Year: 2023
Runtime: 75 min
Language: Japanese
Directors: Jennifer Peedom, Joseph Nizeti
Echo Score: 72This documentary explores the profound connection between humanity and the world's rivers, traversing six continents to reveal their vital role throughout history. Featuring Willem Dafoe’s narration, the film combines the Australian Chamber Orchestra’s music with Radiohead’s soundscapes to create a powerful cinematic experience. It examines the intricate relationship between human civilization and these precious waterways, offering both a celebration of their beauty and a cautionary tale about their fragility, ultimately inspiring a renewed commitment to their preservation.
We’re working on a full plot summary and ending explanation for River (2023). Check back soon—or request it now to help us prioritize it.
Still wondering what the ending of River (2023) really means? Here’s a spoiler-heavy breakdown of the final scene, major twists, and the deeper themes that shape the film’s conclusion.
In the climax of the film, Joey and Gray manage to escape from Trevor’s pursuit after a series of deadly confrontations in the wilderness. Despite their efforts to reach safety, Trevor is relentless and kills several of their companions along the way. As the group approaches the treacherous river rapids known as “the beast,” Gray guides Joey through the dangerous waters, but their raft overturns, and they are separated. In a desperate attempt to save Gray, Joey drags him to the shore after falling into the river. However, Trevor catches up to them, stabbing Joey in the back. Gray, fighting to stay afloat, manages to restrain Trevor and pull him into the river, where both of them are swept downstream and drown in the rapids.
In the aftermath, Karissa finds a helicopter searching for the missing group and spots Joey, who, injured and unable to breathe properly, is trapped under her fall and stabbed. Using her quick thinking, Joey performs an emergency procedure, drawing the attention of the rescue team. Joey is saved and airlifted out of the wilderness, but her ordeal leaves her mentally scarred by the traumatic events. The story ends with her safe but forever changed by the violence and loss she experienced during the trip. This ending underscores the brutal violence and survivalist chaos that unfolded, leaving Joey physically and emotionally wounded but ultimately alive.
Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 09:01
Don't stop at just watching — explore River in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what River is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Track the full timeline of River with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape River. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.
Discover movies like River that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.
River (2023) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline
River (2023) Movie Characters, Themes & Settings
River (2023) Ending Explained & Theories
River (2023) Spoiler-Free Summary & Key Flow
Movies Like River – Similar Titles You’ll Enjoy
A River Below (2017) Full Summary & Key Details
Big River Man (2009) Full Movie Breakdown
River Wild (2023) Story Summary & Characters
A River Changes Course (2013) Detailed Story Recap
Aquarela (2019) Full Summary & Key Details
The Same River Twice (2003) Film Overview & Timeline
Flow: For Love of Water (2008) Movie Recap & Themes
Rivers and Tides: Andy Goldsworthy Working with Time (2002) Detailed Story Recap
Psychohydrography (2011) Ending Explained & Film Insights
DamNation (2014) Ending Explained & Film Insights
River (2016) Story Summary & Characters
Grand Canyon (1991) Story Summary & Characters
Riverdance: The Animated Adventure (2022) Full Movie Breakdown
Take Me to the River: New Orleans (2022) Detailed Story Recap
Take Me to the River (2014) Story Summary & Characters