Perfect Days Movie Review:
In the film “Perfect Days,” we delve into the seemingly ordinary yet captivating life of Hirayama, portrayed by the renowned Japanese actor Koji Yakusho. The story unfolds as Hirayama, a dedicated cleaner of Tokyo’s public toilets, navigates his routine while finding solace in his passion for music, books, and the subtle beauty of nature.
Plot:
Every morning, Hirayama wakes up early, tends to his plants, and dons his Tokyo Toilets jumpsuit. With meticulous care, he traverses the city, quietly cleaning public bathrooms. From wiping bowls to replacing toilet paper, he ensures every detail is attended to. Hirayama steps aside politely when someone enters the facilities, patiently waiting for them to finish before resuming his work. When questioned about the thoroughness of his efforts, he remains silent, leaving the audience intrigued.
During lunch breaks, Hirayama enjoys his meals on a park bench, savoring the interplay of light among the trees. His love for shadows, leaves, and branches is evident as he takes 35-mm. pictures of the scenes that captivate him. Despite his quiet demeanor, Hirayama’s appreciation for the beauty in simplicity shines through.
In the evenings, Hirayama frequents a bustling noodle shop in an underground mall, where he receives a warm greeting and a tall glass of water. The server acknowledges his busy day, highlighting the camaraderie in this simple routine. Nights are reserved for reading; currently, he immerses himself in Faulkner, with other literary treasures lining his shelves. Hirayama’s dreams reflect the mundane details of his day, portrayed in shimmering black-and-white images.
Making:
“Perfect Days” stands out as a departure from Wim Wenders’s previous works, showcasing a narrative that is both unique and captivating. The film, competing at Cannes, has earned praise as one of Wenders’s best since the director’s cut of “Until the End of the World.” Wenders’s exploration of simplicity and presence takes center stage, deviating from the complex plots that occasionally weighed down his earlier films.
Storytelling:
In this film, Wenders refrains from delving into intricate plots or character backstories, allowing the simplicity of the narrative to speak for itself. The essence of the story lies in embodying simplicity rather than explaining it. While hints of family drama exist in Hirayama’s past, the film doesn’t dwell on these aspects. Even when a young niece appears, ready to unravel family mysteries, “Perfect Days” avoids the cliché of a younger character rescuing an older individual. Instead, it is she who begins to appreciate the quiet splendor of Hirayama’s life.
Visual:
Wenders’s sensitivity is evident in the way he captures the nuances of Koji Yakusho’s expressions. The film also showcases Tokyo’s diverse public bathrooms, ranging from futuristic orbs to cozy huts, with a keen eye for architectural elegance. Wenders’s portrayal of these public spaces stands in stark contrast to the perception of bathrooms in places like New York, emphasizing their cleanliness and unique designs.
Musical:
True to Wenders’s signature style, “Perfect Days” features a soundtrack that includes Lou Reed, Patti Smith, Otis Redding, and the Kinks. As Hirayama drives past Tokyo’s glittering skyline, the music adds another layer to the narrative, providing a glimpse into a world beyond the ordinary. Despite the potential allure of this otherworldly realm, Hirayama remains content in his current existence.
Conclusion: “Perfect Days” beautifully captures the essence of simplicity, presence, and contentment in the life of Hirayama. Wim Wenders’s minimalistic storytelling, coupled with visually stunning scenes and a soulful soundtrack, makes this film a unique and refreshing cinematic experience. By the film’s end, audiences may find themselves yearning for a Tokyo Toilets jumpsuit, ready to embrace the beauty of simplicity in their own lives.
