Directed by
Mikael Håfström
Made by
New Line Cinema
Discover the intricate plot of The Rite (2011). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Michael Kovak, portrayed by Colin O’Donoghue, grapples with a profound disillusionment stemming from his relationship with his father, who operates a mortuary. Seeking to escape this legacy and secure a free college education, he enrolls in a seminary, fully intending to renounce his vows upon graduation. Fast forward four years, Michael stands on the brink of ordination, but immediately afterward, he writes a resignation letter to his superior, Father Matthew, played by Toby Jones. This letter is rooted in his deep-seated crisis of faith. In an attempt to dissuade Michael from this hurried decision, Father Matthew attempts to catch up with him, but fate intervenes when he trips over a curb, inadvertently causing a biker to veer toward an oncoming vehicle.
In a twist of irony, it’s Michael whom the young woman, mistaking him for a priest in his clerical attire, seeks out for absolution. Despite his skepticism, he cannot turn her away; thus, he comforts her and performs the act of absolving her sins. Witnessing Michael’s calm demeanor in this moment, Father Matthew insists that Michael has a calling to the priesthood, regardless of his own feelings about it. Soon after, Father Matthew presents Michael with a compelling opportunity: a chance to travel to Rome for an exorcism class. Michael, now faced with the daunting prospect of a $100,000 student loan should he leave seminary, reluctantly agrees, though he reserves the right to withdraw post-class if he wishes.
During his time in Rome, he crosses paths with the intriguing Angelina, played by Alice Braga. Unbeknownst to him initially, she is a reporter there to cover the exorcism course for a feature article. Soon, Father Xavier, portrayed by Ciarán Hinds, recognizes Michael’s skepticism about faith and encourages him to seek counsel from the esteemed Father Lucas, played by Anthony Hopkins, a celebrated Welsh Jesuit exorcist. Intrigued yet apprehensive, Michael accepts this advice and meets Father Lucas at his residence, where he is introduced to one of Lucas’s patients: a troubled sixteen-year-old girl grappling with demonic possession following a horrific trauma inflicted by her father.
Despite witnessing several unsettling phenomena—such as the girl expelling long nails and speaking in tongues—Michael remains resolute in his skepticism. His introspections are further complicated when Elena asks him to share insights from Father Lucas, yet Michael feels torn and declines her request. As the girl’s plight intensifies, Father Lucas and Michael decide to transfer her to a hospital for urgent intervention. Here, Michael witnesses another exorcism orchestrated by Father Lucas while he, in an act of integrity, chooses to withdraw from the event afterward. Tragically, the night culminates in the death of both the girl and her unborn child, leaving Father Lucas despondent and perceiving himself as a failure.
The situation takes a dark turn when Father Lucas begins to exhibit signs of demonization himself. In a moment of isolation, he sits in the rain outside his home until Michael and Angelina find him. Aware of his affliction, Father Lucas beseeches Michael to locate Father Xavier to facilitate his exorcism. However, when they learn Father Xavier is unreachable for three days, Michael makes a pivotal choice: he decides to conduct the exorcism solo, with Angelina at his side. After a fierce confrontation with the demon—who reveals itself to be named Baal—Michael triumphantly regains his lost faith and successfully expels the demon from Father Lucas’s body.
The film reaches an emotional crescendo as Michael prevails and subsequently returns to the United States, now transformed. In its closing moments, we find him donning the robes of Father Michael Kovak, stepping into a confessional to hear a girl’s confession. This marks his journey from skepticism to spiritual enlightenment, solidifying his commitment and newfound vocation as a priest.
Track the key events of The Rite (2011) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Michael's Decision
Disillusioned with his father's work as a mortuary owner, Michael Kovak decides to enter seminary school. His ultimate plan is to abdicate his vows after completing his education to secure a free college degree.
Ordination to the Diaconate
Four years after beginning his studies, Michael is ordained to the diaconate at the seminary. However, he quickly writes a letter of resignation to Father Matthew, expressing his doubts about his faith and desire to leave the priesthood.
Encounter on the Street
While leaving the seminary, Michael has a fateful encounter where a young woman mistakenly believes he is a priest and asks him for absolution. Despite his internal conflict, Michael performs the ritual, which makes him question his decisions further.
Invitation to Rome
Father Matthew insists that Michael is meant to be a priest and persuades him to travel to Rome for an exorcism class. To avoid a hefty student loan, Michael reluctantly agrees, keeping the option to resign open after the course.
Meeting Angelina
During the exorcism course in Rome, Michael meets Angelina, a reporter covering the class for an article. They strike up a conversation, and she becomes interested in Michael's skeptical views on faith and exorcism.
Father Lucas and the Possessed Girl
Michael is introduced to Father Lucas, a renowned exorcist, who shows him a young girl possessed after being raped by her father. Despite the traumatic situation, Michael remains skeptic, doubting the reality of the supernatural.
Hospital Exorcism
As the possessed girl's condition deteriorates, Father Lucas performs an exorcism in the hospital with Michael observing. The events escalate tragically when the girl miscarries, leaving Father Lucas feeling defeated.
Father Lucas's Possession
Following the death of the girl, Father Lucas begins to exhibit strange behavior indicating he may be possessed. This alarming change prompts Michael and Angelina to seek help from Father Xavier, but they find him unreachable.
Michael's Decision to Exorcise
In a desperate act to save Father Lucas, Michael resolves to perform the exorcism himself. With Angelina by his side, he confronts the demon, drawing on his lost faith to combat the malevolent force.
Successful Exorcism
After a grueling confrontation with the demon Baal, Michael successfully expels it from Father Lucas. With his faith restored, Michael leaves Rome, feeling a sense of fulfillment.
Return to the United States
Michael returns home to the United States, having completed his transformative journey. He has found renewed purpose and clarity about his calling in life.
Becoming Father Michael Kovak
In the final scene, Michael is now recognized as Father Michael Kovak, serving in the priesthood. He enters a confessional, ready to guide others, signaling the embrace of his mission and the faith he had once doubted.
Meet the characters that bring The Rite (2011) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Michael Kovak (Colin O'Donoghue)
Michael Kovak begins as a disillusioned seminarian questioning his faith and purpose. His character evolves as he confronts the realities of exorcism and the existence of evil, ultimately leading him to reclaim his belief and embrace his role as a priest. His journey is marked by inner conflict and a search for identity in the shadow of his father's legacy.
Father Lucas (Anthony Hopkins)
Father Lucas is a seasoned Jesuit exorcist who embodies the struggle against demonic forces. His character showcases the burden of faith and the personal toll that confronting evil can take. As he battles his own issues, he becomes a mentor for Michael, illustrating the nuances of belief and the pains of spiritual warfare.
Father Matthew (Toby Jones)
Father Matthew is a supportive figure for Michael, encouraging him to explore his calling. His persistence despite Michael's initial reluctance reflects his deep commitment to the priesthood and the importance of faith. He serves as a guiding influence in Michael's journey of self-discovery.
Uncover the settings of The Rite (2011), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
Contemporary
The movie takes place in a contemporary setting, reflecting modern societal views on faith and skepticism. This time period showcases the struggle of individuals grappling with belief in the face of science and rationality, which is embodied in Michael's character. The events unfold in an era where the traditional beliefs are often challenged by modern ideologies.
Location
Rome, United States
Rome, known for its rich history and as the center of the Catholic Church, serves as a backdrop for Michael's transformative journey. The city's atmosphere is steeped in religious significance and ancient architecture, making it an ideal setting for a story centered around faith and exorcism. The United States is where Michael eventually returns, signifying his reconciliation with his faith and his new life as a priest.
Explore the core themes of The Rite (2011). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Faith
The theme of faith is central to Michael's journey, as he battles his skepticism and ultimately finds his calling. His encounters with exorcism and the struggles of Father Lucas deepen his understanding and connection to his beliefs. The film explores the complexities of faith, questioning its existence and significance in people's lives.
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Good vs Evil
The struggle between good and evil is depicted through Michael's experiences with demonic possession and exorcism. The film illustrates the challenge faced by individuals in confronting malevolent forces, both externally and within themselves. This theme is crucial as it highlights the battle for one's soul and the fight against internal demons.
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