Days is a slow-burning, lyrical film by Taiwanese director Tsai Ming-liang that explores the quiet loneliness and longings of two men from different worlds. Kang (played by Lee Kang-sheng) is a wealthy middle-aged man who lives in a spacious, minimalist house with a beautiful garden surrounded by tall buildings. He seems to have everything he needs, yet often wakes up in the middle of the night with a sense of aimlessness and ennui. Non (played by Anong Houngheuangsy) is a young migrant worker from Laos who lives in a cramped apartment in Taipei with several roommates. He works long hours at a textile factory, barely making ends meet, and spends his free time listening to music, smoking, and daydreaming.
One day, Kang goes to a spa to get a massage and meets Non, who is working there as a masseur. Kang is initially hesitant to let Non touch him, but gradually opens up to him and begins to enjoy the gentle, sensual contact. They exchange small talk and Kang offers Non some money, but Non politely refuses. The two men continue to meet at the spa, and eventually Kang invites Non to his house to give him a massage. Non is surprised by the lavishness of Kang's home and gardens, and Kang is touched by Non's innocent, unassuming nature. They spend the day together, walking in the garden, watching movies, and sharing a meal. Kang even lets Non sleep in his bed, while he sleeps on the couch.
After this brief interlude, the two men return to their separate lives, but are forever changed by the connection they shared. Kang becomes more aware of his own mortality and the transience of material possessions, while Non finds solace in the memory of Kang's kindness. The film is full of stunning, static shots of the natural world, emphasizing the contrast between the textures and rhythms of urban and rural environments. In many ways, it is a film about the beauty of human vulnerability and the fleeting moments of grace that can occur when people allow themselves to be touched by others.
