Down the River

By: Scott Cranin
In-House Review - Jun 09 2008

Elegantly composed, dreamlike and ethereal, Down the River is a stunning little treat from Thailand. Infused with Buddhist theology, the film tells the story of two best friends Krit and Win. Krit wants their relationship to be more, but Win wants a wife and children. Win's brain can't embrace his homosexual side as Krit has. Krit goes to gay bars, Win hangs out with the straight people, but all these two men have on their minds is each other. Krit and Win love to hike in the woods, and Krit keeps a book where he presses flowers as memories of their walks. With scenes juxtaposed in a non-linear fashion the story, as it is, is of a hike Win and Krit take with two women. Krit wants this to be an "intimate moment" with Win, but Win is still scared. When they do kiss and make love it's as sweet any lovemaking scene we've seen. With scenes of Buddhist prayer shot in an ancient Thai Temple, there's a feeling that God is watching over these two young men in love. Shot in the forests, fields and Temples of the ancient country of Thailand, Down the River is a gay cinematic treat. (Thai with English subtitles)