Imamura tackles the atomic bombing of Hiroshima with a typically idiosyncratic approach, focusing neither on the explosion itself nor the ensuing holocaust but on the aftereffects years later. Rather than radiation poisoning, Imamura explores the emotional fallout of the bombing damage to the bodies and souls. The plot concerns an aging couple attempting to marry off their niece whose ex-potential suitors are scared off by rumors of radiation sickness. In adapting Masuji Ibuse's novel, Imamura finally enters the territory of Ozu (under whom he worked as an apprentice and whose directing and visual style he consciously rejected).