Al Pacino Performs an Exorcism in ‘The Ritual’ Official Trailer

The Ritual

The official trailer for the horror film The Ritual stars Al Pacino and Dan Stevens as exorcist priests
It is based on the real-life, well-documented case of Emma Schmidt’s alleged demonic possession in the late 1920s
The Ritual releases in North America on June 6, 2025

In simple terms, the movie titled “The Ritual” features Al Pacino and Dan Stevens playing troubled clergymen. These characters have contrasting spiritual viewpoints and personal struggles, but they must unite to rescue a girl who is thought to be under demonic possession.

Drawing inspiration from the real-life account of Emma Schmidt’s supposed demonic possession in the 1920s, one of the most extensively recorded instances in American history, this film seeks to deliver an authentic representation of her harrowing exorcisms. Pacino embodies Father Theophilus Riesinger, a priest struggling with his past, while Stevens takes on the role of Father Joseph Steiger, who is grappling with doubts about his faith. Together, they confront a challenging and prolonged sequence of Church-approved exorcisms that pose significant risks.

As a thrilled fan, I’m excitedly sharing my thoughts about the recently unveiled trailer of “The Ritual,” directed by the talented David Midell. The sneak peek suggests an intense portrayal of possession, where priests are not just fighting external demonic forces but also their own internal battles.

Mark your calendars, fellow fans! This chilling tale, starring Ashley Greene and Abigail Cowen, is set to hit North American theaters on June 6, 2025. But if you’re in the UK or Ireland, you can catch it a week earlier, on May 30. Can’t wait!

Watch the trailer above.

Read More