Upon entering the Tara Theater to watch “Perfect Days” (2023), presented by the production company Neon for Emory University students on Feb. 28, I was filled with anticipation and curiosity. The theater was packed, reminiscent of the turnout for “Barbie” (2023) earlier in the year. Prior to the screening, I had some background knowledge about the film’s focus on the quiet life of Hirayama (played by Koji Yakusho), a janitor residing in Tokyo. This simplicity is what defines the essence of the film and ultimately what makes it perfect.
“Perfect Days” doesn’t aim to astonish or thrill its audience. Instead, it delicately explores the profound reasons for embracing gratitude for the gift of life itself. Interestingly, the protagonist, Hirayama, remains silent for the first half-hour of the film. Despite being overlooked by those around him, he refuses to succumb to the challenges that life presents and finds solace in his simple pleasures: capturing images of nature and savoring classic American melodies like “House Of The Rising Sun” (1964) and “Brown Eyed Girl” (1967).
The narrative unfolds through the mundane yet meaningful routines of Hirayama’s daily life: from tending to his plants, cleaning bathrooms, visiting the bathhouse, to eating, and repeating these activities. The monotony is disrupted when Aya (portrayed by Aoi Yamada), a young and lively character, plants a kiss on Hirayama’s cheek. She is drawn to the older man’s unique taste in music and finds comfort in his gentle nature and uncomplicated way of life.
Throughout the film, the cinematography skillfully highlights the beauty of Tokyo’s parks, subways, bars, and restaurants with vibrant and captivating colors. Despite the monotony depicted in Hirayama’s life, the rich color palette serves as a deliberate reminder of the film’s central message: finding beauty in the fleeting moments that make up life.
A pivotal moment in the storyline occurs when Hirayama’s niece, Niko (played by Arisa Nakano), runs away from home to seek refuge with him. What appears to be a significant development in the plot turns out to be a brief detour lasting only 20 minutes. Hirayama imparts invaluable wisdom to Niko about cherishing the present moment, emphasizing that “now is now” and “next time is next time.” These profound lessons form the core of “Perfect Days.” Rather than dwelling on the past or an imagined future, Hirayama underscores the importance of embracing the present moment, acknowledging that individuals may inhabit different realities.
As Niko’s mother, Keiko (portrayed by Yumi Aso), arrives to retrieve her daughter, Hirayama reflects on their brief yet meaningful time together, spent appreciating nature and engaging in everyday tasks like cleaning. He reassures Niko that she is always welcome to stay with him. This poignant moment starkly contrasts with Keiko’s arrival in a luxurious car, symbolizing her material wealth but lacking the essential element that Hirayama offers: genuine love.
The film concludes with a poignant scene where Hirayama shares a heartfelt conversation with a terminally ill man, emphasizing the importance of seizing the precious moments in life. Rather than succumbing to despair, the two characters share a light-hearted moment, savoring beer, cigarettes, and a game of tag by the riverside. This simple yet profound interaction encapsulates the film’s message about appreciating life’s significant moments.
While “Perfect Days” may not claim the title of the greatest film ever made, director Wim Wenders invites viewers on a contemplative journey through Tokyo, urging them to appreciate the beauty and complexity of our world. By portraying Yakusho’s character as a paragon of minimalism in his daily existence, Wenders prompts introspection among the audience. The film serves as a gentle reminder to pause, gaze at the sky, and cherish the remarkable and idiosyncratic lives we lead. Remembering that “now is now,” we are encouraged to embrace each moment to its fullest potential.