About

This contemplative drama follows Hirayama, a content and solitary man who works as a public toilet cleaner in Tokyo. Despite the simplicity of his job, Hirayama finds deep satisfaction in his daily routines - cleaning, listening to music, and observing the world around him. His life appears uneventful, but there's a quiet beauty in his appreciation for the small details of everyday life, from nature to the passing interactions he has with others.

As the film progresses, glimpses of Hirayama's past and the emotional depth behind his solitude are revealed through chance encounters and brief moments of connection with people from his personal history. These interactions add subtle layers to his character, hinting at a more complex emotional landscape beneath his calm exterior.

The film's exploration of themes like simplicity, contentment and the human need for connection is both meditative and profound. It emphasises how joy can be found in routine and solitude, as well as how unresolved emotional wounds can shape a person's life in quiet ways. Koji Yakusho delivered a masterful, understated performance as Hirayama, earning him the Best Actor award at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.

Last featuring at RFS in Season 60 with Wings of Desire, Wim Wenger's Perfect Days was critically acclaimed and was Oscar-nominated for the Best International Feature Film.