Paramount+ Streaming Box Office Hit: “Scarier Than ‘The Ring'”

Paramount+ has added another hit to its streaming lineup with the release of the box office success Smile, a bone-chilling horror film that has been drawing comparisons to the iconic movie The Ring. The original Japanese film Ringu, which first premiered in 1998, spawned a wave of terror that led to an American remake in 2002. Both versions, with their haunting tales of cursed videotapes and impending doom, have left viewers on the edge of their seats.

Smile, directed by newcomer Parker Finn, follows a sinister entity that spells death for anyone who encounters it within a week. Just like The Ring, the protagonist must solve the mystery before time runs out. While Smile shares some similarities with its predecessor, it adds its own unique twists to keep audiences captivated.

What sets Smile apart, in my opinion, is its ability to deliver even more chills than The Ring. I wrote an editorial a while back arguing that Smile is indeed a scarier film, based on my personal experience. The film’s approach to mental health issues and its gritty depiction of a hospital setting create a sense of unease that lingers long after the movie ends.

Now, for those eager to compare for themselves, both Smile and the American version of The Ring are available for streaming on Paramount+. So grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready for a double feature that will keep you up at night. The horror genre never looked so good!