People possessed by the devil inexplicably speaking in previously unknown languages, changes in one’s voice, old Jesuits performing exorcisms. This all seems natural to students at Saint Louis University. However, this is the plot of “The Rite,” a horror film which tries to mystify the Catholic Church, and probably succeeds, at least for those unfamiliar with it.
Based on a book of the same name, “The Rite” tells the story of an American priest named Michael Kovak (Colin O’Donoghue) who is sent to the Vatican to take a course in exorcism.

Though he continues to question his faith, he decides to meet Fr. Lucas Trevant (Anthony Hopkins), a Welsh Jesuit and local expert on exorcism. Meanwhile, an Italian reporter, (Alice Braga) who is also enrolled in the course, asks Kovak to disclose any information he has regarding the taboo subject.

While he continuously doubts the validity of exorcism, Fr. Kovak begins to experience inexplicable things, including the vomiting of nails by one possessed woman. He soon learns that he must confront his past in order to save both himself and those around him.
As far as the plot goes, this film was unimpressive to say the least. Ultimately, it brought nothing new since “The Exorcist” except perhaps better make-up. In fact, in homage to that film, Hopkins asks, “Did you expect spinning heads and pea soup?” Well, we did expect something other than the same images of the past.

Unfortunately, the film tried to present a serious discussion about science and faith in the context of a horror film and failed in both regards.
With regards to the acting, Hopkins reprises his role as Hannibal Lecter, which may be interesting for younger audiences, but seems all too played out for the rest of us. Even though his sharp wit and menacing speech were again effective in this film, his role here could not match that of the past. His co-star O’Donoghue, on the other hand, does do a decent job in his performance in spite of the character that he portrays.

In fact, one rather annoying part of this film was the lead character, Fr. Kovak. Even though he has nearly completed his work in the seminary, he continues to doubt his faith and questions whether or not he will perform the rite of ordination. However, it was his love interest and flirtation with the reporter Angeline that seemed most out of place. Clearly, the script was tailored to those who have had very few experiences with priests and those studying to become priests. Also, I’m not sure why, but for some reason a crucifix turned upside down marks the presence of the devil in this film. For me, it simply conjured up images of St. Peter, but perhaps I am confused and alone with that thought.

While this film will in no way be memorable, if you are looking for a few frightening scenes without the torture-porn genre of the “Saw” films, it is worth your time.