Drive My Car, Hamaguchi Ryusuke’s eighth feature film, follows the healing journey of theater director Kafuku and his assigned chauffeur Misaki during a theater festival. At the heart of this story is actor Nishijima Hidetoshi, who delivers a restrained and deeply moving performance as Kafuku—a man grappling with betrayal and loss. While rehearsing Uncle Vanya with a multinational cast, Kafuku forms new relationships and is gradually confronted with the emotions he had long buried within himself. Nishijima masterfully internalizes Kafuku’s subtle emotional shifts, quietly drawing the audience into the film. Through this nuanced portrayal, the film unfolds a profound journey of healing and recovery, moving through pain, regret, understanding, and ultimately, forgiveness. It is a definitive work that showcases Nishijima Hidetoshi’s delicate yet grounded performance at its finest. (JO Ji-hoon)