How we relate to others is a pivotal theme in his films. One of Hamaguchi's greatest assets is following the trajectory of one person's loneliness and how it builds necessary companionship. Even in the solitary night drives in 'Drive My Car,' or Asako's open vulnerability in the face of being possibly rejected by Ryohei after her disappearance, there's always the promise of comfort and healing.
"Evil Does Not Exist" is a drastic pivot for Hamaguchi: he usually deals with how relationships bind us to our humanity, whether platonic or romantic. Relationships are given the time and attention to reveal the inner parts of his subjects - for better or worse.
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