When laws are broken—whether they are those laid down by humans, love, or time—the price to pay can be high indeed.

Androids are a part of daily life now—except on the conservative island of Kino in Japan, which has resisted modernity. Husband and wife Edo and Helene have lived happily for many years in this ideal enclave. But time has started to take its toll. A renowned pianist, Helene’s star spot at the symphony becomes imperiled, while Edo feels his desire for his wife fading. Helene decides to introduce a robot into their life, a clone of herself as a younger woman, programmed to satisfy its owners’ desires.