Al Pacino Performs an Exorcism in 'The Ritual' Official Trailer
Based on a true story inspired ‘The Exorcist.’
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
The Ritual is an upcoming horror film starring Al Pacino and Dan Stevens as two troubled priests who must overcome their differing beliefs and personal demons to save a young woman believed to be possessed.
Based on the true story of Emma Schmidt, whose alleged demonic possession in the late 1920s became one of the most thoroughly documented cases in American history, the film aims for an authentic portrayal of her harrowing exorcisms. Pacino plays Father Theophilus Riesinger, a priest grappling with a difficult past, while Stevens portrays Father Joseph Steiger, who is questioning his faith. Together, they face a dangerous and lengthy series of exorcisms sanctioned by the Church.
The recently released trailer hints at a tense and graphic depiction of the possession, with both priests battling not only the demonic force but also their own internal struggles. The Ritual, directed by David Midell, also features Ashley Greene and Abigail Cowen and is scheduled for North American theatrical release on June 6, 2025, with a UK and Irish release a week earlier on May 30.
Watch the trailer above.
