Evil does not exist ending explained: What happens to Hana?

The film, Evil Does Not Exist, released on April 26, 2024, in Japan, revolves around Takumi, a single father, and his daughter Hana. The movie has a complex narrative, leading to a deeply contemplative conclusion.

This Ryusuke Hamaguchi film shows that the tranquil village they are living in is at risk of being affected by a glamping project. Evil Does Not Exist follows the disruption of Takumi and Hana's quiet life by a proposed development project. This project raises concerns about environmental damage and the intrusion of corporate greed into their lives. It shows events that challenge viewers' morality and existence.

From the start, the camera tracks slowly sideways and skywards under a canopy of trees, reflecting the village's slow pace and evoking mystery.

Evil Does Not Exist ends mysteriously yet thoughtfully, with a haunting and ambiguous scene. As Takumi searches for Hana, the film darkens, and the final scene shows Hana's motionless body with a bloody face.

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Evil Does Not Exist: Ending explained

The tranquil beginning

The film establishes a serene setting. Takumi, a widower, lives with his eight-year-old daughter Hana in the peaceful mountain village of Mizubiki. Their simple lifestyle, including chopping wood and collecting water, shows an intense connection with nature. When a real estate project threatens the village's delicate ecosystem, their peace is disturbed.

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The glamping project and impact on village

At a community meeting regarding the proposed glamping project, the villagers, including Takumi, expressed their apprehensions. They are concerned about the project's potential impact on their water systems and the environment as a whole. The sincere townspeople also mock the representatives' public relations tactics.

Takumi and others warn them that the planned development's septic tank capacity is insufficient, so there's a chance that the sewage will leak into their well water. The company is accused of prioritizing profits and acting recklessly to take advantage of pandemic subsidies.

Sachi's restaurant relies on clear spring water, so the septic tank's location will affect it. That's why she moved to Haraswa from Tokyo. As seen on the blueprint, the glamping site lacks security, as per another elderly local. Considering tourists, especially younger ones, enjoy bonfires, a wildfire spreading in the dry region is a concern.

Despite the company's representatives, Takahashi and Mayuzumi, initially seeming indifferent, they later realize the villagers' genuine concerns. However, their bosses dismiss these concerns, instructing them to proceed with the project and seduce Takumi with gifts to win his cooperation.

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Hana disappeared

Hana's disappearance darkens the film. Hana's disappearance starts with Takumi, Mayuzumi, and Takahashi hearing a gunshot while collecting water. Remembering he needs to pick up Hana from school, Takumi rushes there only to find she has already left.

As hours pass without finding her, the community begins searching. Takumi, with Takahashi's help, frantically looks for Hana. Takahashi’s motivations are questioned, hinting at envy towards Takumi’s life.

The climax of Evil Does Not Exist reveals Hana, initially seen as happy and safe. Then, in a twist, Takumi attacks Takahashi. The next scene shows Hana with blood oozing from her nose, appearing dead in Takumi's arms as he carries her away.

The film's main conflict between human intrusion and nature is contrasted by the peaceful village setting and the chaos and fear that follow.

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Interpreting the ending

The ending of Evil Does Not Exist is open to interpretation. One possible explanation is that Takumi's actions are driven by a deep-seated fear of the project's impact on their lives and the environment.

Takumi's violent reaction may be a response to the glamping project's existential threat, according to the film. Hana's fate is unclear, leaving viewers to wonder if she is dead or if the scene symbolizes human greed.

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Questions raised by the ending

The question of why Takumi attacked Takahashi lies at the heart of the film's conclusion. Takumi's sudden aggression towards Takahashi can be seen as an act of desperation. It reflects his deep fear and frustration with the encroaching corporate influence that threatens his way of life.

Takumi's actions symbolize a broader struggle against the forces of exploitation and environmental degradation.

Evil Does Not Exist's ending leaves Hana's fate uncertain. Her motionless body and bloody face suggest a tragic ending, but the scene's ambiguity makes it unclear if Hana is dead or alive.

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Evil Does Not Exist powerfully critiques the conflict between human development and environmental preservation. The film's ambiguous and emotional ending invites viewers to consider its deeper meaning.