The Ritual

The Ritual

Year: 2018

Runtime: 94 min

Language: English

Director: David Bruckner

Horror

Seeking a way to reconnect, four college friends embark on a hiking trip deep in the Scandinavian wilderness. Their journey takes a dark turn when they stumble upon a mysterious symbol carved into a tree, leading them off the marked path. As they venture further, an unsettling atmosphere descends, and they realize they are being stalked by a sinister presence that tests their friendship and pushes them to the edge of madness.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Ritual (2018)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Ritual (2018). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events unfold in the modern era, characterized by contemporary societal norms and the influence of technology on relationships. However, the story incorporates ancient Scandinavian mythology, tethering the characters to timeless themes of fear, survival, and the unknown.

Location

Sarek National Park, Sweden

Sarek National Park is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including rugged mountains, vast forests, and remote wilderness. It attracts outdoor enthusiasts and hikers tackling its challenging trails, like Kungsleden, or King's Trail. The park's isolation adds an air of mystery, making it a perfect setting for lurking dangers and supernatural phenomena.

🏞️ Nature 🌲 Forest 🏔️ Hiking

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:45

Main Characters – The Ritual (2018)

Meet the key characters of The Ritual (2018), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Luke (Rafe Spall)

Luke is portrayed as a complex character grappling with guilt and trauma following a tragic event. His cowardice during Rob's murder haunts him, driving his determination to overcome fear in the wilderness. As challenges escalate, he evolves from a passive survivor to a proactive individual willing to confront ancient horrors to secure his escape.

😔 Guilt 🌲 Survivor ⚔️ Courage

Dom (Sam Troughton)

Dom is characterized by skepticism and resentment, particularly towards Luke due to the past trauma they share. His injury severely impacts his role in the group and heightens his vulnerability. Ultimately, Dom's willingness to sacrifice himself reflects the desperate circumstances the group faces as they navigate unknown terrors.

😟 Skeptic 🤕 Injured 💔 Sacrifice

Phil (Arsher Ali)

Phil serves as a moral compass amidst the group's turmoil, struggling with his own fears while trying to maintain group cohesion. His descent into paranoia, symbolized by his actions in the cabin, highlights the psychological strain the wilderness inflicts on the friends. Phil's character arc ultimately represents the theme of succumbing to darker forces.

⚖️ Morality 😨 Fear 🌌 Despair

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:45

Major Themes – The Ritual (2018)

Explore the central themes of The Ritual (2018), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🪄 Supernatural

The presence of the Jötunn intertwines Scandinavian folklore with the narrative, showcasing how ancient myths influence modern lives. The characters' encounters with supernatural elements create a blend of horror and intrigue as they navigate the forest's dark mysteries. This theme explores the thin line between reality and myth and raises questions about human vulnerability in the face of the unexplainable.

⚖️ Guilt

Luke's guilt over Rob's death fuels the psychological tension of the film. The story explores how unresolved trauma can haunt individuals, affecting their actions and relationships. The struggle to confront one's shortcomings underpins character dynamics and drives the narrative forward, suggesting that guilt can influence one's fate.

🏺 Sacrifice

Sacrifice plays a central role, culminating in a dramatic climax with the characters facing the demands of the Jötunn. The theme poses questions about the costs of survival and the moral dilemmas involved in appeasing ancient deities. This motif mirrors humanity's historical struggles with faith and the societal pressures that lead to dire consequences.

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:45

Unlock the Full Story of The Ritual

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Ritual in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Ritual is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Ritual Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Ritual, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Ritual Summary

The Ritual Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Ritual with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Ritual Timeline

More About The Ritual

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Ritual: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Ritual

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