Al Pacino Stars in New Horror Film The Ritual Based on 1928 U.S. Exorcism

The 2025 horror film "The Ritual," starring Al Pacino and Dan Stevens as Catholic priests, dramatizes the well-documented 1928 exorcism of Emma Schmidt, a case that inspired the landmark film "The Exorcist." Directed by David Midell and produced by New Mexico State University professor Ross Marks, the film aims for a docudrama approach using real names and locations, drawing from the Catholic Church's original notes known as "Begone Satan." Despite the high-profile cast and historical basis, "The Ritual" has received overwhelmingly negative reviews, criticized for its uninspired script, lack of suspense, and low production values, with some calling it one of Pacino's worst films. The narrative centers on the tension between a skeptical priest (Stevens) and a seasoned exorcist (Pacino), but critics argue the film fails to capture the drama or fear expected from the genre. Although the film explores themes of vulnerability and spiritual risk, it is seen as formulaic and lacking the intensity of its predecessor, "The Exorcist." The production took place in Mississippi and has ties to the Las Cruces International Film Festival, highlighting a collaboration between Midell and Marks.