# “Perfect Days” by Wim Wenders: A Quiet Ode to Tokyo’s Everyday Beauty
In Wim Wenders’ Oscar-nominated film “Perfect Days,” Tokyo becomes more than just a backdrop; it transforms into the canvas upon which the story of a Tokyo toilet cleaner named Hirayama unfolds. The brilliant Kōji Yakusho brings Hirayama to life, portraying a man of few words but infinite depth. Through his masterful performance, Hirayama emerges as a figure of quiet resilience, his weathered face telling the tales of a lifetime. Yet beneath this stoic exterior lies a soul full of warmth and compassion, evident in his interactions with family, coworkers, and strangers.
## Hirayama’s Routine and Tokyo’s Beauty
Hirayama finds comfort in routine, meticulously cleaning Tokyo’s public restrooms as part of the Tokyo Toilet Project. Each moment, whether he’s scrubbing toilets with precision or enjoying a siesta, offers a glimpse into his soul. Director Wim Wenders captures the exuberance of Tokyo’s urban landscape, with each frame serving as a love letter to the city’s vibrant textures and colors.
## Light, Shadow, and Themes of Memory
Wenders skillfully plays with light and shadow throughout the film, accentuating the beauty in the mundane. Themes of memory, solitude, and the passage of time permeate the narrative, culminating in poignant moments where we witness Hirayama’s inner struggles. Yakusho’s emotional portrayal coupled with Nina Simone’s “Feeling Good” in the final scene leaves a lasting impact, revealing the true depth of Hirayama’s solitude.
## Embracing Ordinary Moments
“Perfect Days” takes viewers on a journey of hope and nostalgia, uncovering the beauty within everyday routines. It reminds us that perfection lies in the quiet grace of existence, urging us to cherish each day as if it were our last. As Hirayama navigates Tokyo’s bustling streets, the film encourages reflection, embracing the poignant beauty found in simplicity.
*Perfect Days* is currently available for streaming on MUBI.
By seamlessly blending the ordinary with the extraordinary, “Perfect Days” stands as a testament to the power of simplicity and the beauty found in everyday life. Wim Wenders’ delicate storytelling paired with Yakusho’s nuanced performance creates a cinematic experience that resonates long after the credits roll.
[Watch *Perfect Days* on MUBI](https://www.mubi.com)
With its gentle exploration of life’s quiet nuances, “Perfect Days” invites audiences to pause, reflect, and find solace in the ordinary. As Tokyo’s urban landscape serves as the backdrop for Hirayama’s journey, viewers are reminded of the quiet grace that defines our existence.
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