Takashi Shimizu's 'Ju-on' franchise was a principal instigator in the rise of contemporary Japanese horror and its international popularity at the turn of the millennium. Following the success of Hideo Nakata's 'Ringu' (1998), the first cinematic release of 'Ju-on' in 2002 crystallized Japanese horror's rise to prominence and outlined the new decade's thematic interest in supernatural technology and fear of contagions, while skilfully navigating domestic social concerns, such as Japan's growing elderly population and domestic violence. This book explores the production roots of 'Ju-on', followed by a critical reading of the film that highlights its essential themes and motifs, in addition to a section on cultural influences, before concluding with a section on Shimizu's continued involvement with the Ju-on franchise and its ongoing legacy.