The Ritual (2017) Movie Review: A Haunting Exploration of Friendship and Fear
The Ritual, directed by David Bruckner, is a chilling horror film that takes viewers on a haunting journey through the Scandinavian wilderness, blending elements of psychological horror and folklore. Released in 2017, the film is based on Adam Nevill’s novel of the same name and centers around a group of friends who embark on a hiking trip to honor their deceased friend. What starts as a tribute soon turns into a nightmare, as they encounter an ancient evil lurking in the woods. In this review, we will explore the plot, character dynamics, themes, cinematic style, and where to watch The Ritual online.
Overview of The Ritual (2017)
The film opens with a tragic prologue, introducing us to a group of friends—Luke (Rafe Spall), Phil (Arsher Ali), Dom (Sam Troughton), and Hutch (Robert James-Collier)—who are struggling with the loss of their friend, Rob (Paul Reid), who was murdered during a robbery. In an attempt to honor Rob’s memory, they decide to go on a hiking trip through the remote forests of Sweden, seeking closure and camaraderie.
However, as they venture deeper into the woods, they soon realize that they are not alone. Strange occurrences and unsettling signs of an ancient presence begin to manifest, leading to growing paranoia and fear within the group. The trip transforms from a healing journey into a horrifying struggle for survival as they confront both the physical dangers of the wilderness and the psychological burdens of their past.
Plot Summary
The story unfolds as the group embarks on their hiking expedition, with Luke feeling particularly guilty about Rob’s death. Their journey takes a dark turn when they decide to take a shortcut through the forest, leading them to an eerie, abandoned cabin. Strange symbols and unsettling artifacts hint at the presence of something sinister lurking in the woods.
As they navigate the dense forest, tensions rise among the friends, and the group starts to unravel. The psychological strain of their trauma, coupled with the increasingly supernatural occurrences, heightens their fear. Each character grapples with their own guilt and regrets, which manifest in terrifying ways.
The film builds suspense through its atmospheric tension, using sound design and visuals to create an immersive sense of dread. As the friends encounter nightmarish visions and creatures, they must confront their deepest fears and the dark history of the forest. The climax leads to a confrontation with the malevolent force that has been haunting them, testing their friendships and their will to survive.
Character Development
Luke (Rafe Spall): Rafe Spall delivers a powerful performance as Luke, the most emotionally complex character in the group. Haunted by guilt over Rob’s death, Luke’s internal struggle drives much of the narrative. His character arc explores themes of grief, regret, and the need for redemption, making him relatable and compelling.
Phil (Arsher Ali) and Dom (Sam Troughton): Phil and Dom serve as contrasting personalities within the group. Phil is more pragmatic and grounded, while Dom’s sense of humor and bravado often mask his fear. Their interactions highlight the dynamics of friendship and the strain that trauma can place on relationships.
Hutch (Robert James-Collier): Hutch takes on a leadership role among the friends, but as the situation deteriorates, his authority is challenged. His character represents the struggle to maintain hope in the face of despair, making his eventual fate all the more poignant.
Cinematic Style
The Ritual employs a haunting and atmospheric visual style that enhances its horror elements. The cinematography by Andrew Shulkind captures the beauty and terror of the Scandinavian landscape, using natural light and shadow to create a sense of unease. The dense forests and remote locations add to the feeling of isolation, making the characters’ plight all the more harrowing.
Director David Bruckner effectively builds tension through pacing, combining moments of quiet introspection with sudden, jarring scares. The sound design is particularly noteworthy, using ambient noise and unsettling music to create an immersive experience that heightens the film’s psychological horror.
Themes and Messages
At its core, The Ritual explores themes of friendship, guilt, and the confrontation of inner demons. The film examines how trauma can fracture relationships and the difficulty of seeking forgiveness—both from oneself and others. Each character’s journey reflects their struggles with loss, regret, and the burden of memory.
The film also delves into the idea of confronting the unknown, both in the wilderness and within oneself. As the characters face the malevolent force in the forest, they are forced to confront their own fears and insecurities, leading to moments of self-discovery and vulnerability.
Additionally, the incorporation of folklore and mythology adds depth to the narrative, grounding the supernatural elements in cultural traditions. The forest serves as a character in its own right, representing the primal fears and mysteries of nature.
Where to Watch The Ritual Online
If you’re interested in experiencing the chilling atmosphere of The Ritual, here are some options for streaming the film:
Streaming Services
- Netflix
The Ritual is available for streaming on Netflix, making it easily accessible to subscribers. - Amazon Prime Video
The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video for viewers who prefer to own a digital copy. - Google Play Movies & TV
Viewers can rent or buy The Ritual on Google Play, ensuring access on various devices. - YouTube Movies
The film is also available for rental or purchase on YouTube Movies for convenient viewing. - Apple TV
For those who prefer Apple’s platform, The Ritual can be rented or purchased on Apple TV.
Final Thoughts on The Ritual (2017)
The Ritual is a masterful blend of psychological horror and folklore that captivates audiences with its haunting visuals and compelling character dynamics. Rafe Spall’s performance as Luke anchors the film, making the emotional stakes resonate deeply.
With its exploration of friendship, guilt, and the unknown, The Ritual stands out as a noteworthy entry in the horror genre. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers or supernatural horror, this film offers a chilling experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
