"The Grudge" is a horror film centered around a cursed house in Tokyo, where a violent death has occurred. The curse, known as "the grudge," manifests as a malevolent spirit that attaches itself to anyone who enters the house. The story unfolds through the experiences of various characters, including a caregiver, who become haunted by the vengeful spirit. The narrative explores themes of grief, trauma, and the cyclical nature of violence, as those affected are unable to escape the curse, leading to tragic consequences.

"The Grudge," particularly the 2004 American remake of the Japanese film "Ju-on: The Grudge," is considered scary by many viewers due to its haunting atmosphere, unsettling imagery, and the concept of a curse that lingers and perpetuates fear. The film employs jump scares, eerie sound design, and a non-linear narrative that enhances tension. However, reactions to its scariness can vary; some find it genuinely frightening, while others may see it as clichéd or less effective compared to newer horror films. Overall, it is regarded as a significant entry in the horror genre.

"The Grudge" (2004) and "The Grudge" (2020) are not the same film, though they share a common premise. The 2004 version is a remake of the Japanese film "Ju-on: The Grudge" and follows a haunting curse that affects those who enter a cursed house. The 2020 film, while also titled "The Grudge," serves as a reboot and is set in the same universe but features a different storyline and characters. Both films focus on the theme of a vengeful spirit, but their narratives and approaches differ significantly.

In "The Grudge," the curse manifests as a malevolent spirit that targets individuals who enter a location associated with a violent death. Its victims experience intense fear and paranoia, often leading to hallucinations and a sense of impending doom. The curse causes them to suffer from a series of horrifying events, ultimately resulting in their deaths, which further perpetuates the cycle of the curse. The Grudge's influence can also lead to the victim becoming a new host for the curse, continuing its horrific legacy.