Id (2005)

Kei Fujiwaras's "Ido" is one of those flicks that most people will find unbearable to watch. It features grotesque acts of violence, crude sex scenes and a confounding plot. Its themes include cross-dressing, voyeurism, homosexuality, domestic violence, sexual abuse and cannibalism. On top of that, this movie looks cheap and dirty. Even for fans of art-house cinema this is going to be a difficult experience, as it seems easy to dismiss this movie as stupid trash trying to shock its audience.

However, I have to admit that this movie fascinates me. There's two reasons for this. First off, there is much to be said about the more abstract topics of "Ido"; about the human subconscious for instance, or the bestiality of mankind, which is depicted in a literal and raw manner here. Secondly, I think this movie is an astonishingly honest expression of mental illness in the wake of a traumatic experience.

Supposedly, two of the female characters (one of them played by the director herself, Fujiwara) have suffered sexual abuse. I believe the atmosphere of this movie has to be seen in the light of this fact. If you ever encountered even a light mental disorder, you know that it is everything but pleasant or rational. To me, "Ido" nailed the confusion and despair one feels going through a depression or similar psychogenic problems. I deeply respect art that deals with dark themes as directly and uncompromising as this one. That's why I like this movie more than I probably should. If you're interested in the subject matter, by all means, give it a shot. If you don't know what the hell I'm talking about, steer clear of this movie at all costs.