His films explore spiritual renewal and transformation through time, memory, and the cyclical nature of existence, as seen in Mirror and Stalker.

His visually poetic works repeatedly feature characters seeking redemption and rebirth through love and memory, particularly in In the Mood for Love and Fallen Angels.

His films obsessively examine suffering, salvation, and psychological rebirth as characters confront trauma and attempt transcendence, notably in Dancer in the Dark and Antichrist.