‘The Ritual’ Probes the True Story of an Exorcism in America| National Catholic Register

The Ritual, a gripping film directed by David Midell, delves into the harrowing true story of Emma Schmidt, who battled what she and her community believed to be demonic possession for over two decades. Scheduled to hit theaters on June 6, this supernatural horror film is not only a narrative shrouded in suspense but also a faithful retelling of one of the most infamous exorcisms in American history.

For many, the world of exorcisms can feel foreign, frightening, and deeply unsettling. Yet, The Ritual sheds light on these realities through its portrayal of Emma’s turmoil. Emma, who was just 14 when she first exhibited symptoms attributed to possession, lived an exacerbated nightmare until her last exorcism at the age of 46. The film navigates a parallel path to that of William Friedkin’s iconic 1973 film, The Exorcist, which also concentrated on the perils of demonic possession—drawing the audience into the chilling duality of one woman’s faith and suffering.

The True Story of Emma Schmidt

The roots of Emma’s torment trace back to her tumultuous childhood. According to reports from sources like HushedUpHistory.com, Emma faced a harrowing upbringing marked by tragedy and abuse. After losing her mother at a young age, she was raised by an alcoholic, abusive father and influenced negatively by her aunt, who was rumored to dabble in witchcraft. As she entered her teenage years, Emma’s deep-seated faith began to unravel. She struggled immensely with violent thoughts and felt an overwhelming sense of revulsion toward sacred objects, making her once-cherished connection with God seem distant.

The exorcism that would eventually lead to Emma’s long-awaited release was conducted in 1928 by Father Theophilus Riesinger, a veteran priest with a history of successful exorcisms. The ritual was documented meticulously by a local pastor, Father Joseph Steiger. This extensive documentation has since become one of the cornerstones in understanding Emma’s plight, culminating in the 1935 publication of Father Carl Vogl’s book, Begone, Satan: A Soul Stirring Account of Diabolical Possession in Iowa.

A Powerful Cast and Their Performances

In The Ritual, the performances are compelling. Al Pacino portrays Father Riesinger, showcasing an experienced priest’s unwavering commitment to freeing Emma from her demon. Dan Stevens takes on the role of Father Steiger, a young pastor grappling with skepticism and fear about the exorcism’s implications on Emma’s health and safety. Other notable cast members include Patricia Heaton as the mother superior and Abigail Cowen, who brings Emma’s character to life with remarkable emotion.

Cowen’s portrayal captures the intense fear, rage, and desperation that consumes Emma, earning her a spotlight in a film that thrives on emotional authenticity and gripping storytelling. Heaton’s performance as Mother Superior contrasts her typical Hollywood roles, emphasizing the gravity of her character’s responsibility.

The Tension Between Faith and Skepticism

One of the subplots in The Ritual presents the conflict between the two priests, which serves as a lens to examine the varying perspectives of faith and reason. While Father Riesinger embodies a steadfast belief in his role as an exorcist, Father Steiger raises critical questions about medical intervention versus spiritual intervention. This dichotomy becomes the backbone of the narrative, allowing the film to explore the broader philosophical questions surrounding possession, faith, and mental health.

Who Should See The Ritual?

Due to its graphic nature and themes of violence, The Ritual may not be suitable for younger audiences. The IMDB “Parental Guide” suggests the content is more appropriate for those aged 15 and up, highlighting intense scenes that may provoke psychological distress. It is crucial for potential viewers to be prepared for the emotional and spiritual traumas depicted in the movie.

The film explores questions of faith intersecting with science, inviting a diverse audience. While it clearly appeals to individuals with strong religious beliefs, it also invites those who appreciate psychological thrillers. As Midell aptly puts it, exorcisms can be seen as “Rorschach tests,” with viewers interpreting experiences based on their background and belief systems.

The Underlying Themes of Good and Evil

Central to The Ritual is the theme of the struggle between good and evil, a long-held doctrine in Catholic teachings. Throughout the film, viewers witness how evil manifests in different forms and the depth of suffering it inflicts on individuals like Emma Schmidt. At its core, the movie provokes contemplation about the realities of good and evil in our lives.

According to Patricia Heaton, who plays a pivotal role in the film, "Just as God is a reality, evil is a reality too." This statement encapsulates the film’s message—a somber reminder of the ongoing battle between these forces that persist both on-screen and in our world.

In Conclusion

If you find yourself drawn to stories that probe the depths of human experience and explore powerful themes of faith and resilience, The Ritual is poised to be a noteworthy addition to your watchlist. Its opening on June 6 promises to be more than just a film; it’s an exploration of what it means to be human in the face of incomprehensible turmoil, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own perceptions of reality, spirituality, and mental health. As the debate around the film’s themes unfolds, it seems there is space in the theater for everyone—believers, skeptics, and those simply looking for a captivating tale of horror and hope intertwined.

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