THE RITUAL is not your typical horror movie. It was directed by David Midell and co-written with Enrico Natale. Based on true events, it dramatizes the exorcism of Emma Schmidt (real name Anna Ecklund) in 1928, a story that has influenced many other exorcism stories. The movie reimagines a terrible spiritual battle. Al Pacino plays Father Theophilus Riesinger, and Dan Stevens plays Father Joseph Steiger. But it’s not just the story that makes people want to watch—it’s also the creepy sense of place. Natchez, Mississippi did a great job of capturing that setting.
THE STORY OF THE RITUAL
Set in the late 1920s, THE RITUAL centers on Emma Schmidt (Abigail Cowen), a young woman seemingly gripped by demonic possession. The Catholic Church dispatches two priests: the experienced but emotionally burdened Father Riesinger and the more skeptical local cleric, Father Steiger. To save Emma’s soul, they fight doubt inside themselves and forces outside themselves. The movie shows exorcism in a controlled and historically accurate way, which is different from typical horror tropes. As Sister Rose and the mother superior, Ashley Greene and Patricia Heaton play supporting roles.
WHEN AND WHERE WASÂ THE RITUAL FILMED?
Principal photography for THE RITUAL began in January 2024 in Natchez, Mississippi. Though initially slated to star Ben Foster, he exited early in production and was replaced by Dan Stevens. The shoot wrapped up by spring 2024. This old town not only had the right look, but it was also very useful for making a movie about religious life and rituals.
Here are some of the most important places where the movie was shot:
1. ST. MARY BASILICA – THE SPIRITUAL HEART OF THE FILM
The most important place for THE RITUAL was St. Mary Basilica in downtown Natchez. Its Gothic Revival architecture, stained glass and holy items created a real Catholic atmosphere that was perfect for showing Masses and exorcisms. For important scenes—the production team used both the main church and the parish buildings nearby. It wasn’t just a set; it was a real place of worship with a lot of history.
Local priest Father Aaron Williams played a crucial role in ensuring liturgical accuracy. He guided the actors through specific rituals, demonstrating how to swing the thurible and arrange vestments. Scenes involving altar servers, blessings, and church rites were executed with precision. Extras were recruited from the local parish, and their inclusion gave a real sense of community. Even cast members like Al Pacino and Dan Stevens attended Mass during breaks in filming.
2. NATCHEZ DOWNTOWN STREETS – RECREATING THE 1920s
Besides the basilica, downtown Natchez was a great place to see things that would have looked good in the 1920s. The streets were paved with brick, had wrought iron balconies, and gas lanterns. Local businesses were redressed to look like they did business in that era. Old cars, horse-drawn carriages, and extras dressed in clothes from the time period helped take the town back in time one hundred years.
People who live in the area said that the film crews gave the town new life. Near the filming areas, there was a short rush of people going to restaurants and other businesses. The historical feel of the town made it perfect for a story set in the past.
3. INTERIOR SETS BUILT IN PARISH BUILDINGS
While St. Mary’s served as the primary backdrop, some scenes required intimate or controlled settings. These were created inside nearby parish buildings. A church basement music room, for example, was transformed into a cast waiting area and rehearsal space. Production crews constructed sets replicating confessional booths, dormitory rooms, and a basement chamber where the film’s most intense exorcism scenes take place.
Father Williams let the rectory be used for something else—so crew and actors could stay there. His close cooperation made sure that the—historical and theological details were correct all the way down to choosing the right vestments and Bible readings based on the liturgical calendar.
4. COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION – A LOCATION ALIVE WITH FAITH
More than a location, Natchez became a character in its own right. Many locals, including children and families, took part in the film as extras. One memorable experience involved a Mass scene where the bishop and several priests participated while hymns echoed through the basilica. Actress Ashley Greene and Patricia Heaton were seen humming along during rehearsals. The production became deeply intertwined with parish life.
Behind the scenes, people were talking about spiritual things. Al Pacino is said to have had philosophical arguments with Father Williams—asking him deep questions about God’s will and the life of a priest. People on the crew even asked for daily blessings of the set. One member of the crew kept in touch with the church after filming, which suggests that the place had a big effect on more than just making movies.
5. NATCHEZ RIVERFRONT – ATMOSPHERIC TRANSITIONS
Though not central to the narrative, scenes involving the exterior transitions, night walks, or spiritual reflection were filmed along the Mississippi River. The fog-draped riverfront and rolling bluffs provided the perfect metaphor for the story’s internal spiritual battles. These brief but effective shots added depth to the atmosphere, reinforcing the town’s role as more than a backdrop.
CONCLUSION: LOCATION AS SOUL
Though THE RITUAL tells a story from Iowa’s history, it found its cinematic soul in Natchez. The town’s architecture, religious heritage, and warm community helped breathe life into a complex spiritual tale. From the echoing halls of St. Mary Basilica to the cobblestone streets that mimic the 1920s, every frame shot in Natchez carries a layer of authenticity.
This production wasn’t just about capturing a story—it was about honoring a legacy. And in doing so, Natchez became a quiet star of THE RITUAL, holding the sacred and the terrifying in its walls and alleyways.
THE RITUAL (2025) TRAILER
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