The acting with this film was as expected, although the actress that reprises her role as Saeki Kayako (Fuji Takako) improved as far as body movements go. While her expressions and sounds have always been creepy, she utilized her body movements to create even more atmosphere with her character. Each actor and actress worked well within the characters they took on, but no one was a stand out star or super memorable - with the exception of Fuji Takako.
The music and sound effects were not much different from the previous films, but with a franchise known for certain key noises that can be expected, The placement of noises worked just fine, and effectively created suspenseful moments and built up the film's atmosphere; I enjoyed the actual song with lyrics during the end credits. It was refreshing compared to the other films with only instrumentals.
As for rewatch value, it is rewatchable. How often, of course, depends upon the person. I would watch it again after a little bit, especially because I am a huge horror fan. Every once in a while sounds about right, but not right away. If you like horror movies, want to see the Japanese counterpart to the Ju-On franchise, or even just feel the need to watch something a little spooky I would suggest this.
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A Timeless Nightmare
This remains the scariest movie I’ve ever seen! Takako Fuji’s portrayal of Kayako left me with countless sleepless nights. Her eerie, wide-eyed yūrei is so terrifying that the image still lingers in my mind. The minimal effects used in the 90s and early 2000s truly amplify the film’s eerie atmosphere, making this era unforgettable for horror. It’s a shame that the remakes and later versions couldn’t capture the same essence.Was this review helpful to you?
The hanging by curtain of black hair; the dressing room which Kayako appeared slowly from the floor; the highschool girl that keeps phasing in and out of the house at different times; and the gives birth scene, I won't be able to forget those anytime soon.
Actually I was still confused by the timeline of a car accident at the beginning and when Chiharu became extra in the Kyoko's film. I'm sure it's been explained in the film but my brain is slow to process it.
Oh yes, I almost forget about Kayako and Toshio, I love them here, Kayako with thick make up is super scary imo; then Toshio, I don't think he's got some changes on his make up, but he's keep making me startled. They just simply in their best form in here.
I enjoyed it so much.
A sequel that is worthy to be called great.
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