Year: 1956
Runtime: 143 min
Language: Japanese
Director: Akira Kurosawa
After receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis, Mr. Watanabe struggles to find meaning in his remaining time. Initially consumed by despair, he is inspired by a colleague's generosity and resolves to dedicate himself to a meaningful project. He channels his energy into building a much-needed playground for local children, overcoming bureaucratic obstacles and personal grief along the way. Through this endeavor, Watanabe finds purpose, connection, and ultimately, a quiet acceptance of his mortality.
Warning: spoilers below!
Haven’t seen Ikiru yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!
Explore the full timeline and setting of Ikiru (1956). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.
Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:35
Meet the key characters of Ikiru (1956), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.
Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:35
Explore the central themes of Ikiru (1956), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.
Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:35
Don't stop at just watching — explore Ikiru in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Ikiru is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Read a complete plot summary of Ikiru, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.
Track the full timeline of Ikiru with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
Discover movies like Ikiru that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.
Ikiru (1956) Plot Summary & Movie Recap
Ikiru (1956) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline
Ikiru (1956) Spoiler-Free Summary & Key Flow
Movies Like Ikiru – Similar Titles You’ll Enjoy
Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai (2012) Film Overview & Timeline
Departures (2009) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap
Harakiri (1964) Film Overview & Timeline
The Twilight Samurai (2004) Plot Summary & Ending Explained
Kikujirô no natsu (2000) Full Movie Breakdown
Drive My Car (2021) Movie Recap & Themes
Maborosi (1997) Plot Summary & Ending Explained
The Sea of Trees (2016) Plot Summary & Ending Explained
Perfect Days (2023) Movie Recap & Themes
Ainu Mosir (2020) Detailed Story Recap
Hara Kiri (2016) Story Summary & Characters
Mifune's Last Song (2000) Full Summary & Key Details
In This Corner of the World (2017) Detailed Story Recap
Korkoro (2011) Movie Recap & Themes
Vengeance Is Mine (1979) Film Overview & Timeline