**Ryûsuke Hamaguchi** (1978) is a Japanese director and screenwriter who emerged on the international scene with works of profound psychological introspection. His film *Happy Hour* (2015) marked a turning point, receiving critical acclaim for its analysis of female dynamics.

He cemented his reputation with *Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy* (2021), winner of the Silver Bear at the Berlin Film Festival, a collection of stories centred on coincidences and relationships. His global fame exploded with *Drive My Car* (2021), based on a short story by Haruki Murakami, which won the Best Screenplay Award at Cannes and the Oscar for Best International Feature Film. His most recent work, *Evil Does Not Exist* (2023), won the Silver Lion at the Venice Film Festival.

Hamaguchi's style is characterized by rich, realistic dialogue that explores the complexities of human relationships, grief, loss, and the challenges of communication. His films are often meditative, with meticulous attention to the psychological nuances of his characters and the healing power of confrontation.