In anticipation of the Oscars, “Perfect Days” will be showcased at the M.V. Film Center starting on Friday, Feb. 23. The movie, helmed by Wim Wenders, earned an Oscar nomination, as did Koji Yakusho for his portrayal of the protagonist, Hirayama, and the film itself as Japan’s Oscar nomination.
The plot of “Perfect Days” revolves around Hirayama, a janitor working in the restrooms of Tokyo. These lavatories, which are architecturally distinctive and visually captivating, are part of the Tokyo Toilet Project.
The audience is introduced to this solitary bachelor as he commences his day by tidying up his sleeping area, performing his morning oral hygiene routine, tending to his plants, and donning his Tokyo Toilet uniform. Gazing at the sky, he often smiles, finding joy in the mundane aspects of his routine.
Following a coffee break from a vending machine, Hirayama hops into his van, playing one of his numerous cassettes, such as “The House of the Rising Sun.” An avid fan of American pop music, he listens to a variety of artists like Otis Redding and Nina Simone, with Wenders using these songs to underscore the everyday moments in his life.
Throughout the day, Wenders captures Hirayama engaging in his various tasks, from his thorough cleaning to interactions with his colleague Takashi (played by Tokio Emoto), and enjoying a sandwich in the park while exchanging nods with a nearby woman amidst the trees.
It becomes evident that Hirayama takes pleasure in these routines, finding contentment in their simplicity and repetition. These routines include bathing at a public bathhouse, dining at the same counter each night, spending time with his niece, and cycling with her.
When questioned by Takashi about his solitary status despite appearing lonely, Hirayama remains silent. Similarly, he offers no response when his sister inquires about his continued work as a restroom cleaner. The message is clear—Hirayama is at peace with his daily rituals and derives satisfaction from them. He captures numerous images of his beloved trees, storing them alongside his cassette collection and extensive array of paperbacks that he reads post-work. His dreams are depicted in a blend of muted black and white hues.
In a subtle manner, Wenders pays tribute to the unassuming life of this unpretentious man, showcasing the beauty that can be found in the ordinary facets of existence, from brushing teeth to driving a van. Wenders underscores the importance of acknowledging and cherishing the beauty inherent in the ordinary world.