Review: Third Wheel by (Switzerland) Kevin Haefelin 'Clever, concise, and funny'

In feudal Japan, Sachi (Amane Kimura) angrily mourns the death of her husband, Gohei (Yoshihiko Bito). Meanwhile, Gohei’s apprentice, Sakichi (Keigo Mitsutani), who can speak with the dead, helps Sachi to move on once and for all.

With the ghost of Gohei peeking over his shoulder, Sakichi tells the widow what Gohei wishes he could say and, to Gohei’s chagrin, puts his own spin on things. The dialogue is sharp and funny, while the excellent production design and cinematography gives the film a distinctly cinematic feel. In a few short minutes, the film manages to tell a complete story, one which fulfills the grief-induced fantasy held by anyone who has experienced loss. Clever, concise, and funny, Third Wheel is a fascinating exploration of mourning which strikes an impressive balance between humor and tact.

Review by Shane McKevitt for Venice Film Week.