"Rings," released in 2017, is a film that attempted to rekindle the eerie and enduring legacy of the "Ring" franchise. Directed by F. Javier Gutiérrez, the movie promised a fresh take on the horror genre, but unfortunately, it fell short of the high expectations set by its predecessors.
The film begins with an intriguing premise: a mysterious videotape that curses anyone who watches it, dooming them to die within seven days. This central concept has been the heart of the franchise, and the 2017 installment tries to build on it. The idea of adapting the cursed videotape into the digital age by making it go viral is an interesting twist, reflecting the modern era's obsession with technology and the internet.
However, despite this promising start, the execution of "Rings" is lackluster. The plot feels disjointed, and the pacing is inconsistent. It struggles to balance between horror and mystery, leaving viewers somewhat unsatisfied. The scares are formulaic, relying heavily on jump scares and clichés, rather than building a genuinely chilling atmosphere.
One of the film's strengths lies in its performances. Matilda Lutz and Alex Roe deliver commendable performances as the lead characters, Julia and Holt. They manage to evoke genuine fear and concern, adding a layer of authenticity to the story. However, the supporting cast is forgettable, with underdeveloped characters that fail to elicit any emotional investment.
The film's visual elements, including the eerie imagery associated with Samara, the cursed girl from the videotape, are well-executed. The cinematography captures the unsettling atmosphere effectively, and the use of contrasting color schemes helps create a sense of foreboding. Despite its other shortcomings, "Rings" at least manages to provide some visually engaging moments.
Where "Rings" truly falters is in its narrative. The story feels convoluted, with numerous plot holes and loose ends. The attempts to expand on the lore of the cursed videotape, while intriguing, end up creating more confusion than clarity. This leaves the audience with a sense of dissatisfaction and disappointment.
The film's conclusion tries to offer a twist, but it feels forced and contrived. It doesn't add depth or resolution to the story, making it apparent that the filmmakers struggled to find a satisfying way to wrap up the narrative.
In conclusion, "Rings" is a missed opportunity. While it presents a captivating concept and some commendable performances, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling and coherent story. Fans of the "Ring" franchise may find it disappointing, as it doesn't live up to the legacy of its predecessors. Overall, "Rings" falls short of becoming a memorable addition to the horror genre, and its potential is left largely unfulfilled.
