The Rite Movie Review
Pinoy Movie Blogger Reviews
I was a bit let down after seeing the film as I had this first impression that it was actually a back to form scary horror film which The Rite isn't. The Rite is just a supernatural film that tries to ground the overly exaggerated (by Hollywood) art of cleansing the spirit from demonic influence through exorcism.
You won't find spinning heads and vomit-puking exorcee on this film, The Rite is not your over the top 1973 classic horror The Exorcist. Though demons can probably push the limits of the human body to do so, The Rite doesn't milk that exaggerated way of exorcism that The Exorcist did... not until the finale though. There are some scenes that throws some cheap scares to startle, if not shock the audience. The Rite may have gotten away with some cheap scares, but the film delivers short in horror in my honest opinion. I am a movie horror fan and I prefer a slow creeping horror which can take you by surprise and that is a what constitute a perfect horror film which The Rite hasn't completely deliver.
Right off the bat, I knew what was going to be the climax of the film but the transition to that finale is what I am curious to see and I can say that The Rite delivered. The film started by stating that it is based on true events, this is probably why I didn't expect much extensive character development from the film. The film tried though, as it focuses more the story of Michael Kovak, it is a bit hard to route for the main protagonist especially with his bland performance of the confused and skeptic seminary student. Then of course there is Anthony Hopkin's who was pretty impressive with his role as Father Lucas, the mentor. The Rite has a pretty impressive musical scoring which I think stood out. Sound always play a big role in delivering a chilling horrific feel to any horror film, which the film done quite right. The cinematography and visual effects for the demonic possession was pretty impressive as well, not over the top... just realistically good, if those are the right words to use.
A movie goer should have an open mind about this film, as non-Catholic movie audience may find The Rite too preachy and biased over the Catholic religion. Although the Catholic church is not the only religious body which can do exorcism, it sure has established itself as one. The Rite usually tends to favor Catholicism which shouldn't be a surprise.
PMB Recommendation
The Verdict
The Rite is a decent supernatural thriller film which may throws some few scares, but it is one of those movies that saves the best for last. If you are looking for a somewhat close to reality exorcism film, this is probably the closest Hollywood might have gotten. Don't let the bland performance by the main character, a predictable storyline, and the theocratic nature of the film deter you from seeing the film... on the smaller screen. A decent film which okay to see on the big screen but it is better to wait for The Rite to come out on home video format, then watch it.
Pinoy Movie Blogger gives The Rite a two point five out of five frogs.
