Movie
Top 5 Japanese Horror Movies, to fulfill your ghostly revenge needs
Ringu
Way back in the 90s, a sudden film spawned a popular film franchise, triggered a Western popularization of Japanese Horror, and started a renaissance of Japanese Horror, all with a single film – Ringu.
Based on a series of novels written by Koji Suzuki, the story involves a cursed VHS tape that, after you watch it, leads to a phone call informing the viewer that they now have seven days left to live. After that, the vengeful spirit of Sadako, the girl from the well that gives Ringu its name, comes and kills you in the most terrorizing way possible. After her niece Tomoko is found horrifically dead, investigative reporter Reiko Asakawa takes it upon herself to look into the curse.
The film is lauded worldwide for its’ unique-for-that-time atmosphere, slow-burn gripping horror, and intertwining of traditional Japanese ghostly vengeful horror with modern twists. There have been several sequels to the original Ringu, and a whole bunch of Americanized remakes, but nothing replaces the original vision of a contortionist nightmare wraith climbing backwards out of a well to come frighten you literally to death!
Ju-On the Grudge
They say that when a person dies in the grip of a deep and powerful rage, a curse is born. The curse gathers in the place where that person died and repeats itself there, with the help of the dead haunting said location, often killing anyone who comes into contact with that curse.
The traditional vision of the yurei, the vengeful wrongfully killed Japanese ghost, is something we Westerners have generally come to accept as being female, with long straggly black hair and an almost see-through-like quality about her. Ju-on gives the yurei in this story license, potentially sympathetic reason even, to wreak her ghostly vengeance upon the world that did her wrong and turns her traditional yurei appearance into weapons with which to terrorize her victims. That long straggly black hair is now prehensile and deadly, the sound of the poor drowned cat coming from the tiny boy-ghosts mouth heralds extreme sudden peril, and even that insanely creepy door-closing noise coming from mother Kayako’s mouth is now an iconic known of the Ju-On franchise.
Originally based on two short films from acclaimed director Takashi Shimizu from when he studied at the Film School of Tokyo under a Kurosawa, the Ju-On franchise of course spawned an Americanized version, aptly titled The Grudge, and a whole host of sequels. Now boasting over 8 Japanese films, a Netflix streaming TV show under the title Ju-On: Origins, several Americanized remakes with their accompanying sequels, a crossover movie featuring the ghosts from Ju-On and Ringu in a face-off, and novelizations of nearly all the films, Ju-On still stands high as a front-runner for the huge popularization of the other type of Japanese ghost-beastie, the “vengeful ghost” or onryo for viewers all around the world!
Three … Extremes
A horror anthology film comprised of a trio of stories from directors from China, South Korea and Japan, Three … Extremes was controversial when it came out and continues to remain so to this day.
Chinese Indie director Fruit Chan brings us Dumplings, a story of a woman desperate to retain her youth at literally the worst cost in the whole world; South Korea’s Park Chan Wook delivers Cut, about a prominent film director and his wife being terrorized by a psychopath from his past; and finally, almost inevitably, Japanese director Takashi Miike offers us Box, where a circus contortionist grapples with the guilt of her tormented past when evil returns to take vengeance in her adult life.
Fruit Chans’ Dumplings was expanded to whole-movie format though it kept the exact same monstrous storyline as the short; Park Chan Wook is known for such masterpieces as Oldboy, Lady Vengeance, and Snowpiercer just to name a few, he has so many; and of course Takashi Miike has so many action and horror and “other” flicks to his unique style of directing that, beyond the world of JHorror even, Miike is now a household name.
Over Your Dead Body
Arguably the most famous (and infamous) ghost story in Japan, Yotsuya Kaidan began life as a Kabuki play made for the stage in 1825, and has been adapted to film more than 30 times since then, continuing to be a giant influence on Japanese horror culture even today. The story is a tale of much betrayal, so much murder, and of course, ghostly revenge, with many layers and characters and interleaved mini-stories being added to Tsuruya Nanboku IV’s original work.
Here in modern day in the film, a troop of actors have been cast in a reimagining of the Yotsuya Kaidan stage play, and they each have their own obsessions and desires, mostly for other members of the cast. The play proceeds to intensify and amplify the casts’ possessive loves, and as the lines between reality and the play blur, spurned love morphs into multiple grudges. And we all know about Asian folk and their ghostly grudges.
Over Your Dead Body is a lesser-known Takashi Miike movie and as such, sports his zany over-the-top style of filmmaking, but for this film alone, is presented in an almost arthouse style of horror. Expect the usual splattergore and emotional explosions Miike is known for, but also anticipate a beautifully shot grotesquerie of the horrors we humans voluntarily visit upon each-other!
Audition
Based on the book by Ryu Murakami, one of the very few movies to get a “holysh*t!” style rating from the likes of Rob Zombie himself, Audition is not for the faint of stomach. Takashi Miike directs another horror movie in his singularly unnerving style, so strap in!
Shigeharu Aoyama is a widower and has been for some time, and after his grown son expresses his plans to move out soon, Aoyama acknowledges his loneliness and decides its time to start looking for a new wife. But not in any kind of normal way, like dating apps or whatever, no, Aoyama and a fellow film producer friend of his conceive to hold auditions for a non-existent film so Aoyama can choose his potential bride from the audition pool of women. Any romance begun on such lies is bound for failure, but Asami, the former ballerina with let’s just say some serious trauma issues to work out that Aoyama selects for his paramour, takes her reactions to such duplicity to major extremes.
Credited with being a major influence on the likes of Eli Roth, the Soska sisters, Rob Zombie and tons of other horror directors, plus being described as a progenitor of the now-infamous sub-genre of Horror gleefully called “torture porn”, Audition evokes strong reactions in an unforgettable Miike blend of duplicity, gorgeous monstrosity, and gore!
As a devoted fan of South Indian action cinema and an entertainment journalist, I’ve come to admire the sheer charisma, talent, and screen presence of a few iconic actors who have redefined the genre. Here’s a list of my top five favorite Indian action heroes, along with a couple of must-watch movies from each of them that showcase their incredible prowess on screen.
- NTR Jr.
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., known as NTR Jr., is an electrifying performer who blends action and emotion effortlessly. His dialogue delivery, intensity, and dance moves make him a powerhouse in South Indian cinema.
Must-Watch Movies:
RRR (2022): Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, this epic action-drama showcases NTR Jr. as Komaram Bheem, a fierce and compassionate warrior.
Temper (2015): NTR Jr. delivers a riveting performance as a corrupt cop who embarks on a journey of redemption.
- Allu Arjun
The “Stylish Star” of Tollywood, Allu Arjun, is celebrated for his fluid dance moves, charismatic screen presence, and action-packed roles. His ability to transform into diverse characters has won him a massive fanbase.
Must-Watch Movies:
Pushpa: The Rise (2021): As Pushpa Raj, a smuggler with unyielding determination, Allu Arjun delivers a gritty and unforgettable performance.
Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020): While not strictly an action film, it features intense fight scenes and showcases Allu Arjun’s versatility.
- Prabhas
Known for his larger-than-life roles, Prabhas has become a global sensation. His dedication to his craft and ability to headline mega-budget films set him apart.
Must-Watch Movies:
Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) & Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017): These iconic films, directed by S.S. Rajamouli, transformed Prabhas into a household name.
Saaho (2019): A high-octane action-thriller where Prabhas portrays an enigmatic cop.
- Yash
Yash’s meteoric rise to stardom is nothing short of inspirational. His raw energy, intense action sequences, and ability to connect with audiences have solidified his status as a South Indian action hero.
Must-Watch Movies:
KGF: Chapter 1 (2018) & KGF: Chapter 2 (2022): Yash as Rocky Bhai is a cinematic phenomenon, blending larger-than-life action with a gripping storyline.
Masterpiece (2015): A lesser-known gem that highlights Yash’s charisma and action chops.
- Ram Charan
Ram Charan, a dynamic performer, has mastered the art of blending action, drama, and dance in his roles. His nuanced performances and incredible screen presence make him a fan favorite.
Must-Watch Movies:
RRR (2022): His portrayal of Alluri Sitarama Raju, alongside NTR Jr., is a masterclass in action and emotion.
Magadheera (2009): A timeless classic that combines action, romance, and fantasy in a spellbinding narrative.
Why These Actors Shine
What makes these stars stand out in the realm of South Indian action movies is their ability to push boundaries, take on challenging roles, and deliver performances that resonate with audiences. Whether it’s NTR Jr.’s emotional depth, Allu Arjun’s stylish personas, Prabhas’s epic presence, Yash’s raw intensity, or Ram Charan’s versatility, these actors have set benchmarks in the industry.
So, if you’re an action movie enthusiast like me, dive into their filmographies—you won’t be disappointed!
When RRR stormed onto the global stage, it didn’t just captivate audiences—it redefined Indian cinema’s reach. Among the legion of admirers is none other than James Gunn, the mastermind behind Guardians of the Galaxy and the architect of DC Studios’ cinematic future. Gunn’s vocal admiration for the film, particularly its star NTR Jr., has sparked excitement in Hollywood and beyond. It’s a testament to NTR Jr.’s exceptional talent and a long-overdue recognition of his abilities as an actor of extraordinary caliber.
In interviews and social media posts, Gunn has repeatedly praised RRR for its storytelling, high-octane action, and emotionally charged performances. However, what truly stood out for the acclaimed filmmaker was NTR Jr.’s portrayal of Komaram Bheem. Gunn lauded NTR Jr.’s magnetic screen presence, noting how his nuanced performance struck the perfect balance between raw intensity and heartfelt vulnerability. For Gunn, this wasn’t just an appreciation of a great film—it was a call to collaborate with an actor who embodies the charisma and skill needed for global stardom.
As Gunn reshapes the DC Universe, the prospect of bringing NTR Jr. into the fold feels like a natural progression. With his eye for blending humor, heart, and heroism, Gunn’s creative vision would pair seamlessly with NTR Jr.’s dynamic acting range.
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., affectionately known as Tarak, is no stranger to acclaim. Hailing from the illustrious Nandamuri family, his rise to stardom was marked by a series of standout performances in Telugu cinema. With each role, NTR Jr. has proven his versatility, effortlessly transitioning from emotionally driven characters in films like Yamadonga to action-packed blockbusters such as Temper and Janatha Garage. His role in RRR, however, elevated his craft to an international platform.
In RRR, NTR Jr. brought Komaram Bheem to life with an intensity that left audiences in awe. From the iconic jungle tiger scene to the emotionally wrenching friendship dynamic with Ram Charan’s Raju, he carried the weight of the film on his broad shoulders with effortless grace. His ability to portray strength, resilience, and vulnerability in equal measure cements him as one of Indian cinema’s greatest.
For years, Indian actors have slowly been making their mark on Hollywood, but NTR Jr. is poised to take it a step further. His universal appeal, combined with his dedication to his craft, makes him a natural choice for a crossover into global cinema. James Gunn’s interest in collaborating with him is not just a compliment—it’s a recognition of the talent that has long deserved a spotlight.
In a time when audiences are demanding more diverse stories and authentic representation, NTR Jr.’s inclusion in a major Hollywood franchise would be a game-changer. Whether as a DC superhero, a cosmic adventurer, or a complex antihero, Tarak has the range to bring any character to life.
Gunn’s admiration for RRR and NTR Jr. signifies more than just a potential collaboration. It’s a validation of Indian cinema’s ability to produce world-class talent and stories that resonate across cultures. As filmmakers like Gunn shine a light on stars like NTR Jr., the gap between Bollywood, Tollywood, and Hollywood continues to narrow, creating a truly global entertainment industry.
For NTR Jr., this could be the beginning of a journey that takes him from an Indian megastar to an international icon. As fans of cinema, we can only hope that James Gunn’s vision materializes, giving us the opportunity to see Tarak in a role that matches his immense potential. After all, it’s about time the world recognizes what Indian audiences have known for years—NTR Jr. is a force to be reckoned with.
Review By: Raja V. Deva
Genre: Political Action Thriller
Runtime: Approximately 165 minutes
Director: S. Shankar
Writer: Story by Karthik Subbaraj; Screenplay by S. Shankar, Vivek, and Venkatesan
Cast: Ram Charan, Kiara Advani, Anjali, S. J. Suryah, Srikanth, Sunil, Jayaram, Samuthirakani
Music Composer: Thaman S
“Game Changer” marks S. Shankar’s foray into Telugu cinema with a political action thriller designed to be grand in scale and ambition. The film features Ram Charan in dual roles: Appanna, a shrewd political leader, and his son, Ram Nandan, an upright IAS officer determined to clean up a corrupt system. However, despite the actor’s valiant efforts, the story doesn’t fully work with Ram Charan in the lead.
Originally conceptualized for another actor, the film’s narrative feels like it was tailored for someone with real-life political aspirations. While Ram Charan brings his star power and intensity to the roles, the weighty political undertones and the narrative’s structure don’t align well with his on-screen persona. His dual performance showcases his range, but the emotional depth and conviction required to anchor such a politically charged film seem misaligned with his strengths.
The supporting cast provides decent performances, with Kiara Advani and Anjali making their presence felt, though their characters lack depth. S. J. Suryah stands out as a formidable antagonist, adding gravitas to the film. Thaman S’s background score enhances the mood, though the songs occasionally disrupt the flow of the narrative.
Visually, the film boasts stunning production values and large-scale set pieces, typical of Shankar’s style. However, even the grandeur and intricate action sequences can’t mask the disjointed storytelling. The screenplay struggles to balance its political commentary with its action-oriented approach, leaving neither element fully realized.
Ultimately, “Game Changer” feels like a project that missed its mark. The story might resonate with audiences interested in political drama or those with a penchant for larger-than-life narratives, but it doesn’t do justice to Ram Charan’s abilities or his established image.
Rating: 6/10
For fans of Ram Charan or political thrillers, it might be worth a watch, but “Game Changer” feels like an opportunity lost to deliver a truly compelling cinematic experience.
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