The Ritual (2017) is a British horror film directed by David Bruckner, based on the novel of the same name by Adam Nevill. The film stars Rafe Spall, Arsher Ali, Robert James-Collier, and Sam Troughton.

The story follows four college friends—Luke (Rafe Spall), Phil (Arsher Ali), Dom (Sam Troughton), and Hutch (Robert James-Collier)—who reunite for a hiking trip in the Scandinavian wilderness to honor their friend Rob, who was tragically killed in a robbery six months prior. The trip is meant to be a tribute to Rob and a way for the friends to reconnect.

Their journey takes a dark turn when Dom injures his knee, forcing the group to take a shortcut through an uncharted forest. As they venture deeper into the woods, they begin to encounter strange and terrifying phenomena. They find eerie symbols carved into trees, and a mutilated animal carcass hung high in the branches, suggesting the presence of a malevolent force.

As night falls, the friends seek shelter in an abandoned cabin, where they experience disturbing nightmares and hallucinations. They realize that they are being stalked by an ancient, monstrous entity tied to Norse mythology. The creature, which demands human sacrifices, forces the friends to confront their fears, guilt, and the secrets that have strained their relationships.

“The Ritual” is praised for its atmospheric tension, unsettling visuals, and psychological depth. The film expertly blends supernatural horror with elements of folk mythology, creating a chilling and immersive experience. Rafe Spall’s performance as Luke, who grapples with his own sense of guilt and inadequacy, adds emotional weight to the story. The film’s exploration of friendship, trauma, and survival, set against the backdrop of an ominous and foreboding forest, makes “The Ritual” a standout entry in the horror genre.