How far would you go, to cure your loneliness?

With a film like Audition, it's best to go in knowing absolutely nothing. Therefore, my recommendation is you grab a copy of Audition on DVD, sit back, and enjoy. Don't read any further. Take this reviewers advice, it's worth the trip. However, if you feel the need for description, and criticism, be it good or bad, by all means, read on. I'll do my best to not give the juicier bits away...promise.

Shigeharu Aoyama (Ryo Ishibashi) is mourning the loss of his beloved wife. He is left to raise his son on his own. Luckily, they have a wonderful relationship with one another. Aoyama discusses his loneliness, openly, with those who are close to him. Including his good friend who happens to be a movie producer. Together, they come up with a plan. They will hold an open "audition" for a new movie. With the sole purpose of finding a new companion for Aoyama.

Shigeharu Aoyama is struck by one woman in particular, Asami Yamazaki (Eihi Shiina). The two develop a relationship, and for Shigeharu Aoyama, this turns into a life or death situation.

Audition starts off as a from the heart film about relationships, with incredible character development. After the first hour, you want to see these characters healthy, and happy. This is exactly when the film takes a disturbing turn. This film is certainly not for the squeamish. If you don't know what you are getting yourself into, you may be in for a big surprise.

The ever eclectic Takashi Miike is the direcor of Audition. Each film he brings us seems so vastly different from the next, and Audition is absolutely no exception. It's an upsetting piece of work, full of disturbing imagery, and pitch perfect performances (try saying that 10 times fast).

There's not much more I can say other than believe the hype and check it out. I'm sure you will not be disappointed. The picture quality is not perfect, but is absolutely acceptable and affordable. The 2.0 mix sounds fine, and the subs are easy to read.

Keep in mind that Audition is a Region 3 DVD. There is a Region 2 DVD set for release in September. Although a stateside release has yet to be announced, I remember reading awhile back in Entertainment Weekly, that Audition was being prepped for a stateside theatrical release! Even if that doesn't happen, let's hope a stateside DVD release isn't too far off.