The brooding three-hour drama, based on a short story of the same name by author Haruki Murakami, was also nominated for best director, best adapted screenplay and best picture, the first time a Japanese film had been nominated for best picture. The film features a widower, portrayed by Hidetoshi Nishijima, who faces his grief and finds solace in a female chauffeur (Toko Miura) after his wife dies while leaving behind secrets. The last time a Japanese movie won in the best international film category was in 2009, when Yojiro Takita's "Departures" took home the prize. "Drive My Car" had garnered a host of prestigious awards even prior to its Oscar win.