Original subtitles

Subtitles by maskmahe

WHAT A WONDERFUL FAMILY! III: MY WIFE, MY LIFE

Isao Hashizume

Kazuko Yoshiyuki

Masahiko Nishimura

Yui Natsukawa

Tomoko Nakajima

Shozo Hayashiya

Satoshi Tsumabuki

Yu Aoi

Nenji Kobayashi

Jun Fubuki

Directed by Yoji Yamada

Honey? Are you up?

- Washed your hands? - Of course. Shut up.

You stink.

Eat quickly.

None for me.

I woke you several times. You're hopeless.

Where to this time?

Hong Kong.

Wow, that's so cool.

It's not a holiday!

Till when?

Tomorrow, or the day after. Depends on work.

Oh.

I hate handling complaints.

They're a state-run business. Hard-headed.

At worst, we could lose billions.

Billions?

Honey, I need this month's...

Oh, right.

Could I have more?

Everything's more expensive.

Postcards, beer, butter...

Kenichi's got exams next year.

How much does Dad give you each month?

Ask for more.

We pay the dry cleaning bill too.

Konosuke, your taxi's here.

Take care.

Mom, watch your step.

One slip could be fatal...

You okay?

Thank you.

Shuzo, breakfast's ready.

Hey, Mom.

How much does Dad give you every month?

None of your business!

My allowance comes out of it. It is my business.

Yoshida's dad doesn't give his mom money.

His mom gives his dad a monthly allowance.

Why are we the opposite?

Good question.

It's been that way since we got married.

I guess that's what Granddad and Grandma did.

Right, Tomiko?

Taking money for daily expenses was easier.

Managing a household budget is such a pain.

So your granddad did it.

So that's why he's a cheapskate.

Did he hear?

What am I now?

Darling, what'll you do today?

Golf with Kakuta.

Good. I'm going to the culture center.

Oh, you and your old bookworm granny pals.

Isn't that delightful?

Why does everything he says sound so sarcastic?

What exactly is the culture center?

A place for learning. They have many classes.

Haiku. Painting too.

Yoga, ballroom dancing, hula dancing, and lots more.

Wow. You should go too, Mom.

Dance classes would suit me.

Huh? You dance, Mom?

I danced the flamenco in high school.

What's so funny?

You know, they have a flamenco class.

You should go!

I asked Konosuke last year,

for money for flamenco classes.

And?

He brushed me off.

"Think of your age," he said.

That's awful.

He sure does take after his father.

Morning.

Thanks for going out of your way.

Hey, Hirata!

Your ride's here.

Thank you for going to such trouble.

These traitors took my license away.

Of all the nerve.

You did the right thing, Fumie.

He would've mowed somebody down one day.

You're a lifesaver!

Shut your trap.

Hey, you call this a car?

For shuttling grandkids.

Yes?

It's Officer Nakamura.

Oh, hello. I'll be right there.

In you go.

Hello. Can I help you?

Lots of break-ins lately.

What a pain. I was just heading out.

Many folks do in the afternoon.

In a lot of cases, elderly folks are left at home alone.

Hey Officer.

Are you from Kansai?

Huh? How did you know?

It's obvious!

Still single?

Tokyo women scare me.

I'll probably be a bachelor for life.

Oh please!

Okay, gotta go.

Scary...

What a cutie.

Bye Fumie.

Where are you going?

Our part-time jobs.

It's a stylish place. Our boss is a hunk!

Got to save for a rainy day!

"Marriage is a fine thing to do,

but if you don't have to,

it's fine not to as well."

So said Hatsunosuke.

It grabs the reader's attention right from the start.

"If you don't have to marry, why bother?"

Does that provocative statement...

apply to young people today?

You say that, but you've been married three times.

Each time, remembered this novel.

Third time lucky?

Don't make me angry!

Do you come here just to tease me?

Sorry.

Now, in this novel by Fumiko Hayashi,

which part struck you the most?

Michiyo's ironing episode.

I'm not surprised.

It incites the imagination.

"The iron's excess heat

would still be enough for a few more items.

Michiyo didn't want to let it go to waste,

so she lowered the zip on

her gray wool skirt.

It slithered down.

Her short white silk underskirt

clung tightly to her plump calves.

Was spring the reason

that she felt so alive? She sniffed her skirt.

It stank of sweat."

Doesn't that sound erotic?

Doesn't it thrill you?

Mr. Takamura, aren't you a bit old for that?

No wonder you got married so often.

Let's take a break.

Hello!

"Flamenco Classes."

Just observing?

- Yes. - Come in.

"Kanai Tax Office."

What she had before marriage

is her own money.

No matter how much it was, it's hers, sir.

Divorce settlements

only split assets gained while married.

Yes. That's exactly right.

Please don't forget that...

Men can be so dense.

Hello dear.

You came, huh?

How's Noriko? You getting along?

Of course they are. Noriko's fallen for Shota.

You fell for Taizo, right?

Of course.

Huh? What would I fall for?

Hmm. My sense of humor?

Really? Then why did you fall for me?

That's obvious.

Your beauty.

Idiot.

How about we eat out?

I'd like to, but I've got to work.

You came for a reason?

Yeah.

Your parents will visit the family grave.

They did mention that. When?

Day after tomorrow.

One of us should go too, but we can't,

so maybe we should give them some money.

It's Shota's idea.

Say it's for incense.

How much?

I was thinking this much.

To be honest, I'm broke.

They don't need so much.

How about you pay that, and I'll pay this.

Are you sure?

Taizo, give him the money.

You give it to them.

I'll say it's from both of us.

Thanks for this.

I'm home.

Uncle Shota!

I missed you!

I'd better go.

Leaving already?

Check my piano next time.

You bet I will.

- See you. - Thanks.

Welcome home!

Don't! It's too hot!

Never mind.

I'll hug you instead.

No! Get off me, you creep!

Idiot.

Mrs. Kimura, time for your CT.

I'll remove your bedding.

Bending knees.

Arm please.

I'll turn you.

1, 2, 3

Any dizziness?

Please hold the rail.

Okay, put your arms around me.

I'm 80 kilos. Sorry.

No problem.

Now bow and stand.

1, 2, 3

- Any dizziness? - No.

I'll turn you.

Okay, let's sit you down.

"Could you come with me to see my family?

Shota".

"Got it. Noriko."

Nurse Hirata.

Are you single?

No, I'm married.

Oh, that's too bad.

Really? Why?

My grandson asked me

to ask you if you're single.

That big man who came to see you?

Yes, he plays rugby. He's a fullback.

Oh, I missed out.

Yeah?

A family grave visit together?

Lucky you.

I want to visit my hometown too.

Where's your hometown, Doctor?

Same as him. The Seto Inland Sea.

A green island floating on a deep blue sea.

When the pine grove

disappears from view.

The shadow of the white sail

reflects on the blue.

You know, Hirata.

Retiring and moving back,

to fish off Jogahama Beach for the rest of my life...

That's my dream.

Then why not move back? You're retired.

I want to, but there's opposition.

From who?

My wife.

"Why should I live in such a boring hick town?

I'd get sick of it within a week."

So she says.

Your wife's a Tokyo native?

Yeah.

"You can go by yourself!"

So says my daughter.

It drives me absolutely nuts.

Get a divorce!

Should I?

Yeah. Pay her and dump her.

Okay.

Don't you dare. You don't mean that. It's silly.

I'll divorce her, and hook up with you.

No thanks.

What?

I'm drinking with Kakuta.

Dinner? I don't need any.

Yeah yeah, I'll go easy on the booze.

I'm with a doctor.

This randy old quack will keep me alive.

Yeah, yeah. Thanks.

My daughter-in-law. I tell her to lay off,

but she keeps telling me not to drink.

Hey, another one.

Come on, Mr. Hirata.

Your daughter-in-law worries about you.

Don't you know how lucky you are?

Damn right.

The few times my daughter calls me, he says,

"Daddy, I need money."

Trying to sweet-talk me!

And you fall for it.

I've heard more than enough. Both of you, go home!

Here. Last one.

Thank you.

Take your time. It's the perfect season.

Eat some delicious fish.

To be honest, I don't really want to go.

Why?

Well, to get to the grave,

you have to climb a hill like this, Noriko.

You have to bow your head to distant relatives,

and their dialect's incomprehensible.

Even so, you can't make Dad go on his own.

You'd be worried too.

You've suffered as a wife too.

Well, as much as anyone.

Hey...

You're the only ones I can ask this in front of...

but are you...

getting on with Konosuke?

W-Why's that?

Well, Konosuke's becoming more and more like his father.

His hair's thinning as well.

Will mine too?

- It will. - Don't say that!

Is that a bad thing?

What I mean is,

he's inheriting his father's bad points.

I won't have to persevere much longer,

but Fumie, you should get everything off your chest.

You want to, right?

There's a lot I want to say, but...

we'll just end up arguing.

I'm sure he'll get the message if you're honest with him.

I... want a job of my own.

He'll probably be against it.

You've got a job lined up?

Only some vague ideas. What I mean is,

I want to earn money of my own.

We get by with the money Konosuke gives me.

But lately, it feels like a pitiful way to live.

What's pitiful?

Come on.

Anyone can do the work I do.

In this cramped house.

Fumie, that's not true. Right, Noriko?

I'm always impressed by the amazing job you do.

- Oh please. - I am.

You raise two school-age sons,

support your headstrong husband so he can work,

and look after Shuzo and Tomiko.

You even helped Shota, the troublemaker.

I graduated uni thanks to you.

You really were a handful, you know.

Fumie constantly amazes me.

She's always doing something while we talk.

Wiping desks, preparing meals,

ironing, sweeping floors...

This family couldn't survive without your hard work.

You really are amazing.

I couldn't have said it better.

But the way things are today,

the work of housewives like Fumie is, you might say,

unfairly overlooked, and regarded as women's work.

And that's the problem.

That's how Konosuke thinks.

Exactly. I can't stand that about him.

Wow. Konosuke's on trial today.

He'll be sneezing in Hong Kong.

It's trial in absentia.

The shadow of the white sail.

Uh oh, he's back.

I'm home.

Hello.

We dropped by.

Today's a daughter-in-law conference, huh?

Excellent. If badmouthing me

improves daughter-in-law relations,

try me in absentia all you want.

I don't mind you saying "Die already, you old coot."

Dad.

What are you here for?

Let's go.

We'd better.

Thanks for making time.

- Here you go. - Thank you.

Be careful climbing that hill.

I'll fall straight into the grave.

To save you the trouble.

Don't make jokes like that.

Why not?

Okay, good night.

Thanks dear.

See you.

Hi there.

Keep up the good work.

Ah, never mind.

How is it?

I did as you asked...

Let me play.

Hello?

Shota!

Help! We've been robbed!

Come quickly!

Fumie, calm down. You're unharmed?

Yes, he ran off immediately, so I'm fine.

I was terrified! I'm all alone. Can you come?

Not right away.

I'm working.

Call the police for now. Dial 110.

Right, 110.

- You'll come later? - I'll call later.

Sorry.

How is it?

It sounds a lot better. Well done.

Thank you.

Got the footprint?

Yes sir.

So basically, what was stolen

was 10,000-plus yen, and a wristwatch.

You usually wear it?

Yes. It's not an expensive one though.

So, as far as you know, that's all you lost?

Sir.

He drank this milk.

Ma'am.

What did you say

the thief was doing when you found him?

The gentleman drank some milk.

No need to be so polite, ma'am.

Okay, the "gentleman". Then,

when the thief saw you, he put the milk back,

slammed the door, and ran out.

No. Before that...

He did something else?

He reached into the refrigerator drawer...

And did what?

- Took it. - What?

Well...

Money in a ziplock bag.

What money was that?

It's hard for me to say...

Well...

I...

saved it without telling my husband.

Oh. So it was your nest egg.

Yes. To put it simply.

Simply or not, a nest egg's a nest egg.

Ma'am, don't be ashamed. It's common practice.

Every wife out there

has a nest egg stowed away.

Hey, you've got a nest egg too, don't you?

I don't get paid enough.

Like hell you don't!

Does your wife maintain one too?

I wouldn't say "maintain",

but I bet she's hiding one.

I might know where, but I dare not look.

Call it a husband's courtesy. Have a seat.

Take this back.

Get a photo too.

Fumie...

You were robbed?! You poor thing!

This is the inspector.

Oh, I'm not anybody suspicious!

My wife is this woman's brother. I mean,

her husband's sister, so I'm her older brother-in-law.

Not older brother, younger brother.

I'm older though...

Relax. You're not a suspect.

Thank you.

Fumie, according to Shigeko,

Dad's bankbook and deed to the house

should be under his bed, so if they're gone...

Don't worry. The thief didn't go into the bedroom.

He didn't? Thank heavens!

Fumie, you saw the thief?

I looked him in the eyes.

Wow!

What was he wearing? A mask, I bet.

Black-rimmed specs?

Specs...

No thief dresses like that.

Veteran thieves prefer inconspicuous disguises.

Like an ordinary office worker's outfit.

Of course. That makes sense.

Thieves only wear masks in rakugo.

You're a funny guy.

Thank you!

I was in a rakugo club at university. Rakugo Lab.

Oh yeah. I'd better call Shigeko.

It's okay. Keep the change.

Thank you very much.

I'm home.

Hello.

Oh, you're here? Long time no see.

You were in Hong Kong?

Busy as always, huh?

Handling complaints. The thing I hate most.

Honey, it turned out to be their fault.

Problem solved.

Boy, was I relieved.

I drank like a dying man with my Chinese client.

That's great.

I'm tired.

The kids?

Cram school.

Got this at the airport.

Those VR goggles Shinsuke wanted, plus...

For you. A scarf.

Water!

Hey you two. Why the long faces?

Something happen?

Actually, Konosuke...

Hey. Did you fight with Taizo again?

Quit bringing your squabbles into this house.

Right, honey?

That's not it.

What then?

A thief broke in. Into this house.

What?

He didn't take much.

He didn't get into our room or your parents'.

Your bankbook's safe too.

Were you out, honey?

I was home.

As I was cleaning your parents' room,

I felt tired and took a break, but I drifted off to sleep.

That's when he got in.

I'm sorry.

I know it was my fault.

I left the back door unlocked, and fell asleep.

But nothing much of value was taken.

But something was taken?

The money in that drawer.

About 12,000 or 13,000 yen.

And... my wristwatch.

The one my aunt in Meguro gave me.

That's all?

Shouldn't you mention the fridge?

What about the fridge?

The bottom drawer of the fridge...

I kept money in there.

I mean, it was money I'd saved.

For a rainy day.

You were able to save? How much?

The amount doesn't matter. What's gone is gone.

It does matter.

How much was it?

I'm not exactly sure,

but about 400,000 yen. Maybe a little more.

Your nest egg was next to my breakfast?

Little did I know that

I was so close to so much cash.

If so, why did you ask me that morning for more money?

I'm sorry.

Listen, Konosuke.

It's not out of the ordinary

for a housewife to save that over 10 or 20 years.

If you collapsed on a business trip,

she'd need that money to go see you.

You've got a nest egg too?

You bet I have.

Taizo's too cunning not to know.

Every wife has one.

All I wanted was to come home and enjoy a beer.

So much for that!

You totally wrecked my mood!

Don't talk like that.

Fumie had a traumatic experience.

You could at least say "Poor you."

You're so spineless.

You've got a nasty mouth on you. What a nerve!

Sticking your nose in where it's not wanted!

"Where it's not wanted"?

How dare you.

I was so worried, I ditched work to come!

Shigeko, please. Don't get angry.

Enough. Go home!

I will go home! And never come back!

What an insult!

I'm so sorry. I appreciate you coming...

I'm sorry he's like that!

Have a bath.

I'll make dinner.

Please, don't be angry.

What were you... doing upstairs, huh?

While we were being robbed.

Like I told you,

I fell asleep on your father's chair.

I know I was careless.

I'm sorry.

While I was sweating,

and arguing in English with my Chinese client,

you were napping? I wish I had your job.

Don't be like that!

I apologized several times! And we didn't lose much.

400,000 yen isn't much?!

I scrimped and saved to build that nest egg!

It's unfortunate, but it's my loss.

So you should forget about it. Okay?

Please.

I can't do that.

It was me who earned that money.

Your nest egg was skimmed from my salary.

Everybody does it, huh?

Shigeko's got some nerve. That know-it-all.

Try being the breadwinner for a change.

Bath!

I'm home.

Mom, I'm hungry.

Hey, Dad brought us stuff from Hong Kong!

Awesome! My VR goggles! He's home!

Dad's having a bath?

Dad, can I open it?

Yeah, sure.

Awesome! Thanks!

- Give it to me! - No way!

- My turn first. - I asked for it!

Go wash your hands.

You go wash yours.

- No. Give it. - Me first.

Wait a minute!

Say, when you die, will you go into this grave?

"Hirata family grave."

Damn right I will!

I don't know who'll be first,

but will I go in too?

You bet you will!

I... don't want to.

Why not?

I know it's your ancestors' grave,

but I don't know any of them.

When I die, I want to be free.

You what? You're not free now?

No.

You want to be free from me too, don't you?

Don't talk garbage.

Then... what'll happen to your bones?

Actually, two of my friends from the culture center

are interested in buying a grave with me

and going into it together.

Would that be a problem? I'll be dead anyway.

You never told me before...

Oh, they're here. Think about it, okay?

Hey, Yukio. It's been a while.

Hello.

Thanks for coming, mister priest.

Oh, thank you.

Yukio, have some.

Oh, thanks.

- How's your wife? - Good, thanks.

Hey Taizo, I'm in shock.

She doesn't want to go in the grave with me.

She's gonna buy a grave with her gal pals.

What a bombshell.

Tell Shigeko for me.

What are you so gloomy about?

Actually,

something terrible happened, at your home.

What happened?

I can't tell you while I'm driving.

I'll tell you at home.

What happened? Give us a hint.

This is no time for a quiz.

Come in.

You must be tired.

I'll make tea.

Never mind that!

What the heck happened? Huh?

Why isn't Fumie here?

I think it'd be best for you to hear it

from your daughter Shigeko...

Just hurry up and spit it out!

Alright, I'll tell you!

It's so hard for me to say...

What happened?!

Listen!

Your daughter-in-law Fumie has disappeared!

To where?

Don't know. She disappeared.

If I knew, I wouldn't say "disappeared"!

Honey... Did you hear that?

I knew...

I knew this would happen someday!

Oh no! This is awful!

Dinner's ready.

Ow!

Hello!

Noriko's here.

Oh dear. You asked her to come?

Sorry I'm late.

- You must be tired. - I'm fine.

Taizo, get her a beer. Can't do this sober.

You're right.

Noodles? Looks good.

Have some.

Thank you! I'm starving.

Here you go.

Thank you.

Dig in.

Bless this food!

Delicious!

I'm glad.

Hey Konosuke.

Everybody here's worried.

Say something, dammit.

What happened between you two while I was away?

Nothing happened.

Yes it did! Something bad.

Have you heard? About the break-in.

Yeah, Taizo told me.

It was no big deal, right?

Are you kidding me?

How is losing 400,000-odd yen no big deal?

You lost that much?

It was Fumie's nest egg, hidden in the fridge.

Come on, Konosuke.

Does that money mean that much to you?

That's why you two fought.

Every housewife keeps a nest egg.

Even I keep one.

Keep your mouth shut.

How much is it?

Of what? Thousands? Tens of thousands?

Not 3,000 yen! It isn't some kid's pocket money.

Idiot.

Cut the chatter.

What's important now is finding Fumie.

Indeed.

Hey. Kenichi, Shinsuke.

Don't you know where Mom is?

I don't.

Maybe she's staying with her brother in Osaka.

Why not call?

Are you crazy?

"Is my wife Fumie staying with you?"

I couldn't ask something so embarrassing.

You should tell him.

Um, Konosuke...

Actually, I know.

Know what?

Where Fumie is.

How did you find out?

She called me earlier.

"I'll only tell you, so don't tell the others."

But she can't keep it from you forever.

Where is she?

Her family home in Motai.

When her parents were alive,

you all went there, she said.

It's empty now, but that's where she is.

Thank goodness. At least we know where she is now, right?

So she's not missing anymore.

That's a relief, isn't it Konosuke? Right?

Why should I be relieved?

It's irrational. She told the wrong person!

I understand her not telling me,

but why not tell Mom, or Shota, or Shigeko?

Noriko's an outsider!

Noriko's not an outsider! She's my wife!

Fumie was an "outsider" once too.

I was an outsider too.

Right now, you sounded just like Dad.

You sure did.

Why suddenly drag me into it?

I understand why Fumie only wanted to tell Noriko.

I understand very well.

I married into this family too.

Tomiko used to be an "outsider" as well.

We need to find out what happened between them,

and how to fix it, isn't that right?

Hey. Go apologize.

Why should I?

Just go. It doesn't matter why. Grovel and apologize.

"Forgive me! I am indubitably to blame!"

Why should I apologize? What did I do wrong?

In a manner of speaking, I'm a victim!

A victim!

Ow!

Konosuke.

This isn't about victims and wrongdoers.

It's about your marriage.

I bet you said something awful.

You must have for her to leave like that.

Butt out of our business. Like I told you.

Why should I? Why shouldn't I worry about you?

Hear, hear!

Shut up, you in-law!

Konosuke, how could you say that?!

Time out.

Hey. Don't talk like you're king of the hill.

You're wife repellent!

Ah! You've done it now!

You've... You've got some nerve,

insulting your son.

I can't take anymore. Everybody, go home!

- Calm down! - Shut up!

- Konosuke! - Don't do this!

Stop it!

Get off me!

Come on, Konosuke. Don't be so angry.

We're all here because we're worried.

Come on!

Butt out, I said.

You're going?!

For a drink!

I'm sick of the lot of you!

Come on!

Konosuke!

Mom, what about tomorrow morning?

The boys' breakfast...

Should I make some rice balls?

No dear, you leave that to me.

I've taken it easy, but I'll take over now.

What a wonderful grandma! Right, Ken?

Forget it! Who needs Mom anyway?

Go talk to him.

Tricky situation, huh?

What about you?

You love Noriko, right?

That's why you married her?

Well, yeah, of course...

I wonder if Dad... really loves Mom?

Did he ever love her?

Here, your favorite milk tea.

Kenichi asked me

if Konosuke and Fumie ever loved each other.

Shota, have you heard? About how they met?

No.

Fumie told me the story.

They rode the Chuo Line, when they were single.

One day, Fumie took the train despite feeling ill.

She was holding a strap,

when she started to feel queasy.

But it was an express. It hardly stopped.

As she fretted about what to do,

a man sitting in front of her

offered his seat, and let her sit down.

That was Konosuke? Wow.

When parting at Tokyo Station,

he said "Take care of yourself,"

and she never forgot it.

She wished she could see him again,

and a month later, she did, on the platform.

When she thanked him for the other day,

he asked if she was feeling better.

He grinned, lashing his white teeth.

He had such a handsome smile.

And that's how they fell in love.

Wow. Who'd have thought they had such a romance?

Ken, you don't have to worry.

But...

what about now?

Does Mom love Dad?

If not, I guess they have to break up.

Married couples have to love each other, right?

That's what marriage is!

Hey honey.

Get up and make breakfast.

Hey, what's wrong?

It's started again.

My bad back. What'll I do now?!

Can't you do anything?

I can't. I can't move at all.

Darling, please.

Make breakfast for everyone.

You want me to?!

Konosuke's favorite big bean natto

is in the second drawer in the fridge...

What are you lot doing?

Eating breakfast.

That's breakfast?

It's not great, but it'll do.

Right, Ken?

Want some?

I'm not a monkey in the zoo.

That's so mean.

Hey. Can you take a few bananas for lunch?

No I can't! Everybody would laugh at me.

Then, what'll we do?

I'll buy bread at the school store again.

So give me money.

I'll eat out tonight before cram school.

I'll eat out tonight before cram school.

No point coming home if Mom's not here.

Here.

Split it between you. Tell me when you need more.

Wow! 10,000 yen.

Bye.

Bye.

Dad.

Their uniforms are all muddy.

Ask Mom. Sorry, but they need washing.

Listen, your mother...

Ah, never mind. I'll take care of it.

What about your lunch?

Don't worry about that.

Go to work already.

I see stubble.

It's okay. I'll shave at work.

Set it to "Wash,".

"Speed Wash,"

and "Start!"

Hey! Hirata!

Hey Kakuta! You're here?

Where are you?

Here!

You're washing clothes?

Tough break!

Where's your wife?

How is she?

Not so great.

Can't you give her an injection and fix her up?

That wouldn't work. Rest's the only cure.

Wasn't it the same last time?

I was bedridden for about a week.

It'll take that long.

Sorry, darling.

This is your day off, right?

Yeah.

Help me do washing and cleaning.

Sure.

Okay!

What the heck? You didn't spin-dry these.

What's "spin-dry"?

Washing machines now spin-dry automatically after washing.

You didn't press the button.

Your brute strength is good enough. No slacking.

What now? I'm busy.

It's probably some grave or apartment salesman.

Buy a grave!

Come on in, it's open.

Hello!

I'm from Housekeepers Inc.

Huh? W-Why are you here?

Dr. Kakuta called me.

He asked me to come and help you.

Is that so? How kind of you! Er...

The doctor is in.

Oh really? May I come in?

Come in, come in!

It's a shabby dump though...

Doctor!

Oh dear.

Kayo, had your breast cancer exam?

I'll take a look.

No thank you.

Move the furniture before you clean.

Come on, move that sofa.

Hey, miss housekeeper!

Out of the way, I'll do it. You clean the entrance.

- You okay?! - I'm okay.

Be careful!

Is someone here? I heard a woman's voice.

A lady came from Housekeepers Inc.

She's wonderful.

Really? That's good.

Just relax and get some rest.

Good job.

Terrific!

Beer tastes best after work.

Appreciate your wife now?

A day of this is enough for me.

Me too.

It's not over yet. Lots to do.

Cleaning upstairs,

weeding, and shopping for dinner.

She's done all this work, day after day.

My wife too.

You realized that too late.

She's put up with a lot, for decades.

She has. I wouldn't last a year.

Six months will do, so come live with me.

Silly!

I'm home.

Hey there!

Oh, this is my grandson.

Er, this lady's our housekeeper.

Hello.

Perfect timing. Take this tea to your grandma.

Could you bring her dishes down?

Sure.

Good kid.

I'm not a kid.

Hi Grandma.

Hello dear. You brought me tea?

Thanks.

Still sore?

I'm sorry this happened at such a difficult time.

You must be lonely without your mom.

It's my fault.

I should have noticed earlier and given her advice.

I shouldn't have been writing a silly novel.

Hey...

Will Mom and Dad break up?

Of course they won't.

I'm sure they'll patch things up.

If Dad and Mom break up,

I'll go with Mom.

Don't say that!

Don't say that to your father!

Poor Konosuke...

My poor son...

Hello!

Yes!

Oh, Auntie!

You're here, Fumie!

My husband saw the lights on last night.

I wondered who it could be.

It's been so long.

How have you been?

I'm done for.

I'm so weak on my feet these days.

These are from our garden. They're tasty, but ugly.

Thank you!

Are your children well?

They used to come here every year,

when Granddad and Grandma were alive.

We all went fishing together.

Kids don't travel with their parents when they're older.

Every family's the same.

True.

Is your husband well? Konosuke.

Yes, fortunately.

He's done so well, with all those staff under him.

Isn't he with you this time?

No. I came by myself.

The place needed airing out, and I wanted to see you.

I understand. When a house isn't lived in,

it falls apart quickly.

Remember Mr. Arima? Our junior high principal.

His house was torn down, and now it's an empty lot.

That grand old house?

I hate how lonely it is around here now.

What'll become of this town?

I'd better pick up my grandkids. Lovely to see you.

You'll be here for a while?

Come over tonight.

Mom, don't be angry.

Hey! Look who's here!

How is Kyoko doing?

She's doing fine!

Hey honey! Your friend's here!

Who?

Get out here!

Oh! Fumi!

Hi there!

Why'd you skip the reunion last year? I missed you!

Sorry about that.

- Aren't you busy? - Not at all.

I'm so happy to see you!

You got even bigger.

I don't want to hear that!

- Had lunch? - Not yet.

Good, let's eat together. Come on!

Thanks a bunch.

Oh, don't forget to turn off the stove.

Don't worry. I'm not that senile yet.

Kayo, you go straight home, you hear?

I won't let her go.

We're heading to a hot spring.

Idiot!

You must be tired. Has the housekeeper gone?

Yeah, she's gone.

About the boys' dinner...

Oh, she prepared that already.

Just got to turn on the rice cooker.

Sorry to make you do so much, dear.

I can hold the fort in a pinch. Leave it to me.

Boy am I pooped...

Say...

I really want to go and see her.

See who?

Isn't it obvious? Fumie, of course.

I think she'll be able to tell me how she feels...

but the way I am now...

It's frustrating.

The Kirishima flower and Kokubu cigarette are burning...

Oh no. A fire!

This is bad!

Mr. Hirata!

Mr. Hirata! Fire!

Mister!

Hello, Kanai Tax Office.

A fire?

Er, this isn't the fire station. Call 119...

Shuzo?

Your house is on fire?!

Shuzo! Please talk calmly!

It's on fire right now?!

You're calling from a fire?!

Isn't it hot?! Get out of there!

It isn't? It isn't...

It's out already?

What's... the damage?

Only the pot and ladle got a little charred?

Thank goodness! That's no big deal.

What a shock.

So, they didn't need a fire engine?

Lucky it wasn't worse.

I hate to think what'll be next.

Huh? You want me to check on them?

No, I can't.

We're looking for Noriko's grandma in Shibamata.

She found the key and went out.

Maybe to Daikyoji Temple.

Noriko's mom suggested it, so I'm here with Noriko.

It's getting dark. We're worried sick.

Huh? Hold on.

It's Grandma! There! Talking to a priest.

Oh! We've found her. I'll call you later.

Grandma! You were here?

Don't leave home without telling anyone.

Father...

I'm sorry. I'm her granddaughter, Noriko.

- Thank you so much. - Thank you.

Grandma, let's go home.

No...

Mom's worried about you.

It's Shota. We found Grandma.

Yes, at Daikyoji Temple.

We're in a taxi. Where are you now?

The station? Please go straight home.

You're lucky, Grandma. That priest was so nice.

Call him "Father".

We don't call Buddhist priests "Father".

Call him "Father"!

She's Catholic, so she thinks he is too.

Ah, whatever. It's all the same.

Darling...

Darling!

What is it, dear?

Where are we going?

We're going home.

Oh.

Sorry about this.

She's lucky, your grandma.

To have such caring grandkids.

Mine sure ain't!

Stupid me.

Look, it's the moon.

The full moon on the fifteenth night

is what I see when I'm leaping.

What's wrong?

Your carp soup.

I've still got work.

Fumie, take it easy.

Thank you.

- Let's go see Mommy. - Go to Mommy. Good boy.

If you need more sake, we've got enough to sell.

Go on. Knock it back!

It's lovely!

Hometown sake tastes best.

Tomoko, did Fumie tell you?

About her fight?

Yeah.

They only realize when you're gone,

how important you are to them.

I bet he's regretting it now.

Let him stew, then go home.

She doesn't have to.

Why not?

Break up with him.

Maybe I will.

Don't joke around like that.

She should come and work here.

Tomoko, you always complain about how lonely it is here.

If this beauty returns,

10 or 20 men will swarm here in no time.

Not now. I'm past my use-by date.

Don't be silly. You're still fresh.

Put on some makeup, and every man will fall for you.

I could even open up a bar. "Fumie's Bar"!

I'll sing, and you'll dance flamenco. They'll go wild!

You're energetic for your age!

Try raising three boys like sumo wrestlers.

They eat 1.5 kg of rice a day.

1.5kg?!

Munching like horses.

Gorging their bellies, not their brains.

Just like you.

We're home!

- I'm starving! - I'm dying.

Hey, Three Stooges!

This is my friend Fumie.

Say hi to a former Miss Motai.

Don't tell them...

Come on!

- Hello! - Hello!

- What's Miss Motai? - The prettiest girl.

They'll eat us into bankruptcy.

Okay, it's feeding time.

What's wrong?

I miss them all of a sudden.

My sons...

I feel so sorry for them...

What? I'm working.

It's the fire, right?

It was no big deal.

Did you say something harsh to Dad? He's miserable.

He nearly burned the house down.

The real cause was your marital problems.

What? That's why you're here?

Listen, butt out of our business.

You're on her side anyway.

- You always are. - That's not the point.

Why are you like that?

Enough. Just butt out!

Come on, Konosuke.

If you think about it, you and me

never really talk much, ever since we were kids.

Maybe that's normal,

but we have to talk now.

You've got a serious problem.

And it affects our family's happiness.

Just bite your tongue and listen.

What are you going to do, about Fumie?

She left without telling me.

It's up to that woman.

"That woman"?

How can you be so coldhearted?

I think that as long as you do nothing,

Fumie won't come back.

Then that's too bad.

Two coffees.

Yes sir.

Ever considered the worst case scenario?

She could sue you for divorce. Alimony.

Custody of Kenichi and Shinsuke.

That's what might happen. Are you okay with that?

Konosuke.

I'm saying this for your sake!

What do you want me to do?

Yesterday, I spoke with Fumie over the phone.

You called? Or that woman did?

I called her.

Why be so meddlesome?!

- I know, but... - Then don't be!

I'm sorry. Really, I am.

Listen.

I asked her what happened between you two that night,

after your house was broken into.

You're the one to blame.

I'm the one? How dare you say that to me! Why am I...

Your coffees, sir.

Let me finish, please.

You told Fumie that her nest egg

was made up of money you earned.

"You napped while. I sweated.

I wish I had your job."

You said that to her?

It's the truth.

She doesn't know how hard I worked while she napped.

Or how tough it is to work in sales.

You don't know either.

I know you work hard.

So you think the money your hard work earns

is what takes care of your family?

Yeah. You bet it does.

You're wrong. It's not money.

You leave the household budget,

childrearing, and housework to Fumie,

so you can work as hard as you do.

You share the load, so to speak.

Fumie has raised your two sons,

and done all the housework, for 20 years.

Ever considered how hard that is,

and what it's worth?

You're telling me to apologize?

No I'm not.

- "I was wrong. Sorry." - More than that.

The problem's your mindset and lack of empathy.

- Enough. - You know I'm right!

In other words, you're on Fumie's side again. Right?

When you were newlyweds,

Fumie was so radiantly beautiful...

I thought, "Man, I want her to be happy.

She has to be."

I was in high school then,

but I still feel that way.

What's wrong with that?!

I'll think about it.

Konosuke!

Go right now.

Where?

To see Fumie!

Don't be stupid! I'm on work time!

This is a once-in-a-lifetime crisis.

You can easily make up an excuse!

Like, your wife collapsed,

and was carried to hospital.

Anybody would say "Go right away!"

Wouldn't they? Do it. I'm begging you!

Who is it?

Could it be... the thief again?!

Oh, it's only you.

I'm going to Motai.

To do what?

What else?

To go get Fumie.

Going to get his runaway wife?

It'll never work.

It's like a suicide mission.

She won't come back.

Hello, Tomoko?

What?

Oh, that's so kind of you.

Yes, it's a disaster here.

Leaking everywhere.

Buildings need attention too.

Is your place okay?

I've got a visitor. Let's talk later.

You startled me.

You could've called to say you were coming.

You wouldn't pick up.

How did you get here? Train?

Car. I'm exhausted after driving for two hours.

Well, come in.

You're alone?

Of course I am.

Have you eaten?

No.

I'll make you something.

What about... work?

I put on a show. Said my wife's in hospital.

What if they find out?

I'll deal with it.

What's that?

A present from Hong Kong.

Oh. The one from before.

I totally forgot.

Can I open it?

You chose it?

More or less.

Roses...

Fumie...

What?

To me, you're...

everything!

I can't live without you!

That was scary!

It won't stop raining.

Is it global warming?

I'm home.

I'm home.

What's up?

We're here because we're worried about you.

Where's Dad?

Gone to get your mom.

She's coming home?

I can't answer that. It's up to your dad.

Oh...

Grandma, I'm hungry.

I'm gonna faint.

Shigeko, what about dinner?

Oh no. I completely forgot.

Mom, what'll we do?

Sorry. I should've realized.

I'm useless. I mean, I don't even feel like eating.

I'm not blaming you, Mom.

What now?

It's too late to cook, so how about delivery food?

Good idea.

Dad, is eel on rice okay?

The guy from Unashige helped when you had that fire.

Just order. Eel, sushi, whatever.

Yay!

Taizo, you call. Deluxes all around.

Deluxes? We'll need a lot.

We need the tastiest on a day like this.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5

The boys too.

They'll eat eel too? Spoiled brats.

Oh, what the heck? 6, 7.

Noriko's coming soon.

8. Taizo, 8 deluxes.

Shigeko, Konosuke and Fumie might come back.

Will she really come back with him?

She will. I know it.

10 deluxes?

Shuzo, are you sure?

It'll cost a fortune.

Do I have to pay for the lot?

Of course you do.

H-How much?

You said to order whatever! Cheapskate.

Who's a cheapskate?!

Shigeko, your father said eel or sushi or whatever,

but he didn't say deluxes.

Way to go, Taizo.

So let's get regulars, not deluxes.

It'll cost half.

Stop all this pathetic haggling. It's on me!

Taizo, order 10 deluxes.

Are you sure?

I'm sure!

Yes ma'am!

Why are men so cheap?

But you're rich, aren't you Mom?

Your nest egg is that big?

Dad, don't you know?

Remember Mom's brother Kaoru, the novelist?

He passed on, but his books still sell.

So all his royalties go to Mom's account.

Every month!

You've... got your own bank account?

I sure do.

So, your bankbook... is hidden away somewhere?

No, I don't have any such thing.

But you've got an account.

You're so outdated. This is how people save now.

Fingerprint ID.

I press my finger up against this,

and it's done.

You looked!

She's rolling in it.

Good evening!

Sorry I'm late.

All this way in the rain...

Where are the boys?

Oh, upstairs.

Ken, Shin! I brought something for you!

I'm so sorry,

for involving you in this when you're busy nursing.

What is it?

Have a guess.

- Cakes from Voila? - Bingo.

Awesome! Thanks.

Aren't you lucky?

Konosuke isn't back?

He would've arrived in Motai after 5 p.m., 3.5 hours ago.

If all went well, he should be home soon.

With Fumie, you mean?

Of course.

What do you think, Shota?

Will Fumie come back?

We want her to come back,

but in the end, it's Fumie's life.

Who knows how she feels?

Fumie said in a text that she misses her boys,

and she's sorry, because it's not their fault at all.

You miss her too, right?

Divorcees see their kids.

You decide on one or two days a week to meet...

Don't say that now!

Oh, it's Konosuke.

He's left the expressway. He'll be 10 or 20 minutes.

Is Fumie with him?

Don't know. He didn't say.

But... if she is,

wouldn't he say so?

He didn't say so,

so does that mean he's coming home alone?

What'll we do if that's the case, Dad?

Listen up everybody.

Without Fumie, this house

will pretty much fall apart.

I'm well aware of that now.

However, she knew that too,

and yet she still walked out on us.

Their marital problems won't be solved so easily.

As Konosuke's father,

the fact I have to say this saddens me greatly, but...

Listen up! I predict

that bungler won't win over Fumie.

More likely, they'll have a big fight,

and he'll come home, forlorn and alone.

Sorry to say this,

but I know, in all probability, I'm right.

Therefore, from now on, how are we going to get by?

That's what we need to talk about.

Everybody's here, so there's no better time.

Shota. You two live in a cramped apartment.

Why not take this chance to move into this big house?

You're saying that Noriko should take over from Fumie?

Right.

She can't do that! No way.

Hold on. If it comes to that...

Tomiko and I will go it alone.

How exactly?

We'll sell up and move to an old folks' home.

Have you ever looked into how much old folks' homes cost?

No, never.

How about this then?

Sell this house, and buy a modest apartment.

Use the remainder to move to an old folks' home.

You'd make Konosuke and his boys fend for themselves?

Kenichi and Shinsuke aren't kids anymore.

They could cook, and wash clothes.

They could handle that.

On Sundays, they could clean the place,

go grocery shopping, wash their underwear...

Maybe they couldn't.

They sure couldn't.

Granddad, we can do it if we try.

Like hell you can. You've been spoilt rotten.

Fumie waited on you hand and foot.

Don't talk like that. Kenichi wants to help out.

Why do you belittle your kids and grandkids?

Before you criticize them, take a look in the mirror.

Why the heck should I?

Don't change the subject!

Hey. Stop your infighting.

If need be, I'll work hard to replace Fumie.

You? Pull the other one.

Your back and knees would give out.

A fat lot of use you'd be.

Why do you have to be so mean?

That's why I don't want to go in the same grave as you!

What's she talking about?

Shut up.

You always say "Shut up" to avoid taking the blame.

The rain's stopped.

Konosuke's here! He's parking his car!

Oh boy.

- Ow! - Sorry.

Where are you going?!

To see him.

Wait! Like I said, Fumie won't be with him.

He'll be utterly heartbroken.

He needs a warm welcome.

Well said, for once.

- What do we do? - Sit down.

Sit down quietly...

Sit down quietly and chat.

When we see him, say "Hey there! You hungry?"

"We ordered eel. Want some?"

Listen up. Don't you dare ask

insensitive questions like "Where's Fumie?"

Of course.

Don't even mention "marriage" or "divorce."

Be tactful!

How do we do that?!

Act naturally.

Like we're at peace.

It's so peaceful...

Hello!

Hi Dad.

Hey.

What's this? You're all here?

I'm exhausted.

Must be getting old.

Hey.

Where's Fumie? She's not coming home?

Don't say that!

Dad, I've worried you...

Forget it! Too bad. It's over.

Think of what's next. The future!

- No... - It's over. It's over!

The future!

"Dad, listen to what Konosuke has to say."

Well? What happened with Fumie?

You couldn't talk her around?!

It's okay. I didn't come home alone.

Who came?

Fumie, of course.

Mom!

It's Fumie!

Everyone, I'm sorry.

Don't apologize, Fumie!

Yes. You've done nothing wrong.

It wasn't your fault. Think of the future!

Then... what should I say?

You're the woman of this house.

Say "I'm home".

Right, Ken?

I'm home.

Welcome home!

So tomorrow,

you'll be here, as always?

If you don't mind.

Of course we don't mind!

I heard how much

you all helped while I was gone.

Konosuke told me.

Thank you so much.

If anyone should say thanks, it's Konosuke.

Honey, say something.

Well, that's that.

"That's that?" What's "that", Konosuke?

You know, Noriko. The other day, as I left,

I said I was sick of this family, to Shigeko.

You sure did.

I take it back.

Now, thanks to all of you, we're...

For a while, I was prepared for the worst.

But then I totally lost my nerve.

I didn't know what to do.

Shota.

I don't want to thank you...

but...

"Enough, enough. That's enough."

Hi! Thanks for waiting.

Deluxe eel for 10!

Great timing!

About time!

Kenichi, eel's here.

Awesome!

I'm so hungry, I could die.

Hey buddy, thanks to you, we still have a house.

I did what anyone would.

Good man! This calls for a toast!

Oh wow!

Fair weather follows rain.

Granddad, let's eat.

Deluxes. Grandma's treat.

Honey, let's eat together.

Wow. The moon's so beautiful.

It sure is.

Oh, majestic moon...

For millions and billions of years,

you've watched over our planet.

Our daily lives

must seem so trivial to you,

like fleeting moments in time.

Even Grandma's 80 years

are like a snap of the fingers to you.

Did something happen?

Mom called me before.

Grandma's gone again?!

No. Remember that intensive-care nursing home?

They can finally take her.

It's in Koiwa, so it's close to us.

From tomorrow.

That's great. Your Mom must be relieved.

Even so, I don't know if Grandma will go along with it.

She'll be shut in her room, unable to go for walks.

I feel sorry for her.

But as things are, your mom and grandma will both keel over.

We have to do it.

Yeah, we have to think like that.

So, your grandma's and Fumie's disappearance

have both been solved, so we should be happy.

What's wrong?

There's one more problem.

What's that?

I'm going to hospital tomorrow.

Of course you are. You work there every day.

A different hospital.

Are you ill?

Is it something serious?!

If you're not ill, why go?

Why? What could it...

Wait... Are you...

Directed by Yoji Yamada

Subtitles by maskmahe