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# RYÛSUKE HAMAGUCHI: A DIRECTOR IN THE SPOTLIGHT
The enthusiastic reception and Oscar nomination of “Drive My Car” propelled Ryûsuke Hamaguchi into the international spotlight as a renowned director. His latest work, the environmentally conscious rural drama “Evil Does Not Exist”, was initially intended to be a visual accompaniment to his longtime collaborator Ishibashi Eiko’s music.
## SMALL-TOWN POLITICS AND DEEP THEMES
Hamaguchi delves into the nuances of small-town politics, focusing on a 20-minute scene revolving around the placement of a septic tank at a glamping site. Through this seemingly mundane conflict, he weaves a narrative exploring themes of family, community, and humanity’s relationship with nature.
## RISING INTERNATIONAL PROFILE
Following the success of “Drive My Car”, Hamaguchi acknowledges the increased attention and pressure to meet expectations in his filmmaking endeavors. Despite this, the warm reception of “Evil Does Not Exist” at the New York Film Festival provided a sense of validation and joy for the director.
## AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY
Initially conceived as a project to accompany Ishibashi Eiko’s live performances, “Evil Does Not Exist” challenged Hamaguchi to craft a film without traditional dialogue, prompting a fresh and innovative approach to storytelling. The collaboration with Ishibashi-san and the exploration of non-verbal storytelling marked a departure from his usual creative process.
## INSPIRATION AND CREATION
The fictional town of Mizubiki, a fusion of various researched locations, served as the backdrop for the film, inspired by Ishibashi-san’s music and natural surroundings. The incorporation of a real community meeting into the narrative added depth and authenticity to the storytelling, reflecting real-life events and issues.
## GLAMPING AND ECOLOGY
The film touches upon the growing popularity of glamping in Japan, showcasing a societal shift towards nature-focused leisure activities. While the pandemic may have influenced this trend, the underlying themes of economic decline and environmental degradation in the film highlight larger societal issues.
## THE POWER OF VISUAL NARRATIVE
The pivotal community meeting scene, while lengthy, encapsulates the essence of the film’s themes and provides a relatable and engaging experience for viewers. Hamaguchi’s confidence in the scene’s impact underscores his belief in the universal resonance of the story.
## THE EVOLVING ENDING
The enigmatic ending of “Evil Does Not Exist” prompts reflection and multiple viewings to fully grasp its significance. Hamaguchi’s refusal to explicitly explain the ending encourages audiences to interpret the film’s message for themselves, allowing for personal and diverse interpretations.
## A TALE OF IDEALS AND REALITY
The ending’s disruption of idyllic notions and self-idealization challenges viewers to confront the complexities of human desires and aspirations. Through Takumi’s journey, the film explores the complexities of personal expectations and the harsh realities of pursuing one’s dreams.
## LOOKING AHEAD
As “Evil Does Not Exist” prepares to debut in select theaters, Ryûsuke Hamaguchi’s introspective and challenging filmmaking style continues to captivate audiences worldwide. The director’s unique approach to storytelling and thought-provoking themes ensure a compelling cinematic experience for viewers.
**Stay tuned for the release of “Evil Does Not Exist” in theaters near you.**
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