Perfect Days
2023 · Directed by Wim Wenders
Original language: Japanese
- drama
The story
Hirayama is content with his life as a toilet cleaner in Tokyo. Outside of his structured routine, he cherishes music on cassette tapes, books, and taking photos of trees. Through unexpected encounters, he reflects on finding beauty in the world.
What it’s like
Long, unhurried static shots of ordinary Tokyo mornings: dappled sunlight through leaves, the grain of worn streets, the soft glow of a compact 35mm-style frame that lingers on faces and rooftops. Sound is central, with mostly quiet city ambience, the click of a cassette deck, the rustle of a paper book, and a warm stream of vintage rock and soul tapes. The palette is earthy and muted, with greens, ochres and deep shadows, and the rhythm is deliberately repetitive, the same rituals of brushing, sweeping and drinking coffee at a small café repeated with small variations. Its vibe is gentle, contemplative and quietly warm, a slow ache of solitude softened by small kindnesses. It suits a rainy Sunday, a late evening alone, or a slow weekend when you want to watch someone find meaning in simple work. Emotionally it is restrained and tender, following a middle-aged man who gradually opens to unexpected connection with the people he meets. There is no violence, no sexual content, and only mild tension, with a few sad moments handled softly. It is for viewers who want calm, observational cinema and a gentle, reflective mood.
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