This is a puzzle box film about a possible alien abduction, an influencer playing a prank, extortion and numerous other plot threads. Its a film that you have to watch from start to finish in order to really know what is going on.
When puzzle box films work they are wonderful. For example FISH STORY, which played at Japan Cuts years ago, was my introduction to Yoshihiro Nakamura, who is one of my favorite directors of all time. The film tells its story in a piece meal manner which comes together in a most magical way at the end. When the films don't work they leave you wondering why you are watching it. Some times when you get to the end you realize it was worth it and some times you're not sure. With UNIDENTIFIED MURDER, I'm not sure. I kind of want to watch it again knowing how it all goes together, and part of me doesn't. I'll have to do after NYAFF is done.
The problem for me was that the story telling felt intentionally obtuse. Its not what happens, more I didn't know if the film needed to be told the way it was. I have to think about it.
If you are curious give the film a try.
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