Unveiling the Mystery: Cast, Release Window, Plot, and Latest Updates of 'Evil Does Not Exist'

In 2021, Japanese director Ryusuke Hamaguchi gained international recognition and praise with the release of his film Drive My Car. This film is based on a collection of short stories by the renowned author Haruki Murakami and follows the story of Yusuke Kafuku, a stage actor and director. After the death of his complicated wife, Yusuke accepts a directing job for a production of Uncle Vanya at a theater festival in Hiroshima. Drive My Car premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received the Best Screenplay award and quickly became the most talked-about movie of the year. It also became one of the few foreign language films to be nominated for Best Picture.

After just two years, Hamaguchi returns with yet another highly anticipated film. His latest work, Evil Does Not Exist, received high praise at the Venice International Film Festival and is expected to make a significant impact on audiences. If you are interested in the details of how, where, and when to watch this latest triumph from Hamaguchi, you have come to the right place.

Is There A Release Date For 'Evil Does Not Exist'?

Unfortunately, Evil Does Not Exist currently does not have a release date but will be distributed by Janus Films.

Where Can You Watch 'Evil Does Not Exist'?

Is There A Trailer For 'Evil Does Not Exist'?

The film Evil Does Not Exist is set to have a theatrical release, but it will not be available for streaming on the same day. At the moment, there is no announcement regarding which streaming service it will eventually be on. Please stay tuned for further updates.

The trailer for Evil Does Not Exist was released on October 2nd. It showcases breathtaking and introspective shots of magnificent landscapes, skillfully capturing cinematic brilliance by Hamaguchi. The perspective shifts to a young girl who discovers the intricate interactions between local animals and the splendor of this majestic environment. Initially serene, this rural community's tranquility is disrupted as concerns about pollution gradually infiltrate people's minds, unsettling their daily routines.

What Is 'Evil Does Not Exist' About?

Evil Does Not Exist takes place in the serene forest of Harasawa, a small rural village where single-parent Takumi resides with his young daughter, Hana. Takumi supports his family by undertaking various odd jobs for the locals, such as chopping wood and fetching pure well water. However, this idyllic atmosphere is threatened when the Tokyo company Playmode announces its intention to construct a glamping site for urban tourists. As Takumi and his neighbors uncover the grave impacts this development will have on their community's ecological well-being, the tranquility they once enjoyed becomes endangered.

Who Stars in 'Evil Does Not Exist'?

The actors and actresses in Hamaguchi's Evil Does Not Exist are relatively unknown, with a cast that consists of up-and-coming talent. Takumi is portrayed by Hitoshi Omika, Hana is played by Ryo Nishikawa, Takahashi is brought to life by Ryuji Kosaka, and Mayuzumi is played by Ayaka Shibutani.

Who Are the Creatives Behind 'Evil Does Not Exist'?

The director and writer of Evil Does Not Exist is Ryusuke Hamaguchi. Prior to winning the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film for Drive My Car, Hamaguchi had already established a prolific career. He gained international recognition with his 2015 film Happy Hour, a captivating portrayal of four women in their thirties as they reassess the significant relationships in their lives. Following this success, Hamaguchi went on to create the enigmatic romantic film Asako I & II. In addition to his accomplishments in 2021 with Drive My Car, he also helmed Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy, which received critical acclaim.

Movies Like 'Evil Does Not Exist' That You Can Stream Right Now

Image via Netflix

While you eagerly await the opportunity to catch this extraordinary global masterpiece at your nearest cinema, take a moment to explore three other narratives that intimately explore the consequences of environmental unrest in our daily lives.

Okja - Directed by Bong Joon Ho, the filmmaker behind the history-making Best Picture winner Parasite, this film tells the captivating and heartwarming story of a young girl and her extraordinary friend and pet, Okja. The plot unfolds when a multinational corporation decides to reclaim and slaughter Okja, a genetically modified super pig entrusted to a South Korean farmer. Despite seeming like a straightforward mission, the unwavering love of the determined young girl makes it nearly impossible. Alongside Spielberg's ET, Okja stands as one of the finest films depicting the bond between a child and their unconventional companion. With outstanding performances from Tilda Swinton and particularly Jake Gyllenhaal, this movie remains in a league of its own.

Available for streaming on Netflix.

First Reformed - Director and writer Paul Schrader has established himself as a master of portraying intricate and morally challenging protagonists since the 1970s, with memorable characters like Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver and Julian Kay in American Gigolo. In the film First Reformed, Ethan Hawke delivers a captivating performance as Pastor Ernst Toller, his most intricate role yet. Set in a small church in upstate New York, the story takes an unsettling turn when Toller encounters an unstable environmental activist and his pregnant wife, sending his life into a downward spiral. Using the backdrop of the ongoing climate crisis, Schrader and Hawke skillfully explore the inner turmoil of an individual grappling with helplessness, effectively intertwining the personal and the political.

Stream on Max

Afire - Acclaimed as Germany's top director, Christian Petzold impressed audiences at the Berlin International Film Festival with his latest work, Afire. The story revolves around Leon, a writer plagued by depression who seeks solace and inspiration in a tranquil coastal town in Germany, accompanied by his friend. However, their plans are disrupted when they discover an unexpected guest residing at their friend's house. As a menacing forest fire looms, the bonds between the trio are put to the ultimate test. Featuring an exceptional performance by Petzold's longtime collaborator, Paula Beer, this film is a definite must-watch!

Available for rental on Prime Video.

Editor's P/S

1. As an enthusiastic fan of Ryusuke Hamaguchi, I am eagerly anticipating the release of his latest film, "Evil Does Not Exist." The director's previous work, "Drive My Car," was a masterpiece that captivated audiences with its poignant storytelling and stunning visuals. "Evil Does Not Exist" seems to be following in the same vein, with a thought-provoking plot and a talented cast. I am particularly intrigued by the film's exploration of the impact of human activity on the natural environment, a theme that is both timely and important.

2. The trailer for "Evil Does Not Exist" provides a glimpse into the film's haunting and atmospheric world. The cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the beauty of the forest setting while also hinting at the underlying tension that permeates the community. The cast, though relatively unknown, seems to be perfectly suited for their roles, and I am eager to see how their characters navigate the complex issues that arise as the story unfolds. Overall, I have high hopes for "Evil Does Not Exist" and believe it has the potential to be another critical and commercial success for Hamaguchi. I will be eagerly awaiting its release and will be sure to share my thoughts and reactions with fellow fans.