Perfect Days expresses an elusive mood. Through minimal plot and dialogue, themes of mindfulness, appreciation, routine, caste, community, and everyday beauty are displayed. Its protagonist is defined not just by what he does but how he does it. The story is entirely shown rather than told. There's setup/payoff, motifs, humor, and interpretable backstories. The acting anchors the film with subtle yet powerful layers, physicality, sincerity, vulnerability, range, and complex mixtures of emotions. Some might call it superficial or repetitive, but Perfect Days trusts viewers to find more in less. Consequently, it's a moving yet surprisingly practical slice-of-life tale.
Technically, Perfect Days is optimistic, detailed, slender, and immersive. The naturalistic imagery uses aspect ratios, angles, motion, framing, lighting, and focus. Its nostalgic editing creates a lifestyle through mellow pacing, inserts, dissolves, mini-montages, and patterns. The gentle sound has ambiance, quiet, layering, split cuts, and motifs. Its restrained music adds trans-diegetic needle drops that are relevant to the plot and drama. The production design is grounded while informing characters. Its cast is led by an experienced and respected star. The nonexistent effects serve the film's meaning and approach. Overall, Perfect Days embodies grateful presence.
Writing: 10/10
Direction: 10/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 10/10
Editing: 10/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 10/10
Production Design: 7/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 6/10
Overall Score: 8.7/10
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