'The Ring' plus teens equals screams Read Billy's movie reviews on his special archive page. By BILLY NORRIS © St. Petersburg Times published October 28, 2002 Movie: The Ring Rating: PG-13 Summary: There's a rumor looming around Seattle after four local teens mysteriously die on the same night. Supposedly, if you watch a particular videotape, you will receive a phone call immediately afterward telling you that you will die in exactly seven days. A skeptical newspaper reporter (Naomi Watts), whose niece was one of the victims, views the tape and sets out to get to the bottom of the mystery before her seven days are up. My view: This one starts out like so many other recent horror flicks. Once it gets going, and you think you know where it's heading -- BAM! -- it takes a sharp turn in the opposite direction. It definitely doesn't have the "fear of the unknown" factor that Signs had, but it did have a few scenes that made the audience jump -- then laugh at their own reactions. The characters didn't provide that sense of authentic trepidation that all great scary films have, but the plot had a good sense of mystery to it. Favorite part: There were plenty of subtle, eye-catching, almost subliminal effects that flashed by. They were absolutely great -- and I'll leave it at that, so I don't spoil your fun. Recommendations: The bulk of the audience for this one will be teens. This film isn't good for younger kids because there is some pretty graphic stuff that even made me cringe. Grade: B -- Billy Norris, 14, is in the ninth grade at Seminole High School and is a former member of the Times X-Team. Past 14 Days March 16, 2008 March 15, 2008 March 14, 2008 March 13, 2008 March 12, 2008 March 11, 2008 March 10, 2008 March 9, 2008 March 8, 2008 March 7, 2008 March 6, 2008 March 5, 2008 March 4, 2008 March 3, 2008 Search further back Here's the rest of today's Xpress 'The Ring' plus teens equals screams Tricks and treats and fall You're driving me crazy