Original subtitles

A SHOCHIKU PRESENTATION

Produced by: Kindai Eiga Kyokai

You wimp of a man!

STRONG WOMEN, WEAK MEN

Producers: Kazuo Kuwahara and Setsuo Noto

Original screenplay by: Kaneto Shindo

Cinematography: Kiyomi Kuroda Music: Hikaru Hayashi

Production Design: Norimichi Igawa

Editing: Hisao Enoki

"Song of a Strong Woman" Music: Hikaru Hayashi, Lyrics: Tsutomu Tamura

Performed by: Yoko Yoshikawa

CAST

Nobuko Otowa

Taiji Tonoyama, Eiko Yamagishi Hideo Kanze

Ryoko Nakamura, Torahiko Hamada Rokko Toura

Chuzaburo Wakamiya, Kozo Yamamura Atsuko Kawaguchi, Daigo Kusano

Yoshinobu Ogawa Midori Hirono

Directed by: Kaneto Shindo

Hey, welfare has arrived!

Hey, he's here!

The welfare guy is here!

Two tickets to Kyoto!

Excuse me?

What do you want?

Is there a woman named Yasue here?

Yasue?

I need to see Yasue from Kyushu.

I don't know any Yasue from Kyushu.

I need Yasue Yamaguchi!

- And who are you? - We are from the same region.

Yasue Yamaguchi…

Do you realize that we have more than 80 people here?

- What do you want from her? - It's an important matter.

Ah, you came here to work, huh?

Yes, that's right.

The supervisor will come out at 2 o'clock,

so just hang around and come back around then.

Okay, thank you very much!

Yasue Yamaguchi resigned on May 30th.

She took a 5.000 yen advance and never repaid it.

Where did she go next?

I don't know. They say she went towards Osaka.

- That's troublesome, Kimiko. - What's the trouble?

Actually, we contacted Yasue three times by letter.

We wanted to work here, so we came from Kyushu.

Yes.

- Do you want to work here? - Yes.

If you're determined, I don't mind.

- What? - I said it's fine for you to work.

Please, we beg you.

First time someone came to be a hostess with their mother as a guardian.

Feels like an entrance exam.

- I also want to work here. - Huh, you too?

- Please, let me! - How old are you?

I’m 39 and three months.

There are 7 or 8 people older than you here.

A mother-daughter hostess duo is quite rare.

I've never had anything like this before.

Can people from the countryside like us become hostesses?

Of course. Country folks are pure-hearted, so they're actually liked by customers.

- How old is your daughter? - Speak your age.

I'm nineteen!

We have about 20 people from Kyushu here. Most are from closed coal mines.

This is our service manual.

Our uniform is a negligee.

- A negligee? - It’s a type of Western nightwear.

The uniform is a nightgown?

Yes, and it’s see-through.

- See-through? - The breasts are covered by a band.

- Yes. - You wear 5 to 7 panties.

As many as 7?

It's for modesty. Each person can choose how many they wear.

We reported to the Public Safety Commission that we require 5 to 7 pairs of panties.

I understand!

- So, do you understand the uniform? - Yes, yes.

You need to arrive by 5:45.

It takes 15 minutes to prepare your makeup and uniform.

Be ready for the 6:00 roll call.

Business starts at 6:30. Just follow what's written here.

We don't stay overnight, do we?

This is a cabaret, not a hostel.

- Yes, yes. - Working hours are until 11:00.

If you clock in by 5:45, you’ll earn 1.300 yen.

There’s a 100 yen deduction for every 10 minutes late.

- The negligee uniform... - Yes, yes.

- It’s sold at our store for 2.000 yen. - Yes, yes.

I’m also in charge of sales.

The referral fee is 500 yen. Our company takes 250 yen.

- You keep the other 250 yen. - Yes, yes.

So, the referral fee is for creating regular customers.

- And getting them to request you. - Yes, yes.

Other tips are yours to keep.

- Yes, yes. - A set costs 300 yen.

It includes one beer and some appetizers.

It’s a service fee to attract customers. It’s not worth just one set.

Yes, yes.

There are more rules, which you'll pick up from your colleagues.

When will you start work?

- Yes, yes. - You just say "yes, yes".

- Let us start tonight. - Huh, tonight?

- We can’t afford to waste a day. - Do you have a place to stay?

No, we arrived at the station this morning, left our luggage, and came here directly.

Renting a room requires a deposit and initial payment.

- Do you have any money? - No, we don’t.

Could we get an advance?

- That's bold... - Please, help us.

Any old barn or shed will do for us. Use your influence to arrange something.

This is the heart of Kyoto. There are no barns here...

Please, we don’t even have money for lunch.

I’m impressed, you’ve got guts.

We’re really going all in!

- Hello! - Hello!

- Hello! - Hello!

- Hello! - Hello!

- Hello! - Hello!

Attention! Salute the supervisor!

Mother!

I will now announce last month’s number one hostess. Mitsuko Sato!

- Yes! - Step forward.

"Certificate of Honor."

"You have faithfully carried out the duties of a hostess,"

"and through diligence and effort, have achieved exceptional results."

"With great respect, we recognize your excellent skills."

"July 3, 1968, Water Wheel Saloon,"

"issued to Mrs. Mitsuko Sato."

At ease!

Why do men come to cabarets?

Why do they come to night social venues?

It is because they seek something they desire there.

What is it that they desire?

It is lubrication.

We must provide our customers with soothing social lubrication.

Beer bought at a liquor store costs 130 yen a bottle.

At a cabaret, they pay 300 or even 400 yen.

Yet, men still want to drink this expensive beer.

Why? Because they are seeking comfort more than the beer.

For this reason, our existence is crucial.

A hostess doesn’t need to be a beauty. She should be charming.

Being charming is about expressing the beauty of her personality.

Your faces were created by God.

God is fair to everyone.

He gives each person their own unique beauty.

Therefore, a hostess should not apply makeup for herself.

She should put on makeup for the customer.

You should stimulate the customer’s imagination.

Let me now give you a few concrete points about service.

First, train your mind.

At a glance, you should quickly gauge how much money a customer has.

This must be done by intuition.

Second, always make sure to get their business card.

This is for after-hours activities, like making phone calls during the day.

Third, do not say, "Shall we have a beer?"

Instead, say, "Let’s have a beer, shall we?"

The difference in nuance between "shall" and "let’s" is huge.

With that, today's roll call is over.

Attention! Salute the supervisor!

Water Wheel

Welcome!

Welcome!

Welcome!

Number 20, Fumiko. Number 21, Kimiko.

- Go to table 28. - Yes!

Number 20, Fumiko. Number 21, Kimiko.

- Yes! - Go to Table 28. Table 28!

It was me who called you. Please, have a seat.

This daddy here is the president of a textile company in Nishijin.

Tonight is the first time for these new girls.

Oh, what are your names again?

- I'm Fumiko. - I'm Kimiko.

Please, treat them well, daddy.

It really is their first day tonight. They’re as fresh as can be.

Just like roasted sweet potatoes, I should let them cool before taking a bite!

- Where are you from? - From Kyushu.

That's the usual line.

Your father lost his job when the coal mine shut down, right?

So, you became a "night butterfly" to be filial, didn't you?

- Yes! - Yes, that's right.

But you're not talking about your father! Your husband lost his job, right?

- Yes, that's right. - Don't lie!

It's written all over your face that you're an old, experienced fox.

Daddy, isn't trading lies the etiquette of a night salon?

It's the truth, I swear!

Fine, let's test if this really is your first time at this club.

Kimiko, it's okay! You're wearing seven pairs of panties!

What a reaction. Maybe this really is her first time here.

You’ve touched a lucky charm there.

Daddy, let's get another beer, shall we?

Yes!

A lucky charm indeed. Can I touch again, more carefully this time?

This time, please feel mine.

Daddy, let's add another beer, shall we?

Okay.

Now, that’s a fine woman. Let's drink up.

Do you have any unfinished beer left?

What do you need it for?

- Come on, practice time! - Drinking beer is harder than dying.

If you can’t guzzle it down, you won't make any money in this business.

- There are no glasses. - Use a bowl, then!

We have to drink this.

It’s so bitter...

You’re not a pro until you’ve puked.

We need to master the Kyoto dialect to make it.

It's hard to get rid of your native dialect.

You’ve got to treat it like school. Success takes effort!

The supervisor says we have to maintain public order and uphold good morals,

but is wearing a negligee really moral?

Sparking the customer’s imagination is the cabaret's morality!

I thought this work would be easier than laboring...

- But it's really tough. - Speak in Kyoto dialect.

How about the handkerchief trick the supervisor mentioned?

That's a good one.

The tricky part is knowing how to drop it.

It can’t look too obvious, but it can’t look too subtle either.

Otherwise, it won’t stir the customer’s imagination.

If he doesn't pick it up, it's a flop.

That’s the trick. You have to practice!

The supervisor said to drop seven handkerchiefs in one night.

Out of those seven, two will probably get picked up.

- A little sob story works wonders. - Yes, yes!

The coal mine shut down, and dad lost his job.

There were times we went three days without food.

- It’s all true. - That’s why it feels so real.

We should mix in a bit more fiction, though.

How about saying your dad broke one of his arms?

One arm isn’t enough. Make it both arms!

Don’t forget to shed those tears!

It’s hard to cry when you’re not really sad.

That’s where the acting comes in. If you think about it,

we’ve had a pretty sad life, haven’t we?

Tears should come out naturally. You should be able to let them flow easily.

Cheers!

The peak of the mining industry was around 1952 to 1953.

Miners were doing a crucial job for the country.

During times of food shortages, they even had special rations of rice.

But from around 1958, things went downhill.

- It was the fuel revolution. - That was the real revolution.

In 1960, my father's mine closed down,

and since then, one mine after another has been closing.

The smoke from the Chikuho chimneys has vanished.

I suppose there were strikes all over, too.

Yes, strikes everywhere. They're the first sign of collapse.

Many mines went under before the strikes even started.

But, in the end, the strikes were in vain.

The country abandoned the mines.

It was like playing a game of chess without a king.

That’s how it is. In any case, what the country abandons is doomed.

Moreover, my father fell in a mine, and broke four of his front teeth.

- Four teeth? - Yes.

That was the start of his misfortune, you see?

Behind my house, there’s an old man who lost three city council elections.

He also fell into a ditch, and broke three of his front teeth.

Well, from then on, he lost the elections, his wife left him,

and even his roof started leaking. It was a complete mess.

So, your father broke four teeth? That's really tough.

From that moment on, we sank into the abyss of poverty.

With hunger looming, our family of five struggled to find food.

Well, of course, I sympathize with that.

Uhm, excuse me for a moment, I need to go to the bathroom.

Don’t touch me too much now...

It's a shameful story, but all five members of my family had to rely on welfare,

getting only a pittance of money,

just barely scraping by day by day.

When miners leave the pits, they're like moles, useless when exposed to sunlight.

Once the pits close, they can’t return, so they’re stuck in the daylight.

Some even ran away in the night, leaving their wives and children behind.

Others were left behind by their wives, and have to fend for themselves.

It's a real societal issue. Our nation is failing...

Have you seen my handkerchief?

It fell, but I picked it up.

Oh, no! That old dirty handkerchief...

No, I let your scent soak into my skin.

You say such smooth things. Do you mean them?

Please, understand my true feelings.

Then, can you give me your handkerchief, mister?

Will you accept it?

- Thank you. - Thank you so much.

- Let's have some beer, yes? - Yes!

Let's drink a lot!

The more I hear, the sadder your story gets.

Are there really people in this world as unfortunate as us?

That's right.

Excuse me for a moment.

It seems like things have gotten quite somber here.

Fumi, it's quite impressive that you can rattle off nonsense that easily.

I'm not talking nonsense.

That's right, fabricated stories won't touch anyone's heart.

How ridiculous. Hers is just a cheap sob story.

Performance or not, as long as I'm moved, that's all that matters.

- Right? - Is that how you feel?

Remember this!

Remember what?

Don't be silly. Stop it!

- What did you say? - What do you want?

You mole from the coal heaps!

What the hell are you doing, you two?!

Your behavior must be based on providing service.

You violated the hostess code.

Therefore, I will impose punishment.

Public order! You have disrupted public order and destroyed good manners.

Fighting will result in mutual punishment.

As compensation for the damaged property, each of you will be fined 1000 yen.

Turn left!

Turn right!

Dive-bombing attack!

Return to position!

Your butts are too high!

You won't hit the enemy with a bombing like that!

Shut up!

What? I'm a fool?

Snatching food and calling me a fool? That's bold.

The one calling someone a fool is the real fool.

Mother, is the bath ready?

Yes, it's ready.

- Welcome! - Welcome!

A mole dies when exposed to sunlight.

My dad became just like that... Practically dead.

It must be tough for those who can't find a place to work.

I feel so sorry for you.

But those who worked in the mines have plenty of strength left to work.

They should be able to find work elsewhere, right?

They seek other jobs in Tokyo or Osaka.

But most... come back after a year or six months.

How come? In this era of labor shortage?

There must be jobs available.

You wimp of a man!

♪ Did the worm settle in? The source of bad luck

Once a man becomes a mole, he can't work in proper sunlight again...

That's true.

My family has been farming for over 200 years without ever getting tired of it.

It's not that easy to switch jobs.

We've been abandoned by both the government and society,

left as miserable outcasts.

It's a pitiful situation. But you're managing bravely.

- Excuse me, I need to use the toilet. - Okay.

- Who picked up your handkerchief? - A farmer from Sagano.

- Looks like he's got money. - Just a single set, though.

He didn't order anything more. Stingy.

But that shows promise. Big spenders early on are usually duds.

You wimp of a man!

♪ We're strong, hard-working insects

♪ Cut ties with weak men

♪ Find a money tree...

Have you found my handkerchief?

No... I didn't see it.

- Let's have some beer, yes? - Yeah, let's do that.

Welcome!

- Let me introduce you to my mother. - Huh? Your mother?

Really?

Yes, I'm her mother. Nice to meet you.

You work together, as mother and daughter?

We left our home, making a desperate decision as a family.

Please, go ahead.

So, was your story earlier true?

Oh, come on!

Did you think I was lying?

No, no... not exactly.

Please, take care of us.

All right, one more drink!

How about some sushi?

- Oh, I'd love that! - That sounds great!

The current Gonbei is the 11th generation.

They came from Kishu during the time of the 8th Shogun, Yoshimune.

Then, they settled here and started farming.

But farming is just for show, they live off the land and enjoy life.

You see, the land around here just keeps rising in value.

Luck always attracts luck.

In front of his house, a direct sightseeing road is being built from the city center.

If he stays put with his hands in his pockets, money will come rolling in.

Who are you, anyway? You’re letting me do all the talk.

Well, we were just discussing Mr. Gonbei’s personal situation.

Oh, so it's about Gonbei’s marriage prospects.

It's quite pitiful for a 36-year-old to be single.

But his mother is difficult. She’s rejected two fiancées already.

Both times, she sent the brides away.

She’s both stingy and particular about status.

Let's go with the best option. We cannot throw away what fate gives us.

- Be decisive about it. - Yes, yes.

Here's my advice, though.

Cut the flesh to strike the bone.

You won't sense the current until you're in the water.

Yes, yes.

The sushi the other day was delicious.

It was the first time I’ve ever had such delicious sushi.

If it was that good, should we go again tonight?

Yes, I’m so happy!

- Are you inviting me? - Of course!

Please, just take me tonight, and not my mother.

Won’t your mother be angry?

I just want to have an intimate chat with you, Mr. Oyamada.

Right, just the two of us...

Hey, chef, keep making more!

Pull yourself together...

- Welcome! - Welcome!

- Let's go get some sushi. - Yeah, let's go.

Let's drink up here and then go get sushi.

Yes.

- How about some beer? - Yeah, let's have some.

Hey, come. I'm counting on you!

Sir, should I make some more?

No, I'm good. I've eaten too much.

This is a secret technique, the "Ninja Vanish" trick!

What if he just gives up?

If he gives up this easily, he has no future.

A man with potential will definitely come back tomorrow night.

You think so?

You gave it away too easily, your one and only innocence.

A man who doesn't wish for it again isn't a real man.

That's the trick. Never give it to him twice.

The second time's dodge will be tough.

Study him thoroughly.

Make a move and dodge swiftly.

Kimiko, I'm counting on you!

I ate too much sushi, now my stomach hurts.

Sorry, my mother was having stomach cramps and collapsed.

But I see that your mother is completely healthy now.

My mother's stomach cramps always pass quickly.

Ah... one more drink, please.

Huh? You sure can drink.

Let's have some beer!

- Let's go eat sushi. - Thank you.

- Let's really go this time. - Let's go.

Tonight, I'll give you a nice present, Kimiko.

Don't waste money on me.

But I want to spend money on you.

Wow, I'm so happy!

I'll give you some pocket money, too.

Here, take it.

I'm sorry... Mr. Oyamada, I like you.

- I'll be waiting at the sushi place. - Thanks.

- Good job tonight. - Good night.

Where is Kimiko?

Weren't you supposed to be with her?

I waited at the sushi place until 12:30, but she never showed up.

That's really strange...

Kimiko just left earlier.

Thanks for your work...

What happened to her?

Maybe someone stopped her on the way to the sushi place.

Who would that be?

She has about four or five regulars.

Kimiko isn’t that kind of unfaithful woman.

Of course, she’s a serious girl.

Fumiko, I need to talk to you. Please, listen to me.

I’ve fallen for Kimiko.

I want to be her lover.

Kimiko has given me... She gave me everything!

What? What did Kimiko give you?

So, Fumiko, you didn’t know?

I don't, what did she give you?

I went to a hotel with Kimiko,

and we spent the night together.

What? I thought she stayed at a friend’s place!

How shameless!

No, no, Fumiko! Don't be angry!

How can I not be angry?!

You seduced an innocent girl!

It was by mutual consent.

Are you trying to make our lives even more miserable?

Are you really such an immoral person?

Calm down, Fumiko...

It was a mutual decision.

This money is just insulting!

Do you think your class can buy people’s souls with money?

- Fumiko... - Yes, that's what's on your mind!

- Fumiko... - You've ruined my precious daughter.

Fumiko, I apologize, but...

Fumiko, I beg you, let me see Kimiko!

If Kimiko is willing, I’m ready to marry her.

Aren't you 36 already? Do you still not understand how the world works?

Those women make a living by deceiving men.

Marriage is out of question.

Mother, you have such negative views about cabaret girls.

Kimiko is a respectable woman.

Don't casually call her Kimiko like that.

Our Oyamada family has a proud legacy.

There is no place for individuals of dubious origins here.

She's just a coal miner's daughter from a ruined mine.

Do you think that's a good match for someone like you?

Our Oyamada family has 11 generations of pride.

Mother, it's because you keep talking

about pride and status that Tokiko and Yoshie left.

You drove all my wives away.

Finding the right wife for you is my duty as a mother.

If she’s a bad wife, I’ll send her away as many times as needed.

I have a duty to marry Kimiko.

Why is that?

She gave me her virginity.

You fool! There’s no such thing as a virgin in a place like that.

You clearly don’t understand how the world works.

- You've been fooled by appearances. - No...

I swear to God and Buddha, this is the truth!

You can satisfy your desires with money.

Did you give her 100.000 yen? What did you use it for?

Did you spend it on Kimiko?

Yes...

Using my money without permission, even within family, is fraud and embezzlement.

It's a serious crime!

Yes...

- Hello! - Oh, hey!

They've grown so big.

They grow bigger, just to be eaten by humans.

If you are born a carp, this is your destiny.

- I need to talk to you. - What is it?

- Let's go to his place. - Okay.

Is his shop doing well?

He sold some land, and opened a café.

It’s going okay, I guess.

Hey! I got turned down by my mother.

Your mother is maybe one of the smartest women in Kyoto, maybe the smartest.

She wouldn’t fall for your sweet talk.

It’s not just talk. I’m really thinking of getting married.

- What about your status and lineage? - Who cares about that?

My second wife, Yoshie, came from a family of kimono dyers

which had lasted 25 generations since the Muromachi period.

However, she slept in, couldn't cook rice, and was terrible at sewing.

She even wore makeup when going to the fields.

No wonder even my mother, who’s big on status, couldn’t stand her.

Besides, she wasn’t even a virgin. But Kimiko is a virgin.

There’s no way a virgin works in a cabaret.

You're wrong! She’s like a pearl shining in the vast ocean.

You’re as poisoned by prejudice as my mother is.

Fine, we'll go and check things out for you.

I’m counting on you. I’ll cover the expenses.

You’re pretty excited, huh?

- Welcome! - Welcome!

My father lost his front four teeth.

- Really? - That sounds terrible.

Then, the mine shut down, and he lost his job.

Must’ve been the fuel revolution, huh?

The company was making tons of money before that,

so just saying, "We’re closed, you’re fired" is heartless.

You should go see the coal mines in Chikuho sometime. It's a sad sight.

They focused all efforts on Southeast Asia and ramped up production.

But then, the subcontractor weaving shops went on strike, and they went under.

Hong Kong's trading company demanded compensation,

the investment in the weaving company was a loss, and everything went downhill.

To top it off, our company president is a fool.

Weren't you the president, daddy?

Me, the president? No, I'm the advertising manager.

But when someone calls you "president", you answer.

I just don't object to what people call me.

What will you do now that your company has gone bankrupt?

I’m unemployed, unfortunately.

Even though the mine collapsed, you women can still use your charms to make a living,

but for us men, it’s not so easy.

Don’t get too down about it.

Chin up and keep going.

- By the way, I need to ask you a favor. - What is it?

Could you lend me 10.000 yen?

How did you manage after your dad lost his job for those five years?

We’ve been on welfare.

- And everyone else, too? - Yes, all of us.

There are a lot of you, right?

There are 50 households in our tenements.

That’s a big deal for the government.

What’s the big deal? Welfare money is just a pittance.

Taxes are going to support us all, so indirectly, you're helping, too.

So, what are you going to do in the future?

Even the government doesn’t know what to do, so how would we know?

It’s pointless to stay in such a barren place.

- Why don’t you leave? - And do what?

- Work. - What kind of work would we do?

There’s always something to do.

Are you going to support us?

I might be able to support you, but there’s no hope for your father.

Come on, don’t look so serious.

I’m struggling to make ends meet.

My daughter’s high school fees are three months overdue.

Sorry, I can’t help you.

Don’t be so heartless, help me out.

Why am I being called heartless if I have no money?

I've spent hundreds of thousand on you, haven’t I?

We’re more than just acquaintances.

You bought my chastity, didn’t you? And in return, I gave you my body.

I didn’t just take your money for free.

Isn't it natural to help others when they are in need?

- My company went under... - Just like the mine did for us.

- Excuse me now. - Hey, wait!

What's the matter?

If you’re going to buy women, at least do it like a real man.

You bitch!

Music!

Okay, calm down now.

If you want money so bad, don’t mess with women!

You idiots! Did you just stand by while Kimiko was being beaten?

And you call yourselves men?

They are being fattened up to be eaten. Yeah...

Is your father here?

Is your old man around?

Let's go.

So, what did you want to talk about?

- The thing is... - Yes, what is it?

Huh? Yes...

I have to head out soon, so let’s get this over with quickly.

Well, it's about the chicken coop that was built behind my house.

What about it?

The chickens are so loud...

...that I can’t even sleep at night.

- And some people developed neurosis... - Neurosis?

Stop acting so high and mighty!

The chickens' feathers turn into small dust particles that fly into our house.

That's because you're leaving the windows open.

The dust gets in through the cracks in the windows.

So, what do you want me to do about it?

Is it wrong for me to raise chickens on my own land?

- No! - That's not what we mean at all.

We just hope you could consider our environment, too.

Your environment, huh?

How much rent are you paying?

It's been over a year and two months, and I haven't received any rent.

You’re supposed to have moved out, but you’re still living here.

And you talk about the environment?

We were renting these houses, but you bought them from the company behind our backs.

We still have tenancy rights!

Go negotiate that with the company!

But the company’s gone, it went bankrupt!

Well, then there’s nothing to be done.

Even if the owner changes, our legal tenancy rights remain.

Legal tenancy, huh? Big words coming from you!

You’re living off welfare, thanks to the taxpayers' hard-earned money...

You should be more humble and careful with what you say.

You’re living off taxpayers’ money, too.

When have I ever taken taxpayers’ money?

Don’t you receive allowances as a city councilor?

If we're living off taxes, then so are you.

You idiot!

What kind of twisted logic is that?

That’s a dangerous way of thinking!

Your minds are completely rotten.

It’s because of me that you’re even receiving welfare!

You were bowing down to me in gratitude back then! Have you forgotten that already?

Welfare is managed by the Social Security Department.

It’s not thanks to you.

I’m also a social welfare officer.

You need my approval for that!

We are fully qualified to receive welfare support.

Anyone who has a legal right to benefits should receive them.

Hey, how are your wife and daughter doing?

Wherever they are, it’s none of your concern.

I heard they went off to Kyoto to find work.

I don’t want you prying into my family’s affairs.

If your family has an income earner, your welfare benefits could be cut off.

Who’s spreading those rumors?

You should ask around to find out who.

Also, I heard you’re hiding a TV in your cupboard and watching it in secret.

Teacher! Teacher! This is completely unacceptable!

People on welfare act like they’re entitled to it, with their heads held high.

They should be more modest and ashamed of themselves.

It’s a matter of education.

Teachers at school should be involved in the moral education of children.

This mining town reeks of moral decay.

Take Zenzo's family, for instance. He sent his wife and kid to Kyoto to work,

while he just lazes around, collecting welfare benefits.

That's pure dishonesty, like stealing!

Are you going for a walk?

The chicken coop is so noisy, I can’t stay at home.

I only showed them how to raise chickens, thinking I’d set an example.

I've got to stop their welfare payments.

"You've worked hard, putting in great effort and achieving outstanding results."

"Therefore, we present you with this Merit Award."

"June 21, 1968, Water Wheel Saloon,"

"awarded to Fumiko Ishikawa and Kimiko Ishikawa."

- Welcome! - Welcome!

Thank you. I'm sorry...

Kimiko, do you hate me?

Don't ask such silly things.

I like you, I really like you, I love you!

Thank you! Thank you!

They built that chicken coop to drive us poor folks out.

What a mean thing to do.

When we complained, they twisted the truth on us.

Threatened to cut off our welfare.

I see. But welfare is only for families without any breadwinners, right?

If you're working here like this, isn't that breaking the rules?

Do you think I make much money working here?

I barely earn enough to survive.

Even this negligee, I had to buy it myself.

It’s getting pretty worn out, too.

- Yeah... - How about I buy you a new one?

No way, that would make me so happy!

Let's have some beer, shall we?

Kimiko, let’s go out for sushi tonight.

- Sure, thank you. - You're really coming, right?

Thank you...

There’s something serious I want to talk to you about.

Can I come to your house?

No, you can’t! My mother's there.

It’s something I want your mother to hear, too.

But it's better to have a serious conversation just the two of us.

All right, then let’s go get sushi.

Ah, tonight’s no good.

My father is coming early tomorrow morning.

- Your dad? - Yeah.

- Is something wrong? - Just a family matter.

What? Your husband's coming?

Aren't you a widow?

You just told me you were a widow earlier.

I meant a widow in a spiritual sense.

So, tonight's no good?

Well, let’s give up on tonight. How about tomorrow?

Let’s discuss it again tomorrow night.

Here, use this to buy something nice for your father.

Thank you so much. I’m sorry.

Kyoto... Kyoto...

Please don’t forget any belongings as you exit.

The teacher came with us.

- Yoshio came, too? - Yeah, I came to talk about something.

Yoshio is very capable, and I think we should send him to high school,

but it’s something I need your advice on.

I had some business with my sister in Osaka,

so I decided to join you.

I discussed it with father, but we didn’t reach any decision.

He says since the government is taking care of me,

he doesn’t need his father’s advice.

He doesn’t listen to a word I say.

- It’s true, I can't help it. - Yoshio!

You shouldn’t say things that disrespect your parents.

Yoshio will go to high school.

He will go to university, too.

I’ve given up on my own life,

but our hope is in the children.

We can only have hope for our children.

Wow, you’re an understanding mother.

That’s great. I'm glad I came along.

All my kids are excellent. Even the youngest is very capable.

Kimiko, I need to talk to your father,

so go have coffee with the teacher somewhere.

You, too, Yoshio.

What a beautiful town!

As expected from a city with history and tradition.

Look, everyone, how beautiful the Kamo River flows.

This flow represents the flow of history.

The sound of this stream carries the voice of tradition.

Even Murasaki Shikibu once stood by this river’s edge.

The cuckoo’s Call-while we await it

In Kataoka Forest, I wish the dew drops Would wet us where we stand

From "Shin Kokinshu", by Murasaki Shikibu.

Kimiko, are you working at a cabaret?

Yes.

That's impressive! You're doing well.

There’s no higher or lower status in any profession.

It’s the fish in the mud that has the most beautiful appearance.

A beautiful appearance harbors a beautiful heart.

If a person desires peace and lives sincerely, there's nothing to be afraid of.

Well, complaining about the chicken coop was like poking a hornet’s nest.

Some people are envious that the three of us are living comfortably

thanks to the money you send us.

Someone secretly reported it.

You’ve got a nice lighter there.

A customer gave it to me.

They didn’t catch you with the washing machine, right?

No, I bought it late at night, hid it in the back storage, and secretly use it.

If they find out that I'm working, they'll cut off our benefits.

- Let's get a divorce. - I think that’s the best option, too.

We’re the only ones in the neighborhood who haven’t divorced yet.

200 yen per day per person... It’s a waste not to.

Consult the lawyer from the strike about the divorce procedure.

Yeah, I’ve already talked to him. He said it’s simple.

Honey, no matter how loud the chickens crow,

they’re just chickens. We can’t let them win.

Yes, I'll do my best!

- What time's your train? - Huh?

If you take the night train, you'll arrive by morning.

Well, I was thinking of staying for 2 or 3 days to see the sights in Kyoto...

That's an unaffordable luxury.

Really? Well, if you say so...

I guess you can stay just one night and head back.

Really? Thank you!

- I'll get the futon ready. - Thank you!

I just wanted to see you.

Don’t say such silly things at your age, grinning like that.

You've become quite the beauty...

Well, of course. Since he’s come all the way to Kyoto, you should take him

sightseeing and show some filial piety.

Your father doesn’t feel like a stranger to me at all.

Make sure to treat him to something delicious.

Thank you so much. I’m really sorry.

I will never forget your kindness.

I guess we won’t be able to go out for sushi tonight, huh?

Please, forgive me.

After my father leaves, we can relax.

Yes.

The mountains and rivers are beautiful. The roads are beautiful.

The houses are beautiful, too.

It's such a beautiful place.

Beautiful people must live here.

This is not an industrial city. They’ve kept it beautiful for tourism.

It’s a big difference.

This is Japan, but where we’re from is also Japan.

Huh? What did you just say?

You secretly took 500.000 yen without me noticing.

And, after spending all that money, you only slept with her once?

Yes.

And you're satisfied with that?

No, I’m not satisfied.

She is a virtuous woman.

- Gonbei. - Yes!

You’ve been deceived.

Why is that?

It’s pathetic, really.

You don’t understand such a simple trick?

There’s no tricks with her.

That's the proof you're being fooled.

Once you let her off the hook, you'll return, thinking she’ll let you off again.

That's her strategy.

You're 36, and you still know nothing about human nature.

Why don’t you just give her 100.000 yen?

Better yet, meet her mother directly.

Her mother is the mastermind. I’ll arrange it for you.

I’ve received the money.

Now, the relationship between my Gonbei and your Kimiko is completely severed.

Yes, that’s right.

In that case, please write a receipt as proof of our agreement.

What should I write?

"From today onward, I will no longer have a a relationship with Mr. Gonbei Oyamada."

Please write that down.

I don’t have to write that, I’ll keep my promise. There’s no need to worry.

It’s just for precaution.

I can't write, though.

That can't be true.

No, I didn’t go to school, so I can’t write.

In that case, I’ll write it for you.

Just put your seal on it.

That’s a problem. I can’t read, so I won’t know what’s written.

I wouldn’t understand what you’ve written.

If you are not happy with it, I'll give your money back.

No, that won’t be necessary.

Please, take it.

Your mother met with mine and made her promise you wouldn't see me ever again.

Kimiko, please don’t misunderstand me.

My mother can misunderstand, but I don't want you to.

If it's necessary, I’ll sell my fields, my lands and even my house for you.

This is my way of resistance!

What kind of person are you?

Despite the firm promise you made,

my son has neglecting his work and is going to the Water Wheel Saloon every night.

We are hostesses, you see.

When customers come, we have to entertain them.

We don’t have the right to tell people not to come to the saloon.

I’ve already had a serious talk with Kimiko,

but Mr. Gonbei keeps persistently trying to seduce my daughter.

I understand now.

I have a clear idea of ​​what your intentions are.

You know, those kinds of people are cunning and experienced.

If you confront them head-on, you won’t stand a chance.

I’ve had some tough experiences with their kind, too.

It takes a bit of finesse to handle them.

Kimiko, want to go for sushi?

Sure, thanks!

- What do you think? - Seems like an easy target.

- Should I go, then? - All right, go ahead.

I'll help myself.

- Take good care of me, please. - I’ll be counting on you.

Did you lock the door?

It's the police.

- Kimiko! - I've been had!

It’s not Kimiko's fault. The customer forced her into it.

Please, show some sympathy.

She is a young, naive girl.

She got caught up in the customer's smooth talk.

Sounds like a repeat offender. They say she frequently uses that hotel.

That’s not true. We’re in a fragile business and always under suspicion.

We conduct ourselves with the utmost propriety.

Unfortunately...

It was just this once...

Don’t lie, that won’t do.

You're being thoroughly investigated.

I swear it will never happen again.

Please, just this once, let it go.

In the "Law Book," it clearly states in the Anti-Prostitution Act:

"Article 2: Prostitution refers to engaging in sexual intercourse"

"with an unspecified partner for monetary compensation."

"Article 3: No one shall engage in prostitution or be an accomplice."

Hey! You scoundrel! You're completely devoid of morals!

How could you commit such a disgraceful act?

You, who studied Indian philosophy in university!

How dare you dishonor my Kimiko?

You should be ashamed as a human being!

Mother, you often brag about your prestigious lineage and education,

but, as a person, you are absolutely beneath contempt!

You manipulated Kawahara and trapped Kimiko,

and then called the police to report her, didn’t you?

You reported her... Oh, what a shameful act!

Calm down, Gonbei.

I’ll put all the family’s wealth on the line for Kimiko!

I will use all my assets to atone for the Oyamada family's guilt,

who got rich through exploitation!

How pathetic!

That woman has driven you mad, hasn’t she?

You're the pathetic one!

In any case, if they’re trying to deceive you,

we must fight back as a means of self-defense.

That girl’s mother is a sly woman.

It was her who sent Kawahara and Kimiko to the hotel!

Thanks to you two, we nearly faced a shutdown.

Because we maintain public morals, we’ve avoided suspension this time,

but we must impose some kind of punishment on you.

Listen up, you’re suspended for a week.

A week?

Kimiko will only be in custody for three days. She’ll be back tomorrow.

And she won't have to pay a fine.

- It's all thanks to me. - Thank you very much.

Got it? We provide service to clients, but we don’t sell the main thing.

Did you understand? Good. You’re on probation for a week.

I’ve figured out the scheme. The hotel staff told me everything.

Your mother and your friend were behind everything.

Such a cowardly plan! I don’t know who your mother is,

but is it satisfying to throw someone in jail using that kind of scheme?

I’ll apologize on behalf of my mother.

It was my mother’s fault, please forgive her!

It's too late now.

Kimiko is still in jail.

I’m really sorry, but...

Aren't you also to blame?

You accepted money from my mother and prevented me and Kimiko from meeting.

When did I interfere with you and Kimiko? Show me the evidence!

Sorry, I overreacted...

Let’s forget what’s happened until now. I’m still considering marrying Kimiko.

"Considering"? Is that how you word it now?

No, I mean... I feel sympathy for you both.

We don’t want anyone’s sympathy.

We can handle it on our own.

If we fail to survive, we will die as we should.

Kimiko doesn't like people like you.

Stop being so conceited.

So, were you two planning to deceive me from the start?

How dare you say such a thing? When did I ever deceive you?

Our business is to provide service to customers, not to spend money on them!

If you’re so stingy, then don’t come to a cabaret with your nose held high.

Well then, I’ll be heading out. I have to deliver this to Kimiko.

Fumiko... Fumiko... I love Kimiko!

Kimiko hates you!

- Fumiko... Fumiko... - Get lost, you idiot!

Why are you grabbing that?

You fool!

Fumiko... Fumiko...

Your hospital fees have been adequately covered by the Oyamada family.

Since you’ve already recovered,

and given that the situation started with both sides having their claims,

how about settling it as Mr. Oyamada desires?

I am the Oyamada family's lawyer, and I recommend that for your benefit as well.

I won’t settle.

If the case goes to court, you may find yourself at a disadvantage.

I won’t settle.

In cases like this, the court also prefers a settlement.

In fact, they won’t even know where to begin the trial.

I won't settle.

He is a serious, exemplary young man.

He will make a good impression on the court.

I won't settle anything.

Even if you win the lawsuit, there’s no way you’ll profit a single penny.

Wouldn't it be better to settle and get a hefty amount as compensation?

I won’t settle.

Why this stupid stubbornness?

They’re the customer, and you're the hostess. You're at a disadvantage from the start.

Even if we’re in a weaker position, we’re still human beings.

Are you sure you're sick?

In this scorching heat, do you think someone could fake an illness?

“Lose something to gain something” is how the saying goes.

Even if a bull charges a wall, its horns will break.

- How is Mr. Gonbei doing? - He’s at home.

Isn’t he in detention?

I guess he was placed on house arrest.

He stabbed me with scissors. It was me who got hurt.

Why should the victim be forced to suffer in silence?

What kind of law is that?

I won’t accept defeat!

The defendant's mother, Ryu, on July 3rd,

in a room at the Kamo River Restaurant in Shimogamo,

asked the defendant to no longer associate

with the hostess, Kimiko Ishikawa.

And as compensation for that, she claims she gave you 100.000 yen.

Is that true?

That is not the truth.

Are you certain of that?

- Yes, I am. - She's lying!

I definitely gave her the money.

Comments from the audience are not allowed.

You and your eldest daughter, Kimiko Ishikawa, received around 500.000 yen

from the defendant on several occasions.

- Is that true? - No.

We haven’t received a single penny.

Your Honor, may I ask the witness a question?

Go ahead.

Surely, you know that you received 100.000 yen at the Kamo River Restaurant, correct?

Do you have any evidence?

You weren’t even there. Stop acting so high and mighty.

Just answer the question you’re asked.

Well, at that time,

the defendant's mother asked you to write a receipt, right?

But you said you couldn’t write it because you didn’t know how to.

Nowadays, who doesn’t know how to write?

It’s clear that, from the beginning,

there was a malicious intent to deceive with a cunning plan.

Before being stabbed with the scissors,

the witness insulted the defendant, calling him a fool, right?

I did not.

The defendant said you did.

I did not.

It’s all my fault! Please, punish me severely!

Gonbei, pull yourself together!

You divorced Mr. Zenzo Ishikawa on June 25th of this year, didn’t you?

Yes, I did.

- Your Honor... - Please.

Mr. Zenzo Ishikawa is receiving welfare benefits.

If the family had an income earner, welfare would be discontinued.

So, I think the divorce was just a formality.

That has no relevance to this case.

She's that kind of deceitful woman!

Mother! You're not allowed to speak from the audience!

We didn’t get divorced for the sake of welfare benefits.

It was due to irreconcilable differences.

Okay, I understand.

When you're struggling in life, it can lead to irreconcilable differences.

On June 15th, did you go to Daimonji Hotel with the defendant?

Did you stay in the same room?

No, I did not.

Are you certain you didn’t?

- I didn’t. - Kimiko!

- You did stay the night! - Hey, hey...

I did not stay.

The hotel bellboy's testimony says you did stay.

No, I didn't.

Giving false testimony is a crime.

But I'm telling the truth.

You are terrible people.

You took the 100.000 yen, and she definitely stayed at the hotel, right?

Show me the evidence.

If there’s no evidence, it’s the same as it not happening.

- You're something else. - What do you mean by that?

- You must have saved up quite a bit, huh? - You think so?

You can go to the bank, or the post office, and investigate.

There is not a penny there.

Your methods are despicable.

Even in a courtroom, you shamelessly spew lies without a second thought.

Don’t you feel ashamed as human beings?

Even if you win the case,

you won’t be able to work in this town anymore. You know that, right?

And who are you?

We are Gonbei's friends. You have a problem with that?

Gonbei sure has some interesting friends.

Hey, watch your mouth when you speak. Or else, I...

Are you here to threaten us?

No, we’re not threatening you...

We're the lowest of the low. We have nothing left to lose.

No matter who comes, there’s nothing we’re afraid of.

The defendant, Gonbei Oyamada, is sentenced to 3 months of imprisonment,

with a one-year suspension of execution.

She talked big about tradition and family prestige,

but, now that her son’s a convict, her prestigious family name is ruined.

Gonbei had such a sad look on his face, crying.

Of course, after stabbing someone with scissors, how could he smile?

We won, anyway. Let’s grab a beer.

One more.

We can't work here anymore.

Idiot! Who said that?

If someone stops you from working, just report them to the police.

We've already been told to leave this room.

We'll just leave this sauna of a place, then.

If we don't have a place to sleep, we can always crawl under a temple’s veranda.

Teacher...

- Actually... - Did something happen?

Something troubling has come up.

You damn bastard!

Listen... you...

Damn it!

Hey!

Honey...

No, you're not my honey anymore since we divorced.

Zenzo, what on earth happened?

I’m sorry. I’ve caused you trouble.

You’re too old to be doing such things.

I didn’t do anything. It’s the truth.

But both Machida and Yoshikawa said you were involved.

They're just trying to shift the blame.

You two, we're talking here. Go for a walk!

Kumagai said,

"In this case, we’ll have her give birth, test the blood, and find the culprit."

Do whatever you want. Go ahead and investigate.

Everyone at school already knows about this incident.

It's also bad for Yoshio, who's aiming to go to high school.

How did you figure out it was Zenzo and the others?

Yes, tell us.

Here in this building, the only three men without wives are these three.

So, we narrowed it down to them.

And all three confessed to being involved.

- Did you confess? - Well, they forced it out of me.

They threatened me, brought in some gangsters.

Regardless of their threats, just insist you're innocent.

That's right, if you are being intimidated, you can simply file a police report.

If you're innocent, you should stand up for your child and prove it.

Kimiko, go call Machida and Yoshikawa right now.

- Machida. - What?

Did you have a relationship with her or not?

- Yoshikawa. - Yes...

What about you?

Zenzo, are you going to stay silent, too?

People saw the three of you enter the shed with Kumagai's daughter multiple times.

I’m not a judge or a police officer, so just tell the truth.

Speak the truth.

So, you admit to the fact?

What a thing!

Can true education happen in an environment like this?

Morality has finally fallen into decline.

This is a scrap heap for humanity!

Oh, you’ve come back.

I had the teacher call you because we need your help to resolve this.

Legally, you’re a stranger to Zenzo, since you’re divorced now.

But I think you're morally obligated to him despite of that.

That's why I'm talking to you.

These three here have assaulted my daughter, and they’ve made her pregnant.

I've confirmed this with the town doctor, and I just found out about it now.

Do you know how much I’m suffering as her parent?

The thing is,

I just asked these three if they were involved,

and they denied all the accusations categorically.

That’s ridiculous!

These three confessed in front of me and apologized on their knees.

Is that true?

No, I don't remember that.

You don't remember? How come you don't remember?

Have you forgotten that you were crying and apologizing in front of me?

You’re not going to say you don't remember, right?

I don’t! I don't remember!

Yoshikawa, you wouldn’t say such a thing!

But you said, "If you confess, you won’t have to leave the tenements".

So, I made a false confession.

What kind of people are you? You definitely said it in front of me.

We even drank three bottles of beer then.

Mr. Kumagai.

You have always been prejudiced against these people.

But what if your daughter is the one who tempted them?

After all, the truth about relationships can't be seen from the outside.

How ridiculous! How dare you make such baseless accusations?!

You claim that she became pregnant as a result of violence.

Isn't it more likely that it was consensual?

Even if it was consensual, she is pregnant. The town doctor just told me that!

Mr. Kumagai.

Aren't you using this incident as an excuse to kick us out of the tenements?

Are you really saying I'm exploiting my daughter's misfortune?

I’m not necessarily saying it, but isn’t that how it looks?

You damn whore!

If you resort to violence, you’ll be the loser.

We won’t leave this place.

Even if this place is a dump, we’ll stay here until we die.

This land is soaked with our blood and sweat.

We will bury our bones here.

Our children will also bury their bones here.

No matter how many chickens you raise or how much you feather this place,

we're not leaving here!

If you want to charge these people with assault, go ahead.

If there’s a crime, they'll go to prison or wherever.

But, no matter what happens, we will never leave from here.

Are you going to Kyoto again?

I don't know if it's Kyoto or Osaka, but I'm going.

- I wish I could go with you. - Don't talk nonsense!

No matter what happens, we’re staying here to the end.

Zenzo.

Are you leaving already?

We need to take the 7 o'clock bus to catch the train.

Yoshio, make sure to study hard. You're our hope.

- When will you be back next time? - I don't know. Just study hard.

Will I be able to enter university?

Of course! You'll go to university and get away from these waste heaps.

Kimiko.

We no longer need gods or Buddha.

- We're leaving now. - Yes.

- See you soon, dad. - Yes.

I got a ticket to Osaka, but maybe we should head to Kyoto instead.

I don’t want them to feel they succeeded in driving us away.

Right, we never run away.

- We have nothing to fear. - Exactly.

I wonder what Gonbei is doing?

You had a crush on Gonbei, didn't you?

Don't be silly!

Before you can fall in love, you need to eat.

- Food comes first. - Food and cash!

THE END Subtitles by: kagetsuhisoka