BBFF23:Perfect Days

Synopsis

From the acclaimed director of classics like Paris, Texas, Buena Vista Social Club, Wings of Desire and The Salt of the Earth, Wim Wenders returned to the Cannes Competition this year with a poignant tale set against the backdrop of Japan. This enchanting narrative offers a contemplative exploration of the splendour in ordinary moments.

Koji Yakusho, known for his roles in Shall We Dance? and Babel, portrays Hirayama, a man deeply embedded in his daily rituals. Each morning is marked by his meticulous self-care, nurturing his plants, and a momentary glance at the sky with a genuine smile. Immersed in the bustling heart of Shibuya, Tokyo, Hirayama dedicates his day to the unassuming task of cleaning toilets. Yet, the humdrum of his job is contrasted with the joy he finds in the classic rock anthems of The Velvet Underground, The Kinks, Prince, and Van Morrison, which reverberate from his car's cassette player. While Hirayama's days might seem monotonous to some, he is a man who finds solace in the act of photographing nature and indulging in a good read.

However, the tranquillity of his routine is stirred when a young woman unexpectedly graces his doorstep, unravelling hidden chapters from Hirayama's history. Perfect Days, bolstered by Yakusho's captivating performance, stands as a heartfelt tribute to life's modest but deeply meaningful joys.