Based on a Church-Sanctioned Exorcism
The Ritual draws from the 1928 exorcism of Emma Schmidt, one of the few cases officially recognized by the Catholic Church.
Led by a Legendary Exorcist
The real-life exorcism was performed by Father Theophilus Riesinger, a Capuchin priest known for conducting some of the most intense exorcisms in American history.
A 23-Day Battle Against Evil
The exorcism took place over 23 days in a secluded Iowa convent, with nuns and clergy documenting terrifying events including levitation, unearthly voices, and supernatural strength.
Covered by Time Magazine
The case gained national attention and was featured in major outlets, including Time Magazine, cementing its place in American religious and paranormal history.
Inspired by the Book Begone Satan! and Decades of Horror Lore
The original account was chronicled in the 1935 book Begone Satan!, which has influenced countless horror stories, exorcism films, and theological debates for nearly a century.
Hidden for Nearly a Century
The full details of Emma Schmidt’s exorcism were buried for decades—The Ritual brings the horror back to light, revealing the origin story of demonic possession in America.
CREDITS
Written and Directed by David Midell
Story by David Midell, Enrico Natale
Produced by Enrico Natale, Ross Marks, Andrew Stevens, Mitchell Welch
Executive Produced by Nick Spicer, Aram Tertzakian, Nate Bolotin, Alex Williams, Maxime Cottray, Matthew Helderman, Luke Taylor, Tyler Gould, Lee Broda, Jeff Rice, Meadow Williams, Chris Paladino, Tamra Bohorquez, Sharad Chib, Isaac Rosner, Cole Garson, Jordan Wagner, Jeff Holland, Rick Moore
Starring Al Pacino, Dan Stevens, Ashley Greene, Abigail Cowen, Maria Camila Giraldo, Meadow Williams, Patrick Fabian, Patricia Heaton