A Hen in the Wind

In the immediate aftermath of World War II, Tokiko waits for her husband's repatriation in Tokyo. She rents a room in a working-class district and supports the family by dressmaking, aided by her longtime friend Akiko.

Hiroshi falls seriously ill and must be hospitalized. The medical bills quickly mount, threatening the family's finances.

To cover the mounting hospital expenses, Tokiko prostitutes herself for a night at a secluded establishment. She does so out of desperation and feels deep shame about what she has done.

Akiko learns of Tokiko's act and chides her for being reckless. Tokiko feels shame and folly, yet explains that she had no real choice.

Shuichi Amamiya belatedly returns from the war and is joyfully reunited with Tokiko. The moment is tender, but unspoken tensions linger beneath the surface.

Tokiko cannot lie and tells Shuichi the truth about her act. Shuichi's reaction is a volatile mix of anger and hurt.

Shuichi becomes preoccupied with Tokiko's deed and cannot concentrate on his job for several days. The disruption strains their relationship and his sense of stability.

One afternoon, Shuichi secretly visits the brothel and encounters a young prostitute about to service him. He learns the girl’s life is driven by desperation—her father cannot work and her younger brother is in school.

Shuichi confides his troubles to his colleague Satake. Satake promises to help and advises Shuichi to forgive his wife.

Back home, Tokiko tries to placate Shuichi and apologize repeatedly. He lashes out, violently throwing her down a flight of stairs, accidentally injuring her.

An injured Tokiko limps back to their room and attempts to reconcile. Shuichi admits that he is also in the wrong and begins to regain control of himself.

They embrace and vow to forget the past, relying on each other for support as they start anew. Their renewed bond becomes the foundation for rebuilding their family.