After previously having gone down a rabbit hole of horror movies during my last break from work, I figured it was time to crowdsource some fresh recommendations from friends.
My brother’s best friend of course came through and delivered a hefty list spanning from ‘80s classics to modern hits.
Naturally, I put off diving into it until the perfect day off rolled around, giving me the ideal excuse to settle in and choose one from the stack.
NOROI: THE CURSE (2005)
This movie is probably one of those horror movies that flies under the radar for many, but once you’ve experienced its unsettling grip, it’s hard to shake off. Released in 2005 and directed by Koji Shiraishi, this Japanese found footage-style horror flick takes you on a chilling journey into the depths of urban legends and supernatural terror.
From the get-go, Noroi sets itself apart from your typical horror fare as it gives you a different type of chill down your spine.
Rather than relying on cheap jump scares or gore, it opts for a slow-burn approach, building tension and dread with each passing scene.
The movie takes shape as a pseudo-documentary crafted from an assortment of sources: news clips, interviews, and homemade recordings.
This narrative approach not only lends an air of authenticity but also plunges you deep into the unsettling events as they transpire, blurring the line between “mockumentary” and actual occurrences, leaving you to question the truth behind the chilling tale.
FICTIONAL FUSION
The plot centres around a paranormal investigator named Masafumi Kobayashi, who becomes obsessed with unravelling the mystery behind a series of strange occurrences.
From unexplained noises in the night to mysterious disappearances, Kobayashi dives headfirst into the supernatural underworld lurking beneath the surface of everyday life.
As he delves deeper, he uncovers a web of ancient curses, demonic entities, and a sinister force known only as Kagutaba.
What’s truly impressive about Noroi is its masterful blending of fiction and reality.
The film seamlessly incorporates elements of Japanese folklore and urban legends, giving it an eerie sense of authenticity.
From cursed rituals to haunted houses, each encounter feels like a glimpse into a world where the line between myth and reality blurs.
But it’s not just the supernatural elements that make the film so effective.
HAUNTING ENSEMBLE
At its core, it’s a story about obsession and the human desire to uncover the truth, no matter the cost.
Kobayashi’s relentless pursuit of answers leads him down a dark path, putting himself and those around him in grave danger.
This thematic depth adds layers to the horror, making it more than just a series of scary moments but a thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche.
Of course, no horror movie is complete without its share of terrifying moments, and Noroi delivers in spades.
From creepy children with unsettling abilities to a haunted forest that oozes malevolence, there are plenty of scenes that will send shivers down your spine.
What’s particularly effective is the way these scares are built up gradually, often lingering in the back of your mind long after the credits roll.
One of the film’s standout aspects is its cast of characters, each of whom brings something unique to the table.
Kobayashi himself is a fascinating protagonist, driven by his insatiable curiosity yet plagued by doubt and fear.
His interactions with various experts, witnesses, and occultists add depth to the narrative, shedding light on different aspects of the mystery.
But it’s the supporting characters who truly steal the show.
From a psychic with a troubled past to a mysterious woman with a connection to the supernatural, each character feels fleshed out and compelling in their own right.
Even minor players leave a lasting impression, further immersing you into the film’s world.
Of course, no discussion of Noroi would be complete without mentioning its technical merits.
Despite its low budget, the film boasts impressive production values, with realistic cinematography and a haunting score that sets the perfect mood.
The found footage aesthetic adds to the authenticity, making you feel like you’re watching real events unfold. If you ask me, it’s definitely better than The Blair Witch Project’s found footage cinematography – which, by the way, gave me vertigo. So, if you’re in the mood for a horror film that’s more than just cheap scares and gore, give Noroi: The Curse a chance. – Izah Azahari
