Shirome is a Japanese found footage movie where most the ‘actors’ don’t actually know they are starring in a movie. From the same director who made Noroi: The Curse.
Synopsis
Shirome follows the real-life idol band Momoiro Clover as they explore a haunted school, all while thinking they’re participating in a staged TV show to earn a spot on a talent competition.
My Thoughts
The premise of Shirome might not sound great, and might seem like just another teen-friendly horror film, but it is a movie I thought was ok.
Directed by Kōji Shiraishi, best known for Noroi: The Curse, Shirome leaves you uncertain about what’s real and what’s actually staged.
Shiraishi’s direction brings a darkly comedic and manipulative edge to the film, and he even plays himself in the movie, leading the girls through the haunted school while a man shares the legend of Shirome, a ghost who either grants wishes or drags souls to hell.
The film captures the genuine reactions of the girls, who didn’t know they were part of a mockumentary until after filming ended. There was apparently no script or acting involved and only Akari Hayami was let in on the secret.
Her role was to keep the others focused, giving the director material to add special effects later.
The documentary aspect is pretty well done, but I was a bit disappointed by some of the scares, but, there are plenty of tense moments that keep you wondering what will happen next.
Overall, this is a watchable movie if you enjoy found footage horror, Japanese horror, or Koji Shiraishi’s work, but it doesn’t hold a torch to the brilliance of Noroi.
Good Points
Strong Documentary Style: The film’s documentary aspect is well-executed and Shiraishi proves again he has a real knack for this style.
Tense Moments: Despite some lackluster scares, the film manages to maintain the tension throughout and kept me pretty well engaged in the film.
Real Reactions: The genuine fear and confusion of the idol group, who were unaware they were part of a horror setup, adds a bit of authenticity to the film.
Bad Points
Weak Scares: The horror elements, particularly the ghostly apparitions, are more silly than scary and is a bit disappointing.
Poor Special Effects and Acting: The special effects used are poorly executed, and the acting, even from the people who apparently knew what was going on, is quite weak.
Just watch Noroi instead: While the film is watchable, I would recommend just watching Noroi instead to see Shiraishi at his best.
Is It Worth Watching?
Shirome is worth watching if you’re a fan of found footage or mockumentary-style horror, as it has some decent things going for it.
It offers a creative twist on the genre with its blend of reality and fiction, but if you’re looking for a traditional scare-fest you might find it a bit boring and silly.
But, for me, it was an interesting watch, but isn’t anything to write home about.
Where To Watch
I haven’t found any streaming platforms with this on, well not officially.
Director and Cast
Director – Kōji Shiraishi
Main Cast – Kōji Shiraishi, Akari Hayami, Kanako Momota, Ayaka Sasaki, Shiori Tamai, Reni Takagi, Momoka Ariyasu
Found Footage Horror Movies 
Let Me Know Your Thoughts!