Japan's Takashi Shimizu came fresh out of film school to make Ju-On,
a mimimalist horror film that is so stark and unique in its vision
that it spawned two sequels and a successful American remake. Along
with Hideo Nakata (The Ring, Dark Waters), Takashi
is regarded as J-horror's reigning prince of darkness.

His simple and economical way of scaring audiences is evident in
his latest gem, Reincarnation, the best horror film I have
seen in months. Compared to Hollywood's noisy, gruesome and over-the-top
horror movies (Saw, The Hills Have Eyes, Hostel)
which leave nothing to the imagination, Takashi's understated style
is breath of fresh air. Despite some loopholes in the plot, Reincarnation
is still the best new mainstream movie of the week.

It stars Yuka as an actress who is picked to play a part in a horror
film by a famous director (Kippei Shiina). The film he is making
is based on real massacre that took place in a hotel some 30 years
ago. During the course of the filming, Yuka has a strange feeling
she has been there before, as if she herself had been involved in
the actual massacre. Is she a reincarnation of one of the victims?
Watch and find out.

Although Takashi has made a number of good horror movies, he proves
that he still has a few tricks up his sleeve. There are a few cliches
here and there, but the story is generally well-paced, original
and inspired. A word of advice: Do not come late for the show, because
it begins well.