River 2023
"Another "two minutes""
Set against the serene backdrop of a 100-year-old ryokan nestled by the Kibune River in Kyoto, *River (2023)* blends gentle comedy with mind-bending sci-fi to weave a uniquely Japanese tale of time's relentless cycle.
Director: Junta Yamaguchi
Cast
Riko Fujitani
Mikoto
Yuki Torigoe
Taku
Munenori Nagano
Head Clerk
Takashi Sumita
Head Chef
Masashi Suwa
Nomiya
Gota Ishida
Kusumi
Haruki Nakagawa
Sugiyama
Kazunari Tosa
Hunter
Shiori Kubo
Hisame
Yoshimasa Kondo
Obata
Frequently Asked Questions
What is River (2023) about?
The story follows Mikoto, an employee at a century-old inn near Kyoto's Kibune River, who discovers she's trapped in a bizarre time loop. Every two minutes, she's mysteriously pulled back to the riverbank, forcing the entire staff to confront the absurdity of their situation.
Who directed River?
Junta Yamaguchi directed *River (2023)*, a filmmaker known for blending whimsical storytelling with understated social commentary.
Who stars in River?
The ensemble cast includes Riko Fujitani as Mikoto, Yuki Torigoe, Munenori Nagano, and supporting roles from Takashi Sumita and Masashi Suwa.
Is River (2023) worth watching?
With an unconventional premise and gentle pacing, *River* is a standout for fans of cerebral comedies like *Palm Springs* or *Coherence*. Its short runtime and unique setting make it a refreshing watch for those seeking something light yet thought-provoking.
How long is River?
River has a runtime of 86 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About River (2023) — A quirky time-loop comedy set in a Kyoto ryokan
Set against the serene backdrop of a 100-year-old ryokan nestled by the Kibune River in Kyoto, *River (2023)* blends gentle comedy with mind-bending sci-fi to weave a uniquely Japanese tale of time's relentless cycle. Director Junta Yamaguchi crafts a charming yet perplexing narrative where a quiet evening at the Fujiya inn is disrupted when a mysterious time loop traps its staff in a two-minute purgatory—sending them back to the riverbank again and again. With its dreamy atmosphere and subtle nods to folklore, the film explores themes of inevitability, renewal, and the quiet chaos hidden within routine.
Starring Riko Fujitani as Mikoto, the inn's reluctant protagonist caught in the loop, alongside Yuki Torigoe and Munenori Nagano, the cast delivers deadpan humor and poignant moments that anchor this surreal premise in relatable human emotion. Shot through with a soothing visual palette and a contemplative tone, *River* invites viewers to ponder whether its characters are victims of fate or simply caught in a cosmic joke—all while sipping sake and waiting for the reset button to finally stick.
