Perfect Days

This movie seemed to be a living depiction of choice and perception. Even as a viewer, I think some may find Hirayama to be a social outcast, lonely, sad, maybe even empty? Yet, for others— I think his life represents one to aspire to, or even envy— a life characterized by peace, movement, natural beauty, simplicity, ritual in daily acts, serving others, and accessing happiness intrinsically beyond the pursuit of all that the Skytree represents. Others who interact with Hirayama in this film seem to take notice of this—especially his niece— and yet, Hirayama is the only one who decides (and knows) how he feels, and really: who are we to suspect anything? I think the same is true of our lives. Only we know and can choose for ourselves what it means to live perfect days. And maybe, even to the extent we do, they’re never truly ‘perfect,’ only as far as our minds allow them to be. There is so much juxtaposition in this film, from the characters, to the architecture and the lighting. Similar to some of my favorite books, I think one would likely learn, notice, and/or appreciate something different every time if you were to watch this film multiple times throughout your life and to me, that makes this film truly special. Not to mention the soundtrack makes me want to buy a tape player just so I can listen to every song just like Hirayama does.