Audition

The title is really what this movie is about. After watching this, if ever I’m put in a situation like this, I’ll make sure to check will all the government agencies and have those people background checked. The gore scenes aren’t what I was used to, like decapitation, or cutting off limbs, but even so, it was skin crawling to watch. Directed by Takashi Miike (Ichi the Killer, 13 Assassins)

This disturbing Japanese thriller follows Aoyama (played by Ryo Ishibashi), a widower who decides to start dating again. Aided by a film-producer friend (played by Miyuki Matsuda), Aoyama uses an audition for a fake production to function as a dating service. When Aoyama becomes intrigued by the withdrawn, gorgeous Asami (played by Eihi Shiina), they begin a relationship. However, he begins to realize that Asami isn’t as reserved as she appears to be, leading to gradually increased tension and a harrowing climax.

Characters

The widower protagonist, Aoyama, portrayed his character’s personal problems really well, his facial expression speaks volume when he’s alone, like he’s got nothing to live for.

During his torture scenes, he didn’t shout as much, and most of the time, we’re used to people screaming in pain or even before it happens. But here, Aoyama demonstrates it more realistically. He knows what’s coming and so instead of shouting and expending his energy, he uses it to brace for the pain that was to come. His shaking convulsions caused by the pain was perfect, that was one of the best portrayal of pain.

Asami, the reserved and shy character was creepy as hell, and she is to be applauded for her performance. The way she speaks was soft and felt warm and innocent, specially during her Audition, but at the same time you’d feel something sinister about her. The way she moves, like she’s gliding. Her portrayal of her character was spot on.

Kudos to the supporting characters, namely, the producer-friend, and his son.

Tone, Music and Sound

The whole feel of Audition, since the start, was empty. It felt hollow and something was missing. It felt like we’re experiencing what Aoyama was feeling. The sounds were dull and have no life. Like everything was black and white. But when Asami came into the picture, it felt lighter, but you’d get that sense of danger, like a demon hiding behind a curtain.

Story

If you think about it, even if it sounds wild to imagine, it could indeed happen. And I love the plot they got for this one. It makes it all the more terrifying. The pace was great. I like how they explored the sadness of Aoyama at first, and then the slow introduction of Asami’s character.

What I liked

It was great how they told the story of Asami, who she was before this. Its not as detailed as I would’ve liked, but leaving some mystery to it was a good decision. Its like she’s a nobody who just goes around looking for that literal undivided attention.

Conclusion

Audition has probably one with the least gore scenes, but the way they showed it, the detail and how they shot it, I felt every single one of it going through my skin. It made my skin crawl. One of the most effective horror films, definitely in my top ten. If you’re afraid of needles, I urge you to stay away from Audition, but if you want to challenge your fear of needles, this is the one for you.

If you’re looking for Japanese found-footage style of horror, I recommend Noroi: The Curse.