Al Pacino and Dan Stevens are stepping into chilling territory with their latest cinematic endeavor, "The Ritual," set to hit theaters on June 6. This horror film draws inspiration from a real-life exorcism that took place in 1928 and delves into themes of faith, fear, and the unknown. In this blog post, we’ll explore the film’s background, its production journey, and the actors’ unique approaches to their roles—all while keeping the focus on "The Ritual": Al Pacino, Dan Stevens take on exorcism horror.
While filming in Natchez, Mississippi, the duo found themselves sharing a surreal experience that combined the mundane with the extraordinary. During a pivotal moment—watching Super Bowl LVIII—the skies swiftly darkened, casting an ominous shadow over the event. “We were basically watching the Super Bowl during a tornado,” Stevens recalled, laughing at the absurdity. Despite being in the middle of a potential disaster, their focus remained on the game, demonstrating that even in moments of tension—like exorcism—the human spirit clings to normalcy.
About the Exorcism That Inspired "The Ritual"
The story that lends its essence to "The Ritual" revolves around a German-American Capuchin friar, Theophilus Riesinger, noted for reportedly casting out 19 devils during his time. The exorcism in question involved a woman named Emma Schmidt, played by Abigail Cowen, and took place in Earling, Iowa. This case was documented extensively in a pamphlet called "Begone Satan!", which eventually made headlines in Time magazine.
In capturing the essence of this controversial—and often debated—event, Pacino portrays Riesinger, a gentle yet assertive character. Despite his storied career, Pacino opted for restraint in his performance, believing that an exaggerated portrayal would undermine the film’s authenticity. “If I have this beard down to the floor, people are going to laugh,” Pacino quipped, reflecting his usual comedic style.
Dan Stevens plays Father Joseph Steiger, a local parish priest and skeptic dealing with personal tragedy. The interaction between the characters is central to the narrative, depicting a dynamic rooted in both belief and disbelief about the supernatural. Stevens’s portrayal brings a relatable skepticism that mirrors the audience’s own uncertainties about the events unfolding in the film.
The Challenge of "The Exorcist" and Personal Fears
Interestingly, Al Pacino has never watched the original "The Exorcist," acknowledging the film’s reputation for unsettling imagery that left many viewers shaken. “Everybody was recommending that movie,” he said, reflecting on its widespread acclaim and fear factor. Despite his extensive acting experience—including portraying characters tied to the demonic in "The Devil’s Advocate"—Pacino avoided the film, fearing its intensity might require medical attention.
The notion of authenticity in horror films penetrates deeply into Pacino and Stevens’s preparation for "The Ritual." They even consulted with Father Mark Shoffner, an expert in Catholic exorcism rituals. Though their initial meeting faced delays due to inclement weather, the knowledge shared during a Zoom call helped ground their performances in realism. “For me, that was the scariest part of the process,” Stevens admitted. Father Shoffner’s matter-of-fact recounting of exorcisms brought a stark sense of reality to their work, giving rise to genuine nervousness about portraying such serious subject matter.
Exploring Ethical Dilemmas and Skepticism
A central theme woven throughout "The Ritual" is the exploration of belief itself. The film forces viewers to confront questions about faith, skepticism, and the paranormal. “What if it is true?” Stevens mused. His character, embodying skepticism, morphs into a realm of existential dread when faced with the apparent reality of supernatural forces. This intertwined narrative raises profound questions about what constitutes truth and belief, leaving audiences pondering the implications long after the credits roll.
Despite concerns about the film receiving mixed reviews, both actors remain invested in their portrayals and the questions that emerge from the story. Pacino, usually seen as a bastion of confidence, admitted his ambivalence, remarking, “It’s the safest way to look at our world. Things happen. Things could happen.”
In navigating the terrain of faith and fear, "The Ritual" offers viewers an opportunity to reflect on their beliefs. It provokes thought about the thin line between skepticism and faith—how belief can shape our understanding of the world around us and the unseen forces that may influence our lives.
Conclusion
As "The Ritual" prepares for its theatrical release, the contributions of Al Pacino and Dan Stevens shine as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, particularly within the horror genre. Their exploration of deeply rooted themes such as exorcism, belief, and the human condition resonates with relevance in today’s world, inviting viewers to question their own perspectives on faith and belief.
Whether approached with skepticism or belief, "The Ritual" is sure to challenge audiences while honoring its historical roots. As Pacino and Stevens navigate the trials of portraying characters entrenched in one of humanity’s most primal fears, we can anticipate a cinematic experience that strikes at the heart of what it means to be human in the face of the unknown.
Sitting at the intersection of personal fear, skepticism, and the mysteries of faith, "The Ritual" contributes a fresh perspective on the horror genre, reminding us of the eternal struggle with questions that linger even beyond the theater doors.
