Based on the book ‘The Rite’: The making of a modern Exorcist by journalist Matt Baglio, this movie follows the life of a young priest in-training, Michael Kovak (Colin O’Donoghue) who leaves a depressing life working at home with his father in their funeral home business by enroling in a seminary school. His intention is to gain a good education and then leave without actually qualifying as a Priest.
Events in Michaels past, which were never fully explored in the movie, have put him at odds with his religious beliefs and the theological training he receives only serves to add to this conflict within him.
The film is based on a true story – so it is going to come across more ‘creepy’ than head spinningly frightening…
Anthony Hopkins plays the role very convincingly, unsurprisingly! and his conversations with Colin O’Donoghue are fun and light hearted to watch!
The Rite does offer some philosophical food for thought and is the story of faith being questioned and put to the test.
My star rating out of 5 stars = 3 stars.
Posted by Caterina Nolan 2nd March 2011.