Ringu (1998, Hideo Nakata)

This trend-setting Asian horror film is genuinely good. At the very least, one should credit director Hideo Nakata for establishing a great movie gimmick: a string of strange deaths are linked to an urban legend that revolves around the contents of a mysterious VHS tape. The slow burn narrative only adds to the atmosphere of mystery and dread. Nakata hardly shows anything but he sustains the suspense to the very last scene. Nanako Matsushima, who is cast as a reporter investigating the mystery behind the videotape, gives a very persuasive performance. Matsushima never resorts to unbelievable wide-eyed expressions that we associate with women in perils. The visual effects are simple yet creepy. Much better than the copycats that the film inspired.

~ by gelpi2008 on Saturday, May 16, 2009.