As the film progresses, Ryûhei's search for a new job becomes increasingly desperate and he is forced to take on menial, degrading work in order to provide for his family. Meanwhile, Megumi decides to take control of her own life and secretly begins taking piano lessons, a lifelong dream of hers. She finds solace and purpose in her music, and even starts performing at local events.
Ryûhei's oldest son, Takashi, also faces struggles of his own as he grapples with his sense of identity and purpose. Feeling constrained by his father's expectations for his future, Takashi decides to enlist in the military without telling his parents. His younger brother, Kenji, is repeatedly bullied at school and begins acting out in troubling ways.
As the family members navigate their individual challenges and secrets, their relationships with each other are tested and strained. Eventually, a series of unforeseen events force them to confront the truth about themselves and each other, leading to a reevaluation of their priorities and a deeper understanding of what truly matters in life.