Japan Celebrates Ryusuke Hamaguchis Four Drive My Car Oscar …

It should come as no surprise that the year’s most talked-about picture also won an Academy Award. Not the “Power of the Dog” or the Oscars, sorry to disappoint you.

Referring to the fact that “Drive My Car,” directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, will be the 2022 recipient of the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film (read our review).

The cinematic world was abuzz when Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s “Drive My Car” took the global stage, showcasing the prowess of Japanese filmmaking.

As it clinched one of the most coveted awards in the film industry, the Oscar, Japan celebrated this monumental achievement. Let’s delve deep into the accolades and acclaim that “Drive My Car” garnered and understand why it’s considered a masterpiece of contemporary cinema.

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“Drive My Car,” the enthralling Japanese film, has captivated audiences and critics alike with its poignant storytelling and stellar performances.

For those eager to dive into this cinematic experience or are just curious about the buzz surrounding it, we’ve got you covered. From streaming platforms to its rating, cast, and a sneak peek into the plot, here’s everything you need to know about “Drive My Car.”

The Fifth Japanese Film to Win the Award

The fifth Japanese film to win the award was an adaptation of many short tales by Haruki Murakami. It was nominated for Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay (Hamaguchi and Takamasa Oe), and Best Director.

The others are “Rashomon” by Akira Kurosawa, “Gate of Hell” by Teinosuke Kinugasa, “Samurai,” “The Legend of Musashi” by Hiroshi Inagaki, and “Shoplifters” by Yjiro Takita.

Japan is now in third place among all countries with the most victories in this category, passing Spain with their most recent victory. At the moment, Italy has a 14-12 advantage over France.

Upon its premiere at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival, “Drive My Car” was awarded the Best Screenplay Prize, the FIPRESCI Prize, and the Prize of the Ecumenical Jury. The film is the sixth world premiere at Cannes to win an Oscar in this category in the past decade.

Since its premiere at Cannes, Hamaguchi’s critically praised drama has gone on to win several accolades from film critics’ groups, including the top prize at the New York Film Critics Circle, Los Angeles Film Critics Association, and National Society of Film Critics.

It also won the Independent Spirit Award for Best International Film and the Gotham Award for Best International Feature, in addition to the Golden Globe for Best Picture — Non-English Language.

Japan Celebrates Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s Oscars for “Drive My Car”

When “Drive My Car” was announced as a contender at the Oscars, the anticipation within Japan was palpable. The nation waited with bated breath, hopeful that Hamaguchi’s creation would bring glory to their country’s cinematic legacy.

And it did. The movie not only elevated Hamaguchi’s stature on the international stage but also highlighted the depth and richness of Japanese storytelling.

A Japanese Movie Wins an Oscar: The Significance

“Drive My Car” earning an Oscar was a significant moment for Japanese cinema. Historically, while Japanese films have often been recognized and celebrated in various international platforms, clinching an Oscar is an affirmation of its universal appeal and exceptional quality.

The win signifies that Japanese narratives, characterized by their cultural nuances and unique storytelling techniques, have a global resonance.

Awards Galore for “Drive My Car”

Apart from its Oscar win, “Drive My Car” was no stranger to awards and accolades. It had been previously celebrated at several international film festivals, making waves with critics and audiences alike.

The movie’s accolades served as a testament to its brilliance and its profound impact on global cinema.

The Oscar Tally: How Many Wins for “Drive My Car”?

While the anticipation was high, the reality was even grander. “Drive My Car” didn’t just win an Oscar; it secured multiple awards, further amplifying its stature as a cinematic gem. Each win added another feather to its already illustrious cap, making it one of the most celebrated films of its time.

“Drive My Car”: A Masterpiece Defined

Tagging a movie as a ‘masterpiece’ is subjective, but with “Drive My Car,” the consensus leans heavily towards this distinction. Its intricate storytelling, layered characters, and the profound themes it explored made it more than just a film – it became an experience.

Hamaguchi masterfully wove a tale that was both personal and universal, making it relatable to audiences worldwide.

The Oscar Win: Why “Drive My Car”?

The Oscars celebrate excellence in cinema, and “Drive My Car” epitomized this. Its narrative depth, combined with stellar performances and masterful direction, made it a standout.

It wasn’t just the story but how it was told – with sensitivity, nuance, and an authenticity that touched hearts globally. The Oscar win was a recognition of its unmatched cinematic quality.

Where to Watch ‘Drive My Car’

As of the latest update, “Drive My Car” is available for streaming on various platforms depending on your region. Popular platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu frequently update their library, so it’s advisable to check their catalogs.

Additionally, the movie might be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms such as Google Play Movies, Apple iTunes, and YouTube. For a cinematic experience, it’s always a good idea to check local theater listings, as select theaters might be showcasing this masterpiece.

Rating of ‘Drive My Car’

“Drive My Car” has received rave reviews from both audiences and critics. Boasting a high rating on platforms like IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and Metacritic, the film is often praised for its nuanced performances, gripping plot, and impeccable direction. Its accolades in various film festivals further testify to its stellar reception.

The Stellar Cast of ‘Drive My Car’

The movie’s success can be greatly attributed to its talented cast who brought the characters to life with depth and authenticity:

• Hidetoshi Nishijima as Yusuke Kafuku
• Tôko Miura as Oto
• Reika Kirishima as Yoko Kafuku
• Masaki Okada as Koji Takatsuki

Supported by an ensemble of talented actors, the cast’s chemistry and performances form the backbone of the film’s narrative.

Drive My Car Delving into the Plotline

“Drive My Car” weaves a story of grief, redemption, and human connection. Yusuke Kafuku, a theater actor and director, grapples with the unexpected loss of his wife. As he embarks on a new theatrical project, he meets Misaki, a reserved young woman assigned to be his chauffeur.

Through long drives and conversations, the two form a unique bond. As Yusuke stages a multilingual production of Chekhov’s “Uncle Vanya,” memories of his wife and their time together resurface. The film brilliantly interlaces the worlds of theater and real-life, exploring themes of love, loss, and the healing power of art.

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Last Words

While the pandemic was raging, Hamaguchi shot “Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy.” At the Berlin Film Festival in 2021, it took home the Silver Bear for Best Picture from the Festival’s Grand Jury. As of last December, it was available in Japan.

His next movie, “Our Apprenticeship,” would reportedly be shot in Paris and feature dialogue in several other tongues. “Drive My Car” is not just a movie; it’s a testament to the universality of human emotions and the power of storytelling.

As Japan basks in the glory of this monumental achievement, the world has been reminded of the timeless and borderless appeal of genuine, heartfelt cinema. Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s masterpiece will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the defining films of its era.