Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s EVIL DOES NOT EXIST is an unsettling, haunting, deliberately slow-moving drama that blends allegory with a captivating plot. In many ways, Hamaguchi is experimenting with filmmaking itself; certain scenes feel groundbreaking in their ambition, including the opening scene.
EVIL DOES NOT EXIST does take a while to get started, but this feels intentional – although it’s slow to ramp up, the third act of the movie moves at the pace of a thriller. Hamaguchi expertly weaves together tones in such a unique way; some scenes feel like they could be in PARKS AND RECREATION and others out of a David Lynch movie.
If you’re looking to watch a truly unique film (and are comfortable with a slower pace), EVIL DOES NOT EXIST is worth a watch. It’s now available to rent or buy wherever you get your movies.