Ringu

I recently watched the first adaptation of The Ring (1995), which was a Japanese television series 🇯🇵. This series is currently available on YouTube. The storyline follows a reporter investigating the mysterious deaths of four individuals in Tokyo, all of whom die simultaneously from apparent heart issues. As the reporter delves deeper into the case, he discovers a videotape that may unravel the mystery of their deaths-and possibly his own.

Directed by Chisui Takigawa (Takes of the Bizarre), the series stars Katsunori Takahashi (From the End of the World), Ayane Miura, Tomorô Taguchi (Tetsuo: The Iron Man), Mai Tachihara (Sister), and Maha Hamada (Kamen Rider W).

While I found this series to be a fun watch and an interesting take on The Ring storyline, the overall quality was mixed. The version I watched still included the original commercials, which added a fun touch. However, the acting was just average, and some of the content, such as the nudity and unexpected sex scenes, were surprising. The horror effects were low-budget and less intense compared to the film adaptations, though the scenes at the well were particularly well executed. The unexpected twist involving one of the characters at the well was the highlight for me. The ending was effective, but mainly because of the presence of the girl in the well.

In conclusion, The Ring television series isn't as impactful as Ringu, but it's still worth a watch for diehard fans of the franchise. I'd give it a 5.5-6/10 and recommend it to horror enthusiasts.