Review of The Ritual (2017) by Patricia W — 12 Mar 2018
After the death of one of their own a group of friends go on a hiking holiday in Sweden in his memory. When they decide to take a short cut back through a forest things quickly go from bad to worse as they stumble upon something otherworldly and distinctly dark.
Although this isn't the most original premise and it has a very strong similarity to films like The Blair Witch Project as it features people being lost in the forest and the discovery of strange cabins and symbols. However what sets this film apart from many other pale imitations is its execution which is well thought and enjoyable to watch.
Rafe Spall is the main protagonist Luke, a somewhat cowardly, immature man who doesn't have the great career or family life that the rest of his friends have. He has the most character development and growth throughout the film and Spall also carries many of the more tense and horrifying moments very well and becomes a very sympathetic character. Robert James Collier is also particularly good as Hutch, Luke's opposite. Mature and sensible he is a natural leader and keeps the group together while also adding some dry humour.
This film does an excellent job of building up tension through its camera work, music and use of sound. There are many lingering shots of the forest and slowly zooming shots which draw the viewer in and has you constantly searching for something lurking in the background. It also does an excellent job of leaving the horror to the imagination which is often more effective than showing them in their full gore and glory. Although the creature has a good, unique design, this film wisely refrains from showing the creature for a long time and has many off screen deaths where we only hear the horrific events going on.
The initial incident at the start of the film also adds some much needed depth and a pre-established dynamic between the characters which makes their arguments and the break down of their relationships much more engrossing.
The weakest part of this film is certainly the 3rd act. There is some heavily expository scenes towards the end that were clichéd and unnecessary and detracted from the climax of the film.
Overall, although this isn't the most original film, I enjoyed it for what it was, an effective horror story that's great for a quiet night at home.
This review of The Ritual (2017) was written by Patricia W on 12 Mar 2018.
The Ritual has generally received positive reviews.
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