The Ritual (2017) is a British horror film directed by David Bruckner, based on the 2011 novel of the same name by Adam Nevill. The film masterfully blends psychological horror with elements of folk and cosmic horror, creating a chilling tale of survival, guilt, and the darkness that lurks in the human psyche.
The story follows four college friendsโLuke (Rafe Spall), Hutch (Robert James-Collier), Phil (Arsher Ali), and Dom (Sam Troughton)โwho embark on a hiking trip in the remote forests of northern Sweden to honor their friend Rob (Paul Reid), who was tragically killed in a convenience store robbery six months earlier.
Their journey takes a dark turn when Dom injures his knee, forcing the group to take a shortcut through a dense, uncharted forest. Almost immediately, they sense that something sinister is watching them. Strange symbols carved into trees and an abandoned cabin with a macabre effigy inside further unsettle the group. That night, they experience terrifying nightmares, and they awaken with unexplained injuries and a growing sense of dread.
As they venture deeper into the forest, they discover evidence of ancient rituals and a malevolent presence stalking them. The group is plagued by guilt, fear, and internal conflicts, which threaten to tear them apart. One by one, they are hunted by a monstrous entity connected to Norse mythology, eventually revealed to be a Jรถtunnโa demigod-like creature worshipped by a cult in the forest.
The climax sees Luke confronting his personal guilt over Robโs death while fighting for survival. Ultimately, he faces the creature and the cult in a final act of defiance, escaping the forest but forever changed by the ordeal.
The Ritual has become a modern horror favorite, particularly among fans of folk horror and psychological terror. Its unique blend of character-driven storytelling, atmospheric tension, and mythological horror sets it apart in a crowded genre.
The film has been praised for its exploration of male vulnerability, its striking visuals, and its ability to evoke dread without relying heavily on jump scares. It remains a standout example of how horror can be used to explore deep emotional and psychological themes.