"THE RITUAL" (2025) Unleashes Hell As Al Pacino Faces Off Against The Devil (Trailer)
Image Courtesy of XYZ Films
Supernatural encounters and unexplained phenomena seem to be making headlines more than ever. Now, XYZ Films is bringing one of the most infamous real-life exorcisms to the big screen with their latest production, "The Ritual." Based on true events, this chilling film delves into a case that has haunted history—and we’ve got your first look at the intense new trailer below.
Growing up in a deeply religious household, I learned one thing early on—you don’t mess with the devil. But what happens when he comes looking for you? How do you fight something so powerful and beyond comprehension?
Hollywood has tackled exorcism stories before, often leaning into sensationalized horror over reality. However, “The Ritual” aims to change that narrative by bringing a true exorcism case to the big screen. Written and directed by David Midell, the film promises a terrifying yet authentic look at one of history’s most infamous possessions.
“The Ritual” is set to possess theaters on June 6, 2025—mark your calendars because this is one battle between good and evil you won’t want to miss.
WATCH THE TRAILER FOR “THE RITUAL” BELOW
The film stars Al Pacino, Dan Stevens, Ashley Greene, Abigail Cowen, Maria Camila Giraldo, Meadow Williams, Patrick Fabian, and Patricia Heaton.
From The Press Release:
As the priest at Saint Joseph’s in Earling, Iowa, Father Joseph Steiger lived a quiet, dutiful life, tending to his flock. In the fall of 1928, Father Steiger was approached with an urgent concern…
For years, 46-year-old Emma Schmidt had experienced frightening blackouts, aversion to holy objects, and other unspeakable afflictions. Her suffering was documented in medical evaluations, mental hygiene reports, and personal diaries. After extensive psychiatric treatment provided no relief, Emma’s priest recommended a more spiritual remedy: a solemn exorcism. A secluded convent in Father Steiger’s parish was chosen as the site for the ritual. Despite significant reservations, Father Steiger agreed to oversee the exorcism. Theophilus Riesinger, a mysterious Capuchin friar, whose previous experience with exorcism made him a controversial figure, was assigned to carry out the task. With Emma’s arrival in Earling, a darkness began to surround the convent, and unexplainable incidents began to occur; through first-hand interviews, memoirs, and other forms of documentation, what emerges is a tapestry of dark forces, human frailty, and temptation that tested even the most steadfast of those involved. The months-long ordeal that followed would push all with the convent, including Father Steiger, Father Theophilus, and Emma herself, close to the edge of insanity.
Finally, after a marathon 72-hour exorcism, Emma was freed from her affliction, and was able to utter the name of God once more. She lived out the remainder of her life in peace. The exorcism of Schmidt remains the most thoroughly documented and widely publicized exorcism in American history.
What is really cool about the promotion for “THE RITUAL” is that XYZ Films has provided a slew of source material for fans and paranormal sleuths to scour through at Discover.TheRitual.com and it even has a direct link to get your exorcism questions answered by a certified priest! Now if that ain’t good marketing, we don’t know what is. The site is massive and dives deep into every aspect of the film that is mentioned as well as a sneak peek at some stills from the film as shown below.
Image Courtesy of XYZ Films
Image Courtesy of XYZ Films
Image Courtesy of XYZ Films
Image Courtesy of XYZ Films
Keep your bible and rosary handy as we’ll bring you more about “THE RITUAL” as we get it.
Stay up to date with “The Dark Side Of Pop Culture” by following Macabre Daily on Instagram, Facebook, and BlueSky!
