The Ritual

In 1928, in the small farming town of Earling, Iowa, young Emma Schmidt experiences a series of terrifying phenomena. These episodes include night terrors, violent outbursts, and speaking in unfamiliar languages, leading her family to believe that she is possessed.

Concerned for Emma's wellbeing, her devoutly Catholic family seeks assistance from the Church. They reach out to Father Theophilus Riesinger, a priest known for his expertise in conducting rare exorcisms, fearing for their daughter's life.

Father Riesinger arrives in Iowa, accompanied by Father Joseph Steiger, a younger priest who struggles with his faith. Despite his doubts about demonic possession, he is drawn into the situation as he witnesses Emma’s strange behavior and unexplainable feats.

As Father Steiger encounters Emma, his skepticism begins to fade. He is astounded when Emma demonstrates supernatural abilities, speaking languages she has never learned, and revealing secrets of those around her that she shouldn't know.

The exorcism ritual takes place in a secluded convent where strict conditions are set. The priests create an atmosphere of silence and prayer, while Emma is restrained to a bed, anticipating the violent confrontation to come.

As the exorcism commences, the atmosphere changes dramatically. The temperature drops, and strange phenomena occur, including Emma's body convulsing violently. Multiple voices emanate from her, some mocking and others revealing ominous truths.

During the rituals, ancient spirits reveal their identities, including Beelzebub and Judas Iscariot. Emma's deceased father, who had abused her, manifests, complicating the battle between the demons and the priests.

What was initially planned as a single night’s ritual extends into a grueling 23-day ordeal. Each stage of the exorcism is more intense than the last, causing physical and emotional strain on both priests involved in the confrontation.

Father Steiger, initially weary and disillusioned, starts to find purpose through his connection with Emma. During fleeting moments of clarity, Emma confides in him, which reignites Steiger’s faith and determination to help her.

The climactic phase of the exorcism lasts for 72 harrowing hours. Emma thrashes about, objects fly across the room, and the priests demand that the spirits reveal their names. Tension escalates to a fever pitch as the climactic battle unfolds.

During the climax of the exorcism, Emma breaks free from her restraints and hovers above the bed, only to crash down lifelessly. This moment of chaos signifies the culmination of the spiritual confrontation, leaving everyone in utter silence.

In the aftermath, Emma awakens calm and tearful, indicating that the exorcism was successful. However, both priests are irrevocably changed; Riesinger appears haunted and altered while Steiger finally experiences a sense of peace.

Returning to her normal life, Emma faces whispers and uncertainty about her well-being, as rumors suggest that the demons may have not left entirely. Nevertheless, she strives to rebuild her life after a tumultuous few weeks.

Father Riesinger, while victorious, carries the heavy weight of the experience with him, having endured intense spiritual and emotional trials. He emerges visibly changed, with shaken hands and hollow eyes that reflect the toll the events have taken.

In his quest for understanding, Father Steiger writes a journal detailing the harrowing experiences he witnessed during the exorcism. Torn between the realms of the divine and psychological, he acknowledges that the event has transformed him forever.