The movie “The Ring,” directed by Hideo Nakata and released on January 31, 1998, is a key film in Japanese Horror that has greatly influenced the genre. The plot centers on a cursed videotape that causes anyone who watches it to die mysteriously seven days later. The main character, journalist Reiko Asakawa, played by Masako, gets involved in the case after her niece dies following the tape’s viewing.
The Ring - Release Date, Trailer, Songs, Cast
Movie: | The Ring |
Genre: | Horror, Mystery, Thriller |
Language: | Japanese |
Director: | Hideo Nakata |
Main Cast: | Nanako Matsushima as Reiko Asakawa - Hiroyuki Sanada as Ryuji Takayama - Rikiya Ōtaka as Yoichi Asakawa |
Release Date: | January 31, 1998 (Japan) |
Banner: | Kadokawa Shoten, Asmik Ace Entertainment |
Music: | Not available |
Budget: | $11 million USD |
Runtime: | 1h 55m |
In her quest to find answers, Reiko watches the tape herself, encountering its creepy images and disturbing mood. As she continues her investigation, she learns about the curse’s origins, which are tied to a young girl named Sadako, who has supernatural abilities and a tragic past. With the deadline approaching, Reiko must hurry to find a way to break the curse and protect herself and her young son, Yamato.
The film is known for its frightening visuals, tense atmosphere, and haunting music. Nakata’s direction and strong story changed the Horror landscape in Japanese cinema and inspired many remakes around the world, including a famous American version. “The Ring” is still recognized as an essential film in the J-Horror genre, praised for its emotional depth and lasting suspense.