EPISTLES

The Ritual (2025), at first glance, might look like just another Hollywood horror film — a story of exorcism, demonic possession, and chilling supernatural occurrences. Directed by a Jewish filmmaker and starring prominent secular actors like Al Pacino and Dan Stevens, this movie seems far removed from anything overtly Catholic.

Yet beneath its eerie surface, The Ritual (2025) emerges as a remarkably Catholic film — arguably one of the most theologically accurate portrayals of exorcism and priestly life ever produced in Hollywood. The film draws inspiration from the 1935 book Begone Satan! by Rev. Fr. Carl Vogl.

Unlike many exorcism films that rely on cheap thrills, distorted theology, or sensationalized rituals, The Ritual (2025) is grounded in authentic Catholic teaching and practice. The filmmakers worked closely with real priests to ensure accuracy — from the intricate details of the Latin Mass as celebrated in 1928 to the careful process the Church uses to determine whether an exorcism is truly necessary.

Small details, such as choosing an actual epistle reading appropriate to the liturgical calendar of 1928 for a priest’s homily, reveal a level of dedication rarely seen in mainstream cinema. Where other movies turn exorcism into spectacle, The Ritual treats it with reverence, showing deep respect for the sacramentals and rituals that have shaped Catholic life for centuries.

What truly sets The Ritual (2025) apart is that, despite its horror genre, it is at heart a story about two priests. Al Pacino portrays Father Theophilus, a veteran exorcist, while Dan Stevens plays Father Steiger, a parish priest struggling with personal wounds and family pain.

The film dives deep into their spiritual and emotional lives. It highlights the truth that the power of exorcism does not rest in the priest himself but in Christ working through him. As Father Theophilus says in one of the film’s most moving lines, “Father, you’re not a spectator; you’re a priest.”

This reminder echoes the Catholic understanding that priests are not mere observers but living instruments of Christ’s saving power.

This central relationship between the two priests elevates The Ritual (2025) far beyond the realm of standard horror. The film explores themes of faith, vocation, suffering, and the mystery of evil in the world.

It shows how the Church — through the frail yet faithful humanity of her priests — stands as a bulwark against darkness. The Ritual is not merely about demons but about the grace of God acting through His ministers, even in the most terrifying circumstances.

Interestingly, the film’s production became a kind of evangelization. Al Pacino, initially uninvolved in Catholicism, grew deeply curious about the faith through his work on the film. Instead of asking only technical questions about gestures or Latin pronunciation, he engaged in rich theological discussions about the nature of Christ’s sacrifice, the role of priests, and why God permits suffering.

Many of Pacino’s ad-libbed lines came directly from these conversations, filling the script with authentic Catholic insight. Other cast and crew members — including Dan Stevens — began attending Mass regularly during production. Some even grew so interested in the faith that they requested daily blessings of the set.

What started as a Hollywood project evolved into an unexpected encounter with the truth and beauty of Catholicism for many involved.

The Ritual (2025) may be a horror film, but it is also a cinematic catechesis on the priesthood, the spiritual battle against evil, and the victory of Christ. It stands out as an authentic Catholic movie, even though that was not its original intention.

For Catholic viewers seeking a film that treats the Church with respect, depicts exorcism accurately, and tells a story centered on the true dignity of the priesthood, The Ritual (2025) is a hidden gem worth discovering.

It reminds us that even in Hollywood, God can use art to shine His light into the darkness.