The Rite | Review

Here is another fantastic performance by Anthony Hopkins. The man is phenomenal! This thriller tells the story of a young seminary student who travels to Italy to take a course on exorcism.

When student Michael Kovak (debut for Colin O'Donoghue) admits his skepticism during the first few days of the course, he is sent to Father Lucas Trevant (Hopkins). It is not until Michael faces the darkest forces that he discovers the true power of his faith.

The Rite reminds me vaguely of The Last Exorcism, but is actually a decent movie.

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I give this movie a 9/10 and here's why:

Plot: Although the main plot is much like most movies about exorcisms, it has a few surprises up its sleeve, which more than kept me interested.
Characters: The acting is fantastic. O'Donoghue's first gig is successful indeed. The growth in his character is crucial to the plot's forward motion. Not only does he pull it off, but he manages to develop the character completely.
Visuals: The effects are nothing short of awesome. From dripping embalming fluid at the beginning to cameras taking an above everything angle, this movie turns Hopkins into a horrifying demon and back again.
Genre rating for thriller: As far as thrillers go, this is a winner. I found myself wide-eyed with fists clenched in anticipation throughout the movie.

 Trailer courtesy of IMDB.