(2017) is a British supernatural horror film directed by David Bruckner. The story follows four old university friends—Luke (Rafe Spall), Phil (Arsher Ali), Hutch (Robert James-Collier), and Dom (Sam Troughton)—who reunite for a hiking trip in the remote forests of northern Sweden to honor a friend’s memory. When an injury forces them off the main trail, they become lost in the dense woods and soon realize they are being stalked by a mysterious, ancient presence. As night falls and strange occurrences escalate, the group must confront their own fears, guilt, and the supernatural force haunting them.
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: The film makes striking use of the Scandinavian wilderness, with sweeping shots of misty forests and imposing landscapes that heighten the sense of isolation and dread.
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: The monster, inspired by Norse mythology, is both unique and terrifying, blending elements of folklore with an original visual concept that stands out among modern horror antagonists.
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: The film excels in psychological tension, using surreal nightmares and hallucinations to externalize the characters’ guilt and trauma, particularly Luke’s struggle with his past decisions
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: The narrative maintains a steady build-up of suspense, with a slow-burn approach that pays off in the film’s intense final act
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: Rafe Spall delivers a compelling performance as the guilt-ridden Luke, while the supporting cast convincingly portrays the unraveling dynamics of the group under stress
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: Central to the story is Luke’s battle with guilt over a past tragedy, which is manifested through the supernatural ordeal. The film explores how unresolved trauma can haunt and shape one’s actions
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: The breakdown of camaraderie and trust among the friends under extreme pressure highlights the fragility of relationships and the instinct for self-preservation.Advertisement
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: The forest acts as both a literal and metaphorical maze, representing the characters’ internal struggles and the terror of the unknown
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: Drawing on Norse mythology, the film weaves in themes of ancient rituals and the enduring power of myth, adding depth to the horror elements
The Ritual stands out for its atmospheric visuals, psychological depth, and inventive creature design. The film’s ability to blend traditional horror with emotional storytelling makes it more than just a standard “lost in the woods” thriller. While some character development is sacrificed for pacing, and a few horror tropes are present, the overall execution is gripping and memorable. The slow-burn tension and surreal imagery create a haunting experience that lingers after the credits roll.
This film is ideal for horror fans who appreciate psychological and folk horror, as well as those who enjoy stories rooted in mythology and character-driven suspense. It’s particularly recommended for viewers who prefer atmospheric scares over jump scares and are interested in themes of guilt and redemption.
is a chilling and visually arresting horror film that combines psychological depth with folklore-inspired terror. Its strong atmosphere, unique monster, and emotional core make it a standout entry in modern horror.
: 4 out of 5 stars
