In a small Japanese neighborhood, a simple and somewhat melancholic man, known as "the old man," leads a tranquil life as the owner of a modest fish shop. His daily routine is shaken when his family begins to prepare for his daughter's wedding. With the imminent nuptials, they face old resentments, unfulfilled dreams, and the pressures of society.
The story focuses on this family's interactions with their neighbors, revealing the complex dynamics that exist within a close-knit community, yet filled with secrets. As the preparations for the celebration progress, tensions rise, and the characters must confront their expectations and frustrations. The figure of the father, with his pragmatic character and love for tradition, becomes a mirror of the struggle between the old and the new, personal dreams, and collective realities.
Through a simple yet profoundly moving narrative, family relationships, romantic disappointments, and the small joys of daily life are portrayed. The melancholic scenes are accompanied by the subtlety of Japanese culture and the significance of fish in their cuisine, symbolizing life and the connections between the characters. With a light sense of humor and deep reflections on life, the film becomes a tribute to the ordinary, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.