Japanese filmmaker Junta Yamaguchi follows his buzzy debut “Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes” with another winning time-loop comedy, the more succinctly titled “River.” Yamaguchi chooses Kyoto’s picturesque Fujiya Inn as his backdrop, thriving off the meditative aesthetics of a rushing river that soothingly gurgles through a serene hotel.
It’s so calming and comforting, much like Yamaguchi’s hilarious sci-fi predicament where time keeps repeating on a two-minute cycle.
There are parallels between “Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes” and “River,” but Yamaguchi’s sophomore effort is an upgrade in every conceivable measure.
“River” is a triumphant indie comedy that’ll have you laughing out loud from start to finish — easily one of the funniest films I’ve seen this year (at minimum).The story follows both guests and staff of Fujiya, sticking on waitress Mikoto (Riko Fujitani) as our focal protagonist.
Mikoto goes to check stock on their beer supply, stopping at the Kibune River for a quick prayer.
Read full article