The Art of Living: Embracing the beauty of simplicity through 'Perfect Days'

Wim Wenders' Perfect Days is more than just a film; it is a tribute to the quiet dignity of a simple life, a reflection on the fulfillment that can be found in daily routines, and a love letter to Tokyo's hidden gems. Through Hirayama, a man who finds joy in life's smallest moments, the film encourages us to rethink what it truly means to be happy.

At its core is Hirayama, played with remarkable depth by Kōji Yakusho, a middle-aged man who cleans Tokyo’s public restrooms with a level of dedication seldom seen in modern storytelling. His life follows a gentle rhythm: waking in his humble apartment, carefully folding his futon, tending to his plants, and immersing himself in the music of the past through cassette tapes. His job, often dismissed as menial by society, is done with precision and reverence, transforming ordinary spaces into something almost sacred.

Through Wenders’ lens, these daily rituals evolve into acts of quiet devotion, showing us that purpose isn't defined by social status but by the commitment we bring to our tasks. Hirayama’s work is not a burden but a craft that allows him to engage with life in a way that is both clear-eyed and deeply appreciative.

The Poetry of Simplicity

Perfect Days excels at turning the ordinary into something extraordinary. Whether it’s sunlight streaming through tree branches, sipping a canned coffee by the river, or sharing brief exchanges with strangers, every moment exudes a profound, unspoken beauty. Hirayama’s contentment stands in sharp contrast to the modern world’s pursuit of ambition and material wealth. He seeks no excess and avoids digital distractions, instead fully immersing himself in each passing moment—savoring the sounds of the city, the caress of the wind, and the rhythms of life.

Tokyo as a Living Canvas

While many films depict Tokyo as a vibrant, neon-filled metropolis pulsing with chaos, Wenders takes us through its quieter, more intimate spaces. The public restrooms Hirayama maintains are not just utilitarian—they are architectural masterpieces designed by celebrated artists, blending form with function. Each location is captured with a painter's eye, revealing a Tokyo where beauty can be found in the most unexpected places. Wenders’ deliberate cinematography lets us absorb the textures, colors, and rhythms of a life that often goes unnoticed.

A Performance That Speaks Volumes

Kōji Yakusho’s portrayal is one of subtlety and profound emotion. Through his restrained expressions and body language, he conveys a lifetime of feelings—contentment, nostalgia, solitude, and peace. The absence of heavy dialogue makes every glance and gesture more meaningful, allowing the audience to interpret the depths of Hirayama’s inner world in their own way. This performance earned him the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival, underscoring the power of his understated brilliance.

A Meditation on Modern Life

Perfect Days is more than just a character study; it is a chance for us to reflect on our own lives. In an age where we are often focused on the next big goal, the film poses the question: What if happiness is not about acquiring more, but about appreciating what we already have?

Hirayama’s life may seem simple, but it is rich with meaning. His love for music, nature, and human connection reminds us that joy is not found in grand gestures, but in the small, everyday moments we often overlook.

Perfect Days does not shout for attention—it whispers. It does not demand, but rewards patience. This cinematic experience stays with you long after the credits roll, gently urging us to slow down, breathe, and see the beauty in the world around us. In a world that moves faster every day, Perfect Days is a poignant reminder that happiness is not about what we do, but how we choose to experience life.