#NowWatching THE GRUDGE (US). In preparation for #JuOnOrigins soon (read: tmr morning). One of the better remakes, methinks. Shimizu’s scare designs were at their finest here, and we haven’t spent enough ink to praise dp Hideo Yamamoto & actress Takako Fuji.

#JuOnOrigins — It’s odd, but welcoming, that the new focus is now “grudge” as an emotion (which is what it is) rather than a personification of an emotion (what it’s been known for). Sho Miyake’s direction honors uneasiness; the darkness shocks more than what’s in the dark (1/3)

But there are risks everywhere. The non-linear plot, now drawn out, often doesn’t land the way it should; more “huh...” than “ha!” And so w/o metrics that would please, this entire haunt is more apt as an experiment & not education (as teased). (2/3)

Still, #JuOnOrigins is a more wholesome experience than the half-hearted R-rated Grudge that opened the (horrible) year. I’m praying the series musters enough confidence for next seasons. 6 eps at 30-mins each is really viewer-friendly! https://twitter.com/nle318/status/1215056563842551808?s=21

Cc: @BenjyBox