In the bustling Tokyo of the 1920s, a young idealist named Sadao has just graduated from university with big dreams and expectations. However, harsh reality hits him when he realizes that the job market is not as welcoming as he had hoped. As he searches for his place in society, Sadao faces a series of rejections and disappointments that lead him to question his worth and purpose.
Meanwhile, his love life becomes complicated. Sadao falls in love with a charming and strong woman named Keiko, who represents everything he longs for: freedom and authenticity. But as their relationship progresses, Sadao struggles with his inability to find a decent job that would allow him to provide a stable life for Keiko. Against a backdrop of social and cultural changes in Japan, the story explores themes of identity, ambition, and the pressure faced by young people in a society that still clings to tradition.
Sadao's friendship with a group of university peers also plays a crucial role, as they navigate the challenges of growing up and adapting. As his desperation increases, Sadao must decide whether to continue pursuing his dreams or settle for an uncertain future. The film offers a poignant look at the struggles of a transitioning generation, examining the meaning of success and the pursuit of true happiness in a changing world.