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A SHOCHIKU PRODUCTION

THE STORY OF
THE LAST CHRYSANTHEMUM

A KENJI MIZOGUCHI FILM

Produced by
SHINTARO SHIRAI

Based on the Novel by
SHOFU MURAMATSU

Screenplay by MATSUTARO
KAWAGUCHI and YOSHIKATA YODA

Production Design by
HIROSHI MIZUTANI

Photography by
SHIGETO MIKI and YOZO FUJI

Sound by
RYUICHI SHIKITA

Music by
SHIRO FUKAI

Lighting by
SUEJIRO NAKAJIMA

Starring

SHOTARO HANAYAGI

KOKICHI TAKADA
RYOTARO KAWANAMI

KINNOSUKE TAKAMATSU
JUNNOSUKE HAYAMA

TAMITARO ONOE, ICHIRO YUKI
KOMEI MINAMI, JIN'ICHI AMANO

HARUO INOUE
SUMAO ISHIHARA

SUBARU HIROTA
MINPEI TOMIMOTO, EIJIRO HOSE

NOBUKO FUSHIMI
KIKUKO HANAOKA

FUJIKO SHIRAKAWA
YONEKO MOGAMI

GONJURO KAWARAZAKI
KAKUKO MORI

YOSHIAKI HANAYAGI
BENKEI SHIGANOYA

TOKUSABURO ARASHI
YOKO UMEMURA

Directed by
KENJI MIZOGUCHI

What, Oiwa, not yet dead?

My rancor...

will not cease

until your entire line

is wiped out.

Vengeful ghost!
Away with you!

Go!

Go to your rest!

Please, sir!
Give me medicine!

If I push you down
into the river,

kites and crows
will consume your remains.

Then you can be free
of your karma and rest in peace!

Bravo! Long live Kikugoro V!
Bravo, Kikunosuke!

What was that?

What's gotten into Kikunosuke?

His popularity's
going to his head.

I smelled booze
on his breath.

You were to keep an eye
on his drinking.

And what was wrong with you?

Beside the bad acting,
you closed the curtain too soon.

Nothing went right!

Wonderful performance, sir.

They're all incompetent,
every last one of them.

Matsu...

Kikunosuke's hopeless.

If he can't even do
that role right ‒

Kikunosuke is still young.

Terashima...

he can't become
as good as you overnight.

Don't make excuses.

He'll have to do better
to become the next Kikugoro.

Call him in here.

- The young master?
- Call Kikunosuke in here!

Master...

people say that the birth
of your own son

has turned you
against your adopted son.

I beseech you not to be
so harsh on him.

Isn't this the 210th day
of the lunar calendar?

Yes, the "day of storms."

Kikunosuke's in
for another good scolding.

This isn't the first time
he's been a ham,

but today
he was a salted ham!

Thank you for coming.

Father, you wanted to see me?

Master, please.

How did I do?

Very well.
The master was quite pleased.

Isn't that right, Master?

Don't worry.

You're still young.
Apply yourself to your art.

Thank you, Father.

- Fuku!
- What is it, Kiku?

How was my acting today?

Well...

We're friends, aren't we?
Tell me the truth.

You were splendid.
A magnificent performance.

- Really?
- Of course.

I'm not so sure.

Let's go to Yanagibashi tonight
and have some fun.

I have a prior engagement.
Maybe next time.

Are you going
to the Teishin restaurant?

- Excuse me.
- I saw you there earlier.

Kikunosuke's leaving.

Good night.

Good night.

On the scales of karma,

your sins and mine
have a different weight.

This meeting was bound
to happen sooner or later.

Now one of us will see our sins
reflected in the mirrors of hell.

I have a dagger
hidden close to my chest.

Already strong,
with a knife I'm even stronger.

The time has come...

to shed some blood.

Thanks, Sachi.

Thank you very much.

Kikugoro never fails
to impress.

But what about his son,
Kikunosuke?

Talented fathers
rarely have talented sons.

Everyone fusses over him
and calls him "young master."

He only hears praise, never criticism.
That's just wrong.

What difference does it make?

He bears the name
Kikunosuke Onoe,

one of the most respected
in Kabuki.

No matter how bad his acting,

people will still flatter
and dote upon him.

Indeed. He's riding
on his father's coattails.

Well, what more
does he need?

What?

The young master's here?

Welcome, Young Master.

When did you arrive?

We had no idea
you were here.

Your performance tonight
was a great success.

Our guests were
just praising you.

Everyone says
you're very talented for your age.

I'm going home.

Why?

Eiryu is on her way here.

She's longing to see you.

Imagine her disappointment.
- Good evening.

Here she is now.

Eiryu, you're very late.

I'm sorry. I was in such a hurry
I couldn't even put on my makeup.

You've made
the young master angry.

I can't help you.

Pray to the god of courtship
to set things right.

Forgive me.

What's wrong?
Are you really angry?

Is being late so terrible?
Please cheer up.

You're annoying me.

What kind of greeting is that?

I guess it makes sense.

After all, I'm not one
of the more popular geishas.

You don't like me, do you?

I know all about it.

You're seeing
Omei and Ohan these days.

Please be quiet.

I will not.

Listen...

I told everybody
we'd be getting married.

If we don't,

the shame of it all
will force me to leave,

and not just leave Yanagibashi
but Tokyo altogether.

So I should stay with you

just so you can save face?

Good evening.

Eiryu...

I thought you said
you'd given him up.

You said so earlier.

Have you forgotten already?

A Yanagibashi geisha
lives by her word.

Or maybe the heat
has made you crack.

You know...
made you a little crazy.

I could say the same
about you.

You've certainly come
a long way to see us.

How dare
you barge in like this!

So terribly sorry.

Let me ask you this:

Why do I need
anybody's permission

to see my own sweetheart?

The young master and I
are quite close.

Eiryu...

you may be popular
around here...

but it's shameless of you
to go back on your word.

If you asked me nicely,

I'd gladly let you have him.

Really, I would.

What do I care?

But if you sneak
behind my back,

you'll make me look bad,
and I won't stand for that.

Keep that in mind.

If you think you can take him,
go ahead and try.

I'm not some kind of merchandise.
Get out.

I'm so sorry, Konaka.
How terribly unfortunate for you.

You're like Daizen Kitamura
in the play Kochiyama.

Young Master, shall we have
another drink elsewhere?

Shut up and get out!

Serves you right.

Welcome home,
Young Master.

Otoku,
why are you out this late?

- Kozo's in a fretful mood.
- He can't sleep in this heat.

Let me off here.

You may go.

Good night, sir.

Kozo's quite temperamental.
Nursing him must be difficult.

No, he's actually
very well-behaved.

His stomach's upset.

He only fidgets
if I don't breastfeed him enough.

I see.
But he's usually quite healthy.

Is Father asleep?

He's still awake,
practicing his lines.

I'll be in trouble
if he sees me.

What time is it?

Already 2:00 a.m.

He'll go to bed soon.
I'll wait out here until then.

I'd like a wind chime, please.

- Which would you like?
- One with a pleasant sound.

That one.

Thank you very much.

- Here you are.
- Thank you.

Thank you.

Doesn't it sound nice, Kozo?

This will make you feel better.

Young Master,
I saw you perform today.

Is that so?

I took Kozo to my family's home
in Iriya earlier today.

My aunt was there,

and she said disparaging things
about your acting.

I'm your brother's nurse,

so of course I was disturbed
to hear such things.

But then I realized
I'd never seen you perform,

so I went to the theater later.

What did you think?

Young Master...

don't let the flattery
go to your head.

I saw with my own eyes.

Was I bad?

Yes.

Was I really that bad?

I had to concede
that my aunt was right.

I'm just trying to be honest,
though it may anger you.

That's all right.
Speak your mind.

You're in line
to become the sixth Kikugoro.

You're still young,
so it's fine once in a while

to surround yourself with admirers
and enjoy a night out,

but your art is all-important,
and you shouldn't neglect it.

Your father often says,
"Art is our life.

Art... art!

Art is the only thing

that separates Kikugoro V
from some man on the street."

Pardon me
for being so frank.

Thank you.

You're the first person
to ever tell me that.

No need to thank me.

Perhaps I'm being
impertinent again...

but if you want the fans
to cry out your name...

you must follow
your father's example.

I lost track of the time.
I must take the baby inside.

I got carried away talking.
I didn't realize it's almost sunrise.

Let's go inside.

Don't worry.
Just sneak in quietly after me.

Young Master...

please forgive
my presumptuousness.

Otoku?

Many thanks.

Did he fall asleep?

Where's Kikunosuke?
Hasn't he come home yet?

The young master returned early.
He's sleeping now.

Really?

Hurry up
and get some sleep.

Matsu, was it last year
you fell into the river?

No, the year before last.

You flailed about and then
struck a pose in the water.

Then you told me to jump in again
because you couldn't see well.

Auntie, where's Kikunosuke?

He said he doesn't like crowds.
He went somewhere else.

How is he nowadays?

It's strange...

but he suddenly
stopped his carousing.

He comes home early now.

He used to ridicule me
when I'd suggest that!

Madam, do you know why
the young master isn't here tonight?

Why?

Otoku's not here either,
is she?

She's at home with the baby.

The fireworks would upset him.

So you may think,
but you're mistaken.

Don't be ridiculous!

Kikunosuke and Otoku?
That's absurd!

Don't say
such indiscreet things.

Young Master, shouldn't you
go see the fireworks?

It's a waste of time.

I dislike the crowds
and the noise.

Would you like
something cold?

We have some watermelon.

But we should probably wait
for the others to return.

- How many watermelons are there?
- Five.

Let's have one then.

You'd like some?

Is it cold?

Yes, they've been
in ice water all day.

That's a big one.

Must be heavy too.

Let me cut it.

Really?
That would be a great help.

You chilled it well.
It's really cold.

It is, isn't it?

Otoku, give me a hand.

Hold it steady.

Ready?

Doesn't it look good?

Set this half aside.

Hold it for me.

I can do the rest.

It's a very nice watermelon.

Where are you taking it?
- To the back room.

- Here is fine.
- But this is ‒

- We'll eat together, right here.
- Really?

I'll add some salt.

Try some.
Don't be shy.

Thank you.

Let's eat together.

It's delicious!

Have some.

I'll take out the seeds.

You know, Otoku...

I've never been as happy
as I was the other night.

People always flatter me
to my face,

then happily ridicule me
behind my back.

You're the first to speak to me
with real warmth and sincerity.

To hear that it pleased you so
makes me very happy.

Those geisha and other women
make a fuss over me

only because
I'm Kikugoro's son.

They couldn't care less
about my acting.

If I gave up my place
as Kikugoro's heir,

nobody would give
a damn about me.

I've been so lonely.

When you spoke to me
the way you did,

for the first time in my life
I felt a happiness

that touched me deeply.

It was like climbing
a mountain pass

on a hot summer's day

and drinking
from a cold stream.

These days
I can barely contain my joy.

Every time I step on that stage,
I imagine you're watching.

I imagine
I'm performing for you,

and somehow
that puts me at ease.

You'll see.
I'll become a fine actor.

I want to show you I can.
That's how you've made me feel.

What's wrong?

To hear that my words
brought you such happiness...

From now on,
I'm going to do my very best.

I'll do everything I can

to help you make
your way to greatness.

There's little I can do,
but I'll do all I can.

Otoku, thank you.

Welcome home.

- Onaka, come here.
- Yes.

What were you doing?

Changing the lapels
on the young master's bedclothes.

Otoku, I'd like you
to leave tonight.

You're dismissed.
Go home.

But why?

You know why.

No, I don't.

The baby's become
quite attached to me.

I can't fathom
why I should be let go.

Is it because
of the young master?

Please,
don't worry about that.

I've done nothing wrong.

You've gone out of your way

to shower him with kindness.

What on earth for?

Tell me.

Isn't it because

he's heir
to the Kikugoro name

and you want to be his wife?

Isn't that it?

Madam, how can
you say such a thing?

Kikunosuke is naïve,
practically a child.

I won't let you
make a fool of him.

How could you suspect
such a thing of me?

If that's your reason
for dismissing me,

I refuse to go.

Then what exactly
is there between you two?

I encourage him
to perfect his art.

That's all.

That's why I talk with him
and show him kindness.

What nerve!
That's not a servant's job.

He already has his father
to worry about that.

And he has me,
though I may know very little.

His father can only speak to him
of the finer points of acting.

What I offer him...

is sympathy and encouragement,
like a nursemaid to his art.

That's my job. You needn't
worry yourself about that.

You're Kozo's wet nurse,
not Kikunosuke's.

Your impudence is outrageous.
I've heard enough.

And even if they're only rumors,
that in itself does harm.

Please leave.

Here's the hat.

Kikunosuke, are you ready?
- Yes.

The jacket.

Listen, there are
many distinguished guests

and their wives here today.

A great many actors as well.

Carry yourself
like the son of Kikugoro.

Don't make careless mistakes.

Good morning.

Madam, where are
the baby's clothes?

In the third dresser drawer.

I'll be there in a moment.

Mother...

where's Otoku?

I fired her.

But why?

You know why.

Have you seen Kiku?

He just rushed off.

But... he was ‒

Hurry home.
No chatting along the way.

- Is Otoku here?
- No.

- Did she step out?
- I don't know.

- Where did she go?
- She's not home. That's all I know.

I see.

Just a minute.

Wait a minute.

Take this.

It's all right.

Now, won't you
tell me where she is?

I heard she's with relatives.

- Where?
- I don't know.

I see.

Wait.

I'll come back tomorrow.
Find out and tell me then.

Yes, sir.

Look after the place for me.

Of course.
See you soon.

STARRING KIKUNOSUKE ONOE

Excuse me.

Would you happen to be
Otoku from Iriya?

Yes, that's me.

I have a tea shop
at the Kishimojin shrine.

One of my customers
is quite intent

on arranging
a secret meeting with you.

Who might that be?

Sir...

she's over there.
- She came?

Otoku.

How did you find out
I was in Soshigaya?

It wasn't easy.

It took a long time
to find your house,

but I couldn't go in.

I stopped a servant boy
leaving your house on an errand.

- Was it Kanekichi?
- I think so.

It seemed he'd been told
not to say anything,

but yesterday I finally
convinced him to tell me.

You did all that... for me?

Just when I felt
I'd found a true friend,

you were taken away.

I was distraught.

Young Master...

What?

I'm truly happy
you think of me that way,

but if we keep meeting,

your family
will surely find out.

That will cause you
great trouble.

It would be better
if we didn't meet again.

I can't accept that.

It's really out of the question.

I was mortified when I heard
those rumors about us.

What will become of me
if we keep meeting

and they cease to be rumors?

Become of you?

I want to make you my wife.

No, you can't.

You have a brilliant future.

I'd only hinder your career.

Besides...

I'm just a poor mapmaker's
daughter.

That shouldn't
come between us.

Your father would disown you.

Fine.
We'll go away together.

Welcome home.

Kikunosuke, come in here.

Kikunosuke!

Father, I'm home.

Come closer.

Kiku...

who was that girl you saw today
at the Kishimojin shrine?

I want you be
a fitting successor,

both in your artistry
and your conduct.

I want the public
and my friends alike to say

how fortunate I am
to have such a fine son.

But now you've given me
cause for worry.

Please try
to understand how I feel.

We dismissed Otoku

because she can only
bring us trouble.

Why do you see her
behind our backs?

You want to see her so badly
that you'd defy your parents?

If you don't give me
a clear explanation,

I intend to take action today.

Tell me exactly how you feel.

Kikunosuke...

you have an obligation
to your foster father.

People call you
"The Young Kiku."

Whom do you have
to thank for that?

Your foster father.

Kiku...

you're very trusting and naïve,
so this doesn't surprise me,

but it's foolish to think that others
are as trustworthy as yourself.

Otoku knows
you'll be the next Kikugoro.

She may have ulterior motives.

She's not that kind of woman.

You don't know.
That's how women are.

You're wrong.

You spend
all your time with geishas.

You don't understand normal women.
- They're no different.

Otoku isn't calculating
like geishas.

Her feelings are sincere.

Enough of your excuses!
We forbid you to see her!

Kikunosuke,
come here a minute.

Come here.

Brother...

I'm determined to be with Otoku.

Father doesn't wish
to be publicly humiliated.

Otoku was your baby brother's
wet nurse, for goodness' sake.

She herself had
the good sense to give you up.

You're the one who's fanning
the flames and making this difficult.

I don't know
what you've imagined,

but our relationship
has been chaste.

Good. Keep it that way.

It wasn't fair to dismiss her
on false charges.

Otoku gave me not only
a reason to go on acting

but a reason to go on living.

Kiku! Do you know
what people are saying?

They're saying you seduced
your own baby brother's wet nurse.

They say our household
is in an uproar.

They say your foster father
shows forbearance

in not disowning you,

even though he has
his own son now,

but that he's purple with rage.

That's the malicious gossip
going around.

How can he promote you
under such circumstances?

Imagine the pressure
he's feeling.

Kikunosuke,
an actor needs a public.

Popularity is everything.

Everything hinges
on your reputation.

You should be cultivating
your popularity now.

That kind of popularity
makes me sick.

I'd be happy
if I'd earned it myself,

but it's only due to Father's name.
That's not what I want!

How dare you say that!

I don't want to be Kikugoro VI.
I don't need the family name.

I want to make it on my own!

What can you do
on your own?

I will succeed!
I'll show you I will!

Eiju!

You don't need me
or the family name?

Then get out!

Go apologize, quickly!

Go on! Apologize!

I beg of you, Father:

Let me marry Otoku.

Please, Father.

I beg of you, Father!

Shut up!

Kikunosuke!

Let him go.

Good evening.

Good evening.

May I help you?

Is Otoku here?

Who are you?

Kikunosuke Terashima.

Otoku isn't here.

Where did she go?

Young Master...

your family has given us
strict instructions

not to let her see you.

That's my answer.

Close the door!

It's dangerous here at night.

Granny...

please give this
to the lady.

Yes, sir.

And please hurry back
with her answer.

Young Master!

I heard what happened.

The way you spoke
to your father was out of line.

Matsu!

Well, we can
discuss that later.

Please just
come home quietly.

Let's go back.
Leave everything to me.

If you go back now
and apologize,

I think your father
will forgive you.

I won't apologize,
and I won't go home.

I understand.

Well, then...

why don't you come
to my place instead?

I'd like to hear
what's going through your mind.

We can talk things through.

All right?

Young Master,
please do that much.

Come on. Let's go.

If you insist on going,

I can't stop you.

Please apply yourself to your art.

Tamizo's a big-hearted
version of Kikugoro,

and he's seen
his share of hardship.

He'll certainly take
good care of you.

But listen:

Don't let his willingness to help

make you lazy
and overly dependent.

It has to come from here.

You understand?

Let's go.

All aboard for Nagoya.

Kikunosuke!

What's going on?
I heard the news and rushed over.

Please don't be stubborn.
Just come home, I beg you.

You don't understand.

Be that as it may,
you mustn't anger your father.

What about
your name and career?

Enough.
Don't say any more.

I'll go with you
and apologize on your behalf.

It's too late.

Just you wait and see.

I'll make a fresh start.

I'm on my own now.

I'll show everyone
what I can do.

Where is she?

Why doesn't she come?
- Who? Otoku?

Matsu...

did my parents
forbid her to come?

I don't know.

That must be it.

The fool.

You sure
you won't reconsider?

Don't try to stop him.

I'm sorry to have worried you.

Take care of yourself.

Thank you. Good-bye.

Good-bye.

Take care.

Farewell.

ONE YEAR LATER

- Where are my sandals?
- I don't know.

What are you doing?
Be more careful!

I'm sorry.
My sandals were there.

Your sandals?

You think Shoko
can't handle the role?

Master...

you seem to like that actor,

but the audience doesn't.

Couldn't we use
somebody else this time?

He's my choice.
Stop your complaining.

But...

No buts. That's final.

We're using Shoko.

- What now?
- No, nothing.

Master...

how are you feeling?

Thank you for asking.

I feel like death warmed over.

But I don't think
I'm at death's door just yet.

I'm fine, aren't I, Doctor?

Yes, indeed.

Master...

I'm deeply sorry...

that I've been such a failure.

Why do you put up
with a burden like me?

What are you talking about?

You shouldn't worry so much.

Actors needn't feel embarrassed.

If you're praised
when you're young,

you can't become good.

Take me:

I was terrible
when I was young!

I know what I'm talking about.
Trust me, and keep working hard.

Thank you, sir.

I'm behind you all the way.

Thank you.

It looks like rain today.
I brought your rain sandals.

Thank you.

Shoko...

what's wrong?

Tami...

I'm hopeless as an actor.

You've done
a lot to help me.

And the master did his best

to encourage me just now.

But I feel
I should go elsewhere,

maybe travel the countryside.

Travel? But where?

I'm not good enough
for the major houses.

Maybe I can improve
in a small local theater.

Or maybe...

I could study
under your father, Otsuru...

to become a masseur.

Tami.

When you're young,

it's easy to live
with no thought for the future.

But never stop striving...

to improve your skills.

Otsuru, I'm leaving.

Farewell.

Good-bye.

Good-bye.

Sir, your fans are begging
for your makeup brush.

Really?
Then give it to them.

Young Master!

How long
have you been here?

I just arrived from Tokyo.

I came by rickshaw
directly from the station.

I saw your performance.

Really?

This is a surprise.

I thought you'd never come.

Looks like you have
a fan after all.

Good for you.

Let's go.

Take her somewhere nice.

Why didn't you come
with me to Osaka?

Your family ordered me not to.

My parents wouldn't let me
leave the house.

I thought so.

But when I heard
you were booed off the stage,

I couldn't take it anymore
and ran away.

None of my roles
have been a success.

Over the course of this year,

I've completely
lost faith in myself.

If you had been here,
it might not have come to this.

In fact, before you came,
I was about to leave for good.

I was the cause
of all your troubles.

I had a swelled head
when I left Tokyo,

but now I realize
I'm worthless.

That's not true.

Others may think
you're a bad actor,

but I see
how you've improved.

I see the results
of your effort and pain.

Your acting has a power

that other people
can't understand.

You're almost there.
You can't give up now.

You were pampered in Tokyo,
and you were missing that something,

but this year in Osaka
has given it to you.

Is that true?
If so, I'll keep on trying.

Yes, it's true,
so please don't lose heart.

This is it.

- I'm home.
- Welcome back.

Welcome.

This is your room?

Shoko, tea's ready!

Thank you.

You can sit there.

Is this all you brought?

No. I checked
a trunk at the station.

We can pick it up tomorrow.

Is it all right
for me to stay here?

Do you even need to ask?
We'll get married now.

I simply came to support
your acting career

until you return home.

And after that?

After that...

I don't know.

Don't act
as if we're strangers.

Here you go.

They're banging
the drums already.

Those drums signal
the end of a performance.

Quite different from Tokyo,
isn't it?

Otoku...

why don't you rest a bit?

You'll get sick
if you work too much.

But this must be finished
and delivered this afternoon.

I...

I don't want you
to have to work like this,

but I hope you can
bear it a bit longer.

You can, can't you?

Don't be silly.

Otoku...

Kikugoro is going
to play Gonta

in Yoshitsune
and the Thousand Trees.

That play is the family's specialty.
I think I'd be perfect as Koremori.

I really want
to perfect that role

and wipe away
my past disgrace.

Yes! That's the spirit!

I can do it.
This time I can do it.

You can.
Everything will work out.

The furniture's here.

Careful, Father!

It's okay if you hurt yourself,
but don't damage the goods!

What's that supposed to mean?

I told you to be careful!

Sorry for the trouble.

Let's take it back down.

Honey!

Come here a minute.

What is it?

That's beautiful!
Where'd it come from?

It's a dressing table for you.

A fine actor needs
a fine mirror to rehearse with.

It's very nice.

Thank you.

It's a real beauty.
Father, I want one too.

Don't ask the impossible.

Where'd you get the money?

Don't worry about that.

I sold a few things
I didn't need.

I'm sorry.

Otoku's a resourceful woman.

Very admirable.
Very admirable indeed.

- Hello.
- Hello, Tami.

Shoko, terrible news!

Master just died!

- Master did?
- Yes.

But he was fine yesterday!

It happened suddenly.

Everyone's in shock.

I'm worried about him.

The playbill
will be posted tomorrow.

The casting has changed.

I'm terribly sorry,

but we're letting you go.

I know this is difficult to hear.

I'm sorry to spring it
on you so suddenly.

But as it happens,
Mr. Onishi here

needs actors
for his traveling theater company.

How's that sound?

Please think it over.

What do you say?

We're all in shock.

Tamizo's death has cast a shadow
over the entire theater district.

Of course
you're grieving as well.

Won't you try performing
with us just once?

I know you have
pressing obligations,

so I'm willing
to pay you an advance.

How much will you pay?

Well, let's see.

Say, 15 yen?

That's just to start.

Please take it.

Don't become
an itinerant actor.

Can't you stay in Osaka
and hone your skills?

I don't want to leave,
but how will we survive?

Besides, Tamizo is gone.

There's nothing
for me in Osaka now.

I have no choice.

Working in a traveling troupe
can be enjoyable.

Right?
- Quite right.

FOUR YEARS LATER

- Give us our pay.
- How can I give what I don't have?

This wasn't our agreement.
We won't work like this.

Fine. Then quit.

You sure you want that?

A couple of hams
like you quitting

isn't going to stop the show.

Go on. Leave.

Fine, we will.

Give us our pay!
- Like hell I will!

You're too cruel.

Pay us something,
even if just a little.

More trouble?

Fighting like that
over a mere pittance.

Do they even think about acting?

I hate it.

I really hate it.

I keep thinking we should leave
this life of wandering behind.

Four years have
already slipped away.

Well, isn't that a shame?

Rotten luck getting stuck with me.
If you don't like it, leave.

I don't say it for myself
but for you.

I can't stand seeing you
working like this in the provinces.

Don't worry about me.

I enjoy it.

The audiences
are easy to please.

It's true what they say:

One taste of touring
and you never forget it.

Who cares anyway?
Give me some money.

Where are you going?

It's our last night here.
I'm gonna have some fun.

There's no money left.

Liar. What about
that money from before?

That's to buy you
a new undershirt and socks.

Forget about that.
Hand it over.

You...

you've changed so much.

Mouthing off again?

Cut it out.

Why not try being nice to me
once in a while?

Please don't forget how you felt
when you left Tokyo.

And just how was that?

That's all a dream
from the past.

Hand it over.

Not if you
say things like that.

Didn't you say
you would start from scratch

and become a great actor
on your own?

Well, haven't I become one?

I can play a woman, a villain,
maybe even a child.

You don't listen
to me anymore.

- Give it here.
- No!

You're the reason
I've become like this!

Here.

I was wrong.
Please forgive me.

Go have some fun.
It'll make you feel better.

Aren't you going out?

You'll catch cold
if you sleep out here.

You should go back inside.

Otoku.

Keep the money.

But...

Here. Take it back.

Something terrible
has happened!

What is it?

- We have to leave immediately!
- How can that be?

There are still a few days
left on our contract!

Attendance was so bad they want
to replace us with female sumo.

Female sumo?

Men are here
to take down the tent.

Everybody out!

What do you think
you're doing?

How dare you
storm in here like this!

We're not mosquitoes
you can shoo away.

We're human beings.
Let's talk like human beings.

What's there to talk about?

You're a bunch of clumsy hams.

What?
Get out of here!

Where's the boss?
Go get him!

Wait a minute.

From what I was told,
there's nothing more to discuss.

- Who are you?
- A sumo wrestler.

I don't know what you were told,
but we were told nothing!

Well, I'll tell you:
Your boss said clearly

that you would all
pack up and leave tonight.

Hey, what are you doing?
Hurry it up!

Wait until
the boss gets back!

We won't finish in time if we wait.
Hurry up!

Wait! Listen to me!

Where did the boss go?

The manager
and troupe leader have run off!

Where'd they go?

See?
What did I tell you?

- Where'd they go?
- They abandoned us.

All right, everybody,
out of the way.

You too, big shot!
- What's that?

Enough!
Out of the way!

Get out, all of you!

Scram!

What should we do?

Shoko, what are we to do?

Kimigiku,
what will you do now?

I have no choice

but to go back
and work for my old boss.

You're lucky to have
somewhere to go back to.

Staying the night?

It's five sen for two.

Come this way.

It's two sen for the futon.

Poor thing.

You've caught a bad cold.

Take care of yourself.

- How was business today?
- Same as usual.

A Kabuki company
from Tokyo is in town.

Kabuki?

They charge
two yen for a ticket.

I could live
for a month on that.

Where's the company
from Tokyo performing?

The Suehiroza Theater
in Nagoya.

Who's performing?

Let me see.

Father and son:
Shikan and Fukusuke.

What luck!

Darling, this is a gift
from the gods.

Why don't you see Fukusuke
and ask his advice?

I can't let him see
how wretched I've become.

But what if he can
give you a role?

Impossible.

I couldn't even
make it in Osaka,

much less
in a large Tokyo company.

They certainly
won't take me now.

But your acting isn't bad.

In fact,
it's gotten quite good.

If you succeed in Nagoya,
you can return to Tokyo.

If the response is positive,

it would restore
your confidence too.

Shouldn't you at least try?

Let's go and ask.

No.

You may think
my old friends will help,

but they may not be
so inclined.

You understand
how the world works.

No, it's easier
just to keep traveling.

Then what have you been
working and suffering for

all this time?

Let's stop talking about this.

We still have enough
to survive a few days.

We may have
a stroke of luck.

Are you all right?

Are you in pain?

This is bad.

Wait here.
I'll get some medicine.

Wait for me.

Young Master,
there's someone to see you.

The name is Terashima,
and she has a request.

Terashima?

- You said Terashima, right?
- Yes.

It's Otoku!

It's been so long.

You're here in Nagoya?

Is Kikunosuke here too?

He's the reason I'm here.
I have a favor to ask.

I see.

Come inside.

I see.

You've both suffered
a great deal.

But that suffering
has enriched his art.

Even a lay person like myself
can see he's much better.

But he still remains
stuck in obscurity.

I see now that in Kabuki

a good family name
is essential.

Isn't there anything you can do
to help him return to Tokyo?

If he continues as he is,
he'll end in complete ruin.

If you don't save him now,
it'll be too late.

Please save him.

I'm begging you.

We often speak
of Kiku back home.

My father here and I
have apologized on his behalf

without much luck.

Kikugoro worries
about public opinion

and refuses to budge.

Father...

let's give Kiku a role.

If he does well,

his father may take him back.

Please, Father.

Which role
would you suggest?

Have him play Sumizome
in my place.

Sumizome?

Are you crazy?

He may have been
Kikugoro's son,

but giving a major role
to an itinerant actor

would be an outrage.

The others would never approve,
would they, Morita?

I know it's reckless,

but what others think
doesn't matter.

If you and Mr. Morita approve,
he can play the role.

I want to help Kiku
regain his manhood.

Mr. Morita, please!

Fuku!

Fine. We'll use him.

You'll give him the role?

Yes.

Thank you!

Otoku...

assuming that Kikunosuke
does a good job

and properly apologizes,

I want him to return
to his family.

Are you prepared to accept
the consequences?

Yes, whatever it takes
so that he can go home.

If his acting is still poor,
he can't return,

but if he's really improved,

are you truly prepared
to give him back to his family?

You mean ‒

Otoku...

this is difficult
for me to say, but ‒

You're saying
you want us to separate.

I knew that
even before I came here.

Stop here.

This way.

Dear.

Kiku!

Fuku!

Otoku, why did you ‒
- Kiku.

There's so much to say,

but please
just come with me.

How heartless and fickle

the ephemeral cherries can be,

yet how tender and charming
their flowering buds.

The courtesan's

young apprentices

come to the pleasure quarters

as though
transplanted from afar

to blossom

at their peak

every spring.

When the winds

blow in from the mountains,

courtesans make lovers' promises
to spend the night.

Yet their place of rest
is uncertain,

like fleeting bubbles on a stream.

Cherry petals scattered on the water ‒
such is a courtesan's lot.

An interesting tale indeed.

How strange this woman is,

appearing so suddenly
at this barrier gate

deep in the mountains.

Where have you come from?

I come from
the Shumoku pleasure quarters

in the city.

Courtesan, what is your name?

I am called Sumizome.

Sumizome?

This cherry tree
was also called Sumizome.

I know.

What a fine name!

So tell me of the customs
of the pleasure quarters.

Of a courtesan's way of love,
of the truths...

- And the lies...
- ...of a courtesan's tricks.

And how to enter the brothels.

In that case,

let us speak of it
here and now.

Whether coming....

or going....

in the pleasure quarters,

I travel in disguise...

my emotions in wild confusion.

My husband's torn sleeve
as my only keepsake,

drawing me here,
shimmering in the air.

I shall tell you.

My true form

is this cherry tree.

You would strike me
with your cruel ax?

Now you will know
your retribution.

She glares at him fiercely,

a branch of the cherry tree
serving as a whip.

Kiku, I'm shocked
at how good you were!

Splendid, just splendid!

Thank you
for giving me this chance.

Kiku, you were wonderful!

I knew you could do it!

Uncle Morita!
- Kiku, you did a wonderful job!

A truly fine performance!

Your father will be so proud of you!
- Thank you!

Fuku, wasn't he wonderful?
I'm so proud of him.

You made it all possible.

Master, thank you
for this opportunity.

You were magnificent.
I've never been more pleased.

Fuku, your kindness
made this possible.

I'll never forget it.

Nonsense.

Your hard work
is what made this possible.

Here, take off your makeup.

Hurry and take off your wig.

Wait till we return to Tokyo

and show Kikugoro
what we've brought back!

"Send your beloved child
out to see the world."

Exactly.

Thank you.

Otoku!

We can go back to Tokyo.
The two of us, together.

Really?

Of course.
We must go together.

I'm in a daze.

I never dreamt
anything like this would happen.

Really?

My success here
has restored my confidence.

When I get back to Tokyo,
I'm going to work like mad.

I never imagined
I'd become this popular.

I always knew
this day would come.

I just knew it would,

and I looked forward to seeing
the surprise on everyone's faces.

You did it!

Your suffering
has been rewarded.

It was a hard life, wasn't it?

But you know...

even though
I knew you could do it,

I was so worried
that I couldn't even watch.

I was under the stage
the whole time

praying to the fox god Inari.

Isn't that silly?

You must be...

You must be so happy.

Now you have
the will to go on...

and you can return to Tokyo
with your head held high.

What's wrong?

Nothing. I was just so happy
I got a little dizzy.

What shall we do
to celebrate?

Excuse me.

We'd like to order
some food tonight.

Bring us shrimp
and sea bream sashimi,

broiled whole fish,
and clam soup.

Kiku, this region
is famous for its clams.

And a few bottles of sake.
- Yes, ma'am.

Wait a minute.

We can't splurge just because
we suddenly got some money.

- This arrived for you.
- Thank you.

But it's not every day we have
something like this to celebrate.

Tonight you must be
like a child again

and have whatever
your heart desires.

I had the tailor backstage
bring this over.

You can't return to Tokyo
dressed like that.

Come here.

What do you think?
Isn't it nice?

It suits you.

It's a nice pattern.

You should hurry
and make it into a kimono.

You have to go see them,
don't you?

You should start
getting ready.

You're right.
I'll be right back.

I have to make
an appearance.

I'll say a quick thanks
and hurry back.

Let's celebrate
when I get back.

I'm off.

I'll be back soon.

I'll be right back.

Take care.

Have you seen Otoku?

She was just over there.

Have you seen Otoku?

I don't believe I have.

Fuku, Otoku's not here.

Kiku.

This is a letter from Otoku.

You told her to leave me,
didn't you?

You led me to think
we could go back together.

Kikunosuke, wait.

It was me.

You? Why?

Please just listen.

Otoku herself knew
before I even said a word.

She and I both wanted to save you
and send you back to Tokyo.

Fortunately, your performance
was a great success.

Now you only need
to apologize to your father.

But if you don't leave her,

he won't accept your apology.

- Mind your own business.
- His own business?

Yes. What business is it ‒

You don't know
how Otoku really feels.

What do you mean?

Stop this, please.

Kikunosuke is right.
But listen ‒

None of you understands
what Otoku means to me.

Apologize all you want,

but I can't be happy
in Tokyo without Otoku.

Kiku, listen.

You've worked very hard.

But no matter how hard you work,
you can't succeed on your own.

Otoku herself said
it was impossible

to make it
without a family name.

With Kikugoro Onoe's
name behind you,

you can return
to the major stages of Tokyo.

You have to rely
on the people

who've supported you
since childhood.

What good is fame
without Otoku?

I want her by my side,
whether I succeed or fail.

I'm not going back
until I find her.

Kikunosuke, stop!

Wait a minute.

You must consider
Otoku's feelings.

But what's going
to become of her?

Those long years of wandering
have taken a toll on her health.

Thanks to all of you,
I'll have a future as an actor,

but I also want
to free her of her cares.

Sit down and listen.

If you really care,
think of what she wants for you.

Return to Tokyo
and perfect your art,

or Otoku's sacrifice
will have been in vain.

Seeing you succeed just might be
her greatest happiness.

Right?

Make her happy
by becoming a great actor.

Don't return to Tokyo for us.
Do it for her.

You understand?

Fuku...

how did Otoku
come to feel this way?

Those five long, difficult years

when I was consumed
with bitterness and envy ‒

it was her devotion alone
that held me together.

I thought we could've endured anything
as long as we were together.

Otoku...

you silly fool.

Where are you?

Where have you run off to?

Otsuru.

Genshun.

What's this?

Who's there?

Otoku, it's you!

It's you, isn't it?

Let me light the lamp.

What are you doing here?

You never wrote.
We were really worried.

I'm happy to see you.

Where's Shoko?

We broke up some time ago.

Broke up?

Why?

I wasn't happy anymore
living that life with him.

I know it's been a while,
but you've completely changed.

Have I?

Perhaps I have.

Perhaps I've changed a bit.

Here she goes again!

I haven't seen him
this happy in over six years.

The whole house is full of cheer.
It's made my life much easier.

I'm happy to hear it.

It's always been Kiku's dream
to perform in Renjishi,

with Kikugoro as the lion
and Kiku and Fuku as the cubs.

Fuku, we're all counting on you.
- And I'm counting on all of you.

Morita, why don't we put on
our next play in Osaka?

That would be a first.

Are you really serious?

Let's all go
and have a great time.

Very well.
This should be great fun.

Kikunosuke had some
hard times out in Osaka.

Let's make a grand entrance
and show them how far he's come!

Great idea!

Thank you very much.

I'm sure the young master
will be delighted.

Let's clap our hands to celebrate
before the master changes his mind.

Everyone altogether.

Ready...

- Auspicious indeed!
- Thank you very much.

Let's hurry
and decide on a play.

You make the preparations.

Kozo...

you've gotten so big!

Who are you?

Don't you recognize me?

No.

I see.

I guess that's only natural.

- The offering to the gods?
- Yes.

It's the custom.

Young Master, there you are.

Everyone's waiting for you.

From the summit
of Mount Seiryo,

I kicked my cubs
into the deep valley below

as a trial of their strength.

Though still immature
and unskilled,

the power of our prayers

allowed us
to climb to the top again.

Blossoming along
the stone bridge

are the colorful peonies.

Now all that remains
is to beg

humbly and sincerely...

for the audience's
continued patronage.

The time has come for the lions
to dance to ancient court tunes

Tufts of peony blossoms
rich with fragrance

Behold the lion heads,
showing great strength

Beat the drums! Let music play!
The peony's scent!

The flowers' golden stamens
emerge from within

Sporting among the blossoms,
tumbling among the branches

Truly nothing can surpass
the lions' ferocious majesty

All those people booed him
off the stage when he was "Shoko."

Now they carry lanterns
with "Kikunosuke" written on them.

Kiku, you know Osaka well.

You can show us around
between performances.

Come here.

Osaka is like
your second home,

so in today's river procession,

you'll be presented
as the leading player.

You'll stand in front
and pay your respects

to those who used
to attend your performances.

Excuse me, is Shoko ‒

I mean, is Kikunosuke here?

Over there.

Where do you think
you're going?

I'm a good friend of Shoko's.
I have something to tell him.

- It's Genshun!
- Hold on!

It's okay. I know him.

Genshun!

Shoko, just look at you!
Congratulations!

Thank you for everything
you did for us. Actually, Otoku ‒

That's precisely why I'm here.
She's staying at my place.

- Your place?
- Yes.

She's been sick since spring,

but she's gotten
much worse since June.

She made me promise
not to tell you,

but the doctor thinks
she may not last long.

I just had to come tell you.

I know you're extremely busy,

but won't you come see her?

I beg you.

But this is an important day ‒

I realize that, but can't you
just see her once, please?

Kiku, go see her.

Go see your wife.

How many times have I told you
that being a great actor

is not just a matter of skill?

You are what you are today
because of Otoku's sacrifices,

because she made you
perfect your art.

Tell her that as father
of the great Kikunosuke,

I am deeply grateful.

Father!

Go quickly.

You can join the procession
at Nakanoshima.

Thank you.

Send a telegram
to inform her family.

My father's already
sent for them.

Is that so?

If her condition changes,
let me know right away.

Thank you very much.

Let us off at this corner.

Father!

Otoku,
Shoko's come to see you.

Genshun...

why did you bring him here?

I told you not to.
Why didn't you listen?

How can you say that?

We were never
supposed to meet again.

Dear, please leave.

I mean,
Young Master, please leave.

Otoku, you needn't worry.

Father has forgiven us.

He has?

He told me,
"Go see your wife."

He said everything
I've become is due to you.

He told me to thank you.

Really?

I'm getting top billing
on this trip.

I've returned to Osaka
bathed in glory.

From now on
we can be happy...

both in art and in life.

Your father has forgiven us?

We can finally be together
for all the world to see.

So I can finally call you

my husband?

That's right.

My husband...

Now...

now I can get better.

Right?

I'll get better, won't I?

Of course.

What would I do if you didn't?

Your face has already
regained its color.

But you know,
I don't mind if I die.

You've become
a magnificent actor.

Your father has forgiven me.

And now I can see your face.

I can die without regret.

No, you can't
just leave me like that.

Isn't that right, Genshun?
- Yes, it is.

Dear...

isn't the river procession today?

Your boat is waiting.

Please go.

I don't care
about the procession.

How can you say that?

An actor must think
of his fans.

It's a grand occasion
in your honor.

What good is it
if you're not there?

Please, hurry and go.

Go now.

But we're finally
together again.

Once it's over,

we can be together all we want.

That's true, but...

There's no reason
why you and I

shouldn't be able to meet,
is there?

None at all.

Then please hurry and go.

I'll be waiting here,

listening to the music
coming from the river,

imagining you there...

at the head of the procession.

I've been forgiven
and am now really your wife,

aren't I?

I don't have to hide it
from anyone, right?

In that case...

please listen to your wife.

Do what she asks of you.

Very well.

I'll go.

Wait for me.

Otoku, you must wait for me.

All right?

Wait for me.

Genshun.
- Yes.

Genshun...

will she be all right
until I get back?

I couldn't do anything for her
while we were together.

Now that I can do something...

Otoku, don't die.

You can't die.

Kikunosuke Onoe
humbly asks for your patronage.

Genshun...

would you go out on the canal
and take a look?

Then come back
and tell me what you saw.

Please hurry.

All right, I will.

Otoku, your medicine.

Otoku.

THE END