain of their unresolved grief. Bruckner uses this tension to explore both the external horrors in the forest and the internal struggles of the characters, leading to a powerful climax.
However, while "The Ritual" excels in many respects, it isn’t free from flaws. Some viewers may find certain plot points predictable, particularly if they are well-versed in horror tropes. While the film masterfully creates a sense of dread, there are moments where the pacing lags, particularly in the middle section. These slow moments can disrupt the suspense and lead to a feeling of frustration as viewers anticipate the impending horrors.
Furthermore, the film’s third act, while filled with intense and shocking moments, risks becoming convoluted in its execution of the supernatural elements. The final revelation regarding the entity lurking in the forest feels somewhat rushed, leaving a sense of ambiguity that might frustrate viewers seeking resolution. While ambiguity can be powerful in horror, here it risks feeling unearned and muddled against the weight of the preceding narrative.
Despite these criticisms, "The Ritual" succeeds in offering a unique and disturbing exploration of friendship, loss, and the nature of fear. The film’s ability to evoke emotion through psychological horror rather than just relying on visual scares speaks to its quality as a piece of cinema. This film stands out in a crowded genre, reminding audiences that sometimes the most terrifying horrors come not from external monsters, but from within ourselves.
As a contemporary addition to the folk horror subgenre, “The Ritual” takes cues from classics such as “The Wicker Man” and “The Blair Witch Project,” while carving out its own identity through its modern lens. The use of folklore and mythological motifs adds depth to the narrative, engaging the audience in a broader commentary on the primeval fears that persist across time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "The Ritual" is a powerful horror film that deftly balances psychological tension with supernatural elements, bolstered by compelling performances and striking visuals. Although it experiences minor pacing issues and some predictability, its exploration of grief and the darker facets of friendship make it a captivating watch.
Overall, I would rate "The Ritual" an 8 out of 10. It stands as a chilling reminder that the wilderness can be not only a physical space of beauty but also an emotional one where our deepest fears and regrets can manifest. This film is sure to leave an impression on viewers, inviting them to contemplate just how far they would go when faced with the horrors that dwell both in the forest and within.
