“Meticulously calibrated and wildly audacious...” - Justin Chang, The New Yorker
“GORGEOUS… the rarest type of film, not merely good enough to remind you what cinema can be, but great enough to remind you what life can be.”- Jessica Kiang, Variety
“Patient and tranquil in a way that only Hamaguchi can seize, ALL OF A SUDDEN feels like a meditation that transforms the viewer into a better version of themselves.” - Tomris Laffly, Elle
Opens December 18 | Hamaguchi’s exploration of language and human connection continues in his latest feature, his first to feature French dialogue. Marie-Lou, the director of a care facility for the elderly, strives to introduce an innovative care philosophy based on listening to residents and respecting their dignity, despite resistance from some of her staff. Her encounter with Mari, a Japanese theater director battling cancer, profoundly reshapes her path. Forming a deep, supportive friendship, the two women join forces in a shared struggle to make the impossible possible. The quiet chemistry between Marie-Lou and Mari (portrayed with precision by Virginie Efira and Tao Okamoto) captures the ineffable magic of meeting someone entirely new and utterly meant to be.
Awards & Nominations
2026 Cannes Film Festival - Winner, Best Actress, Virginie Efira & Tao Okamoto
2026 Locarno International Film Festival - Official Selection
2026 Toronto International Film Festival - Official Selection
2026 Chicago International FIlm Festival - Winner, Best Screenplay, Ryûsuke Hamaguchi & Léa Le Dimna
The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu