biography

Ayaka Shibutani is a Japanese actress recognized for her roles in two notable films directed by Ryûsuke Hamaguchi. She portrayed Mayuzumi in Evil Does Not Exist (2023), a drama that explores the tension between rural life and encroaching development, which premiered at the 80th Venice International Film Festival and won the Grand Jury Prize. She also appeared as Yuzuki in Happy Hour (2015), a critically acclaimed film that delves into the lives of four women in Kobe, earning praise for its depth and naturalistic performances. Both films highlight her collaboration with Hamaguchi, showcasing her ability to contribute to introspective and character-driven narratives. Born on December 25, 1991, in Hyogo, Japan, Shibutani has emerged as a talent in contemporary Japanese cinema through these works.