Funky Forest: The First Contact - Preview

OFFscreen moves back into international waters this weekend with "Funky Forest: The First Contact." Directed by a Japanese trio including Katsuhito Ishii of "Taste of Tea fame this 2005 feature defies one-paragraph summary from bloggers and critics. The film is based around the frame of a sketch-comedy show and features singing, dancing, animation, and dreams. Visually inventive, unafraid of risk, and with moments of real genius, "Funky: Forest: The First Contact" is a welcome journey into absurdity.

The New York Post claims that something is lost in translation, but we at OFFscreen invite you to lose yourself in this hyperactive treat. Check out this review from some people who get it in "The Brooklyn Rail."

"Funky Forest: The First Contact" will play for one night only at the Newcomb Hall theater at the University of Virginia, on Sunday, March 29. Please note that due to its 150 minute running time, the film will be shown only at 7 PM. Tickets are $3.

If you can't decide whether or not to come, please watch the clip after the jump featuring actress Rinko Kikuchi - oddly the only living Japanese actress to have been nominated for an Academy Award (thanks Wikipedia). I trust you will make the right decision.