The film is a biographical drama that explores the life of the famous Japanese writer Yukio Mishima, intertwining his complex persona with dramatizations of his notable works. The narrative is divided into four chapters, each reflecting a different phase of Mishima's life and career. The first chapter follows his early life, capturing his rise to fame as a prolific author during post-war Japan. The second chapter delves into Mishima's obsession with physical beauty and discipline, highlighting his rigorous self-imposed regimen of bodybuilding and martial arts. Through stylized re-enactments, the movie visualizes key scenes from three of Mishima's novels, blending reality with fiction to showcase his artistic vision.

The third chapter focuses on Mishima's political awakening and growing discontent with modern Japanese society. He develops a nationalist ideology, culminating in the formation of his private militia, the Tatenokai, aiming to restore the nation's traditional values. The final chapter juxtaposes Mishima's meticulous planning and execution of a dramatic final act with flashbacks to moments that define his life and beliefs. The contrasting visual styles—shifting from vivid theatricality in the novel excerpts to stark realism in the biographical segments—underscore the dualities within Mishima’s character: his pursuit of beauty and death, art and politics.