The Ritual (2017)

The Ritual is a British horror film directed by David Bruckner, based on the novel of the same name by Adam Nevill. The film stars Rafe Spall, Arsher Ali, Robert James-Collier, and Sam Troughton.

The story follows a group of four friends—Luke (Rafe Spall), Hutch (Robert James-Collier), Phil (Arsher Ali), and Dom (Sam Troughton)—who embark on a hiking trip in the Scandinavian wilderness to honor their recently deceased friend. The journey is meant to be a way for them to reconnect and deal with their grief, but things take a dark turn when they decide to take a shortcut through a remote forest.

As they delve deeper into the forest, they encounter unsettling and inexplicable phenomena, including ancient symbols and disturbing visions. The group soon realizes they are being hunted by a malevolent and ancient entity that preys on their deepest fears and guilt. The forest itself seems to be alive, with an eerie and foreboding atmosphere that heightens the tension and sense of dread.

The Ritual is noted for its atmospheric tension and psychological horror. The film blends elements of folk horror with survival thriller, creating a chilling and suspenseful experience. It explores themes of guilt, friendship, and the fear of the unknown, with a focus on the psychological and emotional struggles of its characters.

The film received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its haunting atmosphere, effective use of folklore, and strong performances by the cast. The Ritual is recognized for its ability to build suspense and deliver a disturbing and memorable horror experience.