n conjunction with the annual Japanese Film Festival, this special program explores the concept of time through a curated screening of River (2023), a charming and thought-provoking Japanese indie film directed by Junta Yamaguchi. Set in a traditional inn by the Kibune River in Kyoto, the film follows a group of staff and guests caught in a mysterious two-minute time loop. As time resets again and again, they begin to uncover emotional truths, confront unresolved tensions, and find unexpected moments of connection and joy.

Following the screening, a guided discussion will invite audiences to share their thoughts on the film’s themes, visual storytelling, and the subtle cultural nuances embedded within the narrative.

Moments in Time offers more than a film viewing—it’s a collective reflection on time, memory, and the human experience, grounded in the beauty of Japanese independent cinema. Whether you’re a cinephile or a casual viewer, this session promises resonance and conversation.