The world of horror just got a whole lot scarier with the news that XYZ Films has acquired the worldwide rights to the upcoming exorcism horror film, The Ritual. This highly anticipated film is set to star two of Hollywood’s most talented actors, Al Pacino and Dan Stevens, and is based on a true story that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Directed by David Midell, The Ritual follows the harrowing journey of two priests, one questioning his faith and the other reckoning with a troubled past, as they attempt to save a possessed young woman through a series of difficult and dangerous exorcisms. The film is based on the real-life case of Emma Schmidt, whose demonic possession remains the most thoroughly documented exorcism in American history.
Al Pacino, an award-winning and iconic actor, is celebrated for his legendary performances in film and theater. He has won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his electrifying portrayal of Frank Slade in Scent of a Woman, and is renowned for his roles as Michael Corleone in The Godfather trilogy and Tony Montana in Scarface.
Dan Stevens, who most recently appeared in the films Abigail, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, and as a voice in the Academy Award-winning animated feature The Boy and the Heron, is set to star alongside Pacino. Stevens, who has also appeared in Beauty and the Beast, I’m Your Man, and Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, will next be seen in Tilman Singer’s Cuckoo, which will be released by Neon on August 2nd.
David Midell, an Independent Spirit and NAACP Image Award nominated filmmaker, is the creative force behind The Ritual. Midell’s last film, The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain, was released theatrically to critical acclaim, including multiple Independent Spirit Award nominations, an NAACP Image Award, and a Gotham Award for Outstanding Lead Performance for Frankie Faison.
Enrico Natale, Midell’s creative partner, produced, edited, and starred in The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain. Natale and Midell’s collaborations have produced over a dozen film festival awards, three Independent Spirit Awards nominations, a Gotham Award, and accolades from all areas of the industry.
The Ritual promises to be a chilling and authentic portrayal of demonic possession, and XYZ Films is set to release the film theatrically in 2025, with international distribution to be arranged at the upcoming Cannes market.
Pacino is repped by CAA and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller, Hoberman, Newman, Warren, Richman, Rush, Kaller, Gellman, Meigs & Fox. Stevens is represented by CAA, Julian Belfrage Associates, and Peikoff Mahan Law Office. Midell is repped by XYZ Films.
I am excited to see how this talented cast and crew bring this true story to life. Are you looking forward to watching The Ritual? What are your thoughts on the exorcism horror genre? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
