The Wind Rises

In 1918, a young Jiro Horikoshi dreams of becoming a pilot, only to have his dreams dashed by his nearsightedness. Inspired by a magazine article, he begins to dream of soaring through the skies, guided by his idol, Giovanni Battista Caproni.

As Jiro dreams, he encounters Caproni, who shares his wisdom about the significance of designing aircraft over piloting them. This moment solidifies Jiro's aspiration to become an aeronautical engineer rather than a pilot.

Five years later, Jiro enrolls at Tokyo Imperial University as an aeronautical engineering student. This pivotal decision positions him to contribute to the world of aviation despite the challenges he faces.

During a visit home, Jiro meets Nahoko Satomi and her maid Kinu. Their brief interaction turns chaotic as the Great Kantō earthquake strikes, injuring Kinu and setting the stage for Jiro and Nahoko's relationship.

In 1925, Jiro graduates alongside his friend Kiro Honjo, and both secure positions at Mitsubishi. They are tasked with developing a fighter plane during the challenging period of the Great Depression.

While working on the Mitsubishi 1MF9, Jiro faces disappointment when the plane breaks apart during testing and is rejected. This setback highlights the difficulties in their endeavors to create effective aviation technology.

In 1929, Jiro and Honjo travel to the Weimar Republic to acquire a production license for the Junkers G.38. Despite being welcomed by Hugo Junkers, they encounter bureaucratic challenges that hinder their progress.

Disheartened by Japan's technological lag, Jiro returns home while Honjo stays behind to work on the Mitsubishi G4M. This decision shapes the future of their respective careers in aviation.

By early 1932, Jiro achieves the role of chief designer for a fighter plane competition sponsored by the Imperial Navy. Unfortunately, his design fails testing in 1933, marking another professional setback for him.

After the failure of his design, Jiro retreats to a summer resort where he fortuitously reunites with Nahoko. Their connection deepens into romance, providing Jiro with emotional support during challenging times.

Devastating news impacts Jiro when he learns that Nahoko has tuberculosis. This prompts him to seek her father's permission to marry her, even as Nahoko wishes to wait until she is fully recovered.

With the help of Jiro's supervisor Kurokawa and his wife, the couple organizes a private marriage ceremony. They cherish their time together, even as Jiro's sister, Kayo, warns of the uncertain future due to Nahoko's illness.

As Jiro prepares for a critical test flight of his prototype, Nahoko writes farewell letters aware of her declining health. This emotional burden weighs heavily on Jiro during what should be a moment of triumph.

By 1945, in the aftermath of World War II, Jiro finds himself in dreams once again, conversing with Caproni. He shares his regret that his aircraft designs were used in war, reflecting on the consequences of his creations.

In a poignant farewell, Nahoko's spirit encourages Jiro to embrace life as they both walk into a dream world with Caproni. This final connection encapsulates their shared passion for aviation and the love they shared.