Ryusuke Hamaguchi's 'Soudain' Inspired by Letters Between Care Home Director and Cancer-Stricken Stage Director

Japanese filmmaker Ryusuke Hamaguchi, known for 'Drive My Car,' reveals that his latest film 'Soudain' (Suddenly) was inspired by the correspondence between a nursing home director and a stage director battling cancer. In an interview with Le Monde, Hamaguchi explains his tendency to create works from dialogue, a hallmark of his narrative style. He remains discreet about his personal convictions, refusing to make his cinema a mirror of his beliefs. The film, which premiered at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, continues his exploration of intimate human connections and the power of conversation. Hamaguchi's approach emphasizes the importance of listening and the subtle nuances of interpersonal communication, drawing from real-life exchanges to craft his screenplay. The director's commitment to dialogue-driven storytelling is evident in his previous works, which often feature characters engaging in lengthy, revealing conversations. 'Soudain' is set for release in French theaters on August 12, 2026, as reported by Le Monde.