Original subtitles

A Daiei Motion Picture Company Film

The Loyal 47 Ronin (Chushingura)

Produced by NAGATA Masaichi

Planning TSUJI Hisakazu KAGEYAMA Toshio screenplay YAHIRO Fuji TAMIKADO Tomio MATSUMURA Masaharu WATANABE Kunio

Cinematography Art Direction Sound Recording Music Lighting Film Processing

Cast

HASEGAWA Kazuo KATSU Shintaro TSURUTA Koji ICHIKAwA Raizo

KYO Machiko YAMAMOTO Fujiko KOGURE Michiyo AWASHIMA Chikage WAKAO Ayako

TAKIZAWA Osamu KUROKAWA Yataro FUNAKOSHI Eiji KAWASAKI Keizo OZAwA Eitaro SHIMURA Takashi NAKAMURA Ganjiro

HIGASHIYAMA Chieko NAKAMURA Tamao Al Michiko HASEGAwA Toshiko HODAKA Noriko WAKAMATSU Kazuko MIMASU Aiko

NEGAMI Jun HAYsHI Naritoshi KAwAGUCHI Hiroshi SUGAwARA Kenji MIAKE Bontaro USHIO Mantaro SHIMIZU Masao TAZAKI Jun SAwAMURA Sonosuke

SHIN Kinzo KITAHARA Yoshiro TAKAMATsU Hideo MATSUMOTO Kappei SHIMIZU Gen TERASHIMA Yusaku BOYA saburo RYUZAKI Ichiro KAGAwA Ryosuke

TAKIBANA Hisako ASAGUMO Teruyo URAJI Yoko HASEGAwA Akiko TACHIBANA Kimiko WAKASUGI Yoko HAMA setsuko OMI Teruko ICHIKAWA Kazuko FUJITA Yoshiko

ARAKI shinobu ISHll Ryuichi SUGIYAMA shosaku DATE saburo AZUMA Ryonosuke RAMON Mitsusaburo ONOE Eigoro NANBU shozo HARUMOTO Fujio IZAWA Ichiro

HANABU Tatsuo SHINAGAwA Ryuji UMEWAKA shoji CHIBA Toshio NANJO shintaro AMANO Ichiro ICHIKAWA Kinya FUNAKI Yoichi TAMAKI Kazue HARA seishiro

FUJIMA Daisuke SHIMA Yasuhiko HAMADA Yuji KATsURAGI Koichi MITSUOKA Ryuzaburo ASAO Okuzan TAKAKURA Ichiro YOKOYAMA Fumihiko FUJIKAWA Jun UEDA Hiroshi

HORIKITA Yukio ISHIHARA sumao KIKUNO Masayoshi lwATA Tadashi OKI Tokio KASUGA Kiyoshi SAKURAI Isamu FUKUI Ryuji KOYANAGI Keiko KONGO Reiko

Directed by WATANABE Kunio

Inscription: "Odawara"

Inscription: "Odawara" Look alive!

Inscription: "Odawara"

Inscription: "Odawara" It's Lord Asano's express palanquin! Bound straight for Ako! No stops!

It's Lord Asano's express palanquin! Bound straight for Ako! No stops!

Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!

Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho! We've got it!

Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!

Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!

To Ako Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!

Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!

To Ako Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!

Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!

Ako Castle

An express palanquin from Edo!

Hang in there!

Councilor! Councilor!

Councilor!

Councilor! Councilor! Councilor! Councilor! Councilor!

How disgraceful! Calm yourselves.

Councilor... this is an urgent matter!

Tend to those two at once.

Tend to those two at once. Yes, Sir!

Keep a hold of yourself! Stand steady!

Lord Kira?!

Edo Mansion of the Asano Clan

Edo Mansion of the Asano Clan Stop fretting, Gengoemon. Kira Kozuke no Suke holds the fourth rank at court.

Stop fretting, Gengoemon. Kira Kozuke no Suke holds the fourth rank at court.

If anything, offering him a bribe now would be disrespectful.

But, My Lord, many Daimyo have already suffered at his hands.

For instance, Matsudaira Totomi no Kami and Honda Yamato no Kami...

...were shamed deeply by Lord Kira, and bloodshed was only narrowly avoided.

This is about a ceremony to welcome...

...both the lmperial Envoy, Great Councilor Yanagiwara, and Mid-Councilor Seikan'in.

If people heard that someone from the Asano Clan...

...had bribed Kira, not only would it go against my family's customs...

...it would be an inexcusable slight against the lmperial Envoy!

Yes, My Lord, but Lord Kira's behavior in the palace yesterday...

...was absolutely outrageous!

"Gengo:" short for "Gengoemon." Enough! Don't say any more, Gengo. Go and prepare for my visit to the palace.

Thank you, Lord Kira. It is all thanks to you...

...that yesterday's welcoming ceremony went so perfectly.

Nonsense, Lord Date. Unlike Lord Asano, you are attentive in all things...

...and you take in everything I say with good grace, so it's a pleasure to guide you.

Please, feel free to consult me at any time.

You have my humble thanks.

Lord Kira, I humbly request instruction on how to best attend the lmperial Envoys.

You should have some idea how to do that without me telling you every little thing.

Do what's proper.

But I am ignorant and un- schooled in the manners of court nobles...

...and the Council of Elders has told me to seek your guidance in everything.

Well, if you insist, I suppose I can spare a word or two.

Gifts are vital to official functions.

Gifts?

Gifts? Yes. You must treat the Envoys with esteem.

You should give them gifts every day.

I understand.

Also, please tell me what I should do regarding the replacement of tatami mats at Fukoin...

...where I'll be entertaining them during their visit to Zojoji Temple.

Oh, there's no need to go to such lengths.

Lord Tsuchiya Sagami no Kami is the presiding Elder this month.

I asked his steward, who told me that whatever Lord Kira may have said...

...daily gifts would be both preposterous, and regarded as quite rude.

In fact, it's never been done.

We must merely spare no effort to properly entertain them.

So it's as I thought.

How dare he play me for a fool!

Was he just pressing for a bribe?

My Lord, this weighty task is almost upon us. Please, just endure until then.

Oh, don't look at that.

That gift's from a hick Daimyo who struts around...

...talking about Bushido in this peaceful Genroku era! Toss it out.

But, My Lord, he did go to the trouble. Wouldn't it be best to at least examine it?

These days, one must often forget Bushido and adopt a more flexible approach.

I know what the typical Asano family gift is like without having to look.

I shall examine it, then.

I see... I can just picture the haughty look on Asano's face.

See? I told you not to look.

First last night, then tonight... we have never seen you like this before.

My Lady is worried that your current state duties are causing you great distress.

There's no need for concern.

Everything is going smoothly, thanks to Lord Kira's instructions. No need to fear.

Now, pour me another...

You have not been looking well.

Please be mindful of your health until this ceremony is over.

It's not something I'm used to, so I'm just anxious not to make a mistake.

I'm sorry I worried you.

Oh, what nonsense. We are family!

My Lord, Chief Retainer Yasui Hikoemon...

...requests an audience with you, about an urgent matter.

What? You say Asano asked the Elder about gifts to the Envoys?

Yes. Date Sakyo no Suke's Chief Retainer just sent word.

Did he say I'd told him to give gifts?

I'm told that, from observations of their conversation, it seemed so.

Damn that Asano...

What is this "urgent business"?

My Lord, according to what Horibe and Maebara have heard, the Date Clan have just finished...

...replacing all the tatami mats in the room where they'll host their guest...

...during his visit to Zojoji Temple.

What?! They replaced the tatami?! Damn that Kira, he's made a fool of me again!

There is no way we can replace 2oo tatami mats in time...

...to pass the inspection tomorrow morning, My Lord!

We won't?!

My Lord, we'll get it done by morning even if we have to round up every tatami weaver in Edo!

Please don't worry.

That hick of a Daimyo...

We have to finish this by morning! I'm counting on you all!

What time is it?

What time is it? 11 PM, My Lord.

And there's no word from Gengo?

None.

Lord... won't you try to get some sleep?

You go on to bed ahead of me.

How many left?!

How many left?! Another 40.

We're almost there! I'm counting on you all!

Oh, My Lord!

What is it?!

What is it?! All the tatami mats have been replaced.

My thanks...

My deepest thanks!

My Lord!

My Lord! Yasubei, I thank you.

Sir!

You are certainly blessed, Lord Asano. Bravo.

Lord Asano. Lord Asano!

If you require something, I'll be happy to serve you.

The likes of you would not understand!

Lord Asano, what is this?!

Look at this screen!

If there is some problem with it, please tell me.

You fool! It's inexcusable to use a screen...

...with an India ink painting in the Envoys' pilgrimage lodgings!

I'll wager you're just making do with whatever was lying around the temple!

If you weren't well-off, that would be one thing...

...but someone as rich as you should at least have a new screen made!

Are you really that much of a penny-pincher?

Lord Kira, I must ask you to...

Enough!

It must be a headache having such hick samurai as your vassals, Lord Asano.

My Lord! My Lord...

Please wait!

I am grateful for your instructions.

At the ceremony for the reply to the Throne...

"Long Kamishimo," "Eboshi Daimon:" Two types of formal samurai dress. ...should I wear a long kamishimo? Or should I wear eboshi daimon?

"Long Kamishimo," "Eboshi Daimon:" Two types of formal samurai dress.

"Long Kamishimo," "Eboshi Daimon:" Two types of formal samurai dress. A long kamishimo should be fine. You should know that much!

We just have to endure this for one more day. Be patient!

"We have been hearing of Lord Kira's behavior for some time..."

Kuranosuke...

I thank you for your concern.

It sounds like a most sympathetic and encouraging letter.

Remember, after today's ceremony, your work will be done.

I pray you will get through your duties for this one day.

Don't worry.

All right. Tonight, regale me with your stories.

I know what to do. Set your mind at ease.

My Lord, what's the matter?!

Gengo, I've been duped.

Everyone's dressed in eboshi daimon for this ceremony! I've made a terrible mistake!

Have no fear. We have your formal dress all laid out.

What?!

We brought them, just in case of this very mistake.

Gengo... Gengo!

Thank you so much!

Toda.

Yes?

My Lord said we need only endure for this one day, correct?

The lmperial Envoys have reached the Nakasuzume Gate!

Lord Kira! The Envoys will enter the palace any minute!

As their host, should I greet them on the raised platform in the entryway, or down by the door?

Please, tell me! Please!

Lord Asano, you're incorrigible.

You must be well aware of the answer.

Are you mocking this old man?

No, not at all! Please, help me!

Have you lost your mind?

You're serious, aren't you?

Lord Asano, it's absurd for you to be asking such questions, today of all days!

Lord Kira!

You're within the palace. You do know that?

You mean to kill me, the Kozuke?

Fine, you just try it!

If you unleash that sword from its scabbard one tiny bit...

...your land is gone and your family name is history.

If that doesn't bother you, sure, go right ahead!

What's the matter, Lord Asano?

You insolent fool!

Please forgive me.

I bow in humble apology for my blunder! Please, please instruct me!

Lord Asano.

When the Envoys' audience with the Shogun is over, please let me know.

His honored mother, Lady Keishoin, is eager to visit with them and inquire after their health.

I understand.

I am not sure what you need, Lord Kajikawa...

...but if you have any questions, please allow me to assist you.

This hick of a Daimyo couldn't help... he doesn't know a scrap of etiquette!

Hold it right there, Kozuke!

Now you'll pay!

What are you doing?!

Let me go!

Let me go!

Are you mad?! This is the palace!

Let me go! If you have any warrior spirit in your soul, let me go!

"Ninjyo:" Lit., "wounded by sword." Drawing a sword in the palace was a very serious crime. Bloodshed! Blood! Bloodshed!

Bloodshed!

Bloodshed! Bloodshed!

Bloodshed!

Bloodshed!

"Metsuke:" A shogunate Inspectorwho investigated important crimes, including corruption and treason. I, Metsuke Okado Denpachiro, am making a formal inquiry.

First, tell us the circumstances behind this incident.

"Takumi no Kami:" Lord Asano's formal title. Why did Takumi no Kami draw his blade? You must have done something.

My Lord, I am only an old man.

I cannot remember doing anything to cause Lord Asano the slightest grudge.

Also, because we are on palace grounds, and particularly in view of the occasion...

...I tried to dodge him instead of parrying. Now I have wounds even on my back.

I beg you to intercede with the Shogun for me.

You say that you have done nothing to offend him?

Exactly. I cannot understand his attack at all.

My Lady, something horrible has happened.

To my Lord?

Yes. He drew his sword against Kira Kozuke no Suke in the Pine Hall of Edo Palace.

And Kozuke? Is he alive?!

Silence! If you were in your right mind, why would you have done this?

There must be no falsehoods in your written submissions to this court.

"I, Takumi no Kami, suddenly drew my sword in a fit of madness." You, write that down.

Please, wait.

I am deeply grateful for your mercy in leaving me my 53,ooo-koku of land.

However, I am the Lord of Ako Castle.

If my official reason is that I lost my senses, I will be a laughingstock.

The truth is that I drew my sword against Kozuke...

...because I could no longer hold back my resentment.

Tamura Kyodaiyu, presenting myself here on your orders.

The Shogun has instructed me, Dewa no Kami, to convey his decision.

This morning, Takumi no Kami caused an uproar in the palace that showed...

...disrespect, both to the court and to his duty as host to the lmperial Envoys.

Therefore, the Shogun considers his actions a great outrage.

He commands that Takumi no Kami immediately travel to Lord Tamura's estate...

...and once there, commit seppuku.

Seppuku?

Seppuku? Yes.

Yes.

And what of Kozuke no Suke? Yes.

Well... the Shogun considers it laudable that Kozuke no Suke...

...honored the court and restrained himself, out of consideration for the time and place...

...even though he faced mortal danger.

Therefore, he is to receive no punishment, and his wounds are to be treated.

Lord Takumi no Kami is master of a castle controlling 53,ooo-koku in income.

I fear that the decision for him to immediately commit seppuku has been made too hastily.

It is the Shogun's order!

It is the Shogun's order! Wait!

With all due respect, if he testifies that he attacked because of a personal grudge...

...we cannot be certain Kozuke no Suke's behavior was correct...

...without closely investigating the nature of the animus.

Above all, after my initial investigation, there are several matters that are not yet clear.

Lord Okado, are you protesting the Shogun's decision?

I am a Metsuke.

To uphold the law of the land, when I feel that a decision may not be universally accepted...

...I must venture to offer my counsel.

Silence! The Shogun has already given his order.

Please, wait.

Since Lord leyasu's time it has been the rule that both parties are to blame...

...for quarrels within the palace. If Takumi no Kami is to commit seppuku...

...I believe Kozuke no Suke should face some punishment as well.

If nothing else, a few years ago, other Daimyo...

...such as Matsudaira Totomi no Kami and Honda Sado no Kami...

No more! Do you oppose the Shogun?! Restrain yourself!

The chief coroner, Shimousa no Kami...

...and Lord Okado Denpachiro, the Metsuke, have arrived.

What's the meaning of this?! No other Daimyo ordered to commit seppuku...

...has ever been forced to do it in the garden!

And this "crime" Takumi no Kami has committed is hardly...

Lord Yanagizawa consulted the Shogun out on the matter...

...and was told to punish Asano as a criminal.

"Ometsuke:" shogunate Chief Inspectorwho handled investigations involving Daimyo and senior officials. Hold on! Is it proper for an Ometsuke to simply do as Lord Yanagizawa desires?

Restrain yourself! Remember where you are!

Lord Asano, it's time to prepare yourself.

A vassal of Takumi no Kami, Kataoka Gengoemon, has just arrived.

Gengoemon is here?

He requests a brief audience with the Lord.

No one will be allowed to see him.

I allow it! Send him to the garden.

Yes, sir!

My Lord... My Lord!

My Lord!

Gengo?

My Lord...

It was good of you to come.

If I may carry a message to anyone, it's...

It's the least I can do! Even just one sentence!

When you see Oishi in Ako...

...just tell him I am consumed with remorse.

My Lord... I will tell him without fail!

This is goodbye.

My Lord!

Leave.

I will pass it on.

" The wind carries away... the cherry blossoms...

... yet I grieve more... for the passing of spring itself."

" I grieve more... for the passing of spring itself."

Quiet! We are asking you all how far you're prepared to go.

How does refusing to give up the castle show our devotion?

I don't see how we'd be showing loyalty to our dead Lord...

...by defending this castle, when it will make his merchants and farmers suffer...

...and bring down disaster upon his family and all their relatives!

What are you talking about?!

We won't set one foot out of this castle! It would be a disgrace to the honor of Ako!

Shogunate regulations specify that both parties are to blame for fights within the palace!

Now that they've trampled on that rule, honor forbids us from handing over this castle!

But if the Shogun has decreed it, we have no choice but to obey!

Seeking even more suffering would be disloyal to our Lord!

Arguing any more is pointless.

All those who agree with Ono should leave now!

Yes, we should!

Men, do you understand what I'm saying?

If you let momentary passions make you stay here, it'll be fatal!

Do you want to add another treachery to the list?!

First of all, isn't it odd that Councilor Oishi isn't here?!

Silence! Councilor Oishi is hoping for responsible behavior from us all!

There's no need to pretend. All of you who agree with Ono... begone!

The passions of the moment will become treachery!

Traitors!

Traitors! I'm no traitor!

I'm no traitor!

Traitors! I'm no traitor!

Traitors!

Traitors! Traitors!

Councilor, this is a letter written in blood...

...from those vassals in Edo who have sworn to live or die with you!

Councilor!

We are all prepared to die to defend this castle.

You attest that you're resolved to defend the castle...

...even if the Shogunate brands you rebels and traitors?

You need not even ask!

"Naturally, everyone was evicted from the Asano family's city residence."

"Naturally, everyone was evicted from the Asano family's city residence." The Metsuke is here to make his inspection! Hurry up and leave!

The Metsuke is here to make his inspection! Hurry up and leave!

Wait! Wait, wait, wait!

I just want to say a word of greeting to Lord Okado.

No! Your time is up! Get out!

No! Your time is up! Get out! Wait! Wait!

Okano, stop! Stop it.

Stop this commotion!

Lord Okado, I'll express my deep gratitude for your consideration...

...during our master's seppuku, and then I'll take my leave.

I know how you must feel, being chased out like stray dogs.

Then I would like to ask you one question.

Yes?

Does Lord Kira still live?

What?

I beg you... I beg you, please tell us.

His life is in no danger. Now leave.

Sir...

We evicted his retainers from the Edo residence without incident...

...but many in Ako, led by their councilor, Oishi...

...seem prepared to defend the castle to the death.

I trust there were no problems deploying Honda and Matsudaira's troops to Ako?

None whatsoever.

Wakizaka Awaji no Kami is prepared for that as well, so if worst comes to worst...

...we'll break up the whole castle and clan, and confiscate everything.

This should put all those country Daimyo in their places.

April 17th

April 17th I was eager to go down in glory, defending this castle to the death...

I was eager to go down in glory, defending this castle to the death...

...against those coming to take it.

I feel some regret that I cannot.

It is easy to die a glorious death in battle, but it would cause trouble for the people of our fief.

Yes, I am sure that to quietly follow our Lord is true loyalty.

Today we see Ako Castle for the last time.

Emoshichi! You have a sick father to look after.

You mustn't die here.

With all due respect, Councilor, please look at this.

My father despaired that he could not help the Asano Clan in its time of need...

...so he... he...

He took his own life?

Yes.

I want to join him, and go to meet our dead Lord!

No! You haven't come of age yet. I won't allow you to rush blindly into death.

Councilor, if you refuse because I am not of age, then what of Chikara?

Why can he participate? Why do you refuse death only to me?

Emoshichi, well said!

We both aim for the same thing!

Yes!

Father, please allow Emoshichi to follow our Lord into death!

Wait! Wait, wait, wait...

C... Councilor!

Kazuemon?

I have been a ronin for the three years since I angered Lord Asano...

...and now I will never have the chance to gain his pardon!

I have come here so that I can at least seek it in the afterlife.

Whether I slept in the fields or the mountains at night...

...not a single day has passed when I didn't pine for my master!

I, Kazuemon, have prepared myself.

I beseech you...

Please let me follow my dead Lord!

I beg you!

No. I can't believe you would ask to follow my Lord to death...

...when he was still furious with you!

I will gain his forgiveness in the afterlife!

Emoshichi, don't let him beat you!

Right!

Councilor, prepare yourself.

Wait, men.

We're canceling this seppuku!

What?!

First you ask us to defend the castle to the death...

...then today you decide we're following our master...

...and now you call off our seppuku?!

It's heartless! You can only mock a man so much!

My Lord has faithful retainers.

I think...

...he must surely...

...be pleased right now.

Yet Kira Kozuke still breathes!

April 18th

Kuranosuke, your surrender of the castle was truly remarkable.

Every detail meticulously accounted for, from the first bow to the last pair of sandals!

You've quite impressed me.

I beg you with all my heart...

...to appoint my late master's younger brother, Lord Daigaku, as his heir.

If only all retainers were like you!

Nameplate: "Kira"

So they peacefully surrendered the castle, eh?

Oishi may be a wise man, but he couldn't think his way out of that one! Excellent, excellent.

Father, they say Oishi petitioned for Takumi no Kami's brother, Daigaku, to succeed him.

What? Such insolence!

I'm told that the Shogun's anger at Takumi no Kami was extreme.

I imagine he wouldn't dream of allowing the succession.

Obviously not! This is the end of the Asano line!

But we don't know what his ronin in Ako and Edo will do.

My Lord, you must be very cautious, as they must be seeking vengeance against you.

W... What do mean, vengeance?

W... What do mean, vengeance? Hyobu!

Father was the one who was cut, and the Shogun ordered the seppuku!

They have no right to seek "vengeance" against me!

If there's any target for revenge here, it's the Shogun!

Those hick samurai won't understand that.

Don't say that!

Don't say that! Oishi is the wisest man in Ako.

I believe extreme caution is necessary.

And the brilliant way in which he handled the surrender of the castle...

...has everyone in government saying how clever he is.

He didn't even defend his castle with his life! What can he do?

Rumor has it that Oishi bought a huge estate at Yamashina in Kyoto.

Then we can't be too careful.

Make sure you keep watch on that place at all times, from inside and out.

All these hick samurai know how to do is draw their swords at the drop of a hat.

I can't believe you, Lord Awaji...

...letting that hick councilor, Oishi, talk you into bringing me such a petition.

I have to say it seems a little childish.

No, Oishi is a truly admirable person.

And I thought a bit of benevolent governance would mute any public criticism...

...that ordering Takumi no Kami's seppuku was unjust in view of the "both sides at fault" rule.

Lord Awaji, I am the Shogun's grand chamberlain.

I can't bring him a request that would conflict with his wishes!

I understand, but I am told this incident has all of Edo speaking ill of the government.

I feel it's worth bearing in mind.

I'm shocked that even you, the head of the Elders, would say such things!

If you rate Oishi's abilities that highly, you should hire him.

How dare you!

Lord Yanagizawa, I think you're crossing the line!

Yamashina

Welcome home.

Welcome home, Father!

Welcome home. Welcome home, Father!

Who is this?

I am Okahei; I have an introduction from Sir Den'emon.

Ah, you look like a strong young man.

You've been tired day and night...

Are you sure you're not having a little too much sake?

I understand you're leaving for Edo soon.

If it should affect your health...

Father.

Where's Chikara?

He rushed off to his uncle's for something.

Is this trip to Edo about the request for Lord Daigaku's succession?

It seems like everyone in Edo is tired of waiting...

Edo, eh? It's been three years...

Edo

Move it!

It's Lord Kira.

It's Lord Kira. Check out the showy procession!

Acting all important just because Lord Yanagizawa backs him.

Lord Asano of Ako sure got the raw end of the deal.

Yeah, but Lord Kira's the one whose head is gonna roll!

Sir, I, err...

Never mind, just come with me.

You may dress like a townsman, but I won't tolerate that look in your eyes.

Sir, I promise you I'm no one suspicious.

Come on.

Where on Earth are you taking me, sir?

Strange how fate keeps bringing us together. But you'd never get Kira like that.

What do you mean? This "Kira" person you...

Silence.

You're... Lord Okado!

I remember meeting you when I cleared out your master's home.

You have my most sincere thanks for your consideration that day.

Is this a plan of Kondo Nobori no Suke's estate?

I'm sure that Takumi no Kami is pleased, in the next world, as he watches...

...his men work so strenuously and tire- lessly at the risk of their own lives.

I can't stop seeing the moment of his seppuku in my mind.

We have not yet toiled enough.

There are those who have said goodbye forever to their wives and mothers.

The estate on that map is empty right now.

You should reconnoiter it now, while you can.

Who... what are you saying, y Lord?

You're a poor imitation of a townsman.

Any halfwit could tell you were a samurai in one glance.

Sir, you look ill. What's the matter?

Something troublesome has happened.

The Kira household is being moved from Sukiyabashi to Honjyo.

And to the old home of that ruffian Kondo Nobori no Suke!

How do you explain that?

Well, you're obviously asking me after you've already come to a conclusion.

I suppose it's because if the ronin of Ako did attack Lord Kira's estate...

...it would be too close to the palace for comfort.

You think so too?

If we assume this to be true, then as long as Lord Kira is not near the palace...

...the Shogun will not officially notice our security measures.

But sir, do you really think the ronin of Ako will risk everything to attempt their vengeance?

What do you think?

I understand this "Oishi" is highly regarded.

I would say this is because he has the public's sympathy.

He and I differ there.

But hasn't it been six months since Takumi no Kami drew his sword?

If they meant to kill Lord Kira and were willing to die for it, they've already had chances.

Fine, fine.

Rui... eventually I'll have a job for you to do.

I hear Oishi is coming to Edo soon.

I have no idea what he'll do.

We must be on our guard.

Nanbuzaka, Residence of Yozen'in (Aguri, widow of Lord Asano)

This is the first time I've seen you since my late husband's seppuku.

I can't help but cry.

My Lady does nothing but worry about the troubles our vassals must face...

...now that they've left the fief.

All those who would scatter have scattered.

Now if young Lord Daigaku could just receive an estate of even 1o, ooo-koku...

Kuranosuke!

Your late master cast away 53,ooo- koku to attack Lord Kira.

Surely you have not forgotten.

Otaka, Yoshida, Horibe and his son, and the other prominent vassals...

...who remain in Edo sometimes visit me...

...and they tell me they've all placed themselves in your hands.

You could carry out my Lord's will whenever you had a mind do.

With all due respect, My Lady...

Are you suggesting there is a spy in this house?

I believe my visit here is known to...

We are told you've been buying up farmland in Yamashina...

...and have so lost yourself to wine and women that this is your first visit to Edo.

Is this a ploy to deceive our enemy?

Toda! Don't scold him.

I am sure Kuranosuke has his reasons.

I am Oishi Kuranosuke, former retainer at Ako.

It'd be most bothersome if you mistook me for someone else.

This is absurd! Identify yourselves!

Since you refuse, I assume you know who I am.

I suppose I have no choice but to fight.

He's tough!

Idiots!

I won't allow such violence! Lower your swords. Now!

There will be no violence on the doorstep of Metsuke Okado Denpachiro!

Retreat! Retreat!

I cannot thank you enough for intervening.

No need, Oishi. But you are unfamiliar with Edo. Happily, one of my regular merchants...

...is just returning to Nihonbashi; I'll have him show you home.

Hey!

Hey! Sir?

Oh, it's you!

I never dreamed I'd find you in Lord Okado's home.

Councilor, it's you!

I haven't seen you since our master's seppuku.

When I heard you were in Edo, I went to your inn...

...but they told me you left this morning without telling anyone where you were going.

I was worried. It's very dangerous to walk around unescorted.

Sir, Lord Okado did me an immense kindness...

...concerning Kira Kozuke no Suke's move to Honjyo.

Oishi, the townspeople have already caught wind of your visit to Edo.

Edoites are quick to jump to conclusions...

...and there are already rumors that the time for vengeance at hand.

Even a Metsuke cannot control the tongues of the masses...

...and so I thought it best to mention this to you.

Ah, then I must have caused you a lot of trouble.

After I petition for Lord Daigaku to succeed his brother, I'll be returning to Kyoto immediately.

Keep back!

Why so flustered, Lord Shimizu?

Where's the chief councilor?

Where's the chief councilor? He's in the bath right now.

I've done something terrible.

I've done something terrible. What's the matter?

What's the matter?

I must apologize to him immediately. What's the matter?

So you didn't manage to kill Oishi?

What? You knew about that?!

The ronin we hired foolishly attacked him right on Metsuke Okado's doorstep.

Oh no, for him of all people to get involved...

Was anyone hurt?

Two were cut down.

Is Oishi that talented?

I trust you made sure there is no evidence of our involvement?

This Oishi is no ordinary man.

He shouted at the top of his voice at us, asking if we knew who he was.

Now, we can't have you, of all people, afraid of him.

I received this map from Lord Okado...

...several days before Kira switched lodgings.

Thanks to it, I was able to inspect every nook and cranny before he moved in.

And I was able to open a trinket shop right in front of it.

This has been of great help to our comrades, sir.

And now that we are fortunate enough to have you in Edo...

...we'd like to settle things within the next couple of months.

Sir, over time, even those who once doubted us have come to see what's right...

...and by the time you left Kyoto, there were over 12o names on our blood compact.

Bushido has not yet died out!

This many people raiding Kira's mansion would be truly magnificent!

Sir, if you're carrying the blood compact now, please show it to us.

The blood compact!

Our scroll isn't here!

Where is it?

Why don't you keep them together?

We are comrades!

I'll do it after Lord Daigaku's succession is decided.

Sir, we pledged our lives in blood.

I cannot understand this.

Sir, don't you believe in us?

Of course I'd like to believe.

"Like to"?

Don't you understand how your comrades feel...

...bearing all their pain silently for the sake of their revenge?

Yoshida, and all the rest of you, you should try to stay away from Yozen'in's house.

Why would you say that?!

What happened to me tonight is an excellent example.

Rui, you will go to Kyoto.

Me, sir?

You are the only one who can do this, Rui.

Am I to spy on Oishi?

Is he an unworthy opponent?

No...

Heihachiro is already in Yamashina.

Oh, my...

Are you telling us to endure silently until Lord Daigaku's succession is decided?!

You're asking for a lot of patience! What'll we do if the old bat dies?!

I'm a full eight years older than Kira.

I can't afford the luxury of time.

Don't you understand the pain those of us in Edo have felt all this time?!

My late master...

I can still picture the moment of his seppuku.

I'm ashamed of my weakness!

Father, why don't the two of us go and kill Kira then?!

Wait!

Do you still not understand what's in my heart?

Behind our enemy Kira, there lurks Lord Yanagizawa.

He's the infection that is corrupting the government.

To make Yanagizawa regret what he did to our master...

...and eradicate the root of such evil from the Shogunate, we must wait to kill Kira...

...until we know the result of our bid for Lord Daigaku's succession.

If we broke into his home like burglars, it would be a disgrace to the name of Asano!

Ours must be a just vengeance, one that shames us before no one!

Our Lord was sentenced, as if he were a criminal...

...to commit seppuku in the garden...

...a death that no other Daimyo has ever been ordered to endure!

Do you think we can avenge Takumi no Kami...

...that we can purge his bitterness this way?

I beg you all to consider that all your suffering...

...will have been for nothing... if the smallest part of our secret leaks out.

Sir, I have taken your words to heart today!

Now...

...I suppose I'll go back to Kyoto...

...and continue to debauch myself.

And so, half a year passes...

Guy who's "it", guy who's "it", come toward the clapping!

Guy who's "it", guy who's "it", come toward the clapping!

Guy who's "it", guy who's "it", come toward the clapping!

Guy who's "it", guy who's "it", come toward the clapping!

Guy who's "it", guy who's "it", come toward the clapping!

Guy who's "it", guy who's "it", come toward the clapping!

Guy who's "it", guy who's "it", come toward the clapping!

Got you!

No, no! That's Rui, the waitress!

No, no! That's Rui, the waitress! Okay, now you're lt!

My, my, what a beautiful waitress.

Quiet now, that's enough!

I'm tired of playing with you girls.

Come on, Rui, let's drink! Let's drink! Come on!

Come on, Rui. Everyone, come!

Oishi, sir, I'd like a word with you!

I am Sekine Yajiro, a ronin of Echigo.

I'm sorry to intrude upon your merrymaking, but there's something I'd like to discuss with you.

My, what a boor!

Sure, sure... come over here!

What a boor! Sure, sure... come over here!

Come on over here...

All right, what is it?

What is it, then?

Sir, it's been a year and a half since Lord Asano's bitter death.

Yet you show no sign of finishing things! What is the meaning of this?!

People have always spoken most highly of you...

...and everyone just assumed you'd rectify the Shogunate's mistake about Kira Kozuke...

Who goes there?!

Who goes there?! Now, now, it's fine.

The women probably just came to see what was going on.

Sir!

We've been eagerly waiting, counting the hours until you stand up for your late Lord!

So you must be another of those people who tell me to avenge him, eh?

Certainly! We firmly believe in you!

Sorry, but this revenge thing is pointless.

What? Oishi!

Do you mean that? Do you mean what you're saying?!

Just think about it.

The Asano Clan fell because of one moment of lost restraint!

No, no, I myself might be doing all right, but the other vassals have dispersed.

A short-tempered master is a terrible thing.

What's more, Lord Kira was the one who was cut!

I couldn't get "revenge" even if I wanted to!

Oh! Oh, how about you?

What would... What would you do?

You cowardly dog of a samurai! You almost made a dog of me, too!

Now, say what you want, but once a man dies, he never comes back.

While you're alive, drink good sake and dally with beautiful women.

That's the joy of this mortal world.

Enough! You bastard, I'll cut you down!

I can't let you do that!

I can't let you do that! Stop!

Stop!

Out of the way!

Ukihashi! Ukihashi!

Please calm down!

Move!

Move, woman!

Move, woman! I will not. You're being rude.

What?!

I may be a harlot, but this is still my room.

You could say I, Ukihashi, am queen of the castle here.

I won't let you barge in without permission.

Kuranosuke! Killing scum like you would just soil my sword!

Out of my way!

Scary, scary.

"Uki-sama:" Oishi's nickname. Now, let's go cheer "Uki-sama" up!

Let's!

Stop it! Do you want to be bitten by dogs?

Never come between people in love.

You dense girls!

Come on, this way.

You're not injured?

I am impressed by your patience.

I'm sure that deep down...

Hello? Uki-sama?

Oh...

Asleep already...

Is he really so scared to die he'll put up with that?!

I know! And he calls himself a samurai?

I'm finally disgusted with Uki-sama.

Is he besotted with Ukihashi?

Truly!

I don't care if he is one of our best customers... I wouldn't want a spineless samurai like that!

Is that what you all think? I don't see it that way.

Then how do you see it, Karimo?

He isn't such a coward.

If he were, Ukihashi wouldn't have fallen for him.

Well, you're sure taken with him!

Where is Oishi?!

Where is Oishi?! In that room over there.

Wake up! Uki-sama... you have guests.

Sir, it's me, Junai.

And Yasubei.

W... We're sorry, but we'd like to speak in private.

Ah, you two. Well, well!

Sir!

You're here about Lord Daigaku's reduction in rank?

Yes, sir. Not only was Lord Daigaku denied succession...

...they reduced his income by 3,ooo-koku and sent him to live with his relatives in Geishu.

Sir, the last hope of restoring the Asano Clan is gone.

There's no longer... There's no longer any!

Ukihashi! Where did Ukihashi go?

Hey! Ukihashi!

Oh, Ukihashi!

Oh, Ukihashi! Sir!

Sir!

Sir! Sir!

Ukihashi! Hey! Uki... Oh, have you seen Ukihashi?

Yes, just go that way...

Yes, just go that way... Hey! Ukihashi!

Sir...

Master Oishi is returning home.

Children, it's your father!

Children, it's your father! Is that the light of the Nikenjyaya teahouse?

It's Father? Is that the light of the Nikenjyaya teahouse?

Is that the light of the Nikenjyaya teahouse?

Or the light of Maruyama?

I'm home!

Come on! Ugh...

Come on! Ugh... Look out!

Look out!

Ah, here we are... Look out!

Welcome home, Uki-sama.

Welcome home, Uki-sama. Ah, Riku. Let's have some sake!

Uki-sama...

Uki-sama... Oh! Wait, wait Riku!

She's all muddy. Wipe her feet, will you?

Oh, no, you don't have to do that!

Oh, no, you don't have to do that! Hey, what's taking so long?!

Go get some sake!

Go get some sake! Father!

Oh, Chikara...

What's with that face?

Father, this is going too far!

While you've been out misbehaving every night...

...Mother has waited for you patiently here with the children, without a single complaint!

Every time I see her lonely face, it cuts me to the bone!

It wounds me every day, but I've endured it, because I knew there must be a reason!

Now, Chikara, you mustn't be so rude to your father.

I must and I will! You come home for the first time in days...

...but you don't even hug your young children!

You tell my mother to get you sake and wipe the feet of a dirty harlot!

I'm going to buy the freedom of that "dirty harlot."

Husband, is that true?

I'm sick of you, you washed-up old housewife.

Here are your divorce papers.

Father!

Father! We're over! We're through!

Kuranosuke.

Kuranosuke. Oh, hello, Mother.

You'd better not send Riku back to her parents so that you can bring a prostitute here.

As your mother, I won't stand for it!

Mother, it's all right.

No, I've been enduring this scandalous dissipation...

...because I was sure he was doing it to fool our enemies.

Riku, you mustn't think I've been spoiling him just because he's my son.

No, ma'am. I completely understand.

Kuranosuke! This has been hard on your mother...

...but it's been even harder on Riku!

Riku, I'm amazed you've stuck with him this long.

I can't tell you how grateful I am.

And now you want to divorce your loyal wife?!

Yes... Yes. Something wrong with that?

Kuranosuke, are you...

M... Mother!

Oh, hey! Hey, Ukihashi! Where are you going?

Kuranosuke...

Could it be that the time has come for you to go to Edo?

Kuranosuke, why don't you answer me?

Is there something you can't say in front of your own mother and your wife of many years?

Mother... please lay off.

If this is about going to Edo, I'm sure Riku would be happy to hear it.

Now, tell us. A single word is enough.

Enough! "Revenge this," "revenge that"...

Is there someplace I can go where they don't know that word?

Kuranosuke! Are you saying you have no intention of avenging your dead Lord?

None! None whatsoever!

Oh, you traitor!

You disrespectful son!

I didn't raise you to be so unfaithful and ungrateful!

Mother!

Divorced! We're through!

If you're tossing Riku out, I won't stay either!

Come on, everyone, let's go.

Yes.

Will you go to Tajima with your mother?

Or stay here with your father?

Father!

Decide for yourself.

I'm 15 now, Father.

I won't slow you down, so please take me with you!

Kuranosuke.

I cannot leave our late Lord's memorial tablet here...

...so I'm taking it with me.

Any objections?

A strange thing to ask for!

Do what you like.

Tablet: "worldly name: Oishi Kuranosuke"

Riku! Riku!

Yes?

And so, Husband...

...I bid you farewell.

Please... take care of the children.

I will.

And you, Husband...

The weather is growing very changeable...

...so please be mindful of your health.

You too...

My mother is old, so please make sure she is careful.

I will.

We'll bring you back lots of presents, Father.

Look after the house while we're gone!

Have you said your goodbyes?

The palanquin is waiting.

You should tend to your health!

Now, let's go.

I'll see you off. Now say goodbye to Father.

Goodbye!

Goodbye, big brother.

Take care of yourself.

Goodbye!

Goodbye! Goodbye!

Father!

Where is Kuranosuke?

He's bought Ukihashi's freedom, and now he's drinking more heavily than ever.

It's just as you said. He's going to Edo.

He even renounced his wife and children, all to trick us.

Are you telling me to kill Oishi?

I... I can't do it!

Have you fallen for him just like Ukihashi?!

You wouldn't understand.

But if I fail, please tell Councilor Chisaka...

...that he was right about Oishi, and I was wrong.

What does that mean?

If you tell him, he'll understand.

Sir...

I've brought you some tea.

Rui...

Y... Yes?

Rui... You can have that ball.

But sir, that ball is...

My youngest daughter's.

Well, I think I'll have some of that tea.

Rui...

Yes?

Rui... You've often said that Kyoto...

...is a better place than Edo.

Yes.

A woman's happiness...

...comes from having a good husband...

...and being surrounded by her beloved children.

Do you think you can do that, Rui?

If you can do it, Uki-sama...

...then I should be able to recognize the sound of a child's ball.

What's wrong? You're shaking.

I think I'll head out now.

She's botched it.

Let me go! There's no time!

You won't... You won't be able to kill him!

I'm not in love with him!

You mustn't! You'll just die a dog's death! You're no match for him. Don't do it!

Unhand me!

Father, we were right... it's Okahei.

Chisaka Hyobu sent him.

Hyobu...

As we expected, Asano Daigaku was denied his succession. An excellent cautionary example.

I find it truly regrettable, My Lord.

How unfortunate that Lord Yanagizawa was not a bit more judicious!

What would you do if you were in the government?

I would have granted him the succession and 1o, ooo-koku of income.

Do you think that would lessen the danger to my father's life?

That is part of it...

...but the Takumi no Kami incident...

...is also causing an unexpected public rejection of Yanagizawa's governance.

Enough!

Be sure you guard my father well!

Necessary though it was, I ask your forgiveness...

...for my misconduct and my waste of so much money.

Nonsense!

You have our sympathies, in particular for the way you had to part from your family.

The time is coming when the rest of you will also have to leave your families forever.

From now on, your comrades here are your brothers.

Yes, but look at this!

Sir, I'm overcome with shame about how I cursed your methods last year in Edo.

When they heard Lord Daigaku's request for succession was denied...

...72 men came to me with all sorts of excuses for taking their names off the list.

Only 47 of us left...

Father, may we get out the tools we've prepared for the raid?

Open them!

We'll let the winds from Mt. Fuji clear the smoke in our hearts...

... and see the moon over Kiyomigaseki.

If afterwards we could live on in memory...

... we would be held up as examples of filial devotion.

Oh, what happiness!

Assembling in Edo Oh, what happiness!

Oh, what happiness!

This express letter from Kyoto says they'll be splitting into five groups and coming to Edo.

Oishi's group is the largest.

I hope that they arrive safely...

What are Kira's defenses like, Okano?

Sir, they're extremely tight.

What's more, Kira's refurbished the inside of his mansion, so we don't know the layout.

I don't see Akagaki or Katsuta...

Maki, leave us alone for a bit.

Another brotherly fight?

Another brotherly fight? Hmm? Oh, no, none of that today.

Genzo, do you know what the townsfolk of Edo are saying?

They're calling the Ako ronin a bunch of cowards!

Brother, I wish you would stop bringing that up.

You absolutely refuse to bare your heart to me?

There's nothing to bare! Lord Asano's the one who cut Kira in the first place...

...so taking revenge just isn't logical.

I'm your own brother! Your own blood!

Yeah, but if there's no logic in revenge, what am I supposed to do about it?

Genzo! Your Lord gave you a stipend of 2oo- koku! You're a disgrace to all samurai!