Cast
View All
Crew
Director
- Joko Anwar
Writer
- Joko Anwar
Producer
- Sheila Timothy
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Thriller/Horror/Mystery film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Ritual presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Joko Anwar brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2012, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Ritual took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.2 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1470 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2012, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: April 26, 2012
- Runtime: 1h 27m
- Budget: $200,000
Where to Watch
