Japanese director Junta Yamaguchi has captivated audiences with his latest sci-fi comedy, River, now available for streaming on Prime Video. Following his inventive 2020 film, Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes, Yamaguchi continues to explore the time-loop genre, presenting a unique story filled with humor and heart.
The film features a time loop that is notably brief—lasting just two minutes—setting it apart from other entries in the genre such as Groundhog Day and Palm Springs. The entire cast experiences this loop together, fostering a sense of camaraderie among the characters as they navigate their unusual predicament.
River unfolds at a rustic inn located in the rural Japanese village of Kibune. Main character Mikoto, portrayed by Riko Fujitani, finds herself caught in the loop after a brief moment of reflection by the river that runs alongside the hotel. What starts as an ordinary day soon turns into a series of moments where she and her co-workers must manage the needs of their guests while dealing with the peculiarity of their situation.
As the characters quickly realize they are stuck in a two-minute cycle, they approach the challenge with practicality. Their interactions are filled with comedic moments as they address the absurdity of certain guests’ complaints, such as one who cannot seem to rinse soap from his hair and another couple who never finish their rice.
The film balances humor with genuine emotion, particularly as Mikoto grapples with her feelings for the inn’s shy cook, Taku, played by Yūki Torigoe. Each iteration of the loop is shown as a single continuous take, showcasing Yamaguchi’s technical skill without overshadowing the narrative.
The charm of River lies in its clever writing and engaging storytelling. The film’s pacing and light-heartedness make it a delightful watch, even as the same scenes repeat. Yamaguchi effectively establishes the inn’s layout, allowing audiences to easily follow the characters’ movements and the efforts they exert to reunite during each cycle.
While much of the film is comedic, it also explores deeper themes of personal growth and resilience. Characters face their own existential dilemmas, illustrated through a blocked novelist who finds solace in the loop, relieved from the pressures of deadlines. This balance of humor and introspection adds depth to the film, making it a memorable addition to the time-loop genre.
With its charming premise and endearing characters, River is a testament to the optimism often found in time-loop narratives, emphasizing the potential for positive change. It is a film that invites viewers to appreciate the beauty of everyday moments, even when faced with the unexpected.
For those looking for a light yet meaningful film experience, River is a must-watch, offering a cozy escape that is perfect for revisiting. It exemplifies the creativity and humor that can flourish within the sci-fi genre, making it a hidden gem worth discovering on Prime Video.
