Midori, also known as Shôjo Tsubaki, is a 1992 Japanese animated film that stands as one of the most controversial entries in the horror genre. Directed by Hiroshi Harada and based on Suehiro Maruo's manga, the movie plunges viewers into a bleak, surreal world where a young orphan girl, Midori, is forced into a grotesque circus troupe after losing her mother. The circus, populated by freakish and abusive performers, subjects her to relentless physical and sexual violence, portraying a harrowing descent into despair. The animation style, reminiscent of eerie, hand-drawn illustrations, amplifies the disturbing atmosphere, making every frame unsettling.

The film's narrative takes a turn with the arrival of an enigmatic magician, who becomes a glimmer of hope for Midori amidst the brutality. His mysterious presence introduces themes of illusion and escape, though the story remains unflinchingly dark. With an IMDb rating of 6.3, Midori has polarized audiences and critics due to its explicit content and graphic depictions, but it is often praised for its artistic audacity and uncompromising vision. The voice performances and direction effectively convey the raw emotional trauma, making it a haunting experience.

Viewers should watch Midori for its unique place in animation history, as it pushes boundaries and explores taboo subjects rarely seen in the medium. It's not for the faint-hearted, but for those interested in cult cinema, Japanese animation, or psychological horror, it offers a profound, if disturbing, examination of human cruelty and resilience. The 55-minute runtime ensures a concise yet impactful journey, making it a compelling watch online for fans of avant-garde filmmaking.