Writers: Stephen Susco, Takashi Shimizu
Director: Takashi Shimizu
Released: 2004
Labels: Chiller|Supernatural
One of the past decades worth of Hollywood movies that are re-makes (or just plain rip-offs) of Japanese or Asian horror, was The Grudge (originally 'Ju-On' in Japan). The story centers on a house deep in the suburbs of Tokyo, unspeakable violence took place in this house and an evil curse was born, tormenting and ultimately destroying anyone that enters the abode. An American family purchase the house and employ a carer for their ill mother (so already we have a list of potential victims), eventually a young, American woman (Sarah Michelle Gellar) is employed to help at the home and we follow events as the curses evil acts gain momentum.
Director: Takashi Shimizu
Released: 2004
Labels: Chiller|Supernatural
One of the past decades worth of Hollywood movies that are re-makes (or just plain rip-offs) of Japanese or Asian horror, was The Grudge (originally 'Ju-On' in Japan). The story centers on a house deep in the suburbs of Tokyo, unspeakable violence took place in this house and an evil curse was born, tormenting and ultimately destroying anyone that enters the abode. An American family purchase the house and employ a carer for their ill mother (so already we have a list of potential victims), eventually a young, American woman (Sarah Michelle Gellar) is employed to help at the home and we follow events as the curses evil acts gain momentum.
This film in particular is worthy of note for a few reasons. Firstly, it was produced by horror royalty, Sam Raimi (The Evil Dead, Boogeyman, Drag Me to Hell, 30 Days of Night). Secondly, Raimi made the excellent decision to get the original Japanese director of Ju-On, Takashi Shimizu to direct the US version, also the action although mainly involving Americans takes place in Japan and the unfamiliar geography not only helps to isolate the characters in the film but also unnerves the viewer. Gellar is excellent in the lead role, and totally convincing as she tries to make sense of the terror surrounding her. It really is a genuinely creepy movie with plenty of moments to startle and scare you, the tension built throughout is extraordinary and the ending satisfies and intrigues.
This is a large movie franchise in both the east and west versions, spawning sequels a-plenty, so there's lots to explore if you like The Grudge......
The Grudge Trailer
Ju-On Trailer
related stuff....
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