Rings (2017) is the third installment in the Ring horror franchise, continuing the story of the cursed videotape that haunts and terrorizes its viewers. Directed by F. Javier Gutiérrez, Rings offers a fresh take on the terrifying legend of Samara, a vengeful spirit who emerges from a mysterious VHS tape to claim the lives of those who dare watch it. With its chilling atmosphere and spine-tingling moments, Rings aims to reignite the fear that captivated audiences in the early 2000s.Rings takes place years after the events of the first two films, The Ring (2002) and The Ring Two (2005). The story follows a college student named Julia (played by Matilda Lutz), who discovers the infamous VHS tape and becomes the target of the supernatural entity, Samara. Unlike previous films, Rings explores the consequences of the curse in the modern digital age, where technology has evolved, and the tape is now spread through various means, including online streaming.Julia’s boyfriend, Holt (Alex Roe), is drawn into the mystery of the tape when he begins to investigate a strange phenomenon at his college. As the curse spreads, the couple must uncover the origins of Samara and find a way to break the cycle before time runs out. In this new chapter of the franchise, the cursed tape has taken on new forms, and the haunting entity, Samara, continues to exert her malevolent influence, using modern technology to her advantage.
The character of Samara, portrayed by actress Bonnie Morgan in Rings, is at the heart of the franchise’s horror. A young girl with long, black hair and a haunting gaze, Samara has become one of the most iconic horror movie villains of the 21st century. In Rings, her backstory is explored in more depth, shedding light on the tragedy that turned her into the vengeful spirit viewers fear.Samara’s eerie and unsettling presence remains central to the film, as her curse spreads like a viral plague, ensuring that those who watch the tape have only seven days to live. Her connection to the video tape is explored in ways that deepen her backstory and make her character even more frightening. The atmosphere of dread is heightened as Samara’s ghostly figure continues to haunt the protagonists, adding layers to the tension throughout the film.One of the most compelling aspects of Rings is its exploration of technology’s role in modern horror. The film recognizes how technology has evolved since the release of the original Ring film, and instead of relying on VHS tapes, the cursed video now circulates through more accessible digital formats like DVDs and online streaming platforms. This shift modernizes the story and emphasizes the idea that the curse can spread more easily and faster in the connected, digital world.By leveraging contemporary technology, Rings taps into the real-world fears surrounding the rapid spread of information and digital content. The idea of a supernatural entity using technology to hunt its victims feels all too plausible, making the horror feel even more relevant in today’s society. The growing accessibility of horror films and the global reach of the internet add another layer of realism to the terrifying scenario.
Rings doesn’t just rely on jump scares to create its sense of terror; it builds a creeping dread through its atmosphere and visuals. The film uses haunting imagery and subtle effects to evoke the same sense of unease and discomfort that made the original films so effective. The eerie imagery of Samara crawling out of the TV, her disturbing presence, and the cursed video itself are all masterfully crafted to keep the audience on edge.The cinematography in Rings takes full advantage of the unsettling and eerie visuals associated with the curse. The use of darkness, distorted images, and the portrayal of the cursed video itself contributes to the nightmarish qualities that the franchise is known for. These elements help to enhance the movie’s overall sense of psychological horror, making it more than just a typical supernatural slasher film.Rings brings a fresh yet familiar take on the horror franchise, effectively combining the fear of the unknown with modern technology. While it may not reach the same level of critical acclaim as the original Ring film, Rings succeeds in updating the iconic horror legend for a new generation of viewers. The film’s deep exploration of Samara’s origins, its integration of modern technology into the cursed video concept, and its chilling visuals make it a worthy addition to the Ring franchise.For fans of supernatural horror and psychological thrillers, Rings offers a satisfying return to the haunting world of Samara and the cursed videotape. Whether you’re new to the series or a longtime fan, Rings serves up enough terror to keep you awake long after the credits roll.
