Original subtitles

And then...

...roll.

Am I doing it right?

Remember, they aren't edible.

Putting them in the fridge will make the wax crumble.

Please keep them at room temperature.

I'm getting hungry.

But you just ate.

I'll be right with you.

That's perfect, yes.

Which came first?

The name Kappabashi, or the mythological creature Kappa?

Was this area called Kappabashi hence, the Kappa statue?

Or did they name the area Kappabashi because Kappas lived here?

The mythological creature couldn't have come first.

Yeah, I mean, Kappas don't actually exist.

Yeah, think about it.

An aquatic reptilian humanoid that loves cucumber? Nope.

So, it's a figment of imagination?

I like that.

You ventured all the way to Kappabashi to make fake tempura.

Yet you purchase tempura from a department store to eat.

I couldn't help it. That class gave me a craving.

Buying tempura from the deli corner is way, way better

than me, an amateur, trying to make it.

You're right.

You agree? Rude much?

My apologies.

Gosh, today was a good Saturday.

Right?

True, it would be too much of a hassle to fry tempura after a whole day out.

Right? Besides, frying food messes up the whole kitchen.

HOLD ME BACK

Whoa! Wrong one!

What's wrong?

I bet the students from the workshop are doing the same thing at home.

I bet they are.

Let's put this on the bottom shelf of the kitchen shelf.

You'll be able to see it when you put away the plastic wrap.

Yup, I agree.

Are you sure?

Were you not intending to put it in front of the TV?

Nope.

Good.

Looking at food will make you hungry.

You don't want to put on weight.

Tomorrow is Sunday. What should I try doing solo next?

I thought you were going to clean the house.

I'll go check out that sandwich place I read about in the magazine.

Splash!

-Shall we go that way? -Sure.

-l want to sit! -You can't.

You should give up your seat.

You don't belong in a park on the weekend.

Fine, then!

-She's a weirdo. -Don't say that.

Damn it.

All yours.

"Thanks for the Limoncello. Grazie!"

Grazie!

"You've tried it already? It's late. Time to go to bed."

Time to go to bed.

Satsuki?

No, it's you, A. Oh, stop it.

Staying up late is more harmful than you think.

It's dangerous to immerse in the silence of the night.

Sure, sure, sure.

The loneliness will soon trip you up.

I've been lonely for a while already.

You can skip showering and go to bed as long as you brush your teeth.

Go on.

No!

Why must I do as you tell me?

I only offer advice for your benefit.

It's up to you to listen to it or not.

After all, I am you.

Fine. Then, advise me on this.

What do you think of the "khoomei" downstairs?

In terms of taste in music,

one must respect their choice to master something so niche.

I know. Right?

They sing two tones at once. It's called an overtone.

It allows the sound to carry far so that they can control sheep.

But the time and location is the problem.

It's unsettling to live above someone practicing khoomei at night.

I know! What do we do?

Make a complaint, but not directly.

Tell the real estate agent and have them practice elsewhere.

I see.

Okay! Next question.

What could I do to make myself more likable?

I want to become so approachable that people want to talk to me.

What a sad question.

It's too embarrassing to ask someone or search online

but there's no harm in asking myself, is there?

You're "A" for "Answer."

Do your job!

You own all these sexy lingerie but nobody's seen them in years.

How long has it been?

I don't remember. It's been too long.

Besides, I don't choose underwear with the intent of showing to others.

It's not just underwear.

I try to add color to my daily life.

See? Greenery.

That's a bonsai.

What? You got a problem with that?

You must watch your tone, really.

You usually sound robotic, yet so emotional about the negative.

If you wish to be approachable,

you must express positive thoughts through shape.

You can't put words to shape.

You're wrong. Words can take shape.

Yeah?

You must put emotion into them.

I suggest that you put a love heart after every sentence you speak.

A heart? You've got to be kidding.

Visualize it in your head.

Hello.

Is this the real estate agency?

I'm Mitsuko Kuroda.

I wanted to talk to you about the noise from downstairs.

Nice. I can see the heart.

Seriously? Where?

Around here?

Yes, but it's running away. It headed to the front door.

Good morning!

'Morning.

Actually, Mitsuko, can you help me?

Five, including Ms. Sawada?

Yes.

Thanks for helping

Tea must be served to our guests.

Someone has to do it. Let's leave it at that.

Yeah.

Guess what I'm thinking.

I'm having super dirty imaginations.

I use the company's time to think of erotic stuff.

Suck it, company! See how dirty my mind is?

Now we're even.

Oh, Mitsuko! You naughty girl!

Leave me out of it.

Mitsuko, how dare you! No!

I look up to you so much, Nozomi.

If it hadn't been for you, I would have quit already.

Even if you used to scold me for being useless.

I was just like you.

To be honest, I have no right to tell you off like that.

I'm glad I had you to turn to.

This is cheesy, so I'm going to stop now.

Thanks.

It sure was cheesy, you filthy tramp.

Call me what you want.

-Ah, good morning! -Hi.

Why is he like that?

Carter? He just has a big head from all the flattery.

Though we now know how dumb, shallow,

and badly dressed he is, so everyone avoids him.

There's less contrast here than in the data.

Then, how about... the cosmic blue.

The outer rim? -Yes.

The font will pop.

Thank you.

We'll send you a couple of options.

Okay...

Thank you.

What if we don't do this.

Let's try that too.

Hi.

Good evening.

Come in.

You'll take the food home?

Yes. I don't want to hassle you.

Okay.

Wait here.

As always, it's not anything fancy.

I hope you like it.

Of course, I will.

I love the food you make.

Oh, yeah.

I got you macarons today.

You shouldn't have.

I might visit your office again next week.

Thope to see you then.

Me too.

Thanks again.

What is this relationship? What do you make of it, A?

It's like a mendicant monk and parishioner.

Nice one.

I bet he thinks that I am a pious parishioner.

Why don't you ask him what he thinks?

I'd never! He is just a salesman that comes to my company.

What's the harm in asking?

And then what?

He'd say "This is going to upset my girlfriend."

I'd find out that he's taken and he'd also stop coming.

Pure tragedy.

I totally get you.

Of course. You have a crush on him.

I knew it...

It's been a year since this started.

Ms. Kuroda?

You had a crush on him from the beginning.

Good evening, Mr. Tada.

Good evening.

Do you live nearby?

Yes. I live about five minutes on my bicycle from here.

I never knew that this store was so popular.

I bet you cook for yourself.

I guess.

I should try the food here too, though.

I bought a rice cooker, but I haven't used it yet.

What a waste.

You can make stews and all with it.

What are you having for dinner tonight?

-Uh, hot pot. -Hot pot?

With your family?

Nah, nah. It's just me.

Seriously? I admire you. That's amazing.

It's nothing to be impressed about.

"Chicken breast"

- It's duck hot pot tonight. -What, duck hot pot?

You cook duck hot pot at home?

So sophisticated!

I need to go to the station building.

They don't sell the fancy Kujo leeks for the hot pot around here.

Kujo leeks?

Well, please take care.

-Potato and beef. -Yep.

-Two croquettes and fried ham cutlets. -Two each?

Coming right up.

-Three chicken and leek on skewers. -Three?

This is ordinary leek, not Kujo.

-It's a joke. -You got me.

Hey, wait!

One more croquette, please.

-Please put it in a different bag. -Another bag?

In a separate bag.

It's cold. Stay inside.

Did you get a haircut? Eh?

There you go. These are yours.

-And the other bag. -Thank you.

That's 390 yen.

-110 yen change. -Thanks.

See you around.

Wait up!

Please try this with your hot pot.

-Please, you shouldn't have. - It's nothing fancy.

It's really good.

Okay, thanks.

Oh no.

Right, then...

enjoy your hot pot.

Come over for dinner sometime.

Sorry, forget that.

No, no, I could never...

Did I seem so desperate?

Of course not.

Bye.

Uh, how about this?

Maybe next time...

I, uh...

If it's okay with you,

I could come by to pick up the food.

No, that's even worse...

Oh, what the hell. Can I...

come pick up food?

"Can I come pick up dinner tomorrow?"

What a humongous drag.

Better go shopping then.

Hello.

-Hi. -Hi there

Here you go.

Let me get your change.

Coming.

Yes?

-It's me, Tada. -Coming.

Thank you for this.

Come in.

You'll take it home, right?

-Shall we get going? -Yes.

I'm off, guys.

Good luck.

Ms. Sawada, your umbrella!

Oh, yes.

The rain is getting heavy.

Thanks.

-Shall we take a cab? -Good idea.

Snow white.

White snow.

Snow. Snow. White. White.

Snow. Snow...

What?

If you want to say something, say it.

What are you talking about?

"You're crushing on a major hottie. You're too old for this."

"Take a good look at yourself." Go on, say it.

No. In fact, I'm impressed.

You're the only one who's still on his side.

Carter once said to me, despite being at the office,

I always look like I just came out of my bedroom.

He's nothing but a pretty face.

Now I don't even think that he's all that hot.

Thanks.

That wasn't a compliment.

Splash!!

Sizzle sizzle.

Splash!

I felt nervous going into the restaurant,

but once I got seated, it was smooth sailing.

I hear many people go eat yakiniku "solo" these days.

You like the word "solo," huh?

Yup.

When I think of myself as "solo," I feel confident.

But I'd never refer to myself as a girl,

like "girls' night out."

If you can go out drinking you're too old to be a "girl."

Who cares how someone calls themselves.

"Solo yakiniku," done.

What should I try next week?

I could go to Disneyland, "solo."

Nah, I can imagine myself looking lost.

Why don't you ask Mr. Tada to go with you?

I'm not in my twenties!

No way am I going to ask a younger guy to come with me to Disneyland.

Ugh, if I had a child, I'd have an excuse.

So unfair, damn it!

That's a bold statement.

Wait. My hair is too long.

I'm going shopping in Omotesando.

-Omotesando? -Yes.

Do you often spend your days off like that?

Yes. I check out new stores.

How nice.

Yes.

I'm not that interested in marriage anyways.

I don't understand why people rush into it.

How about you, Miki?

I'm in no rush, either.

But I don't know...

Is this about that younger guy you told me about?

We went out on a couple of dates.

Then he asked me to be his girlfriend.

He asked me.

Really? Good for you!

But he's too young for me.

I don't know what to do about it

Though I think I will say yes.

You never told me that you went out on a date.

I'm so happy for you.

Stop noticing the drop in tone from the woman in the PUCCI dress!

One croquette.

-And a heart croquette too. -The heart one?

The love heart, okay.

Don't you just love croquettes?

Here you go.

-Two for 80 yen. -So cheap!

Do you think I smell like a goat?

Oh?

I remember a masseuse told you that tired people smell like a goat.

I am aware that I am mentally fatigued.

Yes, I noticed you looking for Mr. Tada.

Yeah.

I think I have a crush on him.

How futile.

I'm crushing on a younger guy that hasn't been with much women.

Why would you say that?

Nowadays, a younger boyfriend is deemed fashionable.

Miki at the cafe said that she'll date the younger guy.

Her friend and I both did not see that coming.

Don't worry. I'm sure Tada likes you.

Yeah?

If not, he wouldn't come to your house to pick up your hand cooked meal.

You might be right.

I like you, A.

You never say anything that hurts my feelings.

Today was another wonderful solo-Saturday.

Thanks.

I'll clean the house tomorrow.

I mean it.

It's time to clean up the dust bunnies behind the TV.

Yes, yes, I'II clean my butt off in the morning.

After lunch, I will relax in my clean room.

Nothing can top that.

Eiichi Ohtaki's voice and the sound of water

make a perfect match.

You don't mind the rain.

Not at all. I love all sounds made by water.

Maybe my next goal should be to go to the beach, solo.

You sure you want to do that during the summer?

Couples, families, students, and delinquents.

You would stand out like a sore thumb.

I will?

Fine, forget the beach.

I just saw a heart right about here.

Yes.

Look, it escaped out of the window.

There it goes!

Ні.

Ah, hello... Or rather, "good evening."

Ah, yeah.

-Did you go shopping? -Yeah.

Me too.

Even if you sleep in, you get hungry.

I was going to clean, but I wasted the day away.

You're so organized,

so I bet you'd never believe how messy my place is.

No way. My place is a mess too.

You wouldn't need a major cleaning because you tend to it regularly.

You can have guests over any time.

It's not like that at all.

Have guests over? Please.

Well...

Would you like to come over today?

I'm craving for some tempura,

but it's too much of a hassle to fry food for just one.

It'd be nice to have company.

A-Are you sure?

I'd love to!

I'll go drop this off at my house.

How about six?

See you later.

-Can I help you? -Hi.

It's not just a day for cleaning anymore.

Anything you like, be my guest.

Guest.

I will have a guest visiting my house.

He he he.

Here I am. It's a pleasure to be here.

The pleasure is all mine.

-Please come in. -Thank you.

This is for you.

I stopped by a florist on the way.

I hope you like it.

So pretty.

Thank you.

I didn't know whether you liked plants, though.

Of course I do!

See, I have a bonsai. I will take care of them together.

I should move my motorbike. I parked outside your building.

Of course.

Go clockwise around the building.

There's a guest parking.

Gotcha.

Whoa, that was close!

It's pink and white.

What man gives a woman such pretty flowers

if they didn't want to be liked by them.

Absolutely.

I'm back.

Come in.

What is this?

I was supposed to put that away.

This is fake.

I ended up putting it on display because I enjoy looking at it.

You can touch it if you like.

This is well made.

I went to Kappabashi alone on the weekend for a workshop.

How lame is that?

No. It sounds fun.

This is so surreal.

-Thanks for the food. -Dig in.

Have these too.

No. I want to start with your food first.

Delicious!

It really is.

Especially when it's served hot.

Yeah? Good.

What a lucky day it is.

I was going to ditch picking up the laundry, but I'm glad I did.

I'm so lucky.

The dog at the dry cleaner is gone.

I know! I don't see him around these days.

He passed away last year from old age.

I guessed as much.

Who told you?

The old lady, the store owner.

I went there one day.

I saw the dog sitting in his spot and didn't give it much attention.

But at a closer look, it was a stool, not that dog.

True, yeah.

I was taken by surprise, so asked the dog's whereabouts.

She told me the dog passed away.

I couldn't ask anything after that.

It's so sad that she put a stool where the dog used to sit.

Ah, the old lady, her old husband and the old dog...

You're more sociable than I thought.

You try to be invisible at the office.

In the office, you are smiling but so distant.

It's like you try to hide that you are this friendly.

You're right. I'm the worst.

Serving tea to our guests is my least favorite task.

I smile, but in my mind, I hate doing it.

Gee, I had no idea.

Tada, you should loosen up.

You keep talking to me like we're in the office.

l am?

Wait, that was too polite.

I need time to get used to this.

Okay...

I'll try to loosen up.

Hell yeah.

You sound robotic.

Hit me up.

Finish that off first.

-Careful, it's hot. -Okay.

-Thanks. -No problem.

We're done.

What's that on your foot?

Oh, I forgot to peel it off.

This is a new pair.

Thanks for dinner.

Bye now.

This room feels bigger than I remember.

-Did you sleep with him? -No.

Tada is so square.

-C set, please. -Sure.

-B set, please. -B?

I was relieved when he went home.

That's only normal.

I can relax better when I'm alone.

What do you expect? Humans fly solo from the day we are born.

You need to make an effort to be with someone.

That's deep.

That must be why we are both still single.

-Let's eat. -Let's eat.

Ms. Sawada always seems so busy.

She must be under pressure because she was headhunted.

I like her, you know.

Stop it.

Of course I like her too.

Whatever.

Curry.

What's he doing here?

He complained about the food and swore never to set foot in here.

-Who does he think he is? -He's Carter

Hi, Carter. How are you?

You're eating curry today?

Curry was the least of all evils.

How could anyone possibly make bad curry?

I'm glad you found something that's tolerable to eat here.

-Good afternoon. -Good afternoon.

-Excuse me. -Sorry.

You know, things might have turned out differently

if I had served booze when Tada came over.

Maybe I would have gotten excited and fell for him.

You already have a crush on him.

Damn it, I know that!

But I'm lacking the passion that drives me to tell him how I feel.

Maybe alcohol would have made that passion overflow.

But hey, Tada came on his motorbike.

See what I mean?

We're not meant to be.

Is my neighbor a shepherd?

A huge man, like a sumo wrestler.

Are you thinking of that man you often see?

Yep.

Maybe he left his family to be on an exchange program.

At night, he gets lonely, so he sings and thinks of his family.

Your imagination has really lift off, huh?

"You have to come!!"

Satsuki wants me to visit Rome during Christmas and the New Year.

Very nice. She's your only close friend from university.

She is.

Thaven't seen her since she got married and moved.

That means it's been two years.

She always sends you Limoncello.

You should take her some gifts from Japan.

An overseas trip alone is the epitome of flying solo, huh.

But I don't like airplanes.

I just can't handle it.

Thaven't gone on one in almost a decade.

Still, they have direct flights...

And Satsuki will be there when I arrive.

Shall we visit the city of romance?

Satsuki!

I'm coming to see you!

I can open this for you if you'd like.

There are many colors.

It's truly stylish.

Do you have one of those "SASCOM" thingies?

What's that?

You can use mine.

I know people say you should look for the best exchange rate

but you'll hardly ever use cash.

It's easier if you exchange money at the airport in Japan.

I never knew that.

Look at you. Going on an overseas trip alone.

I will bring an amulet with me for safe travels.

You're leaving it to God?

I guess that's okay

You should do a test solo trip before you go.

Hang on. I have the perfect thing for you!

You can have this.

A day trip to the hot spring. You should go on it.

You're giving this to me?

It's no big deal.

I got it as a gift at this wedding.

I wanted to forget about it so I picked this consumable coupon.

But I didn't want to go and spend the day feeling miserable.

Why did you want to forget about the wedding?

Oh, don't ask.

I don't want to talk about people I don't like.

You have a point.

You're so generous.

I'll use this and have a great time for you.

Thanks, girl!

-We've arrived. -Yes. Finally.

-Thanks for the ride. -Thank you.

-A yukata for you, ma'am. -Thank you.

Enjoy your stay.

"Live comedy, free entrance"

"1st show 13:00 2nd show 15:00"

Beam!

That's it from us.

Those two live up to their duo name.

What was with the punchline?

Here comes our final act.

Hey, don't look at me like that.

Tatsuya, you naughty boy!

Dad?

H-Hey...

I told you to knock.

Oh, him? This is Tatsuya Nakahara, my classmate.

What do you mean, a cardboard cutout.

He's Tatsuya.

Dad? Have you seen Tatsuya?

Huh?

You threw him away?

Give him back!

Give Tatsuya back to me!

Tatsuya! I know you're here!

Answer me!

Please! Someone help him!

My love!

What happened to your right side?

Does anyone know where Tatsuya's right side went?

His right side...

Mom! I can't find Tatsuya's right side.

What? Dad stormed out in tears?

Dad, come back!

I'm sorry! I really am!

I knew all along, actually.

I knew Tatsuya isn't human.

Dad...

You came home.

I...

I'll get a stable job.

Thank you.

Let's hear it for Yoshizumi!

Fa no Sharp! Handsome Kingyo!

Natsuki Kawae! Rin Rin Parker!

Turutuu! Henteko Boys!

Yoshizumi! Takkano!

Thanks for watching!

Whoa, whoa, whoa! Someone's excited!

Hey there! I'm your Tatsuya!

You were awesome!

You smell nice, babe!

Are you seeing anyone?

No? Me neither!

Take a photo with me!

You're such an idiot! Knock it off!

Come on! Let's take a photo.

Stop it.

Stop it!

Come on, dude!

-Thank you. -Bye!

She handled the situation so well.

She did.

But I can't help but wonder if she is okay.

Yes.

Do you think she's okay?

I'm sure she is.

I'm not.

I wanted to tell them to stop, but I couldn't, A.

Take it easy.

What were they laughing about?

Pathetic dumbasses.

Those imbeciles will never understand her comedy.

They were so unpleasant that memories I erased came back.

That's not good.

You know what?

I didn't earn my current position in the office by chance.

I know that.

Apparently, I have skinny wrists.

Disgusting.

A boss once grabbed my wrist, saying how skinny they were.

I laughed it off, but a co-worker said that I was pretending to be mellow.

That woman is sharp.

She saw right through my facade.

I pretended not to understand what she was saying and laid low.

But she didn't let me off the hook.

She told me to spill my guts.

I never did show my true colors to her.

I'm more aggressive than people think.

Yes, you are.

That woman left the company in the most typical way.

She had to take care of a difficult family member.

At least, that's what she claimed.

I was glad she quit.

That boss who grabbed my wrist...

he was relieved too.

That's not all.

He suddenly started talking behind her back.

He was relying on her competency the whole time.

That asshole!

I know.

Well, the joke's on him.

More competent women appeared.

The company started headhunting skilled employees.

Now we have someone like Ms. Sawada.

I bet you, Ms. Sawada will be promoted ahead of him.

But...

I'm no different.

Talso don't welcome Ms. Sawada's competency.

I'm despicable.

I'm not competent.

Still, I've managed to hang on to my position.

I managed because of Nozomi.

I can still breathe because Nozomi looks out for me.

I know.

I...

I couldn't help that comedian.

It hurts, A.

It's okay.

That comedian will laugh at those fools.

She's only going to get better thanks to them.

Will she?

I hope so.

There, there.

Why don't you take a dip in the hot spring?

Before you know it, it'll be 15:00.

She'll perform again.

You'll have a good laugh before leaving

Your age is like a hot cup of cocoa.

Huh? What do you mean?

If your age was a drink, you are the age of hot cocoa.

I am?

I like hot cocoa.

I'm the age of red wine.

Not fair! That's nice!

I'm the perfect maturity.

I'll bring you wine from Italy.

Wait! This is starting to taste like wine!

It's so strong.

That's bubble tea.

I just sucked up an antipasto olive.

-Delish! -That's tapioca.

- It's the Mediterranean sea! _-It's Tsukiji, Tokyo.

Close your eyes.

Now open them.

See?

We're there.

This can't be the Tokyo I know.

Don't worry.

I'll keep talking to you. I'll keep you distracted.

I'm counting on you.

You really don't like airplanes, do you?

It just doesn't make any sense.

Look.

Why are they eating when we are flying tens of thousands of meters high?

-Anything to drink? -Tomato juice!

Certainly.

Enjoy.

You're watching an inflight movie? I bet you never go to the theaters!

He's just pretending to relax!

Closing the shades to mimic night?

Why wear heels when it slips off?

I bet she'll throw them off and put on sneakers in an emergency.

At least I know I'm safe while she's wearing heels.

That's right. Now get some sleep.

It's shaking!

My last flight wasn't this turbulent!

Attention all passengers.

Sorry.

Attention all passengers.

We'll be landing at Fiumicino Airport shortly.

We are now waiting for landing clearance.

We ask for your patience as we stand by.

Let's listen to music with the volumes up!

No, it's no use.

Just do it!

What have you got to lose?

Go on, take out your phone. It's in your right pocket.

Breathe!

Breathe!

Scream!

Do it!

Let your emotions take shape! You can do this!

L!

L...

I...

P...

S.

Look at your lips, you're pouting

Tlook at your face and I know you're up to something

I now know that you were going to dump me

You just hid it all in your pocket

The polaroid sitting on the edge of the table

I found myself talking to it

The past seems brighter than the present

It's sad but so true

My memories are in black and white

So won't you please add color to them

Please come back to me

Color my life, my beautiful Color Girl

Remember the long phone calls, that lasted through the night?

Our hands went numb from holding our phones, remember?

I can still hear your soft voice

How could I ever forget?

What on earth did she say?

You must be tired.

Uh, thank you. I'm okay.

This way.

-First time in Italy? -Yes.

Enjoy your stay.

Grazie.

Mitsuko!

Hey, Satsuki!

Was it a long trip?

I'm just glad to be here.

Thanks for coming. You must be exhausted.

The flight was turbulent.

Really? But it was a sunny day.

How strange.

I'm overseas, in Rome.

Can you believe it?

European rooms are dark.

Mitsuko's here.

Sophia Loren?

That's her thing.

Let me introduce you to Marco's mom and dad.

This is his grandma. They're visiting for Christmas.

I see.

Satsuki?

She's asking what I was like.

Uh... She's a wonderful friend.

-How is the food? -Very "buono."

Thanks.

-Cheers. -Cheers.

Mitsuko?

-Can I come in? -Sure.

Was everything okay with the shower?

Yep.

That color of hair looks good on you.

I can't help but wonder...

Does your Italian family know that you smile only when complimented?

Huh? That's not the only time I smile.

Oh, you and your sexy lingerie.

You even beat the Italians.

Nice. I should buy more skimpy ones.

-It rarely rains in Italy. -Really?

It's a rare experience. Lucky you.

You blame the rain on me?

It wasn't a long walk, but you're soaked.

I'm fine.

-Espresso okay? -Yeah, I want to try it.

The sun feels great.

Pigeon? A pigeon?

Hello, Mitsuko.

I'm right here.

Hi Mitsuko.

Mitsuko, how do you like the Colosseum?

It's huge. I'll fight all the lions!

What?

I saw it in The Gladiator.

Or was it Spartacus?

Good. I wanted you to visit the Colosseum.

I knew you'd like it.

I love enormous architecture.

I get scared of going further than the cafe.

I try not to go out too much.

Even you, Brutus?

"SASCOM"

"Thanks for dinner the other day."

"Guess where I am right now??"

"Overseas?"

"Rome. I'm staying at my friend's house."

"I'm so jealous."

"Hey, I used the rice cooker for the first time."

"Did the rice turn out well?"

"Be careful of pickpockets and weirdos!"

"Enjoy the trip!"

"Grazie."

Aren't you going out?

No. Not today.

Are you sure?

Yep.

Then, shall we? For old times' sake.

Ta-dah!

I'll do your portrait.

I'm sorry. I know you're staying in for me.

No, I'm not.

Can I use one?

The white one.

-This? -Yeah.

Just like old times.

Remember that whale we used to sketch back in university?

Yeah.

I wonder if it's still there.

It's there.

Yeah? Is it worn out?

Not really.

I sent you a photo of it, remember?

Yeah? You did?

Maybe the whale is a thing of the past for you.

It's still a part of the present for me.

I'm stuck in the proximity of that park.

I haven't taken one step from it.

Mitsuko...

I'm sorry.

Everything has been changing lately.

I haven't been able to keep up either.

I'm struggling to accept reality.

You can survive anywhere.

Yeah. It seems like it.

But...

I do have a little regret.

I've come so far without realizing it.

You did it alone. You're amazing.

I was so lonely.

I'm the one who is stuck in the proximity of this apartment.

I needed you here so badly.

Satsuki...

You're going to become a mother.

Mitsuko.

I'm going to become a mother soon.

Congrats.

Thanks.

I'm sorry I didn't tell you.

I'm sorry I couldn't congratulate you right away.

Oh gosh. This is so embarrassing.

It's because you cried.

No, you made me cry.

-I'll draw you crying. -Stop it.

Hey!

Tears, tears, tears.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year! This is wonderful!

I haven't said that to you in person for so long.

That's so true.

Mitsuko!

-What? -Hurry.

What is it?

Just come!

There.

What do you see?

It's so beautiful.

-Mommy, keep warm. -Thanks.

I got to see the fireworks with you.

Attention all passengers.

We have arrived at Tokyo International Airport.

Please remain seated

until the aircraft has come to a complete stop.

Please take care

when opening the overhead compartments as items may slip out.

Thank you for riding with us today.

"I just got back."

"Did the rice turn out well?" "Enjoy the trip!"

Welcome home.

Hey.

You're still here.

Of course. I am you.

Right?

You must be tired.

You know what?

I remembered.

Oh! You smuggled cheese!

Is that for Mr. Tada?

That must be for Nozomi?

Tada said he used the rice cooker.

You know, right?

He doesn't need me anymore.

It's thanks to you that he's cooking for himself.

You two can cook together.

He didn't say that he cooked for himself.

Maybe he has a girlfriend who used it for him.

You're such a negative person.

You're too optimistic, A.

Seeing Satsuki brought back lots of memories.

Two years ago,

Satsuki decided to get married and move to Rome.

I was going through a rough patch back then.

I'm not from an art school. I only drew as a hobby.

Of course, I wouldn't be hired as a designer or architect.

Satsuki and I shared that chip on our shoulders together.

Yet, she disappeared from Japan like she was fleeing from it all.

So unfair.

And you know what's worse?

You were the same too, A.

You disappeared.

Let's find one, then.

"Satsuki is going to Rome?"

"I'll be lonely. I want a boyfriend." That's what you thought right now.

Not true.

You can't fool me. I'm you.

That dentist you went to last week is a 47-year-old bachelor.

You should ask him out.

Don't be stupid.

Whoa! Stop!

Hello, ma'am.

Hello.

I'll take it.

Thank you.

Are you kidding?

Do you have this in 23 cm?

I'll bring them right away.

May I try this on?

Certainly.

This way, ma'am.

Take your time.

110,000 yen?

I never knew about your taste in men.

A dentist? Seriously?

It's not my taste, per se.

Thank you, ma'am.

I wish I could just disappear right here and now.

"I can't see you in public because I can't be dating patients."

"I can't make you my girlfriend, but I reserved a hotel room."

How dare he say such filthy words.

He's a dentist!

Sure.

But you didn't leave during the meal.

I'm sorry.

Do you have any idea how hard it was

to turn him down without upsetting that old man?

Do I completely lack attraction as a human being?

Cut it out.

That's depressing.

I gave it my best.

You impressed me, A.

You were able to go on a date with someone you barely knew.

I wouldn't have been able to do it.

Don't try to comfort me. I do not have an eye for men.

Don't be stupid.

You're amazing, A.

You fought well.

I'm useless. I will disappear.

There, there. A.

Was I talking?

With whom?

A?

Yes?

Promise me.

Never disappear on me like that again.

I apologize.

Don't disappear on a whim ever again.

You're me, after all.

I never want to experience that ever again.

I'm millions of time better off alone.

Mr. Tada is different from that disgrace of a dentist.

I don't care.

All I need is you, A.

Aren't they going home yet?

I know she's not going to take home those clothes I bought for the kids.

Don't you agree?

My sister gets the same amount of pocket money as me.

But I'm older, and I do more chores.

It's not fair.

It's my turn again?

They make me work weekends because I am single.

How fair is that?

See that, A? The dog.

Yes.

No. He's gone.

That's actually a stool.

Yes.

How sad.

No, it's not.

You're lying. Everyone is sad.

Everyone is hiding a sad story.

That's not true.

We're all faking it.

This isn't good.

You look at everything so negatively.

You should contact Mr. Tada and tell him you've come home.

Why should you care what I do with him?

Because it's in your best interest.

Liar.

You're going to dump me on Tada.

Then, you're going to disappear again.

I won't.

"I'm back in Japan!!"

"Happy New Year!"

"I'm sorry."

Sorry?

"Can I take you out to dinner?"

"I should cook a meal in return, but I know I'd fail miserably."

"I'd love to go."

Happy New Year.

Happy New Year.

May this be a fantastic year.

-Did you go overseas? -To Rome.

My friend married someone there, so I visited her.

How nice. I've never been to Italy.

I traveled around Europe by train almost 20 years ago.

Wow, you did? Did you backpack?

It was ages ago.

It was before Euros.

I had to exchange money so many times.

I started from Heathrow, went through Nice, then to Madrid.

That's where I ran out of money.

Wow.

Uh...

I brought home cheese.

Please have some.

Are you sure? Wow, thank you!

Will you accept apples in return?

Apples? I love them.

Great. I'll bring some tomorrow.

My in-laws sent us way too much.

-Happy New Year. -Happy New Year.

Good morning.

Did you know Ms. Sawada was married?

Yeah. So what?

Nothing. Happy New Year.

Uh, yeah.

Here, this is from Rome.

How kind of you.

Um, guess what?

I went on a date with Carter.

To the shrine.

Seriously?

Congratulations.

I'm not supposed to tell anyone about this, but you.

No worries. I don't talk to anyone in this office.

He says his current girlfriend is about to dump him.

This is my chance.

I can't believe he has a girlfriend.

Did you know you can climb Tokyo Tower by foot on Valentine's Day?

No.

The four of us should go. Invite Tada.

Carter said that you have no friends

and Tada seems the least likely to be promoted.

That's why I'm allowed to tell you two about us.

Why are you telling me this?

That's like, trash talk.

I'm going to ask Carter out at Tokyo Tower.

I see. I'll ask Tada.

If he says no, I will go alone and get lost on purpose.

Thanks, girl!

We will prance up the stairs ahead of you.

Then, I will ask him at the top of the tower.

Yes!

Good evening.

Hi.

Boats.

And the sea.

Ah, boats...

The napkin?

Splash!

I'm glad you had a safe trip.

This is great.

You can't come here alone.

Yeah, I've always wanted to eat here.

Oh no. You're talking so politely again.

You're right.

I apologize.

You're robotic again.

You're getting better at it.

I should cut it out.

They have a piano.

Nice.

I want to eat there again.

I mean it.

Oh yeah, this is for you.

What is it?

Cheese and...

Limoncello. I smuggled them home.

Thanks.

But you keep giving me things.

It's fine.

Let me take you to dinner again.

Um, Nozomi and Carter invited us

to a stair-climbing event at Tokyo Tower next month.

Tokyo Tower!

You were talking about Tokyo Tower, and it popped out behind you.

How funny is that?

Splash! Whoosh!

Hi.

Thanks.

So frickin' tall.

Thanks.

Thank you.

Thank you.

My toes are freezing.

Of course.

Hang on!

All good?

Whoa.

Sorry.

Whoa.

Good to go?

Right, then. Let's climb!

Yeah!

I'm thirsty.

I want something warm.

Whoa.

I don't want to climb anymore.

We only just started climbing.

Then we should go ahead.

Don't wait for us. You two prance on up ahead.

See you later!

Thanks.

You gave it your best.

I did.

Nozomi's like Doraemon.

It's because she's so smitten.

She's going to ask him to go steady.

That's why I gave her privacy.

Come on.

Come, hurry.

Oh, wait.

Come on!

Let's go.

This is quite a workout.

If you don't mind sharing, you can have my water.

Thanks.

"I did it. He said yes!"

Yes!

But only for a limited time?

Carter will be Nozomi's boyfriend, but only for a limited time.

What does that even mean?

See?

Shall we become a couple too?

I'm sorry. This wasn't the best timing.

This isn't random or anything.

I was going to ask you today.

We'd make a good couple.

Our houses are close.

We can go out on the weekends together like today.

It'd be fun.

Like go to places that are for couples?

I didn't expect you to ask me.

Why not?

Because I'm younger?

No...

It's only by two years.

-Two? -Two.

I'm a crab.

Was it too childish for me to ask you here?

No.

If we become a couple,

how would that change my life?

It won't. It's just that I'll be by your side.

I think I can handle that.

I'm sure you will.

You were right, A.

Ah, I should text thank you to Tada.

We both have boyfriends right now.

Yeah!

Let's go to Okinawa together.

It's so cold every day. A tropical island would be awesome.

Or, we could just wait for spring.

That's a good idea.

Shall we go?

I'd love to.

Then, let's go!

You need to know that I am petrified of flying.

Don't worry. I'll keep talking to you.

Don't worry. I'll keep talking to you.

I'll keep you distracted.

I'll keep you distracted.

Did I really just hear that?

So?

Okay.

I'm counting on you.

I'll go.

Really? Great!

-No one's here. -Wow.

-Yeah! -Hey!

-Vroom! Vroom! -Whoa!

Hey!

-Wee! -Stop it.

Where shall I park?

-There. -A lake.

Okay.

-It's a lake. -Oh yeah.

Let's go. We're getting wet!

-Run! -Wait for me!

-After you. -Thank you.

Where is the men's section?

Too sexy?

How about this one?

Oh yeah, cute.

This is the one! You should get it.

Shall I try it on?

Excuse me!

Stop it!

I was kidding.

What else might look good on you?

We're not looking for me.

This sucks...

We don't have snow chains on.

We won't be able to return this car on time.

I'm sorry.

Why are you apologizing to me?

Let's go.

One semi-double room?

Uh, yes...

Your room is on the third floor.

Here it is.

It's cold in here.

Is this the A.C.?

It's not...

What?

I need a drink.

I'll go get some ice.

It was easier fighting loneliness alone.

I'm going to spend tonight all tense and nervous.

I like Tada, but I don't know how to behave around him.

What was I supposed to do?

Should I have insisted on a twin room?

Must we say these things out loud to be in a relationship?

Answer me, A!

A!

Answer me!

What a joke!

I'm just a madwoman talking to myself like this!

I'm going to keep talking to myself and eventually fall apart!

Somebody, hold me back!

Everything is fine.

Please calm down.

There you are, A!

I thought you had disappeared on me again!

I want to run away, A! I want to run from here!

I want to be alone!

I hate the cold winter.

I want to go to a beach where the sun glares down!

You're being impossible. It's a snowstorm outside.

Why?

Why do you answer back to me when you are me?

I've been following all your advice!

I complained to the real estate agent, but the khoomei hasn't stopped!

Things won't always go your way.

Same with the dentist!

You asked him out, got hurt, and you disappeared!

That's a lie.

I was the one that was hurt.

I was so sad that I chose to forget all about it!

That's true.

Not that it matters anymore.

Just get me out of here!

You're being unreasonable.

Do you not hear me beg?

You're useless!

Useless?

How cruel...

You're being very emotional.

Get me out of here...

We're at the beach, as you requested.

It's just right.

Cut it out.

I knew right away that you think I am fat.

Sorry about that. But... you're just right.

Well, thank you.

Ouch. So hot.

Hot.

I know it's been a while and you're worried.

But everything is going to be fine.

Did you create this world for me, A?

I did.

You just said that I was useless.

However, I am not a mere advisor. Thave many skills.

Wow. It feels nice.

It's all in your head.

This will not solve your problems.

That's not true.

Please don't go.

You're the one pulling away from me.

No, I'm not.

You cannot escape being you.

I'll be lonely without you, A.

We had so much fun together.

I am you, after all.

I was flattered to be called upon.

If you go away,

I will have no one to chat with.

You'll be fine.

Splash! Splash!

Splash!

Was the machine broken?

I went to get some fresh air on the beach.

I knew it seemed familiar.

It was a beach I visited with my family when I was a kid.

It's tough.

Missing someone makes me feel sad.

I'm sorry about earlier.

I'm sorry too.

I was so cold to you.

I want to take things slow with you.

Thank you.

Mitsuko.

I like you a lot.

What?

Me too.

I like you a lot too, Tada.

Thank you for not disappearing on me.

Hey, A?

I know you're there.

"Did you call for me?"

Oh?

Keys. Keys...

Keys. Keys. Keys.

Oh... Where are they?

Tada will despair, thinking that I ditched him.

He might go to Okinawa without me.

What am I going to do, A? I don't want that!

Help me, A!

I'm going to ride an airplane, A.

An airplane!

I'm so scared.

I'll be a mess if you don't help me!

Are you listening?

I'll be okay, this time.

Right?

Right?

Right?

I'm counting on you.

Are you okay?

Yeah...

Anything to drink?

Oh, uh...

We have cold oolong tea, Coke, apple juice...

Just water.

All right, sir.

And you, madam?

...juice.

Certainly.

Oh, sorry.

Thank you.

How could ever forget?

My memories are in black and white

So won't you please add color to them

Please come back to me

Color my life, my beautiful Color Girl

Music by Masaki Takano

Director & Scriptwriter Akiko Ohku

©2020"Hold Me Back" film partners