Set in post-war 1953 London, the narrative follows Mr. Rodney Williams (Bill Nighy), a senior bureaucrat in the Public Works Department. Leading a monotonous life, Williams is confronted with a terminal cancer diagnosis. This revelation prompts him to reevaluate his existence and seek meaning beyond his routine.
Initially attempting to escape through hedonistic pursuits, Williams soon finds inspiration in a modest yet impactful project: transforming a neglected bomb site into a children's playground. This endeavor becomes his legacy, symbolizing his late-found purpose and commitment to making a tangible difference.