Review of The Spiral (1998) by Scott B — 22 Jun 2011
This quickly-made sequel is apparently based on the novel-sequel of Ringu. The story begins right where the first film left off, but it follows Takayama's classmate / girlfriend after his death. The backstory is clunky and far from creepy and engaging as the first film.
The film and, no doubt the novel too, were created to capitalize on the success of the original. Ando receives the video from Takayama from beyond the grave. In a weak moment, he watches it, and must solve a mystery to save his life.
The task at hand is fairly different from the first film, but it still follows a familiar path. The problem with this one is that it fails to establish mood or build character to a point where one cares.
The clever extension of Ringu's plot feels rather trivial as we sort through the muck of backstory and plot twists. The movie is competently made, but the script / screenplay feels rushed and unorganized, and that may be the fault of the source material.
This review of The Spiral (1998) was written by Scott B on 22 June 2011.
The Spiral has generally received mixed reviews.
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