Canadian actor and filmmaker Mark O’Brien (READY OR NOT) does triple duty in his impressive, slow-burn directorial feature debut THE RIGHTEOUS, which he also wrote and stars in. Praised at genre film festivals around the world, THE RIGHTEOUS is a unique and darkly engaging spiritual thriller strikingly shot in black and white. The film tells the story of Frederic (Henry Czerny) a grieving man struggling with his faith, who helps an injured young man, Aaron Smith (O’Brien) who stumbles onto his property one night, claiming to be lost in the woods. Frederic and his wife (Mimi Kuzyk) invite the man to stay for the night, but Frederic soon begins to have doubts about this enigmatic stranger’s story — and his motives for being there. When Aaron asks Frederic to commit an unspeakable deed, it becomes clear that the man is not who he seems, and has been sent to test the very limits of Frederic’s existence.

Best Cinematography, Blood in the Snow Canadian Film Festival 2021; Best Screenplay, Fantasia Film Festival 2021; Best Actor (Special Mention) Henry Czerny, Molins Film Festival 2021; Best Screenplay and Cinematography, Grimmfest 2021

“A slow-burning horror that has a lot to say about guilt and our desire for penance, absolution and, possibly, peace.” (National Post)

“Shrouded in mystery and a glint of the supernatural, OBrien manages to leave behind both a visually striking film and an acting showcase for everyone involved.” (Tilt Magazine)

“One of the best horror films of the year.” (HorrorBuzz)

“In his debut, [O’Brien’s] emotional control becomes apparent, in patiently building suspense through dialogue and calm performances.” (RogerEbert.com)

Tuesday, June 14
Doors 6:00 pm | Movie 6:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
Advance tickets HERE

*Minors permitted. Must be 19+ for bar service. Rio Theatre Groupons and passes OK for any single film screening only. Please redeem at the box office.
*If you are looking to redeem your tickets to either a canceled Rio Theatre screening or a Rio Theatre gift certificate, please email <[email protected]> with info including your name, canceled receipt number, gift certificate info, what you are wanting to see and when, and we can make the switch for you in advance. Alternately, you can bring this information with you to the venue, and we will do our best to help you at the box office.

THE RIGHTEOUS (Mark O’Brien, 2021 / 97 mins / 14A) A burdened man feels the wrath of a vengeful God after he and his wife are visited by a mysterious stranger.