This is a very small film with humor, heart, no budget and an innovative premise.
At a small, rural Japanese inn by a river, a cast of guests and employees is trapped in a two-minute loop of time. The premise is simple. The characters become confused, angry and desperate, emotional revelations and heartfelt moments ensue - in 2 minute bursts. Each loop is a unique opportunity for the characters to learn, develop their relationships and make different choices.
The short time loop create a sense of urgency and claustrophobia. It greatly limits the settings. But the film is quite funny, rather than stressful. Japanese films seem to have a way with blending tension with borderline slapstick.
The end of "River" is a bit rush and contrived. But the reason for the loop isn't at all the point. The arbitrariness ends up working just fine.
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