Rings (2017) – Movie Review
Introduction
“Rings,” released in 2017, is a supernatural horror film directed by F. Javier Gutiérrez. It serves as a sequel to the 2002 film “The Ring” and is the third installment in the American “Ring” franchise. Starring Matilda Lutz, Alex Roe, and Johnny Galecki, the film continues the story of the cursed videotape that brings death to those who watch it. This review covers the plot, performances, direction, and overall impact of the film, along with information on where to stream or purchase it in America.
Plot Summary
The story picks up 13 years after the events of the previous film. Julia (Matilda Lutz), a college student, becomes involved in the mystery of the cursed videotape after her boyfriend, Holt (Alex Roe), discovers the tape in his college’s film archives. The tape, which is said to kill its viewers seven days after they watch it, begins to wreak havoc once again.
Holt and Julia uncover that the tape has been circulating among college students and that its curse has evolved into a more sinister form. As they delve deeper into the curse’s origins, they discover a hidden segment of the tape that reveals a terrifying new twist. Julia and Holt must race against time to unravel the mystery of the tape and break the curse before it’s too late.
Performances
Matilda Lutz delivers a compelling performance as Julia, the film’s protagonist. Her portrayal effectively conveys both the terror and determination of her character. Lutz’s performance is a strong anchor for the film, making her a relatable and engaging lead.
Alex Roe, playing Holt, provides a solid performance as Julia’s concerned boyfriend. Roe’s portrayal adds depth to the film’s emotional core, though his character sometimes feels secondary to Lutz’s role.
Johnny Galecki, known for his role in “The Big Bang Theory,” takes on a supporting role as Gabriel, a professor who helps Holt and Julia investigate the curse. Galecki’s performance adds a layer of intrigue and expertise to the film, though his character’s development is somewhat limited.
Direction and Cinematography
F. Javier Gutiérrez’s direction focuses on building suspense and delivering the chilling atmosphere that fans of the franchise expect. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing for gradual buildup of tension and scares. Gutiérrez effectively uses jump scares and eerie imagery to create a sense of dread, though some viewers may find the scares to be formulaic.
The cinematography by Dan Laustsen enhances the film’s unsettling atmosphere. The use of dark, shadowy settings and unsettling visuals helps to create a sense of foreboding and unease. The film’s visual style aligns well with the horror genre, though it occasionally relies on conventional horror tropes.
Critique
“Rings” offers a continuation of the “Ring” franchise with a mix of horror elements and suspense. While the film successfully builds on the lore of the cursed videotape, it often relies on familiar horror clichés and predictable plot points. The evolving nature of the curse adds a new twist, but the overall execution may not feel as fresh or impactful to seasoned horror fans.
The performances are strong, particularly Matilda Lutz’s portrayal of Julia, which provides emotional depth and relatability. However, some characters, including Alex Roe’s Holt, are underdeveloped and may not fully engage the audience.
The film’s direction and cinematography effectively create a tense and eerie atmosphere, though the scares and plot may not offer much in terms of originality. “Rings” delivers a suspenseful experience for fans of the franchise but may not stand out as a standout entry in the genre.
Streaming and Purchase Options
For those interested in watching “Rings,” there are several options available in America:
- Streaming Services: The film is available for streaming on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. Subscribers to these services can watch the movie at no additional cost.
- Rental and Purchase: You can rent or purchase “Rings” on digital platforms like Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Apple iTunes. Rental prices typically range from $3.99 to $5.99, while purchasing the film can cost between $9.99 to $14.99, depending on the platform and video quality.
Conclusion
“Rings” continues the chilling legacy of the “Ring” franchise with a mix of suspense and supernatural horror. Matilda Lutz’s strong performance and the film’s effective use of atmosphere contribute to its overall impact. While the film may not offer groundbreaking originality, it provides a tense and engaging experience for fans of the series and the horror genre. Its availability on popular streaming and rental platforms makes it an accessible choice for those looking to revisit or explore the cursed videotape’s legacy.
