Hirayama is content with his life as a toilet cleaner in Tokyo. Outside of his structured routine, he cherishes music on cassette tapes, books, and taking photos of trees. Through unexpected encounters, he reflects on finding beauty in the world.
The film competed for the Palme d'Or at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, with Koji Yakusho winning the Best Actor Award. Additionally, it received a nomination for Best International Feature Film at the 96th Academy Awards®.
Wim Wenders has made significant contributions to world cinema and visual arts. Wenders is noted for his skillful blend of fiction and documentary filmmaking. His road movies, such as Paris, Texas (1984) and The American Friend (1977), demonstrate his fascination with landscapes and the human condition. He also directed notable documentaries, including Buena Vista Social Club (1999), which celebrated Cuban music, and Pina (2011), a 3D tribute to the choreographer Pina Bausch. Wenders' influence extends beyond the screen, as he has also been a strong advocate for the preservation of cinema heritage. He served as the president of the European Film Academy and has been involved in various initiatives to protect and restore classic films.