In the rush of life and Boxing Day consumerism, it’s nice to think about how good life is and how much we really need to be happy. The latest Wim Wenders movie Perfect Days is a timely reminder of just that and so much more.
At the outset of the movie we meet Hirayama (Kôji Yakusho) as he goes about his day. Wake up, brush his teeth, get ready for work, work, have dinner, shower, read, sleep. The movie progresses as most of our lives do, on a rinse and repeat cycle. Along the way we’re offered glimpses into this silent man’s life, suggesting there’s more to this routine-driven man.
Every day Hirayama sets off to work cleaning the public toilets of Tokyo. Clad in blue overalls he takes immense pride in his work.
He also shows enormous respect for anyone needing to use the facility that he’s cleaning. Not only does he stop work, he also gathers up his gear and stands outside waiting for them to finish. In return for this respect, he is rewarded with, nothing. At best no acknowledgement at all, at worst a sign of distain.
Through his actions, rather than words, we learn about his love of nature, music, books and photography. We also receive hints about his background and that perhaps his simple life is a result of choice, rather than a lack of opportunity.
As the audience sat quietly contemplating, I pondered:
- The movie presents as a meditative Ground Hog Day;
- Hirayama is played lovingly by Kôji Yakusho as a quiet, contemplative man who by his mere presence has a lot to teach others, including us;
- The music, gives a nostalgic nod to cassettes through The Rolling Stones, Patti Smith or Lou Reed;
- The inclusion of the song Perfect Day in a movie about toilets (albeit far cleaner ones) will provide a nice Trainspotting flashback for some movie fans, or maybe it’s just me;
- The Wim Wenders directed movie reminds us to find the joy in the simple everyday things;
- It also shines a spotlight on the class system and how some people aren’t just disrespected they’re completely ignored;
- The screening of this movie is perfectly timed at the beginning of a new year and after the Boxing Day sales. Post-purchase dissonance will be high for some viewers as they contemplate how much they really need.
For more information go to Perth Festival. Starts Jan 15th
-
overall
