AFI FILM FEST: WEEK 2

L istings and commentary for Week 2 of the American Film Institute Film Festival of Los Angeles, which runs through March 26:

MONDAY

“The Funeral” (Japan, 1984, 9:45 p.m.). A terrific black comedy that marked the feature debut of the wickedly talented Juzo Itami. The ceremonies of life are always ripe for satire of bourgeois propriety, and Itami overlooks no possibilities in the staging of an elaborate funeral by a family whose feverish concern for elaborate appearances is at odds with its true feelings and often outrageous behavior. Very funny. Recommended.