The Ritual 2 (2025) is a British horror-thriller directed by David Bruckner, based on the novel by Adam Nevill. The film centers around a group of four friends—Luke, Phil, Dom, and Hutch—who, after the tragic death of their fifth friend, Rob, decide to take a hiking trip in the remote forests of Sweden to honor his memory. As they venture deeper into the wilderness, they find themselves lost, and their adventure quickly turns into a desperate fight for survival.
The film begins with a traumatic event when Rob is killed during a robbery at a convenience store. To cope with their grief, the remaining friends agree to take the hiking trip, but things take a dark turn when they stray from their planned route. They come across a dense, eerie forest and, soon after, encounter strange, inexplicable occurrences. As they continue, they realize they are being stalked by a malevolent, supernatural force.
The central horror of The Ritual stems from an ancient creature from Norse mythology, a being known as the “Jötunn,” which is linked to a centuries-old cult. The creature is revealed to be a form of nature spirit that feeds on the fear and suffering of its victims. The men must contend not only with the physical danger posed by the creature but also their own personal demons, including guilt, grief, and unresolved conflicts among them.
The movie is notable for its slow-burn tension, atmospheric horror, and psychological depth. It mixes traditional survival horror elements with folklore, creating a sense of isolation and fear that builds throughout the film. Themes of trauma, guilt, and the human struggle to survive in the face of overwhelming odds are explored in a gritty and intense manner.
The Ritual is widely praised for its moody cinematography, strong performances (particularly from Rafe Spall as Luke), and effective blend of supernatural horror and psychological drama. The film has gained a following among horror fans for its suspenseful build-up and chilling climax.
