AceShowbiz - Legendary actor Al Pacino is set to make a spine-tingling return to the horror genre with his latest film, "The Ritual," directed by David Midell. It centers on Pacino as Father Theophilus Riesinger and Dan Stevens as Father Joseph Steiger.

Scheduled for a theatrical release on June 6, this gripping horror film will follow the two men who must put aside their differences to perform a harrowing exorcism. Pacino's character is a seasoned exorcist with a complex history while Stevens' character grapples with his own crisis of faith, adding depth and tension to the narrative.

The film delves into the darkest aspects of religious horror, promising to bring "the most terrifying exorcism in American history" to the silver screen.

Drawing inspiration from real-life accounts, the plot is based on Father Riesinger's multiple exorcisms of Emma Schmidt, later known as Anna Ecklund, in the early 20th century.

The trailer provides unsettling glimpses of these events, showcasing grotesque contortions and disturbing imagery that are a hallmark of the exorcism horror subgenre. Pacino's haunting voice-over warns of the relentless efforts of the Devil to thwart their mission, setting an ominous tone for what lies ahead.

The film's trailer and premise have already led to comparisons with "The Pope's Exorcist," Russell Crowe's 2023 horror film that garnered attention despite mixed reviews. As anticipation builds, the distinct blend of historical context and terrifying elements positions "The Ritual" as a noteworthy entry in contemporary horror cinema.