Audition (1999) Movie Review: A Haunting Exploration of Desire and Deception
Audition (Ôdishon), directed by Takashi Miike and released in 1999, is a Japanese horror film that has garnered a reputation for its unsettling atmosphere and shocking twists. Based on the novel by Ryu Murakami, the film combines psychological horror with intense and disturbing imagery, making it a standout entry in the genre.
Plot Summary
The story follows Aoyama (played by Ryo Ishibashi), a middle-aged widower who decides to find a new partner. Encouraged by his teenage son, he decides to hold a mock audition for a film role as a way to meet potential candidates. The audition process is intended to be a facade for his search for a new companion.
Among the many applicants is Asami (played by Eihi Shiina), a seemingly demure and mysterious woman who captures Aoyama’s attention. Despite her quiet demeanor, Asami’s background and intentions are far from ordinary. As their relationship develops, Aoyama discovers unsettling aspects of Asami’s past, leading to increasingly disturbing revelations.
The film gradually transitions from a slow-burn drama to a shocking and intense horror experience. Audition explores themes of desire, manipulation, and the consequences of failing to recognize the true nature of others.
A Disturbing and Thought-Provoking Horror Film
Audition is notable for its gradual build-up of tension and its stark contrast between mundane romantic interactions and horrifying revelations. Takashi Miike’s direction is masterful in creating an atmosphere of unease, using both psychological and physical horror to evoke a sense of dread.
Ryo Ishibashi’s performance as Aoyama is both sympathetic and tragically flawed, portraying a man whose well-intentioned search for love leads him into a nightmare. Eihi Shiina’s portrayal of Asami is equally compelling, with a chillingly subdued performance that hints at deeper, more sinister motivations.
The film’s screenplay, adapted by Daisuke Tengan, balances character development with horror elements, allowing the narrative to unfold in a way that heightens the impact of the film’s more disturbing moments. The final act of the film is particularly notorious for its shocking and graphic scenes, which have made Audition a notable entry in the horror genre.
Miike’s use of unsettling imagery and psychological tension contributes to the film’s reputation as a modern horror classic. The film’s ability to disturb and provoke thought sets it apart from more conventional horror fare.
Streaming Availability: Where to Watch Audition Online
For those interested in watching Audition, the film is available on several streaming platforms. Here’s where you can find it:
1. Amazon Prime Video
Audition is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. The film is offered in HD, providing a high-quality viewing experience of its intense and disturbing content.
2. Apple TV
On Apple TV, Audition can be rented or purchased in high-definition. The platform ensures a seamless viewing experience across all Apple devices.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play offers the option to rent or purchase Audition. The film is available in HD and can be streamed on various devices that support Google Play.
4. YouTube Movies
YouTube Movies provides another option for renting or purchasing Audition. Available in HD, the film can be streamed directly through your web browser or the YouTube app.
5. Vudu
Vudu has Audition available for rent or purchase in HD. The platform supports a range of devices, including smart TVs and streaming devices like Roku.
6. Hulu (Limited Availability)
Audition may occasionally be featured on Hulu as part of the platform’s rotating selection. Hulu subscribers should check the service to see if the film is currently included.
7. HBO Max (Limited Availability)
Audition may also be available on HBO Max, depending on the platform’s current film selection. HBO Max subscribers should check the service for availability.
Conclusion: A Chilling and Unforgettable Horror Experience
Audition is a chilling and unforgettable horror film that combines psychological tension with shocking and graphic imagery. With Takashi Miike’s distinctive direction and strong performances from Ryo Ishibashi and Eihi Shiina, the film offers a unique and disturbing exploration of desire and deception.
With its availability on major streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play, Audition is accessible for those interested in experiencing this landmark in Japanese horror cinema. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers or enjoy films that push the boundaries of the genre, Audition provides a compelling and unsettling viewing experience.
