Before you die, please see THE RING

Rating: 10/10 (19 October 2002)

If nothing else, THE RING is a firm indication that Naomi Watt's mesmerizing performance in last year's MULHOLLAND DRIVE was no fluke. Even her most stringent critics cannot deny the brazen sexuality she radiated in last year's David Lynch freakfest, especially in the audition scene. And let's not forget those two memorable lesbian sex scenes, which Lynch was wise enough to make sensual instead of having his two actresses perform like endurance champions. Anyway, back to THE RING. Like last year's THE OTHERS, the film's emphasis is on suspense and creepy thrills rather than blood and gore. Some of the images are quite chilling and effective and remain with you long after the film has ended. The sound effects were expert as well, some of the best I've ever heard in a horror film. They establish the tone of the film and really do enhance the experience. My only quibble is that by the end, the mystery of the ring has not been cleared up in its entirety, and one cannot help but wonder if the filmmakers lacked the conviction to resolve the film in a satisfying manner. Anyway, for those who lack the attention span to try and unearth the mystery, there's always white-hot Aussie Naomi Watts in a wet T-shirt. Grade: 10/10