User reviews

I'd give this a 7.5, but I'm rounding up for being short and to the point.

This is an extremely Japanese movie. The look, the feel, the Shintoism, the soundtrack, everybody working together to solve a problem, the efficient production, and even the sci-fi element felt straight out of some kind of anime. It explores the idea of people in a small area being stuck in a 2 minute time loop, and takes a very light hearted approach on the subject. Even the darker moments are done with a bit of a smile. I particularly enjoyed the development of the main characters facial expressions every time she reset.

A joy of an indie film, but be ready to pay attention because it's almost all dialogue.

This is a great little movie, a real gem and an absolute must watch wether you're into fantasy or science fiction or not, wether you're into japanese movies and culture or not. It is a movie done with a very small budget and small group of actors basically in one single location. The script is mostly hilarious and moving at times, so full of inventions and situations and the characters are all extremely well crafted. The direction is purely virtuosic. Basically each two minutes loop is a non stop sequence and each one of them is different from the other. I do not want to spoil any element as it's important to watch it without knowing anything more than the basic concept. Believe me, I do not write reviews very often and if I do it's for an extremely good reason.

This movie is so entertaining and it's mainly so thanks to the chemistry between the cast and crew which evidently suggests how fun (and hard) the preparation would've been. It's like a theatre group enchanting us with their presence and talent at so many places. I really wish that I get to witness these actors and filmmakers (of the theatre club Tollywood) in numerous other projects.

This movie, River, while in no way was better than Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes/Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes (2020), which introduced me to this awesome talent pool a few days ago (Nov 28th, 2023 to be precise), when I had lost hope that original, accurate, and entertaining movies could still exist.

However, this one was probably more charged emotionally, even though we only gets to see more of Mikoto and Tako, who makes it feel like a romantic comedy (but in a good way).

The plot device of time loop is okayish and isn't exactly explained as much as it could've been. Even the attempts to resolve the conflict were quite rushed, quick, and not at all came when stakes were high. At times, the repetition did seem a bit too much. Other characters could been shown more often than Mikoto's sole viewpoint everytime the loop reset. Would've loved more of that serial writer, publisher, and the duo who just ate rice and chatted (but even then they're funnier than probably everyone else).

It also had one of the best dates in movies and that brilliant reference to Audrey Hepburn-Gregory Peck classic, Roman Holiday (1953).

Overall. Better than most movies of present era. At least most original movies. Not among the best though, unfortunately.

7.3/10.

(Jan 22nd, 2024)

No pun intended - the filmmaker himself made a video that we got to see before the movie (Weird Weekender Festival in Stuttgart). He admitted that he is good with .. time! And if you have seen Beyond infinite two minutes, you know he is not lying. The question is, if you want to watch a movie that is similar to that.

While this is good (added comedy I reckon) and still quite twisted in a sense, the former movie is a tiny bit better than this one. That said, you do get new and original ideas with this one. And maybe even an explanation why something happens ... to a specific group of people in a specific area ... we follow one character for most of the movie. That said, we do get to see a lot of people besides her.

There are some inconsistencies when it comes to logic (especially when we have a "hunt" going on), but with a movie and an idea like that it is better to suspend your disbelief.

Actually, the movie is not hard to follow at all. I was just thinking about how to try to explain this to anyone. How do you not spoil anything, but still explain the wild genre switches? I mean, as I'm writing this, the major genre is not even listed on this site, but I don't even want to fix it, because it would kind of make the movie worse.

And in general, I'm not against spoilers. Usually the "how" is much more interesting than the "what" and the "what" is usually so obvious that knowing it beforehand doesn't really matter, but this movie does the whole thing so differently that I wouldn't want to point anything out.

Is this even helpful to anyone? It's a cute little movie that accomplishes much more than anyone can ask of it. It's this little gem that manages to mix wildly different ideas in a way that doesn't feel forced. If nothing else, it's interesting from a filmmaking point of view.

Mikoto (Riko Fujitani) works at a remote inn located in the mountains north of Kyoto, where she has congenial co-workers and usually pleasant customers. While gazing at the river bordering the inn one day, she suddenly finds that she and the other inhabitants of the inn have fallen into a "time loop," where every two minutes she is inexplicably back at the river as if the previous two minutes had never occurred! Fortunately one of the chefs at the inn was a "science major," and he goes to work at deducing the cause of the loop with the aim of restoring proper time to the inn; in the meantime, all of the people there must find ways to cope with their strange predicament....

Two years ago, Montreal's Fantasia Festival (online that year) showed "Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes," one of the most hilarious films about time loops ever made; "River" is director Junta Yamaguchi's bigger-budget follow-up, and like its predecessor it is both charming and hilarious for the entirety of its short (82-minute) length. I don't want to say more because the film should be experienced with no preconceptions, so let me just note that you are unlikely to find anything more visually beautiful, with more exquisite and perfect timing from both the actors and the scenarios being enacted, anywhere in this or any other universe. Highly, highly recommended!

Asian cinema. With pleasure. Not even 90 minutes. Absolutely.

The visuals are a journey back in time to the 90s of Asian cinema, especially because of the lighting.

To digress a little first: Scenes shown make a European somehow melancholy. Japan has preserved its traditions and culture, its identity. No alienation, er I mean "diversity" of course, no loss of values, quality of life and inner security through unpleasant religions or primitive origins. As if more and more pages are being torn out of a book that is hundreds of years old. Those who don't understand its written words, will never understand them, don't want to understand them or are generally illiterate, don't care.

Back to the point: The basic premise of the time loop is of course nothing new, but the extremely short two minutes here open up completely new possibilities for ideas. And the film is bursting with them. The entire running time is entertaining, consistently interesting, often funny, sometimes sad. Even for viewers with viewing habits that deviate from this cinematic origin, I think the film can be consumed without hesitation and offers a wonderful time in front of the screen.

I was exceptionally pleased with Yamaguchi Junta's 2020 film 'Beyond the infinite two minutes': a charming, indie, low-budget sci-fi comedy that was well-rounded, clever, and funny, easily beating out countless major studio offerings in the process. It was also very smart in playing with time as a core plot device (e.g., travel through, communicate through, loop through, and so on), to an extent that either solicited hard scrutiny of its conceit and/or became delightfully complicated therein; either way, one was well served by not getting bogged down too much in those details. Fast forward a few years and Yamaguchi and screenwriter Ueda Makoto attempt an equally risky venture in 'River': a sequel. Facing the triple challenge of standing on its own merits, following its predecessor in a unique but meaningful way, and broadly quelling the doubts that commonly dog sequels, how is this 2023 feature? I came in with high expectations, and happily, they've not just been met, but exceeded - Yamaguchi and Ueda did it again, and this is a blast! In fact, I'm firmly of the opinion that this is even better!

This picture shares definite kinship with its forebear in various ways, not least in cheekily toying with a very small discrepancy in time, and being restricted to a single setting that is employed in an inventive fashion. The same cast returns to fill new roles alongside newcomers, and Yamaguchi again very much favors lengthy shots that follow individual actors throughout a space, giving cinematographer Kawagoe Kazunari and the crew a bit of a workout. The difference here is that as the nature of the scenario differs from the previous, it emphatically turns away from bearing the appearance of a single, continuous long take, and Yamaguchi gets to illustrate yet again that his skills as an editor are as tight, light, and nimble as his capabilities as a director. Likewise, Ueda once more gives us narrative and scene writing that joyfully overflow with both flavor and complexity, and we can either try to tease out the rules of the reality as it presents - impudently playing fast and loose with time - or just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. With the premise here being a time loop, Ueda effectively has a chance to slyly let similar scenes take different paths. And, yes, there's also a tiny but pivotal narrative idea linking the plots of the two titles within the same universe.

Wonderful themes reveal themselves of fearing the future, wanting to hold onto the present, and wishing for the happiness of past days; how we react in extraordinary circumstances that test us, and the extent or limits of bonds of community; strengthening bonds through adversity, and gaining personal insight; and finding the courage and will to move forward despite apprehensions. Yet these are all rolled very organically into the proceedings with marvelous ease and grace, and moreover, at the same time that 'River' evokes real feelings and stimulates our thoughts, it's also highly absorbing, immensely entertaining, and altogether hilarious. The screenplay is an absolute gem, earning many, many laughs - more than 'Beyond the infinite two minutes,' really - and even where the story unexpectedly broaches notably darker airs, these are subsequently twisted into morbid humor that only further heightens the heartfelt earnestness and warmth that ultimately defines the movie. The dialogue is stupendously bright, and the varied characters in and of themselves are a highlight as we get to know them throughout these eighty-six minutes. I'm inclined to believe this flick is even more well balanced than its elder, demonstrating further development in the skills of all, and particularly of Ueda: the writing is even more solid as every little thread is resolved, all tidbits brought back in substantive ways, and the premise executed with more polish and hardier constitution.

Far be it from me to focus so much only on the screenplay, though, because in every other capacity 'River' is terrifically well made. I repeat that Yamaguchi shows himself to be a very shrewd, adept director, and editor, and Kawagoe's cinematography is gratifyingly smooth, fluid, and dynamic - all of which I think is extra important here given the short bursts of time in the plot, and the way that scenes move about. Speaking of moving about, for as much as I appreciated the cast in 'Beyond the infinite two minutes,' now I downright love them. The characters are already so fun as they're written, and as the players inhabit these figures they bring fantastic energy and personality to each and every one. Given emphasis in the script on waitress Mikoto it's safe to say that Fujitani Riko stands out most, and has the most opportunity to exercise her craft, but truly every other cast member is just as superb, and all get their time to shine. The filming location Yamaguchi was able to secure for the production is absolutely gorgeous; like the café in the prior film, it's so cozy and inviting that I wish I could visit the inn myself. The production design, art direction, and costume design are modest, but utterly splendid; I adore the music as it adds to the humor and overall lighthearted vibe. Honestly, as far as I'm concerned this is pretty much perfect.

Again, I treasured 'Beyond the infinite two minutes,' and having seen it I anticipated much the same from another movie. After a few minutes of exposition this kicks up very quickly, and as it did I found myself laughing over and over. With equal parts frivolity and sincerity, and benefiting from the utmost care, intelligence, and hard work of all involved, 'River' is even better than I could have hoped. I have a hard time imagining that anyone could sit for this and not step away having had a great time. I don't know if Ueda and Yamaguchi have another flick up their sleeves (I certainly hope so) or if this is the terminus of this specific line of brilliant creativity, but one way or another this is an incredible highpoint that they and their collaborators should be proud of. For my part I outright cherish 'River,' and I'm all so glad to give it my very high, hearty, and enthusiastic recommendation!

More than a movie.. this is feels like an interesting short/project (one seemingly funded via MotionGallery).

You can see the amateurish cinematography, where you are reminded that there's someone behind a camera running around. The acting is good (for the most part), the characters energetic, the location makes the film, and the developments entertaining enough to retain one's attention. The OST is memorable and the ending a bit out there.. which makes it all a very particular and memorable experience!! Eloquent human-self centrism appreciated.

I've seen enough things (even Japanese) not to be surprised or shocked by the developments. But it is quite fun and some might even find it very different! Reason enough for me to encourage anyone into giving it a try.

On a snowy day in a charming riverside hotel near Kyoto the staff and guests suddenly become subject to a time loop. As a result every 2 minutes time resets and they start their 2 minutes again and again from where they were the first time.

Whilst this may not have the humour, pathos and life lessons to be learned elements of Groundhog Day, it follows a reasonably similar path, it's just every 2 minutes. This makes it in some ways more fun as whatever they're in the middle of, they remember, but just have to start from the launch point - so lots of Japanese slapstick type humour with everyone screaming and shouting and running around. It's sweet in its own way and not without a few laughs and never really gets serious. It also offers a really silly conclusion and reason for the time loop. Pleasant enough.

What a great little indie film. Loved the female lead character Mikoto, she kept me watchingl While stuck in a loop, the staff of a hotel try to both keep their guests happy and informed while also attempting to understand and extricate themselves from the situation. Unlike other loop themed tales, everyone recalls everything from previous iterations. This allows them to perform a variety of experiments to gain information that could lead to an exit. At same time all the usual human responses and interactions proceed apace. With an overlay of Japanese mannerisms, the story is completely beguiling.

Give it a try.

River, originally known as Ribâ, nagarenaide yo, is a Japanese science-fiction movie with elements of comedy, drama, mystery and romance. The film takes place in Kifune, a calm mountainous town north of Kyoto, on an automnal afternoon. The main setting is a traditional Japanese inn where we meet the film's most important characters. We have the elderly couple who owns the place, two young ladies taking care of customers, a group of elderly and young cooks, two friends of old date who meet for the first time in many years, a desperate author with writer's block and his manager who pressures him to respect an upcoming deadline. Suddenly, time starts to loop every two minutes. The different characters are at first confused, then fall victim to panic before attempting to end the loop.

Watching this movie was so rewarding that I immediately decided to watch it again the very next day. Needless to say that I will continue to watch and recommend it in the future. River most certainly qualifies as greatest film of its year of release.

There are several elements that make this movie stand out. As you could already read, the film's plot is particularly imaginative. The scriptwriter has incorporated numerous different ideas into this film. The movie leads you upon numerous wrong paths before coming around with a rewarding final turn that explains everything that has been happening. This twist came as a most wonderful surprise since my very own theory turned out not to be true.

This film also convinces so much because it incorporates many different genres. The idea of a time loop firmly positions this movie into science-fiction territory. However, everything else is pleasantly realistic and filled with emotions. Several scenes offer hilarious slapstick comedy. One example is when the stressful manager runs out of the public bath on ground level and tries to meet the nervous writer on the first floor. Many scenes incorporate drama. One example is when the two friends of old date painfully remember what separated them in the past and try to overcome these unsolved issues in the present. This film also includes a healthy dose of mystery. For instance, several characters believe to be responsible for the time loop and try different strategies to put an end to what they believe they have started. This movie also includes some bittersweet romance. Two characters have strong feelings for each other but are unable to talk things out and face a future when they might be separated by thousands of miles.

Another noteworthy strength are the wonderful locations. Kifune truly looks like Heaven on Earth to me. This includes automnal colours as well as gentle snowfall, it references the beautiful winding roads, it makes allusions to the well-maintained traditional buildings, it's related to the elegant shrine and the long stairs leading up to it and it also has to do with the gentle river itself and its immediate natural surroundings. This movie most certainly makes me want to visit Kifune one day.

The characters also deserve much praise because they are detailed, profound and realistic as viewers will most certainly care about, empathize with and think about them. Many different types of people are being represented throughout the movie such as business partners, friends of old date, hunters, lovers and work colleagues. This movie doesn't attempt to forcefully include children, immigrants or any other minorities which makes for a refreshing alternative in times when Western cinema nervously tries to appeal to every possible group of people scriptwriters can think of. This movie here feels timeless as it could have been made fifty years ago, today or even in fifty years. I predict that this movie is going to be ageing particularly well.

If you are waiting for a negative remark about this film, then let me assure you that there isn't any in my humble opinion. River or Ribâ, nagarenaide yo is a flawless science-fiction film with elements of comedy, drama, mystery and romance. The actors and actresses, caterers, director, editors, make-up artists, producers, scriptwriter and everyone else involved in the creation of this film deserve nothing but admiration, praise and respect. Do yourself a favour and watch this movie as soon as you can as it will be good for your brain, your heart and your soul.

It's no secret that I'm a big fan of Junta Yamaguchi's creative movies, especially the ones about time travel. And with this movie River, he takes a familiar concept about time looping and adding a new twist to it!

River follows the life of Mikoto, a girl working at an inn in a quiet and peaceful village called Kibune. One day she stands by the river that flows through the village and makes a prayer, after that time seemingly loops back exactly 2 minutes, but the twist is that she's not the only one affected- the whole village is!

Watching River feels like partaking in a small and private pleasure. The movie doesn't really have a grand scope other than its premise, you get to experience everything within the confines of its own boundaries, the inn and the village. And that's fine, and brilliant because it's in these smaller sets where you can make everything more personal and comforting for the viewer. The story is riveting and its characters even more. Also the sheer ambition and discipline made into making this movie, I watched the behind the scenes of this movie and they actually had a timer for every scene- and if one scene didn't end in exactly 2 minutes then they had to rewrite it on the spot or do everything much more faster!

The actors are all doing great jobs here and do amazing in capturing the absurdity of this situation that they're dealing with.

The music is almost non existent but there, it does its job with simple motifs.

If there's anything negative to say about this film is I guess the filming isn't very nice looking, I know it's meant to be done in the cheapest way possible so I give this a past. Weird use of bloom effect throughout.

Also the movie doesn't really go much deeper into the whole "memory doesn't reset during time loops"-situation, as the movie later shows people are panicking and some even resort to violence and stabbing each other which isn't really explained. I know I'd be fuming if someone stabbed me during a time loop. It's alright though, but it would give the movie another dimension.

Either way, I enjoyed myself a lot watching this movie, it has some funny twists and quirks that will charm everyone. Check it out!