Aug. 11, 2023

Ryusuke Hamaguchi's Evil Does Not Exist Secures UK-Ireland Sale

Modern Films, led by Eve Gabereau, has secured the rights to Ryusuke Hamaguchi's latest film, Evil Does Not Exist, which is set to compete at the Venice Film Festival. By: Syahmi Zulqarnain

Evil Does Not Exist revolves around the story of Takumi and his daughter Hana, leading a quiet life in Mizubiki Village near Tokyo. However, their tranquillity is threatened when plans for a glamping site near Takumi's home are revealed, leading to turbulence in his life.

Ryusuke Hamaguchi is known for his international acclaim, with his previous film Drive My Car winning an Academy Award for best international feature film after its Cannes Competition premiere in 2021.

The film has garnered attention from various distributors. Alongside Modern Films' acquisition for the UK-Ireland rights, September Film Distribution, Leopardo Films, and Andrews Film have secured deals for the film in Benelux, Portugal, and Taiwan, respectively. Earlier, M-Appeal had already secured distribution deals for the film in France, Italy, and Spain.

The film emerged from a collaboration between Ryusuke Hamaguchi and musician/composer Eiko Ishibashi, resulting in two distinct works: the live score film performance titled Gift, led by Ishibashi, and Ryusuke’s abovementioned full-length feature film, for which Ishibashi composed the score.

The live performance of Gift will feature Ishibashi's music, combined with a shorter, silent version of the film projected behind her. The live score film performance is set to premiere at Film Fest Gent in October and will be showcased at various film and music festivals.

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