The sleeve notes compare this film (inevitably) with the likes of Ringu and Ju-On, and although there are similarities, this film is not in the same league as either of those two productions.
The story echoes Ringu in that, one again, technology is the delivery mechanism for evil. In Ringu it was the television (and the ensuing phone call) - in Phone it's the mobile (or handy, or cell, depending on which country you're from). And the similarities don't stop there, since a malevolent vengeful spirit is on the scene.
What was it missing? Although the story builds throughout, it just doesn't have the impact (or the defining moment) of other 'Asian Extreme' films. Having said that, I thought it was engaging and well directed. The pace was just right and the acting was spot on, even if the plot itself and the storyline were fairly obvious.
It's not Ringu for sure, but it certainly was worthwhile and entertaining.
The story echoes Ringu in that, one again, technology is the delivery mechanism for evil. In Ringu it was the television (and the ensuing phone call) - in Phone it's the mobile (or handy, or cell, depending on which country you're from). And the similarities don't stop there, since a malevolent vengeful spirit is on the scene.
What was it missing? Although the story builds throughout, it just doesn't have the impact (or the defining moment) of other 'Asian Extreme' films. Having said that, I thought it was engaging and well directed. The pace was just right and the acting was spot on, even if the plot itself and the storyline were fairly obvious.
It's not Ringu for sure, but it certainly was worthwhile and entertaining.