Original subtitles

The Story of the Last Chrysanthemums

Directed by Kenji Mizoguchi

I hold a grudge against you.

You were born as a human.

The time has come to take revenge on you.

I am vengeful.

Now is the time.

Take this.

Master, give him medicine.

If it is thrown into the river,

it will become prey to the kite and the crow,

and pass from this earth.

Go to heaven.

That was terrible.

You'll never be any good.

It's so bad it's almost refreshing. You guys hear me?

That was bad.

You drew the curtain too soon.

What a disaster.

There isn't a competent one in the lot.

Matsu.

Kikunosuke's no good.

He's bad to the bone.

But he's still young.

Now, now, Terajima.

If everyone became masters overnight, like you,

no one would ever have to work hard.

At this rate, he won't be accepted by society as my successor.

Hey, call Kiku.

The young master is... - Bring Kikunosuke here.

Sir.

They say since you have had a son,

you are cold to your adopted son, the young master.

It will cause rumours.

From now on, please don't scold him so.

Today is the 210th day?

Rough going.

Really bad.

The young master's acting has always been bad, but...

...he was especially bad today.

Gave me the chills.

Father.

What is it?

Kikunosuke. - Well, well, Terajima. Right.

How was I?

You were very good today.

The master was happy that you were so good. Right?

Young master, you have nothing to worry about. Just study hard.

Yes.

Thank you so much, Father.

What's wrong, Kiku?

How was I today?

Well, I... - We're friends, aren't we?

Don't hold back.

You were very, very good.

Really? - Yes.

I wonder.

Fuku, let's go to Yanagibashi. It's on me tonight.

I'm busy today.

Some other time.

You're going to Teishin today, aren't you?

I saw you before. I know.

Welcome back.

When placed on this scale...

In the meantime...

The grudge hidden in my body...

With that, we'll be as strong as we can be.

To a whimsical bit of work.

Bravo, Kiku.

Thanks, miss.

No matter how many times I see him, Kikugoro remains a true master.

What's wrong with his son, Kikunosuke?

As they say, good father, bad son.

Wherever he goes, all he hears is 'Young master. Young master.'

Nobody ever criticises him. That's why.

He's got it good.

He's got the impressive Kikunosuke name.

Even if he can't act, people make a fuss about him because of his name.

I know it's a clich�, but it must be nice to bask in his father's glory.

What?

Is it the young master?

Welcome, Kikunosuke. When did you get here?

I didn't realise you'd arrived.

Your performance today was a big hit.

No, really, the customers were praising you to the skies.

They said, 'He's so good for his age.'

Madam, I'm going home.

Why?

Eiryu is here now.

She wants to see you so.

Don't you think it's sad to leave her hanging?

See, here she is.

You're late, Eiryu.

I'm sorry. I rushed here without even doing my makeup.

The young master has been sulking because you're late.

Don't blame me.

The gods will leave you, too.

Sorry.

What's wrong?

Are you angry?

It's all right now. Cheer up.

You're annoying.

Goodness, what a greeting.

But then, how could you be happy...

...with a little wallflower like me?

I know that, lately...

...you've been popular with the girls.

Please be quiet.

I can't be quiet.

You know, young master.

I told everyone.

I bragged to everyone about you. So I...

If I can't marry you, I'll be so embarrassed.

My dignity won't let me stay in Yanagibashi.

Not just the town. I won't be able to live anywhere in Tokyo.

I have to spend the rest of my life with you...

...just to preserve your dignity and save you from embarrassment?

Good evening.

Eiryu.

Didn't you say the other day that you'd given up on the young master?

Have you forgotten already?

That's not like someone from Yanagibashi.

Maybe you've lost your mind.

And? - Your mind.

There's also something wrong with you. What did you come so far for?

Isn't it rude to sneak into my room?

You're so devoted.

I've got a question for you.

Why do I need permission...

...to come and see my boyfriend?

My relationship with the young master...

Eiryu.

You are well known in Yanagibashi.

Don't talk big.

Aren't you embarrassed?

If you say you want him,

I'll give him to you any time. I don't mind.

Oh, my.

You're going behind my back.

You think I can let you get away with embarrassing me?

Remember that.

If you want him, try to get him.

You can't bargain for me. Get out.

I'm sorry, Kanako. My condolences.

You're bothering the young master.

Now, young master, let's start drinking again.

Shut up. I told you to get out.

Serves you right.

Welcome home, young master.

Otoku. What are you doing?

The baby won't settle.

I see. It's too hot to sleep. Let me down.

You go home first.

Yes, sir.

The baby gives you a hard time, doesn't he?

No, he's always well-behaved.

Today his stomach is a little upset, so when I fed him, he started crying.

But he's always healthy. Is Father asleep?

He's still awake. He's reading a script.

OK.

What time is it now?

It's already 2:00.

He'll be going to bed soon. Let's cool off here for the time being.

Merchant, I'll take one of your wind chimes.

Which one will it be? - One with a nice sound.

This one is nice. - Yes, sir.

Thank you.

Thank you very much.

Thank you.

How's this? Nice sound, isn't it?

Now cheer up. See? See? See? Right?

I watched your performance today, young master.

Really?

I took the baby home with me to the Iriya house.

Auntie was there.

I'm your brother's wet nurse, you know?

She was saying nasty things about your acting.

It upset me to hear you spoken of that way.

But I hadn't seen your latest play yet.

So I stopped by on the way home and saw you perform.

How was I?

Young master.

Don't let the praise of fans turn your head and make you conceited.

I watched your performance, but...

Was I bad?

Yes.

I was that bad?

I had to agree with Auntie.

I don't care if you get mad, I'll speak very honestly.

Go ahead.

Young master, you are Kikugoro's successor.

You're still young, and sometimes...

It's OK to play with your fans and friends a little,

but I think you should be careful not to neglect your acting.

As your father says, your art is your very life.

Acting. Acting.

Without it, even Kikugoro is no different from anybody else.

Sorry to be so impudent.

Thank you. You're the first person who's ever told me such things.

No, you don't have to say that...

But since I've already been rude, I'll go on.

Please become a great actor, so that your father...

...is satisfied with you as his successor.

Oh, my, I've let the baby get wet with myjabbering.

Young master, if we dawdle, it'll be dawn soon.

Let's go home.

It'll be all right. Please follow me quietly.

I beg you, forgive all the impudent things I just said, young master.

OK.

Otoku, is that you? - Yes.

Thanks for your hard work.

Did he go to sleep? - Yes.

Where's Kikunosuke? Is he not back yet?

He came home very early and is asleep already.

Really? Go to bed now. - Good night.

Hey, Matsu. Didn't you fall in the river at last year's carnival?

You struck a big pose in the middle...

...of the river back then. And when you got up,

the master told you to do it again...

...so he could use the effect in a play.

Auntie, where's Kikunosuke?

He said he doesn't like crowds so he went off somewhere.

How is he nowadays?

What do you think of this, Eiji? He doesn't run around and comes right home.

And he always scoffed at me, his big brother.

Do you know the reason for that, ma'am?

It's the same reason he's not here tonight.

What is it? - Otoku's gone too, right?

She's at home with the baby, because the noise from the fireworks would upset him.

You think so? You're wrong.

Goodness.

Watch what you say. You mean they are together? That's ridiculous.

Shut your mouth.

Young master.

Aren't you going to watch the fireworks?

It's boring. And I don't like all the noise.

Do you want something cold?

There's watermelon.

But we should wait for the others.

How many are there?

Five.

We can have one, then.

Then you want some?

Is it cold?

Yes. They've been chilling since yesterday.

It's big. It must have been heavy.

I'll cut it.

Will you? - It's fine.

Then I'll leave it to you. Excuse me.

It's been well chilled. It's very cold.

Didn't I tell you?

Otoku, lend me a hand here. - Yes.

Hold it for me. It's dangerous. - It's fine.

Ready?

I'm very good, aren't I?

Hold this for me.

All right.

It's OK now, I'll do the rest.

This is a good watermelon.

Where are you going with it?

The cottage.

You can eat here.

No, I can't... - I'm telling you it's fine. Let's eat together.

Put salt on it.

Now eat it and don't be shy.

Come, let's eat it together.

It's delicious. Eat.

I'm taking some.

Listen, Otoku. - Yes.

I have never been as happy as I was the other day.

Because, in public, even if people speak badly about me behind my back,

when they meet me in person...

...theyjust put on a show.

You're the first person to ever speak so honestly to me.

I'm very happy that you are happy.

The geishas and other girls...

...just make a fuss because I'm Kikugoro's son.

They don't care a fig about my art.

If I wasn't Kikugoro's son... nobody would care about me, probably.

I was so lonely until now.

So when you talked to me that night...

...it was really the first time anyone had been honest with me.

I was so happy. That's right.

I felt as if I'd been hiking in the mountains in the heat...

...and I drank cool water from a valley.

I'm just so happy lately. Even if I mess up on stage, you'll always be watching me.

So I can relax and act for you to see.

I'll get better. I know I'll get better. I feel that way now.

What's wrong?

It's nothing. I'm just moved...

...that what I said made you so happy.

I'll work very hard from now on.

And I'll do my best to help you improve.

I'm not very good, but I'll do everything I can to help you.

Thank you, Otoku.

It's so hot today. It's much better to be inside.

Welcome back.

Onaka? - Yes.

What were you doing?

Fixing the collar on his nightgown.

Otoku. Go home tonight.

I'm firing you. Go home.

But why?

You'd best not ask.

No... The baby finally got used to me.

I haven't done anything to warrant being fired without an explanation.

It's because of the young master, isn't it?

In that case, you have nothing to worry about.

I'm innocent.

However...

So why have you been so kind...

...to Kikunosuke?

Is it because...

...he's Kikugoro's successor?

Do you think if things go well, you can become his wife?

Isn't that it?

That's a terrible thing to say, ma'am.

Kikunosuke is an innocent boy,

so stop teasing him.

It's awful that you think that of me.

In that case, I definitely don't want to leave.

So just what do you say is your relationship?

I just want to encourage the young master to become a good actor.

That's all.

That's the only reason I've been kind and talked to him.

How impudent. That's not a maid's job.

He has a fine father, Kikugoro.

And me, although I don't understand acting.

No. The master only thinks about acting.

What I mean is, in addition to the young master's acting,

he needs someone warm, like a wet nurse who gives her breast.

That's myjob. I don't need your concern.

Just feed the baby, you insolent woman.

Spare me such impudent behaviour.

Anyway, you are causing rumours, and that's enough. I insist that you leave.

Here's your hat.

Kikunosuke, are you ready? - Yes.

One minute.

There are many ladies and gentlemen at today's gathering.

There are also many actors. So make sure that your behaviour is...

...worthy of your father's son.

Yes.

Ma'am. Where are the baby's clothes?

In the third dresser drawer. I'll be there in a minute.

Mother.

Where is Otoku?

I fired her.

Why?

You know, don't you?

You seen Kiku?

He just dashed out in a big hurry.

Really? My.

Kiku...

Go right home, and don't dawdle. - OK.

Young man. Where's Otoku? - She's not here.

Is she out? - I don't know.

Where did she go? - She's not at home.

Is that so?

Wait a minute.

Take this. It's all right.

So tell me where she is.

I heard she's at a relative's house.

Where is it? - I don't know.

Is that so?

Hey.

I'll come back tomorrow, so if you find out in the meantime, let me know.

OK. - All right?

I'm leaving it up to you, OK? - All right. Have a good day.

Excuse me.

Yes.

Young lady, might you be the Miss Otoku who's from Iriya?

Yes, but...

I sell tea at the shrine.

The truth is, a customer begged me to come and bring you to meet with him.

What was that person like?

She's over there.

She came? - Yes.

Otoku.

Who told you where I was?

It wasn't easy.

I finally tracked down your house, but I couldn't get in.

But a servant went out on an errand and I caught him.

Kanechiki.

Yes. He had been told to keep quiet,

so he wouldn't talk no matter how much I asked where you were.

So I came to nag him every day.

I finally figured it out yesterday.

Oh, my. You went to such lengths for someone like me?

My first real friend...

...who I could share my heart with was taken from me. I was very lonely.

Young master.

What is it?

I'm very happy that you're so kind to someone like me.

But if we meet each other often from now on, we'll be found out.

That won't be good for you.

It would be best if we stopped meeting each other.

I don't want that.

No. We really mustn't meet.

We've been falsely accused. But if we keep meeting like this, it will come true...

That's a problem.

It's not a problem. Otoku. I want to marry you.

You can't.

That would ruin your future, since you're still young.

And I'm...

...just a poor painter's daughter.

That has nothing to do with us.

You would no longer be able to live at home.

If I can't live there any more, I'll just leave.

Welcome home. - Welcome home.

Kikunosuke. Come here.

Kikunosuke.

Yes.

Father, I'm home.

Come closer.

Kiku.

Who was the woman you met today?

In both acting and comportment,

you are a worthy son of mine.

Both society and my colleagues say I'm fortunate to have such a good son.

That worries me.

I think you might consider my feelings.

We sent Otoku home because... her presence here was doing you no good.

What is your idea, going to meet her secretly?

Do you mean to stay with her even if it means disobeying your father?

If you don't listen to what I say, I have an idea of my own.

Tell me exactly how you feel.

Kikunosuke.

You must not worry your father.

Why do you think people call you...

'Kiku' or 'the young Otoya'? It's all thanks to your father.

You know, Kiku, you're very innocent, so it can't be helped.

But you'll get in big trouble if you think everyone is as honest as you are.

Otoku might have approached you just because you're the heir of this house.

Otoku is not that kind of woman. - No, you don't know.

All women are like that.

That's not true.

Brother, you only ever mix with geishas.

You don't understand the feelings of an unsophisticated woman.

Training has nothing to do with it.

You're wrong. Otoku doesn't think about profit.

She has a true heart.

I don't care about your reasons.

If your father says no, it's no.

Kikunosuke, come here.

Just a minute.

Brother, I'm very determined to be with Otoku.

Your father doesn't wish to be publicly shamed.

The problem is that Otoku was your baby brother's wet nurse.

Otoku has already given up.

But you're keeping it up and causing a fuss.

Mother, I don't know what you and Father think,

but our relationship is pure. - It's nice that your relationship is pure.

It's unfair to Otoku to misinterpret our relationship and chase her away.

Thanks to Otoku, I felt my acting and my life had value.

You ignore that... - Kiku.

What do you think people will say? This summer...

...the Otoya family is in turmoil because...

...you're playing around with the baby's nurse.

They're hurting him with vicious rumours. They say that your father is angry...

...since he can't throw you out, even though he has a son of his own now.

Do you want to hurt him more, Kikunosuke?

Think of your father a little.

Kikunosuke, society is important for actors.

If you're popular, life is good. If not, it's bad.

And you're just starting to become popular. This is a crucial moment.

Brother, I'm tired of popularity.

This is the truth. I'd be happy if I'd earned it myself, but...

I don't want my father's reflected glory.

What an awful thing to say.

Brother. I don't want to be the 6th.

I don't want the name either. I want to do it on my own. I want to try.

You're helpless without Uncle Terajima. - I can do it. I'll show you.

If you're not interested in the position, I have no need of you. Get out.

Come, apologise quickly, please, apologise now.

Father, I beg you. Let me marry Otoku.

Please, Father.

Please.

Shut up.

Kikunosuke. Kikunosuke.

Get back.

Good evening.

Who are you?

Is Otoku there?

Who are you?

My name is Terajima.

Otoku isn't here.

Where did she go?

Young master, they've made it clear.

You cannot meet Otoku.

I refuse.

Idiot. It's your own fault for not locking the door.

Damn it.

Granny. - Yes.

Give this to the people during the day. - I will.

And bring her answer quickly.

Young master.

I've heard a lot of stories.

You spoke a little too harshly to your father.

Matsu.

Well, you had such a big fight.

You don't have to say anything. Come home.

I, Matsusuke, will take care of everything. Please come home.

OK?

If you come back now, even your father will forgive you.

I don't think I can apologise now. And I won't go home.

I see.

Well, then...

Anyway, come to my house.

I'll listen carefully to what you have to say, and we'll...

...decide what to do from there.

Please?

Please come, young master.

OK? Please do that.

If you say you're going, no matter what,

I won't try to stop you any more. Please do your best.

Tamizo is known as a brave man in...

...the Otowaya family, and he's having trouble.

He'll be happy to take you in. But, young master,

he might take you in, but laziness won't get you far with him.

You need this. This.

You understand, don't you?

Let's go.

The train to Nagoya is now boarding.

Kiku.

What's wrong, Kiku? I was so surprised, I came running.

Please don't say anything and just come home. I'm begging you. All right?

It's fine. You don't understand anything.

No matter what the reason is, you mustn't anger Uncle Otowaya like this.

You must consider the Onoe family name.

I've had enough, I don't need it.

I'll apologise for you to Uncle, even if I have to go with my father.

It's too late. Well, you'll see.

I'm on my own now.

I'll return successful.

What's wrong?

Is it Otoku?

Matsu, Otoku isn't being held back by the family, is she?

No.

That's family for you.

So you won't reconsider, no matter what?

Please don't stop him any more.

Sorry I've worried you.

Take good care of your health, Kiku.

Thank you. Goodbye.

Goodbye.

Take care of yourself.

Goodbye.

Goodbye. - Take care.

One Year Later

Where are my sandals?

I don't know.

What are you looking for? Watch what you're doing.

I'm sorry, I had sandals.

Sandals?

Excuse me.

What's the problem?

Yes, well... The boss is a bit hesitant.

You say you have a good role, but...

Couldn't you change the next role?

Tamizo is on his side. Stop complaining and let him play it.

It's fine. - But...

Yes. - Let him play it.

What is it? - Nothing.

Uncle.

How do you feel?

Very well, very well, thank you.

I've died and come back to life.

I'm different from your ordinary survivor.

Seiji, is it all right now?

Uncle.

I apologise.

I'm still not getting better at acting.

Is it all right for me to remain here as a burden to you?

What are you saying?

That's not for you to worry about.

Actors need a place to train.

An actor who's praised too much when young will never turn out good.

Even old Naritaya was a ham in his youth.

Just stay aboard and keep paddling.

Thank you, sir.

Tamizo's on your side.

Yes.

I'm sorry.

Yoko, it looks like rain, so I brought this.

Thank you.

What's wrong, Kyoko?

Tami, I'm just no good.

You stand up for me in the shadows, and now Uncle just made...

...a request on my behalf. But...

Maybe I should just go off somewhere, go on the road or something.

On the road? But where would you go?

I'm not getting anywhere here...

...so maybe I'll to go off and study with a touring group.

Or maybe...

Otsuru, I'll study under your father...

...and become a masseur.

Tami.

It's easy to waste your youth...

...but an actor needs to remember to always keep working hard.

Otsuru, I'm going ahead.

Goodbye.

I'm off.

Welcome back. - Welcome back.

Young master.

Everyone tells me to think about it, but... - Give it to them, then.

Young master.

When did you come?

Just now. I took a rickshaw from the train station.

I was just watching your performance.

Is that so? You surprised me.

I didn't expect you.

Looks like you haven't totally been forgotten.

Lucky, lucky. - So lucky.

One minute.

Go somewhere nice.

Why didn't you come to Osaka with me?

My family wouldn't let me. They were so strict, I couldn't get out.

I thought so.

When I heard your reputation, I was so worried I couldn't sit still.

So I came running.

Since I came here, all my roles have received bad reviews.

I've completely lost faith in myself during the year.

If you had been with me, none of this would have happened, I'm sure.

If you hadn't come tonight, I might have gone off somewhere.

Everything that's happened is my fault.

I had more confidence in myself when I left Tokyo.

Now that I think about it, I'm just no good.

No. Maybe to others you look bad,

but I can see your efforts this year. It's not just flattery.

There's a power that others can't see in your acting now.

You're almost there. You mustn't give up.

You've gained a lot in your year in Osaka...

...that you didn't have as a spoiled young man in Tokyo.

Is that so? I hope you're right.

I am, so pluck up your spirits.

OK.

This is it.

I'm home. - Welcome back.

Come on in.

Go upstairs.

Young master, you live here on the second floor?

The bath water is ready. - Excuse me.

There's the cushion. It's for you.

Is that everything?

No, I left my hand luggage at the station.

So we'll go get it tomorrow.

Can I stay here?

Of course. We'll be married now.

No. I'm only serving you until you improve, so you can return home.

Then what? - Then...

I don't know.

You've just arrived, don't be so reticent.

Here, take a drink.

It's time already.

That drum means the play's over.

It's all different from Tokyo, isn't it?

Say, won't you rest a little?

If you work too hard, you'll be sore. - I know.

But I need to finish this and hand it in by noon.

I don't want to make you do this kind of work.

But it won't be long now.

Be strong.

Don't worry.

Listen, Otoku... Uncle is putting on Gonta.

If I get the role of Koremori, I'm sure I'll do well. And Yoshitsune is a family play.

I'll do a good job and make up for all the bad reviews.

Of course, that's the spirit.

I can do it. I'll do it this time.

Yes, I'm sure you can.

Miss, the furniture man's here.

Really?

Be careful. You'll hurt yourself. Make sure you don't scratch the mirror.

A bit insistent, eh?

Watch out. That's bad.

I'm sorry.

Take it back down, please.

Is that so?

Hey. Dear. Come here a minute.

What is it?

This is wonderful. What is it?

It's for you.

To act well,

you need a good mirror.

It's great.

I'm so happy.

It's a lovely mirror. I want one like it. - Impossible.

But what about the money?

Don't worry about that.

I sold things I didn't need.

Thank you, Otoku, you're so resourceful.

I'm jealous, so jealous.

Good morning.

It's terrible.

The boss died.

Uncle? - That's right.

But just yesterday...

It was so sudden.

Everybody's shocked.

I'm worried. - Yes.

Tomorrow's the presentation. Your role's been given to someone else.

I feel really bad.

But you'll have to take the next while off.

Please bear with us.

We figured that it'd be hard for you, since it's so sudden.

Luckily, Onishi came looking for members...

...for his travelling troupe. What do you think?

Think about it, OK?

What do you say?

It is a big mess.

With old Tamizo dead,

our theatre feels like a funeral.

It must be a great shock to you.

Won't you come with us?

We know it's a difficult situation.

So we'll give you an advance. The best.

How much of an advance? - That's right...

...15 yen. How about it?

Here you are.

Thank you.

Darling, don't go on the road.

Can't you stay in Osaka and train?

I don't want to, but what about next month?

And now that Uncle has passed away,

Osaka is finished. All we can do is quit.

Hey, travelling isn't so bad.

You'll enjoy it, right? - That's right, that's right.

Four Years Later

Are you sure?

It's unreasonable.

We can't work under these conditions.

If you don't like it, then quit. - Will you be OK if we quit?

Can you get along without us?

We can get along very well without one or two hams like you.

It's not like you can even act.

Go wherever you want, just get out.

Sure, we'll leave, but where's our pay?

Pay up. - I don't have the money.

Please.

Please. Please pay us.

Please. Do you understand what I'm saying?

Are they fighting again?

They're arguing over peanuts.

Are they even thinking about their acting?

I hate this. I really hate it.

Four years have already passed...

...while we've been waiting for these travels to end.

It's a pity for you. You picked a bad man to make a life with.

Leave if you like.

I don't mean me - it's you I'm thinking of.

I can't stand you working on the road like this.

Don't worry about me, I like it fine.

They get excited if you just look at them.

It's true, once you have this kind of audience, you can't forget it.

Forget that, give me some money.

Where are you going?

We're leaving this town. I'm going to enjoy myself.

There's no money.

Liar. What happened to Otoya's money?

That money has to go towards...

...buying you some new shoes and undershirts.

That doesn't matter. Give it here. - You...

You've changed a lot.

Are you arguing with me again? I don't need your advice.

Instead, try speaking nicely to me once in a while.

Don't forget how you felt when you left Tokyo.

How I felt?

That's a lost dream.

Give me the money. - I won't if you speak that way.

Didn't you say that...

...you'd become a great actor?

So I have, haven't I?

I can play women, heroes, maybe even children's roles.

You won't listen to me any more.

Give it here. - No.

Give it to me, won't you.

It's all your fault.

I was wrong. Forgive me.

Cheer up and go out to make yourself feel better.

You're going out, right?

If you take a nap here, you'll catch cold.

Go and rest in your room.

Otoku. - Yes.

Keep this money.

But...

I'm telling you to take it, so take it.

Oh, no, oh, no.

Oh, no, no, no, no.

Something terrible has happened.

They're telling us to leave right now.

But there are days left in our contract.

You're unpopular, so you're out.

Women wrestlers are taking your place starting tomorrow.

Women wrestlers?

Bring it down.

What is this? Who do you think you are?

We aren't flies or mosquitoes. We're human beings.

So let's talk like humans. Talk.

Get out of my way.

I can't talk with you hams. - What? Get out if you have nothing to say.

Where's our manager?

Call our manager. - Wait.

We heard he's already finished talking with our manager.

Who are you? - Women wrestlers.

You may have heard, but we haven't.

Anyway, the man here said...

...you're leaving tonight.

What are you doing? Hurry up.

Do it quickly.

Wait. Wait until the manager comes back.

There's no time. Get to work.

I'm going to yell at the manager.

It's a disaster.

Both the manager and our boss are gone.

He ran off. Take a look.

So you have nothing to say.

Where did he go? - I don't know.

You're in the way. Come on. Move.

Now move. - Thanks so much.

You bastard. - What did you say?

Get moving.

Get out of the way.

Move, move.

What do we do?

What will you do now?

There's nothing else for it, I'll have to return to the boss's place.

Nice to have a place to go.

Are you staying?

Five sen for two.

Here is good.

One yen and 80 sen for a futon.

You must have caught a cold.

You have to be careful.

How about today?

It's a Tokyo drama.

A drama?

They want 1 yen and 2 sen.

That's a month's food.

Where is it?

In Nagoya, Suehiroza.

Who's in it?

Shikan Nakamura...

...and Fukusuke Nakamura.

Wonderful.

This is help from the gods.

Go and meet young Narikomaya...

...and talk to him.

I can't talk to Fuku looking like this.

But he might give you a role to play.

No way. He might have before, when I was in Osaka,

but now...he wouldn't want someone in my...

...condition for such a grand production in Tokyo.

But your acting has improved.

I don't think your condition is so bad.

Doing well in Nagoya is your chance...

...to go back to Tokyo.

If you do well, your efforts will be rewarded.

Please.

It's time to try it.

Come, let's go and ask him.

It's no good, Otoku.

It's no use. You can't go asking favours from an old friend.

He wouldn't see it like that.

Don't you know how the world is?

I'll just stay on the road.

It's easier.

Then what about all your hard work?

It'll all go to waste.

Let's drop this subject.

We still have two or three days. We can still eat.

And good luck will come soon.

What's wrong?

Are you in pain? Oh, no.

Wait here, I'll go and buy some medicine.

Wait for me.

Young master, there's someone to see you.

She said she wanted to speak to you about Terajima.

Terajima? - Yes.

You said Terajima? - Yes.

If it isn't Otoku. It's been so long.

So you were in Nagoya? How's Kiku?

You're together, right? - It's about him that I've come.

Is that so? Anyway, come in.

Come in. - Excuse me.

It's been hard, I see.

The hard times have helped his art.

Even I can see that...

...he is much better now.

And yet, no matter how good he is, it's obvious that...

...in the world of theatre,

it's impossible to succeed without a family name.

Won't you please help him get back to Tokyo somehow?

He'll go bad the way he is now.

If you don't help him now, it will be too late.

Please save him.

Please.

We've talked about Kiku many times.

Father and I have always felt for him.

But Uncle Terajima has always said...

...that he's no good...

...and that he can't justify it to society. So things have stayed the same.

How about giving him a role in our play?

If he's good, I'm sure...

Uncle Terajima will forgive him. Please, Father.

So, what could he play?

Let him play Sumizome in my stead.

Sumizome?

That's crazy. He may be Terajima's son,

but he can't take such an important role...

...after all this travelling work he's been doing.

It's unheard of.

Management just won't allow it.

I know it's crazy, Morita.

Even without their permission,

it can happen if Father and Uncle allow it.

I want to make Kiku a man.

Please, Uncle. - Fuku.

All right, I will.

You will? - Yes, I will.

Thank you. - Otoku.

And if Kikunosuke does well,

I'll talk to his father myself.

And I want to bring him home.

You will help too, right?

I want him to go home no matter what.

If it's truly a bad performance, it can't be helped.

But if Kikunosuke has become good enough,

I'm sure Father will allow him to go back.

Otoku.

It's very hard for me to say this, but...

You're saying we must part?

I'm... I'm well prepared to do that.

It's here.

Please.

Darling... Darling.

Kiku.

Fuku.

Otoku, you... - Kiku.

There are so many things I have to say.

Please just come with me now.

A woman I do not know.

When did you come to the Barrier Gate?

And where did you come from?

I have come...

...from Shumoku-machi.

Thence have I come.

Who are you?

What is your name?

My name is...Sumizome.

Sumizome?

They named you after this cherry blossom?

Yes. - A fine name.

Haggling for a courtesan.

Displays of affection. A lover's madness.

Truth. - And lies.

A bag of wiles.

Entering a hideout to scheme.

If that is so...

Shall we speak?

I was really surprised.

Thank you. - You can do it.

You were great, you were great. - Thank you.

Thank you.

Fuku. - Kiku, you were wonderful.

I'm so relieved. You were really good.

Uncle. - Kikunosuke.

You did a great job.

You were really good. I know Father will be happy too.

Uncle, thank you.

I'm so happy. It was an excellent performance.

Uncle, it's all thanks to you.

That was a bravura performance. I've never had better nwes.

Fuku.

This is all thanks to your kindness. I'll never forget it. Thank you again.

What are you saying? This is all because of your effort and faith until now.

Go on. It's all right, you can take off your wig.

Now you can go back to Tokyo...

...and bring Terajima a good present.

Every child should be sent on such a hard journey.

Thank you so much.

Otoku, Otoku.

Dear. - We can go back to Tokyo. Tokyo.

We can go back together. - Really?

Yes. They don't mind if we're together.

So, of course, we'll be better off there.

I feel like I'm dreaming. I didn't expect this all of a sudden.

I never dreamed this would happen.

Really? - I've been accepted. Our bet has paid off.

When I thought I could go back to Tokyo, I worked hard.

But I never thought I'd be praised so much.

From the beginning,

I knew that today's performance would come.

Yes, I did.

I knew they'd all be surprised. I was looking forward to it.

You succeeded. You've been rewarded for all of your troubles.

It's been really hard. Hasn't it?

Even so, I was so worried that when you came on stage,

I couldn't watch any more.

I just stood under the stage the whole time and prayed.

Funny, isn't it?

But this is perfect.

So now you're really happy, aren't you?

You've proved your worth.

You can go back to Tokyo with pride.

What's wrong? - Nothing, I'm just so happy.

I got a bit distracted.

Miss. Miss.

I have an order for tonight.

Shrimp or sea bream sashimi and roasted whole fish.

And clam soup.

This place serves authentic clams, dear.

And two or three bottles of sak�. - Yes, I understand.

Wait, Otoku. Are you sure we can afford all that?

We have a bit of money but we can't go mad.

This was sent for you. - Really?

It's all right, it's such a happy occasion.

Tonight you can go back to the old Kiku.

You can be selfish like you used to be. - OK.

Otoku, I ordered this at the draper's.

You can't go to Tokyo like that. Come here.

How is it? It's good, right?

It suits you.

What a pretty pattern. - Sew it soon.

It must be done by our closing.

You'd better start getting ready to go.

Shall I get ready?

That's true. Well then, I'm off.

I'll just thank them and come right back.

Otoku, when I get back, the two of us will celebrate together.

I'll be right back.

I'll be back soon, OK? Very soon.

Have a good day.

Have you seen Otoku?

She was just here.

Have you seen Otoku?

No, I haven't.

Fuku, Otoku's gone.

Kiku, Kiku. Here is a letter from Otoku for you.

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

So when you said we could go back to Tokyo together, you lied.

Wait. That's what I said.

Uncle? Why did you say that?

Calm down. Take a seat and listen. Before I even said anything,

Otoku had already made up her mind.

We both wanted to save you and bring you back to Tokyo.

Thankfully, your performance was a hit.

If you apologise to Terajima, he'll take you back.

But I thought he wouldn't...

...if you were still with Otoku. - That's my business.

Your business? But, Kiku...

You both are... - Kiku, you don't know Otoku's real feelings.

I don't? - That's not it.

That's what you mean, right? - Wait, wait.

If it was the Terajima family... - But, Terajima...

Uncle, our relationship is not what you think.

Even if everybody forgives me,

I won't be happy at all if I go to Tokyo without Otoku.

But, Kiku, you've been through a lot.

And yet, so long as you travel, no matter how hard you work,

you'll always be lower class. That's what Otoku said.

Your family name is very important in theatre.

Now you can act. What you need is the name of Kikugoro Onoe.

With it, you can shine on the big stage known as Tokyo.

You need to repay all the fans who have...

...been cheering for you since your childhood.

But without her, success means nothing.

Sink or swim, we're together. That's what I think.

I won't go back to Tokyo until I find her.

Hey, wait, Kikunosuke.

Wait. Think of how Otoku feels.

But, Uncle...

What will happen to Otoku? This long period of travelling...

...has weakened her greatly.

Thanks to everyone's help,

I've straightened out my acting. I want to give her a good life.

Kikunosuke, sit and listen.

She's thinking so much about you.

Don't let her kindness go to waste.

Go to Tokyo and polish your art.

That would make her...

...happier than anything.

OK?

That would make Otoku happier than if you went looking for her.

Don't go home for us,

but for Otoku's sake. You understand, right?

Fuku... why does Otoku feel that way?

Throughout these five long years,

all my feelings of self-pity and worry...

...were healed by her kind heart.

Things were just getting better.

I thought we could handle anything together.

Otoku.

You're so silly.

Where did you go?

When you left me, where did you go?

Otsuru.

Uncle.

Who is it?

Sister.

It's you.

Let me get a light.

What happened?

We've had no newe. I worried so.

I'm glad you're well.

Where's Kikunosuke?

I've already left him. - What? You left?

Why?

It was no fun living with that man any more.

Sister, since we last met, you've completely changed.

Really?

I have.

I may have changed a bit.

This is it.

It's the first time in six years you've looked so happy.

The house is so much brighter.

I'm so relieved.

Kikunosuke got his wish.

For Uncle Terajima and Fukusuke to play parent and child lions.

Kiku, I'm counting on you. - No, I feel the same.

How about it? When we finish this play,

let's make our first trip to Osaka. - Sure.

Really? You agree?

Let's all go together.

Is that so? Let's do it.

It's where Kikunosuke worked so hard.

Let's all go have a good time.

That's good.

Thanks so much.

I'm sure the young master will be most happy.

Let's set it up before you change your mind.

Are you ready? - Absolutely.

And, go.

You've grown awfully big. - Who are you?

Don't you know me? - No.

Really?

Not surprising.

That's an offering, isn't it? - Yes.

Yes, New Year is over.

Young master. What are you doing here?

They're all waiting in there.

From the top of the mountain,

I pushed my son into the valley river.

He went through trials and tribulations.

He has no experience,

but has survived one year of hardship...

...until the stage is clear and we can see each other again.

The stone bridge stretches out.

Its image colours the return.

No matter what you say...

...we never gave up hope.

What a happy outcome.

Look.

They're bringing lanterns decorated with folded fans and your name.

You know Osaka very well, right?

Show us around town between shows.

Kikunosuke, listen.

Osaka is your second home.

So you'll be the main event on the boat today, instead of me.

In recognition of your humble beginnings,

you have to greet your fans properly. - Yes.

Where are you going?

I know that person, I have to talk to him.

No, I know that person.

Genshun.

You've become so fine, congratulations. - It's been a while.

I owe you a lot. - No, not at all.

Actually, Otoku... - About Otoku...

She's at my place. - Otoku is at your house?

Yes, you know what it is...

Otoku's health has deteriorated since the spring.

She insists that we're not to tell you.

But the doctor says she may die tonight.

I couldn't stand it, so I came to tell you.

I know you have a lot to deal with,

but please come with me to see her just this once. Please.

But...

Today is an important day for me. - Please.

Please, go and see herjust this once. I'm begging you.

Kiku, go.

Go and see your wife.

An actor can't master his art...

...just by being skilful.

The fact that you've made it so far...

...is thanks to Otoku sacrificing herself.

She praised you and helped you learn.

As your father, Kikunosuke,

I want you to thank her for me.

Father. - Go quickly.

You can get on board at the stop in Nakanoshima. Hurry.

Thank you.

You must inform her relatives immediately.

Yes, Father has gone to call them.

Is that so? If she gets worse, call me and I'll come immediately.

Thank you. Thank you so much.

Hey, let me off here.

Father.

Otoku, Kikunosuke is here.

Brother. Why did you call him?

Why did you call him after I told you not to?

You said that?

We can never meet again.

Please leave, dear.

No, you're the young master now.

Please go home. - You don't have to worry any more, Otoku.

It's all right now.

Father gave us his permission.

The master? - Yes, to wed.

Yes, he said to go and see you.

He said that I am where I am today because of you. He told me to thank you for him.

Really? - I've...

I've been loaned out and come to Osaka,

all dressed up. So from now on,

in both my life and my art,

I can finally be happy.

The master...

...truly gave his permission?

We're finally truly married.

So now I can openly...

...call you 'dear' in public?

That's right.

Dear.

Now.

Finally, now...

I'll get better.

I will, right?

You will get better. You have to get better.

You look so energetic now. - No.

I don't mind dying now.

You became a good actor.

Your father has forgiven you.

I saw your face.

I have no more regrets.

Don't die so easily.

Right, Genshun? - Indeed.

Dear. - Yes?

You're riding in a boat parade today, aren't you?

The boat must be departing soon.

Please go.

I don't care about the boat. - What are you saying?

Fans are important for an actor.

You need to go to...

...the stage and the boat parade.

So go quickly. Please go.

But we just met.

Don't worry, I don't mind.

I can spend lots of time with you afterwards.

That's true, but...

It's not as if...

I will never see you again, you know.

Of course not.

Then you must be on your way.

I'll be here.

I'll listen to the orchestra.

I'll imagine how you look...

...up on that boat.

Go.

Otoku.

I...

I've finally been...

...acknowledged as your wife.

I don't have to...

...hear from anyone.

Yes.

So it's all right...

...for you to obediently...

...listen to what your wife says.

All right.

I'm going.

Wait for me, Otoku.

Wait right here.

Say...

I waited for you.

Genshun. - Yes.

Do you think she'll hold until I get back?

I've never yet done anything for her as my wife.

I can finally treat her well now.

Otoku, don't die.

You can't die.

Uncle...

...go and look at the boat parade.

Please take a look at it.

And tell me about it.

Please hurry.

Yes, I will.

Sister, your medicine.

Sister.