CREDIT: NETFLIX/EONE FILMS
With incredible acting, The Ritual, a Netflix exclusive, is the next horror film to check off on your must-see list

The Ritual, a Netflix exclusive that was released on Feb. 9, has been the refresh the horror genre was in definite need of. What's already started to build a cult following, The Ritual may be one of the best horror movies of the year. With such great attention to detail, truly frightening scenes and an unforgettable monster, The Ritual is a must see.

What started with a tragic death of a friend, a group of four friends go off on a hiking excursion in northern Sweden where they end up trekking through a haunted forest. As unexplainable instances start to occur, the friends must work together to escape the forest where a menacing presence is stalking their every move.

Now when reading the plotline, I will admit it sounded no different from The Blair Witch Project or a gender swapped version of the Descent. But as each gut-wrenching scene progressed, the movie developed into something so much more; a suspenseful tragedy that blurred the lines of what is real and what is the supernatural. There was just the right amount of witchcraft mixed with the breakdown of the human psyche. To make all this translate so well on screen was the incredible acting. All lead characters brought their own unique flair and personal elements to the screen, creating a cohesive (yet dysfunctional) group of men. The chemistry was believable, the fear felt real and the passion for friendship and redemption burned through the entire film.

I could go on about the beautiful visuals and the well put together scenes, but what made The Ritual truly unique, was the nightmarish monster that stalked the main characters throughout the entire movie. To make this even better, was that the film let your imagination run wild until the final scenes where the creature is revealed. Without giving any more away, I assure you, you will not be disappointed by some stereotypical witch or ghost. Instead you will be faced with something much more intricate and that will sure be engrained in your mind, long after the movie ends.

Whether a horror fanatic or just a movie lover in general, I highly recommend watching The Ritual. It was such a refreshing take on the horror genre and will truly leave you in shock and awe.

“When you go into the woods today, you're in for a big surprise…”