Anthony Hopkins must have turned down dozens of chances to reprise something like Hannibal Lecter and this time he's unwisely taken one.
He is Father Lucas, a priest who has performed many exorcisms and is suddenly himself possessed. His face goes distinctly black, his eyes pop and he bellows at seminary student Michael (Colin O'Donoghue), who tries to rid him of his evil spirit.
The Rite, directed by Mikael Hafstrom and said to be based on a true story, is perfectly well made but as melodramatic as hell itself (Father Lucas to a doubting Michael: "Choosing not to believe in the devil won't protect you from him").
It begins with the statement that there are hundreds of exorcists in the States and their work involves thousands of troubled souls.
Non-believers may take the line that this is typical of American religious eccentricity but for Hafstrom it's his cue for a reasonably accomplished essay into the territory of The Exorcist.
His attempt is aided by actors of the calibre of Ciaran Hinds, Alice Braga and Rutger Hauer. Hopkins's contribution is a moot point but he does what he has to do with zeal and only the merest hint of humour.
The Rite
Cert: 15
