The Ring (2002 film)

Lore & Background

The Ring was inspired by director Gore Verbinski viewing a VHS copy of the original Japanese film, which he found 'intriguing', 'pulp', and 'avant-garde'. The screenplay was written by Ehren Kruger, with an uncredited rewrite by Scott Frank, and went into production without a completed script. The film was shot in 2001 primarily in Washington state, including Seattle, Port Townsend, and Whidbey Island, as well as locations in Oregon. Cinematographer Bojan Bazelli used soft lighting and a grey blue-green color palette, achieved in-camera with filters rather than digital grading. The score was composed by Hans Zimmer, incorporating the Dies irae theme.

Reader's Guide

The Ring was released theatrically by DreamWorks Pictures on October 18, 2002, to mixed-to-positive reviews. It grossed $249.3 million worldwide and won Best Horror Film and Best Actress for Naomi Watts at the 29th Saturn Awards. The film's success inspired American remakes of other Asian horror films, including The Grudge (2004) and Dark Water (2005). Its marketing included playing the cursed videotape in late-night programming and distributing physical VHS copies on car windshields. The film is noted for its atmospheric visuals and minimal gore, with a Rotten Tomatoes critics consensus praising its 'haunting sense of atmosphere' and Watts' performance.

Did You Know?

• Chris Cooper played a murderer in two scenes that were ultimately cut from the film.
• The title refers both to the telephone call warning viewers and the ring of light seen from the bottom of the well.
• The film's color correction was achieved in-camera using filters, not digital grading.