Where to start

Ring

5 versions · originally a book, 2003

Ring has more than one version — here's where most fans start, and what each offers.

✦ Most fans start here

Ring (2003)

Ring

The original novel

✦ Start here

Ring

Kōji Suzuki · Book · 2003

The original novel, 2003.

Ring

1998 film

Ring

Hideo Nakata · Film · 1998

1998 film, 1998.

Ring 2

1999 film

Ring 2

Hideo Nakata · Film · 1999

1999 film, 1999.

The Ring

2002 film

The Ring

Film · 2002

2002 film, 2002.

The Ring Two

2005 film

The Ring Two

Hideo Nakata · Film · 2005

2005 film, 2005.

Common questions

What order should I watch the Ring movies?

You should start with the 1998 movie Ring, followed by the 1999 sequel Ring 2. If you prefer American adaptations, begin with the 2002 movie The Ring, which is followed by the 2005 film The Ring Two. These represent the primary Japanese and American cinematic versions.

Is the Ring book different from the movies?

The 2003 book Ring serves as the original source material for the adaptations. While the core premise remains consistent, the narrative structure and specific developments vary between the book and the various film versions, including the 1998 Japanese movie and the 2002 American film The Ring.

How long are the movies related to Ring?

The duration of the films varies by production. The Japanese versions include the 1998 movie Ring and the 1999 sequel Ring 2. The American adaptations include the 2002 movie The Ring and the 2005 sequel The Ring Two. Please check specific streaming platforms for the exact runtime of each.

Should I read the book Ring before watching the movies?

Reading the 2003 book Ring provides the original context for the franchise. Whether you start with the book or the 1998 movie Ring depends on your preference for source material versus film adaptation. Both offer distinct experiences of the same narrative foundation established by the author.

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