
Ju-on: The Curse was originally released in 2000 as a direct-to-video Japanese horror film. Upon its release, it garnered a modest but attentive audience intrigued by its unconventional narrative structure and eerie atmosphere. Critics praised its chilling portrayal of a curse and its suspenseful storytelling, though it did not achieve major commercial success initially. Over time, Ju-on: The Curse has grown in stature, becoming recognized as a seminal work in the Japanese horror genre. Today, it is considered a cult classic, revered for its influential approach to horror, its unsettling mood, and its role in spawning the now-famous Ju-on franchise, which later inspired American remakes such as The Grudge. Its reputation has transformed from a niche horror entry to a highly respected and influential film within the genre.