He came to direct "Daikon to Ninjin" (Radishes and Carrots), which was originally planned by director Ozu as a project to follow "Sanma no Aji" (An Autumn Afternoon), due to an appreciation for his popularity and ability.
小津が『秋刀魚の味』の次回作として温めていた企画『大根と人参』を監督するに至ったのも、そうした人気と実力を評価された故である。