Synopsis: An American journalist is traveling through Japan in the 1800’s, searching for the love of his life, Komomo, whom he had to abandon years prior. He ends up in a creepy brothel with a deformed prostitute who knew Komomo and she reveals Komomo's sad and gruesome fate to the American.
My take: Like many great directors, Miike repeats himself with Imprint, using some of the same themes and motifs he’s covered before. It is definitely a mash-up of elements from Audition, Box, and his mentor Tsukamoto’s Gemini, but it is done from a new and unique perspective. Imprint is undoubtedly the most talked about episode of the MoH series, and for good reason, but people's opinions are generally mixed. The climax is either the boldest, most innovative sequence I’ve seen in a very long time, or it is the worst crap ever, I can’t decide, even after several viewings. However, one thing is undeniable – this film sticks with you, which is often what Miike sets out to do. As horrible as it is, you cannot turn away. Imprint is not for the squeamish. If the abundance of aborted fetuses isn’t enough, the infamous torture scenes go on for way too long. The acting is also not for the squeamish. Miike's only restriction was no subtitles – the only English-speaking member of the cast (Billy Drago) is frequently criticized for his acting here, with much justification. But, the acting problems are just so insignificant in light of what Imprint is. Must be seen to be believed, yet my feelings overall are still mixed.
3 out of 4 Zombie Faces
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