Watch Strange Circus

Strange Circus is a surreal and shocking Japanese horror film from 2005, directed by the critically acclaimed Sion Sono, who has gained a reputation for his unconventional and boundary-pushing films. The movie stars Masumi Miyazaki, Issei Ishida, and Rie Kuwana, who deliver impressive performances throughout. The plot focuses on a young girl named Mitsuko (played by the talented Miyazaki), who lives in a world of constant abuse and violence. Her father, who is also her stepfather, is a perverted novelist who uses her as his muse for his strange and disturbing stories. Her mother is also abusive, both physically and emotionally, which drives Mitsuko to retreat into her own imagination.

Mitsuko's vivid imagination has led her to create a mysterious circus in her mind, where she is the star performer. This circus is an escape from the miserable reality of her life and provides her with a sense of control that she desperately craves. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes increasingly difficult to distinguish between Mitsuko's reality and the world of the circus that she has created.

As the movie progresses, the audience is taken on an intense and disturbing journey through Mitsuko's traumatic past and her twisted imagination. The plot is intricate and complex, with several twists and turns that keep the viewer on the edge of their seat. The cinematography is also impressive, with inventive camera angles and lighting that effectively capture the dreamlike and often nightmarish atmosphere of the film.

The characters in Strange Circus are all deeply flawed and damaged, which adds to the overall sense of unease and discomfort. The actors all deliver emotionally charged performances, particularly Miyazaki, who is incredibly compelling as the troubled and elusive protagonist. The film also features several intense and disturbing scenes that are not for the faint of heart, including instances of sexual abuse and graphic violence.

Ultimately, Strange Circus is a unique and unconventional horror film that explores complex themes of abuse, trauma, and imagination. It is dark, disturbing, and often uncomfortable to watch, but it is also a powerful and thought-provoking work of cinema that will stay with the viewer long after the credits roll. For fans of Japanese horror and horror in general, this is a film that should not be missed.

Strange Circus is a 2005 mystery with a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.