This weekend, I watched the IMAX spectacle of the second Dune and the quiet beauty of the Oscar-nominated Japanese drama Perfect Days. Two strong films, but it's the latter one that I expect to stay with me longer.
Set entirely in Tokyo and in Japanese, director Wim Wenders (Paris, Texas) takes us through the daily grind of a restroom cleaner named Hirayama, played by Kōji Yakusho (Babel). Originally, it was supposed to be a doc about Tokyo's unique new public toilets, but luckily for us, Wenders saw a deeper story in Hirayama's solitary life.
Hirayama doesn't say much, but his surroundings speak volumes. The way the camera captures the play of light and shadows amidst the trees made me feel like I was right there with him. It's a timely reminder that even the most mundane things can hold beauty.
No worry, I'm not going to spoil the plot of this film, especially as it's questionable whether there is one. I'll just note that it's the slowest quietest film of the year — and quite amazing.
Perfect Days is not perfect. Not every supporting character hits the mark, and you've gotta be in the mood for this slow burn, but I found it utterly beautiful, especially how it nails the final arc.
Where to find it: In theaters— and on VOD (rent or buy) starting this weekend
Would it be better with Olivia Colman? Of course.
Award potential: It's Japan's entry for Best International Film Oscar, but the competition is tough: the haunting Zone of Interest (UK), thrilling Teacher's Lounge (Germany) and the dynamic heart-stopping Society of the Snow (Spain) which has basically a youknow-what's chance of being a spoiler.
The Ten Buck Review: Worth ten bucks.
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