Perfect Days (2023)

Perfect Days, the latest offering from veteran director Wim Wenders, is a quiet contemplation on finding contentment in the everyday. We follow Hirayama (Koji Yakusho), a man who finds solace in his simple routine—cleaning public toilets in a bustling Tokyo. The film unfolds over a series of seemingly ordinary days, weaving a tapestry of quiet observations and unspoken emotions. 

While the plot itself is threadbare, Perfect Days excels in its exploration of themes. It’s a poignant reminder that happiness doesn’t reside in grand gestures or chasing dreams. Instead, it whispers in the rustle of leaves, the warmth of the sun on your face, and the quiet satisfaction of a job well done. Think of it as the antithesis of films with high-octane plots; here, the beauty lies in the absence of drama. 

Yakusho delivers a masterclass in understated acting. With minimal dialogue and a repertoire of subtle expressions, he conveys Hirayama’s inner world with profound depth. We see the weariness of his days etched on his face, but also a quiet joy in the simple things. There’s a scene where Hirayama meticulously cleans a particularly grimy toilet. It could have been a throwaway moment, but Yakusho imbues it with a sense of purpose and even pride. It’s a testament to his skill that he can make such a mundane act feel so poetic.

The film is visually stunning. Wenders, along with cinematographer Franz Lustig, paints Tokyo in soft, muted tones. The bustling cityscapes are juxtaposed with scenes of serene nature, creating a sense of balance. There’s a recurring motif of water—glistening rain on pavement, a gentle stream flowing by—that symbolises both purification and the constant flow of time. The score is carefully curated with songs like The House of the Rising Sun and Perfect Day by Lou Reed that Yakusho plays on old cassette tapes.

The pacing in Perfect Days is deliberately slow, and some viewers might find it lacking in conventional narrative drive. The film also relies heavily on symbolism, which can feel a tad opaque at times. However, these minor quibbles fade away when compared to the film’s overall impact. Perfect Days is a deeply moving meditation on life’s quiet joys. It’s a film that lingers long after the credits roll, prompting us to appreciate the beauty in our own everyday routine. 

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping thrill ride, look elsewhere. But if you’re open to a slow, meditative journey that celebrates the ordinary, Perfect Days is a film that will stay with you. With its beautiful visuals, exceptional performances, and profound themes, Perfect Days is a reminder that sometimes, the most perfect days are the ones that seem most ordinary.

(In cinemas — check your local movie guide for show times.)