The film centers on Takashi Shimura’s character, “Watanabe,” a man nearing retirement from his government job who receives a diagnosis of terminal stomach cancer. Having lived a structured and unremarkable life until now, he feels an impulse to break free and experience more. The narrative unfolds through two interwoven perspectives: one follows Watanabe as he confronts his mortality, while the other presents recollections of him shared by his family and coworkers at a memorial gathering. Kurosawa seems to be suggesting that life should be valued and embraced—not necessarily with constant happiness, but through accomplishment. In this instance, “Watanabe” utilizes his authority to assist local residents in securing a park, and he also develops an encouraging connection with a younger girl who has a fondness for food. As those attending the memorial service indulge in sake, their formal and restrained perceptions of their deceased colleague evolve into a means of examining their own lives and aspirations, inspiring them to emulate him. The script incorporates moments of humor, and Kurosawa skillfully employs weather conditions to establish a distinctive and evocative atmosphere throughout this understated story of significant transformation and—possibly—peacefulness.

Source on TMDB