I Spit On Your Podcast: Ringu (1998) vs. The Ring (2002)
We compare the original Japanese horror film “Ringu” to its American remake, “The Ring” while discussing cultural differences and fears.
Episode 33: “RINGU” (1998) vs “THE RING” (2002)
In this episode, we are back pitting an original against its remake! We will be comparing 1998’s RINGU and 2002’s THE RING with two dominant themes: technology and social isolation.
Not only do we compare and contrast the films in general, but we also look closely at the cultural differences for how these themes translate in each country: Japan and the US. In North America, we have intense anxiety about technological progress and our loss of control, but in Japan, the place of many technological advances, they have far less fear. How about robots and AI? We delve into that, too!
With the current state of our world, humans have been experiencing social isolation for a year now, and this affects people in many different ways. We discovered there are actual physical ramifications of long-term social isolation, and over in Japan, there is a lifestyle of modern hermits called the Hikikomori, or people who have chosen social isolation.
How has this affected us as individuals? How has it affected you?
We also have a guest appearance for this episode! Jenny Nulf, Programs Director at the Austin Asian American Film Festival, provides her unique experience and insight into the world of The Ring/Ringu.
How will these movies compare? Which one will come out on top? Let’s find out!
ABOUT THIS PODCAST
Original podcast artwork by Brandon Mercer
Jess and Kelly co-host the well-produced, highly entertaining, and insightful monthly podcast known as I SPIT ON YOUR PODCAST. Every month, they explore the world of horror entertainment, with each episode centering around a particular theme. This is a time once a month where Jess puts down her bloody knitting needles and Kelly steps away from the TV to discuss horror movies and other horror mediums with thoughtful analysis, research, and passion.
If you love this episode, be sure to head here to catch up on past episodes. You can also find this incredible monthly podcast on iTunes, Stitcher, Spotify, and Soundcloud.
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