Midori (also known as Shôjo Tsubaki) is a 1992 Japanese animated horror film that remains one of the most controversial entries in anime history. Directed by Hiroshi Harada, who single-handedly created the animation over five years, the film adapts Suehiro Maruo's equally notorious manga. The story follows Midori, a young orphaned girl who, after her mother's death, finds herself joining a traveling freak-show circus. This circus, far from a place of wonder, becomes a hellscape where Midori is subjected to relentless physical and sexual abuse by the grotesque performers.

The film's power lies in its unflinching portrayal of trauma and exploitation, using surreal and disturbing animation to create a deeply unsettling atmosphere. While the content is extreme, it serves as a brutal critique of societal neglect and the exploitation of the vulnerable. The narrative offers a glimmer of hope through the arrival of an enigmatic magician, a character who brings a complex dynamic to Midori's suffering.

Viewers should watch Midori not for entertainment, but as a challenging piece of cinematic art that pushes boundaries. Its historical significance in underground animation, unique handmade aesthetic, and raw emotional force make it a compelling, if difficult, viewing experience for those interested in the extremes of the horror and drama genres. The film's notoriety and cult status are earned through its unwavering commitment to its dark vision.