The Rite [DVD] [2011]

Good film

I note first that 'The Rite' is officially decribed as a 'supernatural thriller.' Thriller is not really correct, given the story is based on true events in recent years, as written about in 'The Rite' by Matt Baglio. Baglio wrote about the experiences of an experienced priest from the west US while in Italy. The movie is based pretty much on the book itself, with the main exception being that the priest is dramatized as a young person, unlike who the character is actually based on.It is an excellent first-rate movie, and one that focuses on the reality and necessity in society of dealing with possessions of people through the rites of deliverances and exorcisms by trained and learned individuals.Note: If you are interested in the subject of exorcisms, be aware not to take it lightly nor to consider attempting it yourself. It is dangerous for the untrained, and can potentially leave the victimized worse off if not done properly and within certain strict conditions.Other than that, enjoy the movie! I also recommend Baglio's book which is excellent and also available on Amazon.

This is a cool DVD for fans of Anthony Hopkins. Does not disappoint. As expected.

I would like to kick this of by saying if you are looking for a film as good or as classic of the Exorcist then this is not that film but it is one to match it or as near as you will get I will not go into the plot as if you read the sypnosis on the dvd itself that gives you the general idea. What I will say is that is a film to be ranked as good as the Exorsist or even the Omen to a point Anthony Hopkins performance is on top form yet again as he is in many of his films, I have seen certainly worse films oh my have I seen worse, anyone seen the Exorsist 2 or Paranormal activity the ghost dimention or the the ones after the first film.

The Rite is one of the most thoughtful and interesting films on exorcism produced by Hollywood. The film is actually more of a study on the nature of truth and faith than a string of scary moments involving spinning heads and the projectile vomiting of pea soup. It challenges anyone who believes in God to re-examine their belief in the Devil. Just for good measure it also throws in free of change some seriously creepy moments and jump out of the chair scares. Highly recommended. (I saw this as part of my Amazon Prime membership which I also think is worth 5 stars!).

This may be based on a true story but this was more of psychological plot than demonic, with Hopkins replaying a Hannibal Lector towards the end. SLOW!

There have been so many exorcism films (and to be honest I laughed though most of The Exorcist) but really liked this one. No gory effects and some top rate acting from Anthony Hopkins. Colin Odonoghue holds his own as an introspective character - a bit of a lost soul which I think he depicts well. Felt very atmospheric too - but could have done without the mule!

I think the reaction to this film depends on the real life experiences of the viewer. It is a very powerful story that needs to be told but I found the format uncomfortable. I am not happy with a black screen with images of faces heads picked out. My eyes are trying to make the whole screen mean something and it can't when it is all black. I find it uncomfortable visually and it takes away my concentration on the story. I do have real life experience of the subject and it is very powerful. Of course Anthony Hopkins gives a brilliant performance - in fact all the acting is excellent but I felt the story was compromised by the style of the production.