Every Day a Good Day" Movie Review: The Beauty and Depth of Life Taught Through Tea Ceremony

"Every Day a Good Day" - A Heartwarming Film Depicting the Beauty of Tea Ceremony and Life Lessons

"Every Day a Good Day" is a heartwarming Japanese film that portrays a young woman's growth as she learns life's essence through tea ceremony. This work carefully depicts the depth of Japanese traditional culture and the beauty in daily life from the perspective of the protagonist who first steps into the world of tea ceremony.

The Film's Story

The story begins with Noriko, a college student, starting tea ceremony at her aunt's recommendation. Although Noriko feels bewildered at first, under the guidance of a strict yet warm teacher, she gradually becomes fascinated by the depth of tea ceremony. Noriko's growth over more than 20 years and the life lessons gained through tea ceremony are depicted delicately and impressively.

Visual Beauty Conveying the Charm of Tea Ceremony

One of the attractions of this work is its visual expression capturing the beauty of tea rooms, tea utensils, and nature through the seasons. Essential elements of tea ceremony such as tea bowls, tea whisks, tea room arrangements, and seasonal flowers are carefully depicted, inviting viewers into the world of tea ceremony. These visuals brilliantly express the serenity and beauty inherent in tea ceremony.

Tea Ceremony as a Life Lesson

The title "Every Day a Good Day" incorporates a Zen phrase meaning that every day is a good day, emphasizing the importance of being grateful for daily life and cherishing each moment. The film conveys this teaching through the practice of tea ceremony, giving viewers an opportunity to notice the beauty and joy in everyday life.

Acting and Music

Haru Kuroki's delicate performance brilliantly expresses Noriko's growth over 20 years. The supporting cast, including Kirin Kiki as the strict yet warm teacher and Makiko Watanabe as the aunt, also give excellent performances. Additionally, Joe Hisaishi's music perfectly expresses the world of tea ceremony, further enhancing the film's atmosphere.

Conclusion

"Every Day a Good Day" is a wonderful work that explores the beauty and meaning of life through the traditional Japanese culture of tea ceremony. It's highly recommended not only for those interested in tea ceremony but also for those who want to contemplate Japanese culture and the meaning of life. Through this work, you may find an opportunity to notice the small joys and beauty in daily life and incorporate the spirit of "Every Day a Good Day" into your own life.