Review of The Ring (2002) by Caige C — 28 Apr 2013

"The Ring" is a very unique entry in the horror genre. I'm still not entirely sure how I feel about this movie as a whole because some aspects I liked, while others not so much. I'll start with the things that I enjoyed. First off, the music. Hans Zimmer created an awesome score for this film and it fits the mood perfectly throughout the entire film. Not only was it memorable but it resonated well with visuals. I also enjoyed the special effects. Even though there were a few scenes where the CGI looked rather fake most of it however did not, and I was pleasantly surprised to see some practical effects used as well.The cinematography was also done really well and I enjoyed the filters they chose to use on the cameras. Every shot had an ominous presence about it. Even during the day it still felt dark and cold, which was a nice touch. I also felt that the director (Gore Verbinski) did a great job with the camera shots and the use of locations he had to work with. A lot of the scenes wouldn't have been nearly as scary or as tense if it weren't for the decision he made, so props to him.

However, there were also a few elements to this film which could have been done just a little better in my opinion. Firstly, the acting. Naomi Watts is the only actor in this entire film that I actually cared about and believed. The rest of the cast just seemed mediocre at best. And I can't blame the actors too much because they really didn't have much to work with. Which leads me to my next problem, the script. If the script was better written it would have made the movie just that much more enjoyable. There were a few scenes where the dialogue just seemed really awkward and out of place and even though those scenes were seldom, it was enough to make you realize that "Oh, I'm watching a movie right now." which is never good sign.

In conclusion, even though it has some problems, "The Ring" is still an enjoyable horror movie that will leave you a little paranoid and possibly scared to turn on your tv.