An Autumn Afternoon

The story opens in Tokyo, 1962, where we meet Shūhei Hirayama, an elderly widower. He is seen navigating life alongside his grown children, highlighting the complexities of their family dynamics.

Hirayama's family memories reveal that their mother passed away during the bombings of Tokyo between 1944 and 1945. This loss looms over the family's daily life and significantly shapes their relationships.

Hirayama enjoys regular reunions at a restaurant named Wakamatsu with five former classmates. These gatherings are rich with laughter, reminiscing about their shared past, and playful banter that highlights the deep bonds they still maintain.

During one reunion, Shūhei's former teacher, Sakuma, joins the group, bringing a wave of nostalgia. His presence serves as a reminder of their youth, and casual comments reveal Hirayama's commitment to his naval service until the end of the war.

The former teacher shares his current struggles, running a modest noodle shop. He confesses that his daughter, Tomoko, remains unmarried, highlighting the impact of life's choices on their happiness.

Motivated by compassion, Hirayama and his classmates decide to support Sakuma financially. The gesture reflects their enduring loyalty and willingness to help an important figure from their past.

At the noodle shop, Hirayama runs into Yoshitarō Sakamoto, a former shipmate who recalls their time together during the war. This meeting rekindles memories and introduces Hirayama to Kaoru, a bar owner who resembles his late wife.

Hirayama's son, Kōichi, borrows money under false pretenses, claiming it is for a refrigerator. Instead, he plans to use the funds to indulge in second-hand golf clubs, causing tension with his wife, Akiko.

Sakuma confesses to his former students about the loneliness his daughter faces due to her decision to care for him. This revelation prompts Hirayama to reflect on his own decisions regarding Michiko's future.

Hirayama takes it upon himself to arrange a marriage for Michiko, believing she deserves happiness. He asks Kōichi to find out if Miura, someone she likes, is available, only to learn that he is already engaged.

After learning about Miura’s engagement, Michiko remains outwardly composed, but her brother Kazuo reveals her distress. This moment underscores the emotional turmoil within the family and Michiko's yearning for love.

In an effort to ensure Michiko's happiness, Hirayama invites her to meet a potential suitor. Although she approaches this meeting with reluctance, it symbolizes his desire to see her settled in life.

Time passes quickly, and Michiko is soon seen in a beautiful wedding kimono, indicating her agreement to marry. However, the actual ceremony and the groom are left unseen, reflecting Ozu's stylistic choice to focus on emotional rather than visual outcomes.

After the wedding, Hirayama returns to a quiet home filled with anticipation of the family's new chapter. His intoxication leads to an awkward yet familiar moment as he finds himself alone.

In a reflective moment, a drunken Hirayama sings snippets of the Warship March. He concludes with a poignant and solitary observation, 'Alone, eh?' which encapsulates the film's exploration of loneliness and the passage of time.