Original subtitles

This is an emergency broadcast! This is an emergency broadcast!

The gigantic creature,

which appeared in Tokyo Bay at 2:30 this afternoon...

Roku, hurry!

Ippei, quickly!

Are you OK? Let's go!

Suzuki Auto

Tomoe!

Ippei! Roku!

Daddy!

Thank god you're safe!

Suzuki Auto

Damn you!

You stomped all over my Suzuki Auto shop!

"When his monstrous dorsal fin shimmered a pale white color,

"it released even more destructive beams of light..."

You're just ripping off Godzilla...

The hell. Don't sneak up on me.

You think it's a rip-off?

Yes.

I'm hopeless.

Please!

Sure.

How much is this?

Always Zoku San-Chome no Yuhi (Always Sunset on Third Street 2)

Tokyo 1959

I'm home.

Welcome home.

Hey, Roku, do we fix bicycles now?

This is a motorcycle...

I'm home, Dad.

I'm home, I'm off!

Ippei!

Help me clean. Our Seijo relatives are coming tomorrow.

No back talk.

Is that girl coming, too?

You mean Mika? Of course. Your uncle's dropping her off.

What do you mean!

Oops, didn't I tell you?

Your uncle's going to work on a dam so she'll live with us.

What? I don't like her.

She thinks she's so rich, she's just full of herself.

Don't talk like that. She's your second cousin, be nice.

What are you sulking for?

Here, take this. Get in a better mood.

Hey, can you take us to Tokyo Tower when Uncle visits?

Well, your uncle lost his business...

I mean, now's hardly the time.

We'll see the Tower someday.

You keep saying, "Someday, someday," but when?

Hey, Granny!

What?

Shut my kid up. He keeps bugging me about Tokyo Tower.

What's the rush? It's not going anywhere.

What if Godzilla wrecks it?

What's the point climbing up there?

Standing in line is for hicks.

You're scared.

What?

You're scared to go up there...

You're scared?

No way I'm scared!

You want to go so bad, spend your own money.

I can? If I save enough money I can go alone?

Sure, it's up to you. All you have to do is walk there.

Great! You said I could go.

- Hello. - Hello.

Say hello.

A notice from your War Buddies Group.

Don't read my stuff!

Chagawa-san!

Here is this month's edition of "Boys' Adventure Tales".

Thanks!

And a special delivery for you.

Mister, look!

Kawabuchi Yasunari

He's coming tomorrow?

This time, he means business...

You're pathetic.

Just kick him out like you mean it!

That's right!

You think I can pull that off?

It's hard to find a man as lacking in force and

commanding presence as you.

Look who's talking!

Force, huh?

Force...

I guess he's right.

What?

What?

At the stoplight, he jumped out of the car, crying.

After all, I do have a heart...

At the time, I wanted to honor his wishes.

But since then, I've really thought it over.

Whether it's in his best interests to live here...

I'll get some tea...

I understand his grades are the top of his class.

His writings have gotten awards.

- That tea... - No thanks.

Listen, Chagawa-san.

Gifted children deserve an appropriate education.

This is our duty as adults Can you provide that?

Ready?

He's in a pinch.

Ready for that knock out!

Tell me, do I look like a lawyer?

Sure, you look like a great lawyer!

No matter what, don't you say you're a lawyer.

They'll arrest you for fraud.

Dear, you have to promise to stay calm.

What's this?

That hurt, Granny!

Excuse me. May I?

Who are you?

Legally speaking,

the question here is, who has custody of Junnosuke...

The answer is, Kazuko-san, his mother, has custody.

And her custody has been...

Are you a lawyer?

You mean, me? I am...

In other words, Kazuko has put...

Are you a lawyer?

He owns the local auto repair shop...

What is this scam!

Outsiders! Butt out!

Go fix the wrecks in your car shop...

Wrecks?

What the hell!

Let me hear you say that again!

Suzuki Auto is an automobile company I'll build a big building soon!

Let's not be petty.

There are fifty 10,000 Yen notes here. Please take them.

How can you... I...

You're a full-grown man. It's time to come to terms.

Come with me.

How dare you!

Is that not enough?

Chagawa-san, there's a price for everything...

It's not about the money.

There's something more precious in this world!

I'm never handing Junnosuke to you!

Now, come!

I refuse to go! I absolutely refuse!

Stop being unreasonable!

If you stay here, someday, you'll live to regret it

No, I won't! I want to stay here!

Well said, Junnosuke!

He's right! Go home, go home!

Go home! Go home!

I see... I'm cast as quite the villain.

Promise me something...

At least provide a normal life for Junnosuke.

I promise you.

I'll provide a proper, normal life for him.

I see big changes ahead for our country.

But I don't see how they can happen...

with what you call "More precious than money".

If I become convinced that this boy isn't leading a decent life,

then, I swear I'll take him home with me.

Idiot! Come back like never!

You come back, I'll tear your car apart!

Calling my cars wrecks! I'll make a wreck out of you!

Throw some salt after him!

That's enough.

Oh, my. Hello.

Why hello. It's been a while...

So, how's your business?

I sold all my personal assets and managed to avoid bankruptcy.

I'm just an upstart bumpkin, but I'll manage.

But I feel bad for her...

Tomoe-san...

She lost her mother so early,

I've haven't taught her proper manners.

I hope you'll look after her.

Mika, think of me as your mother and tell me anything...

I'll think of you as my own...

Mika!

I'm sorry, you see how she is.

I leave her in your hands, Norifumi, Tomoe...

We'll take care of her.

See you.

Come in...

Ippei, help carry Mika's bags upstairs.

Boys are supposed to be nice to girls...

Who cares.

Ippei,

having to move in with another family...

is really hard at first.

We haven't had Sukiyaki in a while.

Like millionaires, Mika came so I splurged.

Mika, let's watch TV...

They're showing "Rin Tin Tin".

You don't have to worry...

Your father will come back soon.

That's right, eat up.

Mighty tasty!

This isn't Sukiyaki!

Sukiyaki's made with beef! This is pork!

Sometimes it's nice to have pork...

And what is that?

The TV in my house was three times as big.

Your rooms are tiny...

And why do you eat with the maid?

Roku is not our maid!

You don't have a piano, the house stinks of grease.

I hate it here!

I want to go to my real house!

How dare you talk like that. We're taking care of you.

It's your dad's fault for losing his business.

Ippei!

It's her fault!

Apologize!

I'm so very sorry.

Ippei!

Go apologize...

I already did.

I mean a real apology...

Oh, OK...

Hey, what's "A business?"

How's it different from "He means business?"

You have 24 colors?

Don't touch it!

Show me!

Inside, they're all used.

He's going to buy me new ones.

Impossible! He screwed up his business.

Don't be mad.

Did you make up?

Are you hungry?

Here...

I made this myself...

It's just a musubi,

but it's a feast when you're hungry...

Well, I'm going to sleep...

Eat it when you want.

Good night...

That's it for today...

You two married?

You're crazy!

But you live together. And you guys have the same last name.

We're second cousins...

The truth is, you're married.

You got married, right?

Married! Married!

That's enough! Back to your seats.

Junnosuke, you can eat with the rest of the class.

But...

Don't worry about lunch money.

I eat my fill at breakfast and dinner.

The fabulous nude revue...

The gorgeous nude show...

Step right up for the legendary Golden Theatre...

You were great, Betty.

Thanks.

Nice job.

Nice job.

What's that?

You do that, sometimes...

It's just a little spell...

A spell?

A spell to find happiness...

I know what it is. I heard!

What, what! Tell me...

Wow! Marry!

A novelist? Amazing!

So when you pay off your debts, you can live with him. Lucky you!

I wonder...

Sure you will.

Lovely story.

You're so naive...

You think you're the Empress?

Once you sink this low in life,

that kind of happiness is out of reach.

What's the harm in dreaming?

That's right, we can marry whoever we choose now.

Hey, come on out!

I've got Yakitori...

Your favorite...

Oh dear...

I'm afraid I made a spectacle of myself...

Any sign of a raccoon?

No luck so far.

I'm hoping it'll trick me again,

so I can see my daughter and wife...

If I run into a raccoon, I'll tell him to show up.

Please do so.

I'm off.

Hey, hey. I wasn't calling for you.

What's this?

Who's puppy are you?

Mika! Don't be so unreasonable.

Is she refusing to go again?

That's right.

I refuse to take a bath with total strangers.

Why doesn't this house have a bath?

Mika! Are you never going to bathe again?

It feels good to bathe at the bath house.

Besides, you stink of sweat.

Stink! Stink!

Ippei!

But, it's true...

Pine Bath House

Women take so long to bathe...

What do you know?

Hand it here.

Here we are...

What?

Bet you washed off a lot of dirt.

I hate people like you with no delicacy.

Go ahead, hate me!

That's enough, you two.

Who do you take after...

Hey, Junnosuke, drop that postcard in the mailbox.

You're not going to your class reunion?

No...

Why not?

They'll just make fun of me.

Why would they make fun of you?

You know why...

You're an amazing writer...

They won't make fun of you.

That'd be nice...

You almost won the Akutagawa Literary Prize, right?

You're right.

You should attend your class reunion.

You think?

Watch, OK?

You put it between the rollers to squeeze the water out...

When you've finished with the whole load, hang them...

I have to do that?

I said, I'll treat you as a family member.

Do it while the sun's still high.

You still wash with a board?

This is nothing...

You always do the wash?

When Mister's busy, I cook, too.

You cook?

Your change...

Thank you.

Moving in with him?

You look married.

Ridiculous.

Hey, Jun. Do you know what delicacy is?

Delicacy?

You don't know either?

I have to get some delicacy.

Maybe it's some kind of American candy.

Hope it's not expensive...

Oh, well.

What do you want?

Nothing...

Hey, are you Roku's friend?

Roku? You mean Mutsuko?

I knew it! Roku! You've got company!

No, don't call her!

What is it?

Oh, it's you, Takeo.

Hey, hey...

I just passed by on an errand.

I have to go. See you.

What was that?

You know him?

He's from my village. We came to Tokyo together...

He was captain of the baseball team, so swell.

Is he your boyfriend?

Oh, no. We're just childhood friends...

He's apprenticing at a restaurant.

He says he'll become the best cook in Japan.

He didn't exactly look like a cook...

All done?

Thank you. You can go play, now.

Time for a little hand cream...

I'll take two.

Two popsicles?

That's 10 Yen.

Thank you.

"we are...

"Martians..."

Ippei!

I'm going to catch cicadas!

Come home in time for supper.

OK.

You still can't make up your mind? It's hardly like you.

You already said you'd attend.

I know but...

What are you so worried about?

I'm scared.

To find out how many men from my troop survived.

They got mowed down by those American guns...

Why don't you go find out?

You've always wondered.

Yeah...

Maybe you'll find out something.

It's better than not knowing.

Yeah...

Is that Ushijima-san?

We were buddies, from the same town.

He had a wife and a newborn He was so proud...

Always said,

"A family is a wonderful thing" Like that.

What's Mika up to?

Suspicious.

What are you doing?

Hey, don't!

Cute...

Hey, cut it out. He's scared.

What's it name?

Taro...

You know, Taro.

You could keep it at your house, Ippei.

No way. My dad hates dogs.

Why?

Dad got bit by a stray when he was a kid.

Oh, no! The Devil!

The devil?

When he finds little kids he gives them huge shots.

So he's the Devil.

Oh, no!

What's he doing here?

He came to do the Yakitori dance.

The Yakitori dance?

Sometimes he comes here and dances around,

saying "I've got Yakitori".

What's that?

It's a demon ritual. He's calling his buddies.

Imperial Army Southern Brigade 7th Company Reunion

Suzuki-san.

Ushijima?

Yes.

Ushijima! Man, you're alive...

I'd feared the...

Let's go and get a drink. Everyone's inside.

Excuse me. Where are you going?

The class reunion for Tokyo University.

Excuse me, but may I see your invitation?

Maeda.

Hey, Takahashi.

Still writing that novel?

Surely you jest. I'm not like him.

- Chagawa? - Yeah.

I heard he was a finalist for that Akutagawa Prize.

Don't be foolish. He just qualified for the preliminaries.

If you're published in a literary journal anybody qualifies.

I never realized that. He bragged to me about it.

Let him. It's all he's got to brag about.

I'm home...

Good evening.

I'm Yamamura, Junnosuke's teacher.

Oh, I see.

May I have a moment?

I came tonight with a request.

It's about... his lunch money.

Can't you manage to pay for his school lunches?

He's so serious he thinks he can't eat if he can't pay...

Just wait a minute!

What are you talking about?

The thing is, Ushijima!

I really agonized about whether to go tonight or not.

But Tomoe,

Tomoe insisted I go, so I had no choice but to go.

That's what you've been telling me.

I have?

And you see,

I just couldn't make up my mind.

But Tomoe...

You should be grateful to Tomoe-san.

Exactly!

You know, Ushijima. I'm so happy.

I wanted to show her to you. I wanted you to see her.

Drink, drink up.

I'm happy, too. You seem so happy.

What's wrong?

You think...

It's OK,

to be happy?

Every time I think about the guys that died,

I feel so guilty...

Like tonight, when I saw the faces of the guys that made it.

I couldn't help but think of the guys that didn't...

It's all right...

Those of us who survived should be as happy as possible.

To make up for the guys that died.

Today's a great day! A fantastic day!

Stay over, OK?

Now, eat this.

Father's completely smashed.

But he wants more beer.

But he seems awfully happy.

He dragged his feet, but I'm so glad he went.

A firefly...

You have fireflies in Tokyo?

I never saw one here before.

How unusual...

Please, take care of it.

Sit down.

What's going on? Explain it to me.

I give you money for school lunches.

What'd you spend it on?

How can I know if you won't talk!

If word gets around that you can't pay for lunch,

you won't be able to live here.

Don't you know that?

What'd you spend it on? Tell me.

When the rice man came to collect his bill...

I paid him with it.

The rice bill?

I told you to pay the rice bill...

with the money in the cabinet.

It wasn't enough...

The price went up again...

When?

Three months ago...

So you went without lunch to pay for it?

I'm sorry.

That's not for you to worry about!

It's not your job to worry about that.

You dummy!

Where's Ushijima? Did he go home?

Who's that?

Ushijima. I brought him home last night...

What are you mumbling about? You were alone last night.

You were in a super mood.

You kept talking to yourself.

Did something good happen?

The fabulous nude star revue

How about you, sir?

How about you?

Missed her again today?

Don't just wait. Ask her out.

It's not so easy.

I'll take a pack.

We went...

Where?

Golden Theater.

How was it?

There's no doubt...

Betty Asaoka is Hiromi.

The rumor's true?

What to do?

You should tell him...

The shock might kill him.

Behind...

Behind you.

Let's go, Mister.

You should go to her, right away.

That's right.

Of course I want to go.

But she disappeared without a word.

So she doesn't want to be found.

You love her!

She may not want my love.

Just go meet her and find out how she feels.

If you don't go now, you may never see her again.

But in the state I'm in...

Oh, man.

He's so complicated.

In these situations, the educated always suffer more.

I'm so glad I'm not educated.

- Right? - Right?

Get it together.

Ohashi-san. What did you want to discuss?

You know very well, Betty.

We talked about it the last time.

I can't take this.

It's about time for a good answer.

I'll never treat you like you're my second wife.

You're too good to be dancing at a place like this.

You're right... Maybe that's what I should do.

See, you agree with me.

We're set then.

What's the big rush, Ohashi-san?.

Not again. That's what you always say.

I can't take it.

All right.

That's enough for today.

Come again.

You know I will.

Take care.

See you.

Who was that?

You sure get around.

He's just a customer.

Yeah, but didn't he say something about "Second wife?"

Oh my, sounds good to me. What'll you do?

Oh, he's not serious.

Didn't look like that to me. Did it?

Enough...

Chagawa-san.

Mr. President.

Sorry to drag you here.

I've got to fly to San Francisco on business.

But there's something I had to say to you first.

I heard, Chagawa.

A 10 year-old goes without lunch, worried about your money.

Isn't that pathetic?

I hope my warning is finally sinking in.

Welcome to reality.

Sure, I know he respects you.

For now, he's having fun.

But what about 5 or 10 years from now?

If he's got the talent, he'll want to get an education.

I can afford to put Junnosuke through high school.

or even a university.

Can you provide that for him?

What do you say, Chagawa.

If you genuinely care for the boy,

isn't it time to let him go?

What do you say? Can you make a decision?

Please give me one more chance.

I'll find a way to prove that I can provide for him.

How?

Sir, it's time.

Promise me.

If you can't prove it, then...

All right?

I'm home!

Mister.

Mister, what's wrong?

I'm drunk.

Authentic Blue

Closed for the Time Being

What is it?

I'm writing a new story...

I'm going for the Akutagawa Prize again.

This time I'll win...

Mister, you're amazing!

You're distracting. Go play somewhere.

Sure, OK.

What is it, Jun?

It's incredible!

Mister's going for the Akutagawa Prize.

This time, he'll win.

But I distract him so I left the house...

Come stay with us for a while.

And I'll cook his meals for him.

This is a make or break gamble for him, right? I want to help!

Thank you!

Thank you.

I'll deliver your meal later.

Is that good?

Delicious!

Thanks.

From Ohashi again?

He sends them all the time.

Isn't it about time you give in to him?

Not her, she's still carrying a torch for that novelist, right?

Oh, not really.

You're so lucky to have a writer for a boyfriend.

It's so cultured!

You really think some fancy novelist is going...

to come and swoop you in his arms?

Don't waste your time dreaming...

Be realistic...

He doesn't want the likes of us hanging around him.

It fits perfectly!

Look at you, all dressed up.

Thank you so much.

Time for a little lipstick.

Lipstick?

No lipstick yet.

Don't be foolish. You need to look your very best.

Look, it's the latest color.

You look really pretty.

You really do.

Where's your date?

Stop teasing.

Don't you like it?

For me, too?

Change into it, OK?

You all be careful, now.

We'll be back for supper.

Ippei, you listen to your mother.

Yeah, yeah.

One "yeah" is enough.

You sure you won't come along?

Yes, I'm worried about Mister.

His deadline's tomorrow.

I see...

We're off, then. Please look after Jun.

You're going to the Ginza. We're headed that way, too.

A date, a date, a date!

Cut it out, Ippei...

Where are you going?

A date?

A date? With who?

That's what I'm asking you!

No idea.

But under those coveralls, she's got a real nice figure.

No wonder.

What should I do?

You just waited around.

Shut up you old bag!

I say girls like presents best!

A present?

I can't afford anything too expensive.

As long as it's from your heart, you can give her anything.

Can you give me a good idea?

Let's see...

My dead husband gave me...

Mutsuko!

How were you?

Fine, fine!

You've gotten all citified.

You look so pretty yourself!

Your dress is the latest fashion.

My boss's wife made it for me.

Lucky you!

It looks really good on you

Yujiro Double Bill

If you're waiting for the next movie, get in line...

Form a straight line...

Ticket-holders over here...

Wasn't he swell?

He was so swell.

No, for a star like that you say "He's so cool"

Yeah, he's so cool.

Speaking of which, did you hear about Takeo?

What happened to Takeo?

He got kicked out of his cook apprenticeship.

But why?

They made fun of his accent so he had a huge fight and walked out.

They say he's with a bad crowd, now

Are you OK?

This place brings back memories...

A long time ago, I used to meet someone here.

But I never heard from him after he went off to war.

Huh...

Did you know? There's going to be a road over this.

You're lying...

It's true, Dad told me.

It'll be called "An expressway".

I bet cars will race

through the sky in transparent tubes...

Like the 21st century.

Everything keeps changing.

It's you, Tomoe.

Why?

I work at a nearby department store.

But Nobuo-san...

I was in imprisoned in Siberia for a long time after the war.

I finally...

was released five years ago.

I see...

Who is he?

Let's go over there. I saw some fish...

Where?

Your children?

Just the one up to no good.

You got married.

Of course you did.

And you?

Two years ago... She's pregnant.

I see.

Do you remember what we promised here?

Of course I do.

If only the war hadn't happened, we'd have...

There's no point saying it...

This city keeps changing, too.

Mom!

I'm hungry!

OK!

I have to go...

I'm so glad I saw you.

Me, too.

I'm so happy you're well.

- We're home. - Welcome.

We got you a treat. Let's eat it.

We're home.

Welcome.

You too, Mika.

So, you're home...

Here, Mika.

Thank you.

Jun, it's time for bed.

Yeah.

You're worried?

Yes.

Your worrying won't help him.

Time for kids to go to bed.

I'm sure everything will all work out tomorrow.

Right?

Tomoe, Tomoe.

Tomoe, hurry up.

What is it?

What is this?

I found something great.

I wanted to watch it with you so I borrowed it from Shibasaki.

Shibasaki?

He was a military cameraman during the war.

I borrowed his camera and filmed you when Ippei was born.

Oh, yes, yes... I do remember that.

Room #5 Suzuki Tomoe

So tiny...

Chagawa Ryunosuke

Did you finish writing?

Yeah, somehow.

Thanks for everything.

Looking after Junnosuke, feeding me.

It's my wife you should thank.

I see, sure.

If the magazine publishes my story, will you read it?

Are you nuts? I can't read sentimental stuff like literature.

I know, next time write some samurai action stuff.

So, what do you think?

Do you have a shot at the prize?

I don't know.

I also have a feeling...

I may have written my worst story ever.

You're hopeless.

But if you do win,

you can hold your head high and go claim her.

You're right.

What's all this commotion?

No Luck.

No Luck.

Chagawa-san...

Yes?

What is it?

What do you think are your chances?

How do you think it'll turn out?

What? What on earth is all this fuss about?

You don't know?

What's going on?

Please pardon us.

Chagawa-san, your writing. It's a finalist for the Akutagawa.

The Akutagawa Prize!

Thank you, thank you!

Good morning.

I saw it, congratulations.

What are you talking about?

Your sweetie. The writer, Chagawa...

He's an Akutagawa Prize finalist!

Didn't you know? It's in this month's "Authentic Blue".

Go see for yourself.

Read the Akutagawa candidate!

Don't waste your time dreaming.

Be realistic.

He doesn't want the likes of us hanging around him.

Excuse me.

Takeo.

What's that?

Open it.

That's what girls like, right?

I'll give you that, so...

Let's go...

Out on a date.

How'd you get this?

How'd I get it? I saved my wages and bought it

I heard you quit your job.

That was a long time ago...

I found a new job.

You sure?

Yeah, I'm sure.

I found a place that took me in.

I've changed my attitude and I'm working hard.

Really?

I see.

Takeo, we have a neighbor who's a novelist.

He never gave up on his dreams.

and now he's an Akutagawa finalist.

The Akutagawa?

That's right. All the newspaper reporters came.

That's when I thought, "If you work hard

"all your life, good things are bound to happen".

The Akutagawa Prize...

So, Takeo,

if you work hard and don't give up,

I'm sure you can be the best cook in Japan.

So this time, don't get in any fights

Just work really hard.

Stop lecturing me like my mom.

Idiot, I was really worried about you.

Hey, idiot, cut it out.

That hurts.

Can you believe he really became an Akutagawa finalist?

Sheer luck.

It's still amazing. What's the cash prize?

It's 100,000 Yen.

What! For real? I better suck up to him, just in case.

He'll never win.

Did you read it, Maru?

No, I haven't.

No fair.

And you, Yoshida?

Me? Of course I haven't read it, you idiot.

We're talking real literature here.

- Right. - Right.

I think he can win...

The Akutagawa...

He has to win...

In a perfect world...

Yes. Who's there?

It's me, Suzuki Auto. Is Literature in?

What's the fuss?

Hurry! Hurry!

You're a member of the Akutagawa Prize Committee?

No, this is bad, I can't do this.

Hey, hey, please.

Don't back out now.

But...

Listen up, Literature.

Apparently your piece has a real shot at the prize.

Really!

Not just a real shot, it's almost a done deal.

It's just...

It's just... Tell him

Your piece is the best writing,

but how do I say it?

In reality, that is sometimes...

Not quite enough...

In a perfect world,

it would be truly unforgivable!

However...

I read your work and wept...

To discover...

an unknown writer, capable of crafting such an exquisite story.

If this work can't take the prize,

what is wrong with the Japanese literary establishment...

In other words, you need two wheels.

to win the prize That's what he says.

Talent and persuasion...

That's what makes the literary prize world go round.

Oh, I see. I understand your point.

Oh, he gets it!

But winning a prize like that...

Idiot! Stop being so naive!

Welcome to the real world.

It's not about breaking any rules.

It's just that some money may be necessary to persuade them.

We all own our businesses.

We know a million times more than you about how the world works.

Listen, Literature...

What this man says is right...

Don't lose the prize over this...

Once you win, the world's yours! They'll be begging you to write.

But...

With the prize, the three of you can live together!

He'll get it ready.

Here it is.

This is...

All the money I have in this world

- Not enough? - No good?

Move!

What do you say!

10,000 Yen!

Suzuki Auto...

It's not a gift, it's a loan. Pay it back with interest.

Me, me too!

Roku...

Roku...

Sure. All this is plenty, right?

This is all I happen to have on me.

Don't be cheap.

Write me an I.O.U. Later, OK?

Yeah.

I owe you guys, everyone.

How pathetic.

You're a man. Gamble on your talent!

Shut up you old bag!

You're too old.

Don't mind her.

So, what do you say, Matsushita-san?

I, too, serve at the pleasure of the literary muse.

And your behavior has warmed my heart.

Allow me to put myself at the service of our literary future.

Chagawa-san, rest your fears.

Now, there's no question,

the Akutagawa Prize is yours.

Great!

Bet you have enough to go up Tokyo Tower.

Who asked you? I don't have enough.

Why? Kids are only 50 Yen.

Excuse me.

There's a rabies outbreak...

Oh, my, rabies.

It's extremely dangerous,

so please be wary of stray dogs and call this number if you see one.

I understand, thank you.

OK, then.

What'll happen to Taro?

Probably get a shot of poison and die.

It's the Devil! Hide!

Taro!

Ippei!

Ippei!

Devil!

Stop it!

So you were giving him a vaccination...

Rabies is terrible...

I got the vaccine from a veterinarian I know.

You sure jump to conclusions.

You started it!

You did...

You did...

What do you say?

If this puppy doesn't have a home, how about mine?

I promise to look after it.

You will?

Can we visit it?

Sure, whenever you like.

Lucky you, Taro.

Let's go visit Taro everyday.

I'm not sure about that...

Oh, here she is... Please wait.

Mika, Mika! Your father's on the phone!

I'm fine...

Yes, I understand.

What did he say?

He's coming to get me on Friday...

Oh, I see.

That's wonderful.

And then,

my father and I

are moving to Fukuoka.

What! Fukuoka?

My father's friend has a big company there.

He wants Dad to help him out.

My, that's so sudden.

Let's do it some other time.

No way!

But what am I supposed to say?

"Come back to my place!" That's enough.

But man...

Literature, they will announce the prize tomorrow.

Who do you want by your side in your happiest moment?

You're right!

Who are you?

Hiromi...

Where's Hiromi-san?

Hiromi? Oh, you mean, Betty?

Don't tell me, you're Chagawa, the novelist...

Hiromi...

What are you doing here? Did you come home?

I came to cook curry rice.

Where's Chagawa?

Suzuki Auto took him somewhere,

but I'm sure he'll be back soon.

I see...

You have to stay until he comes back, OK?

It seems like he's going to win the Akutagawa Prize.

He'll win?

Yes, that's what everybody said.

So, he'll win...

That's wonderful, really wonderful.

Betty

Please...

I'm sure it's a shock.

But I think that in this case,

you should take it like a man and give her up.

What's happened to Hiromi?

Oh, no, hadn't you heard?

Betty quit this place...

She's going to live with a rich man in Osaka.

How disappointing...

Call it what you want, it always comes down to money.

Hiromi...

I'm sorry, I have to go somewhere.

You can reheat the curry.

Please wait, just another minute.

I'll go ask at Ippei's house.

I'm home.

Where were you?

Hiromi came to visit.

Look, she made curry.

She waited for you,

but said she had to go somewhere.

But I'm sure she'll come again.

I'm sure,

she'll come back in a few days.

Then the three of us can live together.

Isn't that right?

Thank you

Have a cup of tea?

No thank you, I have to be home by 2PM.

The announcement...

Oh, the Akutagawa Prize...

I hope he wins.

Hey! Bye!

It's already decided, right?

Can't we go ahead and start? I'm so thirsty.

She's sure impatient for an old bag.

Just a word before our toast.

Once upon a time, Chagawa was ridiculed...

by certain heartless folks as a writers-blocked failure.

That's what you called him.

Go ahead and make a toast!

Shut up, you old bag!

OK everyone, let's toast!

Congratulations!

Excuse me, excuse me.

Please move.

This way, sir.

What do you want?

Thought I'd observe the outcome.

Chagawa, you haven't forgotten our promise.

Promise, what promise?

Of course, I do.

So, if I do win the Akutagawa Prize today,

you'll accept that I raise Junnosuke?

Of course...

The factory I was working in...

burned down in a fire,

my father and my mother died...

I have to raise my five younger brothers and sisters

I don't know what to do...

I feel so sorry for you.

So that's the story...

Then, instead of paying his wages, they gave him these fountain pens.

You poor thing.

Hey, these are Parker pens.

Amazing, these are pricey pens.

All right, I'll buy one for 1,500 Yen.

You will!

Then, I'll buy one, too.

Calm down!

Get the confetti balls ready! Answer, Tomoe!

Your hairstyle doesn't matter.

Hello?

Yes, this is Suzuki Auto...

Yes, please wait.

Yes, I'm Chagawa.

It's your northern accent. It makes them sympathize...

Here's your share.

So much?

A bonus for that bundle I made on that tip you gave me.

How did that job work out?

Easy as pie...

Let me know if you hear of any other tips.

Mutsuko!

How dare you!

Is this the job you said you found?

You think I want a present you bought with money...

you made doing this?

Do you have any idea how happy I was when you...

told me you'd found a new job?

And this is your job!

What's up?

Who's that girl?

Oh, I see...

Yes...

No, I understand...

Thank you very much.

But...

Somehow...

I didn't win.

Idiot!

What do you mean you didn't win?

Matsushita swore you'd win!

I'm Suzuki from Suzuki Auto!

Get Matsushita from the Committee on the phone...

The Akutagawa Prize Committee...

Enough of your crap!

What the hell?

There's a man named Matsushita on your committee...

There's no committee member by that name?

Hey, you're covering up for him!

Put him on! I know he's there.

We handed him money.

That's impossible...

That's impossible...

This is not good. Takeo, you handle it.

Takeo, what is this?

What is that kind of man doing in a place like this?

It was a con job...

That stuff about Chagawa-san. It was a con job.

How! How can you do something so horrible!

We were all rooting for Chagawa-san.

We were rooting for him!

We were rooting for him so hard!

Why?

We were all rooting...

When she told me...

about Chagawa-san,

I told my boss about it.

I had no idea he was struggling so hard.

I thought if he was a fancy writer, there'd be

no harm in cashing in a little on his luck...

I've,

done something I can never undo...

I'm really,

truly sorry.

Please report me to the cops.

How laughable...

Your life is truly a comedy.

You were trying to buy the prize with money.

How preposterous!

You fell for that pathetic con job because you're pathetic...

You don't deserve pity.

Besides, it's your writing that lost. The con had nothing to do with it.

You'll keep your promise.

Come, Junnosuke.

Mister?

Mister!

Betty...

A farewell gift. You've got a long train ride.

Authentic Blue

Now you'll be able to finally give up.

It was hopeless to begin with.

You have no talent.

Start over while you're young.

I can find you a job at one of my subsidiaries.

Have you read it?

Are you saying all that to him, having read his work?

I'm asking are you saying that having read it!

Take your hands off of him!

"Hopeless to begin with" "Finally give up"

How dare you judge whether he's got talent or not.

If you're going to say that, read it first.

and think about it!

I read it!

I cried! It's a great story, really great...

It doesn't matter whether he won that prize!

His talent...

Isn't so trivial that you can judge it without reading it.

Why, Honey, when did you buy yours?

You didn't tell me,

so I bought a copy, too.

Say...

So did I...

I would've loaned you mine.

I read it, too.

I'm no judge of fancy stuff but it was great.

I read it three times and cried every time...

For me...

It made my heart feel so warm.

It's truly a wonderful work.

He conveys emotion...

What do you say?

Why don't you try reading it?

That's right.

Read it right now!

"The Dancer" by Chagawa Ryunosuke

"No matter how others may see you,

"I know you...

"Though you talk like a shameless flirt,

"you dote on a stranger's child, cooking him curry rice.

"You shed tears staring

"at an imaginary ring, calling it beautiful.

"With each passing day,

"with each passing hour,

"the memory of your tears clutches my heart.

"I want to see you...

"All I want is to see you...

"Someday, I want to slip

"a real ring on your slender, fragile finger.

"I want to fulfill the promise

"of your fleeting smile with genuine happiness...

"If only we two clumsy souls

"could have nestled our lives together...

"If only I could have lived my life

"seeing your face, hearing your voice...

"My heart yearns

"for nothing else."

Your work reflects your self

In the end, the star-crossed lovers are united

It's just a dream....

Frankly, it's self-indulgence.

Reality isn't like that.

You're right.

Reality isn't like that...

Junnosuke, come please.

You listen to me now.

No...

Junnosuke...

We're going to live with Hiromi, right?

The three of us can't live together anymore...

But you promised.

Someday, we'd all live together.

She's gone to live far away...

That's not fair.

That's just not fair.

I'm sorry...

I'm so sorry, Junnosuke...

It's my fault.

And I have to...

It's not fair.

Not fair.

Junnosuke...

Junnosuke...

Listen...

You listen to me.

I can't...

I can't...

See you...

Hiromi...

Didn't you go to Osaka...

I tried to go...

And completely forget about you.

But,

I turned back halfway.

After reading this, I couldn't go anywhere else.

I know...

I know it's bad having someone like me around.

I know all that.

But...

Of course it's not bad!

But, you don't mind?

I... didn't end up winning that prize...

There's no guarantee, I'll ever make it as a writer.

What if I can't support you my whole life?

Is that OK?

I don't know,

if I can really make you happy.

But as a man,

I really want to make two of you...

That's enough.

I truly understand how you feel.

You won't go away again?

We're all going to be together.

We'll all live together.

Satake...

I'm going.

Yes sir.

You let him go...

It's fine...

Something more precious than money, huh...

Let's go.

Thank you for looking after her for so long.

Not at all.

It's a modest gift...

Thank you.

Thank you.

Roku!

Oh, wow!

You look like you've lost some weight.

The dam work must be tough.

It was tough.

How's Mika?

She'll be right here.

Thank you for your gift.

Thank you.

Thank you.

I'll dig right in.

I had despaired that I lost everything,

but it seems some good has come of it.

When do you go to Fukuoka?

We'll go to the station from here.

I see...

Sure will be lonely.

Who cares...

Thanks.

Thank you so much.

It's partly used but please take it with you.

Thank you,

Mother.

It's all right, I felt I was your mother, too.

Mika.

You have to give it to her...

Don't be embarrassed.

Mika! Ippei has something he wants to give you.

Can I open it?

Is this what you were saving your money for?

No way.

Thank you.

I'll treasure them.

Don't save them, use them.

Sure...

Take care of Taro, OK?

Good bye.

Ippei!

When I grow up,

I'll marry you, OK!

Look at you.

It feels like we've just had a big party.

Ippei, shall we go to the Tokyo Tower?

It's my treat.

Really?

It's your lucky day, Ippei.

You even have a future bride.

Shut up!

Why don't you two join us?

No, not me.

Why Dear, let's join them.

Daddy, don't run away.

Oh, all right.

Takeo.

Your haircut suits you. Like when you played baseball.

I'm going to start over as a cook's assistant.

I promise to repay the money my boss stole.

No matter how many years it takes.

Promise...

Then, will you date me?

I want to ride a boat on Lake Shinobazu.

Sure.

What'd you promise?

A secret.

Tell me.

Amazing...

Don't be scared.

Fool! Don't run, it'll shake!

Walk softly! Wait!

Hurry over here, sir!

Won't it tilt if we're all bunched together?

Another beautiful day...

It's beautiful...

Are you sad because Mika's gone?

Perk up, you'll see her soon.

Roku, the setting sun sure is beautiful, isn't it?

You're too young for that line. Wait 10 years.

The binoculars?

You can't row a boat like that. Give 'em here.

Hold on here, at the ends.

Push, row.

Just a little while longer, Taro.

What a beautiful sunset...

It's especially beautiful today.

I know why...

That's because...

We're all watching it together.

You're right.

I think you're right...

I think you may be right.

YOSHIOKA Hidetaka as CHAGAWA Ryunosuke

TSUTSUMI Shinichi as SUZUKI Norifumi

KO YUKI as ISHIZAKI Hiromi

HORIKITA Maki as HOSHINO Mutsuko

MOTAI Masako as OOTA Kin

MIURA Tomokazu as Dr. TAKUMA Shirou

YAKUSHIMARU Hiroko as SUZUKI Tomoe

Based on:-san-chome no Yuhi (Shogakukan Big Comic) by SAIGAN Ryohei

Screenplay: YAMAZAKI Takashi and KOSAWA Ryota

Music by: SATO Naoki

Theme Song: BUMP OF CHICKEN (Toy's Factory)

Executive Producers: ABE Shuji and OKUDA Seiji

Producers: ANDO Ohikahiro, YAMAGIWA Shinpei, TAKAHASHI Nozomu and KURATA Takaya

Co Producers: MORIYA Keiichiro, UEDA Ayao and KUBO Masakazu

Associate Producers: KOIDE Masaki, KAMIKURA Takashi and SAWABE Nobumasa

Cinematography: SHIBASAKI Kozo

Lighting: MIZUNO Kenichi

Sound Recording: TSURUMAKI Hitoshi

Production Designer: JOJO Anri

Props: TATSUTA Tetsuji

VFX Director: SHIBUYA Kiyoko

Editor: MIYAJIMA Ryuji

Sound Fx Design: SHIBASAKI Kenji

Production Companies: NTV / ROBOT / SHOGAKUKAN / VAP / TOMO / DENTSU / YTV / THE YOMIURI SHIMBUN / SHIROGUMI / IMAGICA

Planning & Production: ROBOT

Director and VFX: YAMAZAKI Takashi

(c)2007 "Always2" Film Partners