I wanted to read comments here to see if anyone else picked up on the disconnect between the sensational marketing and the actual content of this fantastic film. There's plenty of praise in the majority of reviews, but a few in particular complain in a manner that indicates that they missed the subtext running throughout the documentary. While there is nothing to be done if the ostensible subject of a book or a movie irritates the bejeezus out of you, it's downright feeble to mount a critical attack based on finding someone "unlikeable." I expected to find some homophobic remarks, but it appears that what annoys the unhappy reviewers most is the combination of effete mannerisms, boldness of composure and matter-of-fact forthrightness in the artist with whom they were tricked into spending an hour or so. That's probably about what the filmmakers bargained for when they chose "A Modern Cannibal Tale" as the film's subtitle. Of all of the deft acts the directors perform with this movie, I'm almost impressed the most with their exclusion of any kvetching on the part of their subject about having been "the guy who dined with cannibals" for most of his life. It surely isn't lost on anyone connected with the film (certainly not Tobias Schneebaum) that he has fashioned a livelihood out of one scandalous moment. He will never live this down, still he gives little impression of living it up. Given that nearly everywhere the man goes he is asked about eating human flesh - an experience that he describes as lasting less than a minute and consisting of one small bite of roasted person - I found his manner shockingly gracious. While waiting to hear him recount this tale, he and the filmmakers unreel a wealth of personal and anthropological perspective and a walk back on his uncanny path. So really, why not sucker a few thrill seekers along for an inspired and confounding ride? Not into subtext, complexity and angry that there's no footage of the flesh feast? Cannibal Holocaust is a few aisles over.

So, where are the cannibals? Those intrigued by the title and the 'real cannibal' appeal of this film will be let down. Instead, we are shown a strange man and his re-visiting of a Papua New Guinea village full of natives, one of whom was his lover several decades prior. The man, Tobias Schneebaum is New York Jewish as they come and somehow, this is intertwined with the documentary as he appears in his yamika in several scenes.There are no real cannibals here: only stories relayed by some of the natives and by Tobias himself. Not all together a bad film. Very interesting and great cinematography. Schneebaum remains highly likable throughout and provides us with a fascinating glimpse into a life that is about as far removed from Western Civilization as one can get.It's just not what it claims to be on the cover and in the plot summary.4 out of 10, kids.

Documenting a documenter. That's one way to describe Keep the River on Your Right: A Modern Cannibal Tale. This film follows anthropologist Tobias Schneebaum, who in his late 70s went on a journey back to the places he spent time as a participant field researcher over 40 years ago, first to West Papua and then Peru. Tobias is a full-bodied character: a gay Jewish artist anthropologist who eeks out a living on a cruise ship teaching gawking tourists about the cultures he has come to have a deep respect and understanding for. Author of several books documenting his time with both the Asmat people of West Papua and the cannibalistic Amazonians in Peru, Tobias has been haunted by what happened in his time in these places and how intimate his connection and relationships had become. Yet Tobias' constant wonder and appreciation for the places he got to know is admirable and a real pleasure to watch. One can only hope to ever achieve and retain such humility themselves.Tobias makes a compelling subject for study as the experiences he faced in immersing himself in these two tribal societies has left him fundamentally changed. This film challenges the notions of morality and "naturalness"- e.g. nudity, homosexuality, cannibalism. (Watch for the graphic circumcision scene). When questioned as to why he engaged in some of the local practices that others would morally denounce, his non-judgmental nature asks: "Why Not?" Who is to say the way of other cultures is right or wrong? This little sleeper is a must watch for not only National Geographic types, but also those interested in the art of documentary making. This film shows what can be done shot on video. The editing provides a quiet revelation of Tobias' life that leaves you watching in fascination. At times, he despairs at being pushed by the film crew to make the emotional journey back, especially considering his age and physical frailty. We can be but grateful that Tobias allowed the tables to be turned on himself, perhaps sympathising with the desire to understand humanity and one's place in the world. The filmmakers provide some moments of critical balance, presenting for example one anthropologist who believes that Tobias predetermined his findings (of homosexuality in this case) based on his personal interests. That said, you can't decide when to stop being shocked and when to take this man home for a cuddle. Move over River Queen, this is the best river ride I've taken in a while.

I saw this film at Amsterdam's International Documentary Film Festival and was privileged to meet both the directors and Tobias Schneebaum, all of whom are lively and outspoken New Yorkers. The film's title in Amsterdam was Keep the River on Your Right, making the sensational aspect of cannibalism somewhat less prominent. Equally important was the loving - and gay - relationship Tobias Schneebaum had with members of the groups he studied as an anthropologist. His reunion at nearly 80 years of age and inevitable leave-taking were very moving. I can only highly recommend this film to anyone looking for a moving story that is anything but pedestrian.