In a quiet city in New Jersey, a bus driver named Paterson leads a peaceful and routine life. Every day, he wakes up early, prepares a simple meal, and heads to work, where he travels the same streets over and over again. However, what seems like a monotonous existence hides a rich inner life: Paterson is a passionate poet who finds inspiration in every little detail around him, from the faces of his passengers to the unusual conversations he overhears on the street.
His life is also marked by his unconditional love for Laura, his wife, who, despite their differences, encourages him to pursue his creative dreams. Laura has a vibrant personality and a constant quest for new passions, which contrasts with Paterson's serene calmness. As the film progresses, we see how his poems, written in a notebook, come to life and reflect his unique perception of the world.
The film glides between the everyday and the poetic, celebrating the beauty of the simple and the mundane. Over the course of a week, the viewer accompanies Paterson in his daily routines, facing small challenges and moments of discovery that remind him that creativity can arise in the most unexpected places. It is an intimate exploration of life, art, and love that invites everyone to find the extraordinary within the daily routine.