WHAT: Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives
WHY: Whether the interestingly long-winded title of this Thai exploration of reincarnation sparks your interest or turns you off, we recommend taking some time for this fantastical import from director Apichatpong Weerasethakul (try saying that 5 times in a row...or just once, for that matter.) In the final days of his life, the title character, Uncle Boonmee, takes his family to the jungle of Thailand to explore landmarks of his past lives, in turn discovering things about the life he's currently living. It may sound heavy, but the playful direction and heartfelt performances makes for 114 minutes well spent.
WHERE: Film Forum, 209 West Houston Street (between Varick Street and 6th Avenue); 212-727-8110.