“Ringu” is a Japanese horror film directed by Hideo Nakata. The 1998 flick is based off a 1991 novel by Koji Suzuki. An American version starring Naomi Watts was released in 2002. But does the credo that the original is always best stand true?
“Ringu” and “The Ring” follow the same premises. Anyone who watches a mysterious and thoroughly creepy video will die in exactly seven days. Those that view the tape frantically search for a way to break out of the curse.
“Ringu” opens with a great introductory scene, and it shows the viewer that Hideo Nakata has the chops to craft a gem of a film. Nakata balances sounds with silence to create perfect tension. The jump scares are limited – and highly effective when employed. Each shot is framed in a masterful way.
Reiko Asakawa (Nanako Matsushima) is a journalist who discovers the tape, and the countdown for her seven day survival begins. Matsushima is a Japanese born actress and model. One may not be familiar with her work, but she does an excellent job here at portraying the cursed character Reiko. Partnering with her is her ex-husband, played by Hiroyuki Sanada, who also does a solid job in the performance.
It’s interesting to watch the different perspective of a popular American horror film. Some parts I found to be better, others not so much. Both versions are nearly identical in scenes, with the American version adding a few more horror elements to the mix. I loved the distorted photos of the doomed in this version. I found them very scary. The infamous “Girl in the TV” scene is not quite as potent as the remake but still good. And not to sound ignorant, but I don’t enjoy reading subtitles. Often I’m too busy watching the characters and not reading, or vice versa, and it can take you out of the elements a tad.
We are 36 days away from October, and “Ringu” serves as a good way to lube up your horror movie palate.
2 Comments
Gotta disagree with you on the “not as potent” bit. The subtlety is what makes it so effective for me. The remake’s overuse of CGI really broke my immersion. It scared the pants off me when I was 12 but these days it’s like really? You expect me to be scared of something that looks that fake?
Pingback: 'Coming Soon' Review (2008) | The Movie Buff