"The Ritual" is a 2017 British horror film, based on the novel of the same name by Adam Neville. The film is directed by David Bruckner and stars Reeve Spall, Asher Ali, Robert James Collier, and Sam Troughton. The film offers a horrific experience that combines psychological horror with elements of folklore, and takes us on an exciting journey through the dense Norwegian forests.
Plot and story
The film's events revolve around a group of British friends who decide to take a trip in the Swedish forests in honor of their friend who died in a tragic accident. After getting lost in the woods, they find themselves trapped by a mysterious and terrifying force. Events unfold slowly as the friends confront their fears and dark secrets, and tensions rise between them as they try to survive the horror that surrounds them.
The film features strong acting performances from all the main actors. Reeve Spall gives a wonderful performance as Luke, the main character who struggles with guilt and feelings of failure after the death of his friend. Other performances by Asher Ali, Robert James Collier, and Sam Troughton heighten the tension and believability of the characters' relationships, making their shared scenes poignant and emotionally charged.
Directing and cinematography
Directed by David Bruckner excels in providing a terrifying and unsettling atmosphere. Bruckner makes clever use of light and shadows to create a terrifying setting in the forest, where the trees and fog become part of the nightmare the friends are experiencing. The beautiful cinematography enhances the beauty of the Norwegian Forest, but at the same time makes it look like a terrifying and terrifying place.
Scary elements
One of the most notable aspects of “The Ritual” is its ability to blend psychological horror with folkloric elements. The use of Scandinavian folkloric elements adds depth and mystery to the film, as it shows the presence of a terrifying and mythical being haunting the friends. The terrifying creature design is impressive and frightens in unexpected ways, making the film stand out from other traditional horror films.
The film deals with themes such as guilt, friendship, and confronting inner fear. Each character faces their own struggles, making the film not just a story about escaping a terrifying being, but also a journey of self-discovery and coming to terms with the past. The symbolism used in the film reinforces these themes, and makes the viewer delve deeper into analyzing the events and characters.
Overall, “The Ritual” is an outstanding horror film that combines a suspenseful story, strong acting performances, and effective horror elements. Direction and cinematography contribute to creating a terrifying atmosphere that makes the viewer feel tense and terrified throughout the film. If you're a fan of horror movies that combine psychological horror with folklore, "The Ritual" is an excellent choice worth watching.
