Ikiru

Kanji Watanabe, a high-ranking bureaucrat, learns he is suffering from terminal stomach cancer during an X-ray consultation. As a man who has dedicated his life to public service, this revelation forces him to confront the reality of his impending death and rethink his priorities.

A group from the Kuroe Women's Association approaches Kanji for help in transforming a neglected cesspool into a community park for their children. Despite their pressing need, Kanji directs them to the Public Works department, seemingly unaware of the impact of his decision.

In the office, a moment of levity occurs when Toyo Odagiri shares a joke, contrasting with the otherwise dreary atmosphere. Kanji, deeply invested in his routine, reflects on the impending inefficiencies in the bureaucracy, indicating that he has been emotionally dead for years.

The Women's Association continuously faces bureaucratic obstacles, as they are shuffled from office to office. Their persistence leads them to the Deputy Mayor’s office, but they leave with empty promises, returning to a disheartened state.

While waiting for his appointment, Kanji overhears another patient's grim diagnosis of impending death. This deeply unsettles Kanji and makes him question his own earlier diagnoses, leaving him desperate for clarity and honest conversation with his physician.

Returning home, Kanji is faced with the harsh reality that his son Mitsuo and daughter-in-law Kazue are more interested in his inheritance than his health. This revelation further isolates Kanji, emphasizing his journey toward finding meaning in his life.

At a local bar, Kanji meets a writer who inspires him to embrace life, sparking a desire for change. Encouraged by this meeting, Kanji begins to reassess what it means to truly live, moving beyond mere survival.

While searching for Kanji, Toyo expresses her frustrations with their bureaucratic jobs. This encounter leads to a meaningful connection, where Kanji finds solace in her passion and begins to see the potential for making a real impact on society.

Kanji attempts to share his illness with Mitsuo, leading to a misunderstanding fueled by jealousy over inheritance. Instead of supporting his father, Mitsuo's reactions reveal the emotional distance they share, further complicating Kanji's familial relationships.

Inspired by Toyo's joy in creating toy rabbits for children, Kanji rekindles his spirit and resolves to leave behind a meaningful legacy. He reflects on the plight of the Kuroe community and commits himself to the cause of improving their lives.

Five months after his diagnosis, Kanji Watanabe passes away, leaving behind a profound legacy. His death resonates deeply within the community, especially among the Kuroe Women's Association, who honor his efforts in establishing a park for their children.

At Kanji's funeral, a police officer reminisces about Kanji's joyful moments in the park he fought to build. His legacy is solidified as the community acknowledges his contributions, reflecting on the changes sparked by his tenacity against bureaucracy.

Kanji's colleagues begin to reflect on his struggles and contributions, fostering a newfound commitment to help those in need. This moment highlights the potential for change within the bureaucratic system Kanji fought against.

As a new group approaches Public Affairs seeking assistance, the looming bureaucracy threatens to repeat history. Sakai, now transitioning into his role, is reminded of Kanji's legacy as he grapples with the extensive paperwork.

Standing on a bridge overlooking the Kuroe park, Sakai contemplates the path forward. He reflects on Kanji’s determination and wonders if he can rise above the pressures of bureaucracy to truly serve the community.