A cross between Nancy Drew and a Marilyn Manson video...

Rating: 5/10 (1 January 2004)

Intriguing, somewhat sadistic hokum about a videotape which, according to urban legend, causes death to the viewer who pops it in within seven days. Ominously filmed in steely blue-grays, "The Ring" is so full of red herrings that it can't possibly hope to clarify every horrific detail, leading to some dissatisfaction. Naomi Watts reacts to all the grim happenings with the same look of wide-eyed astonishment, but she's a grounded, approachable actress and an attractive presence. Saddled with an unnecessary final act (the perfect set-up for a sequel!), "The Ring" is ultimately more silly than scary. ** from ****