IGN Filmforce has a first look at the script for the sequel to the hit American horror remake "The Ring" which is being helmed by original "Ringu" director Hideo Nakata. Production is slated to begin in May with a release aiming for November (although its expected to be held back to early 2005).

This second 'Ring' won't follow the Japanese "Ringu 2", rather this time investigative reporter Rachel Keller (Naomi Watts) and her young boy Aidan relocate from Seattle to the quaint mountain town of Asheville, Oregon where she's landed a job at the local paper. It's not easy for her getting over the first film's events whilst dealing with nosy neighbours as well.

It seems that "Rachel's professional curiosity is intrigued when it comes over the police scanner that Asheville has suffered its first homicide in decades. The victim is a teenage male who was found dead at home, his face ravaged. His date, Emily, is still shaken and disturbed by his gruesome demise.

As you can imagine, the cause of his death was viewing that underground videotape. Only Rachel secretly believes this story, which has been dismissed by everyone else as an urban legend. Rachel initially orders a young reporter not to mention the tape in her story; after all, it's only a rumor and they must report facts"

Also today in the trades, its been reported that the franchise will continue its reliance on Down Under leads with "The Guardian" actor Simon Baker being cast in the male lead role. NZ born, Aussie-bred Martin Henderson played the lead male in the first film.

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Thanks to 'Stax'.