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GIANTS AND TOYS

PRODUCED BY HIDEO NAGATA

BASED ON THE NOVEL BY KEN KAIKO SCREENPLAY BY YOSHIO SHIRASAKA

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY HIROSHI MURAI

ART DIRECTION BY TOMOO SHIMOGAWARA

MUSIC BY TETSUO TSUKAHARA EDITED BY TATSUJI NAKASHIZU

STARRING:

HIROSHI KAWAGUCHI, HITOMI NOZOE

HIDEO TAKAMATSU, MICHIKO ONO

YUNOSUKE ITO, KOICHI FUJIYAMA

KINZO SHIN, HIROKO MACHIDA

DIRECTED BY YASUZO MASUMURA

Look at that crowd! A flood of humanity!

The more chocolate and caramel they eat, the more we prosper.

To me, they look like caramels.

Here's the balance sheet.

I know. The figures show our sales records are getting worse.

And we're to blame.

We were overly optimistic and lazy to boot.

But you're most responsible.

You made no eye-catching publicity campaigns.

- Sorry I'm late. - But we did what we could.

People like caramels. They'll keep buying them forever.

But others make candy too.

Both Apollo and Giant Caramel do.

Apollo's new line has several flavors in one.

The taste changes as you eat them.

We can't just sit back and wait.

- It's time, sir. - Excuse me.

To sign, sir.

Upset stomach?

It's my age.

It began when our sales started declining a few years ago...

Don't blame your stomach on the caramels.

The market's wide open! Right?

WORLD CONFECTIONARY

Our caramel sales are still good.

But the more the better, right?

All three makers will have sales campaigns.

We must beat the competition. Especially Apollo's triple-flavor line.

The way to publicize this is through some sort of contest.

I want some ideas about prizes for tomorrow's meeting.

New Japan Ad Agency? World Confectionary here.

Our neon sign at Shinagawa is busted.

The W and R in "WORLD" are out.

The wiring is defective! It reads "OLD."

But we're not old, are we?

The public prefer those American candies to our caramels.

They make progress, and we lag behind.

- What's the boss thinking? - He's off his rocker.

The directors too. They're all his relatives, anyway.

If you aren't a relative, you'll never get on.

Why hasn't our director been fired?

He's the boss' second cousin.

No caramels for his weak stomach.

But actually, he...

The chief's only 38 but he's on the fast track. Do you know why?

Simple. He went and married the director's daughter.

Chief!

This comic gives good ad results.

Radio Car Monthly too.

This month's spread.

You played rugby at school?

- Yes, a forward. - I played half-back.

Let's go have tea.

He's only been here a week.

I should've played rugby.

Any idea about prizes? 8mm film projectors are old hat.

Something new. A totally new concept.

Prizes? They never resort to that old trick overseas.

- When it comes to caramels... - Hands up!

Made in the USA. Very well made.

- Good morning. - Morning.

But this is Japan, not overseas.

Here, it's a desperate fight just to survive.

- But... - No buts.

We could be overtaken at any time.

Whoever sells more caramels survives.

But...

You like girls?

Yes, I do.

How about her?

- The one who looks like a kappa? - Fetch her.

- Here? - Do it!

- Hi! - Hello.

- How about a tea? - No, thanks.

- It won't take long. - No.

- Five minutes. - I said no!

- I'm not a weirdo. - Police!

Really? She had a nose job?

And her eyelids too.

She's rebuilt her entire face from the ground up.

That's terrible!

- Disappointed? - I won't watch her movies.

- Harsh! What can I get you? - Lemonade.

Lemon squash is better. One, please.

I'll send you some movie tickets.

- Where do you live? - Fukagawa.

I'll write it down.

My work is better. My brother will steal them.

Either's fine. Go get a box of chocolates.

As well as movies, I also like cars.

So I got a job at a taxi company. I make 4000 yen a month.

Phone number too.

I've been there two years, and no raise. They're going bankrupt.

Only seven cabs, and they work us like slaves.

- I do mainly skip-work. - Skip-work?

Yeah, I skip work.

Your handwriting's very masculine.

All the drivers are perverts. I ignore them.

There was one nice guy, but he quit.

He looks just like him, even walks like him.

Like who?

It's a secret, right?

It certainly is. A present for you.

Thanks. I'd better get going.

- You'll really send those tickets? - I keep my word.

I'll be waiting for them!

Her teeth are rotten!

- Vivacious eyes and a long tongue. - You picked her up in no time.

After she turned you down, I said you loved her.

She felt bad, so she stuck her tongue out and came along.

I really blew it!

She might be right for us. Let's give her a camera test!

Hey!

WOW!

- Let's go drink like back in college! - Yeah!

- Enjoying it? - No. It's boring.

They're acting like fools.

Why did we like it here as students?

We had free time.

How's Giant Caramel going? Preparing a campaign?

Aren't we always?

- What's the prize? - Live animals.

Squirrels, guinea pigs, little monkeys.

- And World? - Not decided yet.

- Campaign girl? - Not yet, either.

You're slow, aren't you?

We're careful. We aim to win.

You, us and Apollo. This next campaign will be a war.

What's the matter?

You're not just holding out on me?

Me? Why should I?

We've been friends since junior high, sure, but we're also rivals.

And both in charge of publicity.

Yokoyama!

I'm sorry. Forgive me.

Come on. We're adults now. Let's go somewhere more adult.

I don't like us doubting each other.

- Sure, okay. But if... - If?

Cross me and there'll be a fight! Come on.

All the drinks are free.

Giant pays the bill.

We don't really mix, but your chief often comes here.

Mr. Goda? A great man.

- Oh yeah? - I respect him. I hope I get that good.

Good evening.

This is Masami Kurahashi, from publicity at Apollo.

- I'm Nishi, from World. - Highball!

- You in publicity? - Yes, I'm new like Yokoyama.

- Can you hack it? - Huh?

You don't look tough.

Buy a good idea?

- For a campaign? - A bargain, for you.

We've decided on ours. Sell it to World.

Let's not talk shop.

- Why not? - It's our free time.

You need to be working in your sleep to put food on the table in Japan.

- You get used to it. - You're too soft.

All right, let's see if I'm soft or not.

- The kid's a player. - Don't insult me.

It wasn't an insult. Just my opinion.

What's your idea? I'll buy it.

- How much? - It depends.

Space suits.

That's great! The kids will love it!

Free of charge. My gift.

To Apollo!

- To Giant! - To World!

WORLD CONFECTIONARY

Space suits? That is a good idea.

I can't betray my friend by telling you what Giant are planning,

but they're giving prizes out too. But Space suits are much cooler...

They're doing live animals.

So you knew?

Sir, they're waiting in the meeting room.

Apollo is who I want to know about. No info yet, though.

It's unusual. What are they plotting?

I'll find out. I'll throw myself into it, starting today.

Give it your best.

Chief, do I really look that soft?

You're almost firm, at best.

By coincidence, I also thought of space suits.

We've been researching it for three months.

MEETING IN PROGRESS

Anyway, we want conclusions!

Show me the pamphlet.

How about the Wild West, with guns as prizes?

Mothers will complain!

They'll be banned the next day.

Baseball it is then. Jerseys as prizes...

Speak up, man!

Fishing rods?

Kids don't fish. I don't like it, either. Unless I'm fishing for women!

It's your responsibility!

Thank you for your contributions, gentlemen,

but let's hear what Mr. Goda's plan is.

Thanks.

- Time for your medicine. - Such devotion.

- Are your bowels that bad? - Stomach, not bowels. Right?

Prizes like baseball jerseys, microscopes,

fishing gear, guns and women. They all lack something essential.

None of them can outshine Apollo's Deluxe Candy Queen.

- Hurry up and get to the point! - Settle down.

I've been looking into what excites children for months now.

I've examined TV, radio, movies, the press and magazines.

I've entered the world of children to carry out research,

and a clear answer has emerged.

- That is... - Yes?

Science! The sky! Space!

- Like satellites? - New worlds!

Prizes can be space suits, ray guns, and so on.

Old hat to Americans, but known only to Japanese kids in comic books.

First and foremost, it's a fresh idea.

Second, a newspaper is going to hold a Space Expo targeted at kids nearby.

There will be satellites and rockets.

If we team up with them, we'll save on marketing and get better results.

Third, if we sponsor space stories in kids' comics and magazines,

it'll go down well with the PTAs too.

I think the idea is sound, fresh and unique.

What's this material?

Plastic. We have cost estimates.

- Don't we? - Yes, sir!

This is sure to be a hit!

- Yes, but... - You disagree?

American kids may like it, but will Japanese kids?

Listen to you! You're behind the times.

America is Japan.

Maybe so, but...

I see!

Our company is 40 years old.

As the name indicates, the world's our market.

We've tried to lead the young. But not anymore.

Our time is over. To start with, we can't link caramels to space.

Shall we vote?

- I'm with space. - Me too!

The boss will go for it.

The script will be ready in a week. We need a poster model too.

Goda has some good leads on the model too.

Right, Goda?

Hey! That whets the appetite.

- What does? - Your milk tanks.

Hey! How's business?

Bad. I worked all night for a measly 800 yen.

- Shut up! - Morning.

We're heading for a recession.

Yu-Chan! Kin-Chan! You must be hungry. Here's some food.

- Hey! Tea! - Do it yourself.

- Oh! That'll be a fare. - More like another accident.

Hello, Koto Taxis?

Oh, Mr. Goda? Yes, it's me.

Huh? You'll pick me up? I'll be waiting!

That's no accident.

And it ain't a fare.

Check!

Hey! Skip work and that's 200 yen off your wages!

Go ahead!

Check! Business sure is slow.

More like a recession.

Been waiting long?

No. Please, get in.

Wow! What a nice car!

Hello there.

The tickets I promised you.

Shall we go for a drive?

Wow! This is fantastic! This upholstery!

Hey, boys!

- Who's that? - Some nut.

Camera test?

It won't take long. Don't worry.

Oh, no!

If it goes well, we may hire you as our poster girl.

Let me out. I'm going home!

- This could be your big chance. - Not in these clothes!

- You look great. - But my hair... make-up... No pictures!

We have everything at the studio.

Some other time.

- Let me go! - Just forget about the camera.

All you have to do is eat candy and stick out your tongue.

We'll do the rest.

No! Let me go! You're violating my rights!

You assholes!

Let me go!

Are you finished?

You could do with sleeping around a bit. You're losing your figure.

The photographer, Harukawa, takes photos of actresses' rough skin.

And models in cocktail dresses eating sweet potatoes.

He captures what women hate.

But the girls adore him.

Another lousy kid?

- How's your father-in-law? - Not very well.

They used to call him the publicity demon.

He got me started. I should go see him.

But I'm busy. Work, and too many women to service.

What sort of "service?"

Matters of the flesh.

And the heart too.

- How old are you? - I'm 18.

- Your name? - Kyoko.

My first love was a Kyoko.

Which first love?

I had another first love last night.

But she stank. Making love was pure torture.

Come with me.

- Stay with me. - Me?

Or else I'll faint!

- In a minute. - Promise me.

Don't forget!

This won't work!

- She likes you. - Don't, please. She grosses me out.

You've only seen her with the naked eye.

Harukawa works wonders with his camera. And her personality!

She'll be our mascot. You be her boyfriend.

Hello, gentlemen!

Hey! They're the new World Girls.

They're not much good.

The third from the right is spunky.

The top brass here all have bad taste.

Don't worry. Goda's discovered a new girl.

- Who? - Can't say. It's still a secret.

- You'd know, you're his golden boy. - What?

Now, now. Let's all be friends, guys.

We salesmen need the help of you publicity people.

Your posters and TV commercials are the artillery.

We salesmen are the infantry.

But there are always obstacles on the battlefield

that can hurt candy sales. Allow me to explain.

Let's say an atom bomb makes it rain on a public holiday.

I'm not selling candy to any hikers, am I?

Rain just doesn't stop builders.

Railroad strikes cut into our sales too.

And what if a pleasure boat sinks?

Our sales go down with the passengers.

Or an earthquake, a fire, or even worse,

a typhoon, Japan's own specialty.

We have a lot of disasters for such a small country.

Right. And if nothing like that happened at all,

there'd be too much fruit and farmers' kids wouldn't eat candy.

- No way! - It's no laughing matter.

In short, capitalism has come to an end.

Enjoy our delicious Silver Caramels!

Everybody loves Giant's Silver Caramels!

The exotic taste of the tropics! Silver Caramel!

The joys of the tropics, brought to you by Giant!

Silver Caramels not only taste good, they're romantic!

Everybody loves Giant's Silver Caramels!

Silver Caramels help to refresh you

when you're tired from demonstrating.

Enjoy a Silver Caramel today!

They're invading our territory!

What are you doing?

You know why girls prefer foreign boyfriends?

It's obvious. Their physiques are totally different.

Japanese men have short, bandy legs.

Most of us are skinny and look depressed.

We make less money.

The Yanks make 100,000 yen a week.

Nobel laureate Hideki Yukawa makes 40,000 a month.

No wonder the girls don't like us.

I'm going for a piss.

Evening, kid. Good evening.

They're from Apollo. You know her?

Yeah. We met here.

Yes, sir?

Back to business. These are Kyoko's pictures.

She looks good through a viewfinder.

Plus, she can lick her nose.

- Lick her own nose? - Damn good at it too.

- Good. - She'll do.

Hell of a big mouth. She could swallow a roll.

I'm an expert at making women laugh and making them cry.

I'll work with her.

Do your best. We'll pay you well.

I'll start tomorrow.

Nishida will assist you. Sorry it's a Sunday.

No problem.

Give it some fighting spirit.

- Keep your hands off her. - Of course!

I'll go spy on Apollo.

That lighter's just like you. Irritating!

Pour my beer, kid. Come on!

- Ready? - Yeah!

That's her there.

I have no idea what you see in Kyoko.

But you're free to take photos or whatever as you like.

A little present for everyone.

- They're for me! - No! Mine!

Stop that! Shut up!

Don't cry. I'll give you noodles.

No you won't!

Hey!

Stop that and give me a hand!

What next, exactly?

- You can go home. - I wish I could.

You're not needed.

- Can I come? - Why even ask?

- Take the car. The girl stays here. - Really?

- Take me. - Don't be stupid.

I'll bring the car to the studio tonight.

Wait! Nishi!

Come on. Stand here.

The room's better messy.

- But it's far too dirty. - It's fine.

Better spruce up...

We're not shooting you. Too bad.

Hands on your hips. Look up!

What are you doing?

I need ozone. Tomorrow I'm back in the concrete jungle.

You can't stock up on air.

Girls certainly can.

Why did you invite me?

You need a reason?

No. Isn't the sky beautiful?

You're very romantic today.

I am a woman, you know.

Yes, I can see that.

You're sounding very grown-up.

Am I still a kid now?

You smell of milk.

- You have a comeback for everything. - Go ahead, fool me.

So, what prizes did Apollo decide on?

Is that why you kissed me?

No, not at all.

- Why, then? - Because I like you.

We still haven't decided.

- Liar! - No, it's true. It's chaos.

But I heard World has, right?

Word's got out already?

It takes one to know one. Which will it be, squirrels or space suits?

- Space suits. Much bigger scale. - Right!

I mean, it is space, after all.

Let's forget about work.

We've got more important things to do.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A CUTE TEEN

She's cute, isn't she?

Sure is. Shame there's no nude shots.

This town is so boring! Nothing ever happens.

There ain't much for poor people like us.

She's a good-looking babe.

She looks like a nut job.

Yeah. Just like you!

I'm not used to this...

Don't worry. They're good shots.

Oh, no! I'm eating noodles!

This was at a radio recording! It was embarrassing.

Mr. Harukawa was shouting so loud in front of everyone.

I like rock 'n' roll, calypso, whatever. I love excitement!

Next, please.

Go, Mighty Mouse!

Stop it!

Look up.

- Hey, has Nishi seen these? - He has.

- What did he say? - "Much better than the real thing."

How mean! Where is he right now?

At the factory. Want to see him?

By the way, it's no big deal,

but you might start getting all kinds of visitors soon.

Like who?

No matter who comes, don't mention World's name.

Just say Harukawa discovered you on his own.

I'm not good at lying.

One more thing. If they ask about your family, tell them this.

One, you've never fought with your siblings once.

Two, you work at the taxi company to look after your sick dad.

- All of your money goes to your family. - I spend it on myself. I earn it.

Never say that again.

This is difficult.

- I'm going. My love's waiting for me. - Your love?

Four of them, actually. My little tadpoles!

Little know-it-all!

Your magazine is full of crap.

Where did you find her?

That issue is sold out.

Byron wrote his poems while he tortured himself.

Dryden thinks of ideas for his plays while he drives on the highway.

Her photo shoot has sold more copies than anyone since James Dean.

Kyoko Shima is a character.

Musset meditated surrounded by books.

Japanese novelists meditate on the toilet.

She's young, she's fresh.

You sure have an eye for talent!

She's no different from any other girl her age.

The only difference is that she keeps tadpoles.

- Tadpoles? - That's brilliant!

Grotesque bullfrog tadpoles. They eat dried bonito.

- Fish flakes? - That's great too!

Dried bonito flakes.

What do you spend your money on?

I give it all to my family. My dad's sick.

Such a sweet and honest young lady.

That ends today's special report.

Show us the tadpoles. Quick, get a photo!

Yu-Chan's dead!

- Dead? - Yes, dead!

Hey! Photo, photo!

JAPAN WEEKLY HOW IS SHE LIVING TODAY?

International norms are a form of control.

They're functional.

To put it into layman's terms...

Huh! Now that's a sweet face. Very proletariat.

Let's see.

"Gives salary to her sick father."

She has a heart too. That's rare these days.

Credit where it's due. I didn't see it.

I never thought that funny face would be so adored.

You're brilliant! A genius!

Do you know how many newspapers and magazines there are in Japan?

How many pages in total?

Have you ever tried counting radio, TV, record and movie companies?

- Can't say I have. - Good morning!

Our little Japan is filled with them.

What's more, editors and producers

have to keep printing and broadcasting programs

If they don't, they're out of a job.

They're eager to find stars. And if they can't, they make them.

Award-winning writers, girly men, killers... They can all be stars, heroes.

Why not Kyoko? We'll make her an even bigger star.

This is just the beginning.

- Good morning. - Morning.

Hello? Get me 20th Century Fashion.

- You found a model? - Yep.

My daughter visited me.

That you, Okuda?

It's Goda. It's been too long. How about a drink tonight?

I want to introduce you to a new model. But keep it quiet.

Okay. See you then.

You're staying late every day.

I know you're busy, but go home early from time to time.

I'm saying this as your wife's father, not your boss.

There you are! I've found you at last!

Do me a favor. Put an ad in my newspaper.

- Please. - Speak to the director.

If you say yes, he'll agree.

He'll be retiring soon, anyway.

I don't feel well. You hold the fort.

Was that the director?

Every morning she has a bright, cheery hello for me as she walks by.

I've known her all her life, she's such a good girl.

Her neighbor, a local florist.

Loved by her co-workers, friends, teachers, everyone...

Don't drink!

But I'm thirsty.

Do it again. From "Loved by her..."

Who gave her water?

She's a precious flower who brightens the whole town.

That's our Kyoko.

I want to be happy. I want the people in my...

- What's this say? - "Environment".

Come on! We rehearsed all this!

Sorry. I'm nervous.

Start again.

I want to be happy.

I want the people in my environment to be happy too.

I ask the twinkling stars at night...

Apollo still hasn't decided on a prize. We're way ahead.

Really? Are you sure?

Believe me, I know.

Why do people fight and cheat each other?

Why don't they trust each other and work to improve the world?

The stars give no answer.

And I know not why...

You soon will, kid.

How was I? Good?

Great for a first-timer.

I'm thirsty. Water!

- Coming up. - Hey!

Look who it is!

Meet me by the door later.

You're at a fashion show on Thursday.

Who was that?

Someone should be in touch with the details.

Okay, see you later.

- Shall I get you something nice to eat? - I'm not hungry.

Hey! I want to be in a TV drama next!

- Where are you from? - Shizuoka, out in the sticks.

Pass the cigarettes.

Has Apollo really not settled on a prize?

I have no idea what my boss is doing.

- She was cute. - Huh?

- That girl. - Her with the rotten teeth?

- Who is she? - No one.

- I'm looking after her. - What does that entail?

- I can't say. But you'll see soon. - Will I?

Well, I'll see you later.

What's wrong?

I don't deal with two-timers. Give her my regards.

You've got it wrong!

Seriously? You don't know who she is?

You're pretty blind for a publicist.

She's that new sensation in all the magazines.

So why was she with you?

- I was with her. - What's the difference?

- Are you jealous? - Maybe I am.

That's silly!

You aren't too bright.

Just between you and me. She'll be our...

- Your poster model, right? - Huh?

- Has she signed a contract? - You knew?

I worked it out from your face just now.

Don't you dare tell anybody. Okay?

Okay.

Do you love me?

Yes, very much!

So when you find out what Apollo's prize is, tell me!

We're fully confident that our products are superior to both Apollo's and Giant's.

So we're counting on you with the marketing end!

It must be hard with a man like that as your director.

Shoot from here.

- Hey! - Oh! Didn't know you were into fashion.

My boss sent me here to hire a model. The famous Kyo...

Forget it. She has a sponsor already.

Really? I didn't know.

But you can introduce us anyway, can't you?

- You've really changed. - How?

- You just have. - Well, that's my job. I had to.

Established stars have thousands of fans.

They love their stars.

Right. They collect posters of the stars they like.

- So I don't want to use her on posters. - What should we do?

The fans look at the star, not the goods they advertise.

That's nonsense.

Let's see, shall we?

What are the big sports stars, Wakanoyama and Nakajima,

currently advertising and for whom?

This isn't a quiz show!

Singers, boy stars, baseball players, jazz singers, sumo wrestlers...

They sell everything from fruit juice to lipstick.

I bet they'd even do gravestones if you paid them for it.

But they're in so many ads that people can't link a star to a product.

That's why I won't use a star in this campaign.

We aren't here to flog photographs.

In short, you want some new personality who hasn't appeared in other adverts?

- Yes, sir. - A new face, huh?

Okay, show us your new star. I'm sick of this.

You should've shown us these at the start.

He knows what he's doing.

Anyway, I've seen her funny face everywhere.

Are you sure she's free?

I found her outside this building.

I've already made her a photo model, a fashion model, a radio star...

What does everyone think?

It doesn't matter at this stage. We have to launch our campaign now.

- All right, then. Decided? - Right.

Look at the pictures.

Kyoko, pay the fare!

Don't be so stingy.

Everything ready?

Pearly Whites is here. We'll head up now.

Why did you ask me here so suddenly? Anything exciting?

You're going to be the face of our company.

There's a contract waiting for you. You'll be paid just for signing it.

- How much? - 200,000 yen.

I'll buy crackers!

Five zeros, right? Don't be surprised. We're just paying what you're worth.

If you have any problems with the contract, it's best to say now.

You're free to appear in any magazines,

but you're forbidden to advertise any products.

If you agree, sign.

I'll quit my job!

Apollo Caramel called me the other clay too.

- Huh? - A woman.

She sounded scary. She said she wanted to meet me.

- Huh? - Your seal.

I wonder what she wants? But it's no big deal.

Apollo is our enemy, right? I better not meet with her.

Stamp here and here.

You can see her if you like.

You blew it.

Sir!

- Goodbye. - See you tomorrow.

What's wrong?

Was it you who called Kyoko? Tell me it wasn't.

I did. So What?

What's wrong with you?

She's a marketable character, of course I did. What's wrong with that?

You'd even sell our love for a profit, would you?

What about you? Look me in the eye and say you didn't try to use me?

But at least I played fair.

Sooner or later you'll do what I did.

All right, tell me, then. What's Apollo's prize?

Sure, I could tell you. It'll soon be out.

Won't it just throw you all off, anyway?

Who cares? Just tell me! What is it?

Win a subsidized life. From cradle to wedding.

It was my idea. Satisfied now?

Nishi! This needn't affect our relationship.

Let's keep seeing each other.

Great idea. Only one person out of a million could win that,

and the consumers know that, kid and adult.

But if you compare the three offerings,

the poor and tired mother will pick Apollo if her child asks for a caramel.

A space suit won't improve your quality of life.

This is going to be a tough fight.

Fights always are. I'm not worried.

You've got the fighting spirit! You do give me some encouragement.

Your tea.

If we had a daughter, I'd want her to marry Nishi.

Yes, that would put him on the fast track.

That's right. That's how it works.

Unfortunately she's barren. My bad luck!

You could run for Miss Mars, and you'd win.

Look this way. Pull in your chin. Now relax and smile.

You're a star, remember?

You like sumo wrestling? Let's go sometime.

I saw a bout once.

One of the wrestlers lost his loincloth.

You could see the lot!

A sight to behold!

Hello? It's for you. From Osaka.

Japan Plastic? About the space suits...

I think Goda's got it wrong this time.

This photo will really strike a chord with the population.

First, she's no unattainable star.

Second, she's a girl with a boy's toy.

Third, caramels have rotted her teeth.

Goda's a genius. It's a completely original concept.

This is going to make waves. I guarantee it!

Sure, she's fresh and charming.

But we aren't beating Apollo with her, or with space suits.

We're focusing on kid's toys, they've targeted adults.

Apollo gets women, the PTA and religious groups.

You're in charge, Yashiro.

How could you let this happen? Huh?

Apollo's idea is brilliant, and ours is imbecilic.

We're not engaged in philanthropic work.

We sell caramels. That's the point.

Will this work? Are you confident?

I'll try.

Goda, wait.

- This is in strictest confidence. - Yes.

We're going to promote you to director of publicity.

The president will go along with it.

- But... - It's okay.

Yashiro will land on his feet somewhere.

We're counting on you. Okay?

SPACE SUITS VERSUS ANIMALS VERSUS SUBSIDIZED LIVING

WORLD CONFECTIONARY SPACE EXHIBITION OPENING

GIANT CONFECTIONARY

WORLD CONFECTIONARY - WITH YOU IN THE FIELDS AND THE MOUNTAINS

GIANT CONFECTIONARY

WORLD CONFECTIONARY INVITATION TO SPACE

GIANT CONFECTIONARY INVITATION TO THE ZOO

APOLLO QUEEN CANDY

APOLLO QUEEN CANDY

WORLD CONFECTIONARY

GIANT CHOCOLATE

APOLLO DROPS

Try a Silver Caramel today!

Giant offers you many gigantic prizes!

Little monkeys, rabbits, guinea pigs, squirrels and much more!

World Confectionary is proud to present these exciting prizes!

A space suit set,

including a space helmet and ray gun, plus caramel-packed rockets.

And free invitations to the planetarium.

World Caramels are the best!

Pep pills?

I haven't slept for three days.

Everybody loves Giant's Silver Caramels!

The exotic taste of the tropics!

Giant brings you the joys of the tropics!

WORLD CONFECTIONARY SPACE SUIT OFFER

Enjoy our delicious Silver Caramels!

Everybody loves Giant's Silver Caramels!

The exotic taste of the tropics!

World Caramels

World Caramels

Let's have fun!

How are you feeling?

We're fighting it out with Giant in the streets, where it's kill or be killed.

But look at Apollo.

They're doing it all with billboards. The self-righteous pricks!

WIN A SUBSIDIZED LIFE, FROM CRADLE TO WEDDING

APOLLO QUEEN CANDY

Welcome to Japan!

WORLD MILK CHOCOLATE

Yay! Go, team!

- TV rehearsal. Let's go! - Hey! I like your hat better.

The chief is waiting. Come on.

But the game's only just started.

You came here to hand out flowers, not watch the game.

- Don't I get any time to myself? - Of course not. You're famous now.

Hey, don't you want to skip work and watch it with me?

- Have some discipline. - Help me up, then.

What's your problem? Hey, don't I know you?

Take the shades off.

I'm Kyoko Shima. Nice to meet you!

He struck out again.

- Drop dead! You're worthless! - Damn idiot!

Sorry we're late.

- She wanted to watch the game. - That's not true.

You can rest later.

It wasn't me. It's Nishi's fault.

What are they?

Tranquilizers? Should you be mixing these with uppers?

You look beat.

You're young. I envy you.

APOLLO HAVE CLEAR LEAD THANKS TO SUPERIOR PRIZE

Are sales picking up? Of course. Our publicity's working.

But our campaign costs more than Apollo's,

and they're selling more. They're getting better results.

I went along with you. I've supported you.

So it's up to you to beat Apollo!

Things are looking bad.

A hopeless situation.

The last of the tadpoles is dead too.

Your fee. If you'll sign the receipt.

You're even paying people late now.

We're spending a lot on marketing, and supporting our retailers financially.

At least you're making money.

I hate TV.

TV is perfect for publicity.

It puts Kyoko and caramels straight into people's living rooms.

Her rotten teeth too.

You've got bags under your eyes.

It's nice not to be the only one anymore.

Look at her. She isn't afraid of anything.

While you slave away, she's transforming herself.

She's gone from a tadpole to a frog.

The quick way to success in show business is having three lovers.

A producer, a writer and a critic.

- If only there was a handsome producer. - That's the problem.

Next reel!

I'm beat.

But I like TV, no one comes asking to get their money back.

A hopeless dancer, but she laughs well.

Thanks.

Sorry, it wasn't that good.

- Excuse me. - You're still here?

Can it wait? I need to talk with him.

- Hello! - Hello...

- A woman producer. - She's no woman.

- What is she then? - A machine.

Oh, mother!

No! That's not how it goes.

Don't you get it? Do it this way.

Oh, mother! Got it?

Okay, so you want more close-ups? No problem.

Not me, the chief.

- Finished? - Five minutes.

Who was that woman?

Oh, that old actress?

I guess you wouldn't know. She used to be your poster model.

Still hasn't realized her star's faded. It's a tough business.

She's looking for work.

But we can't use her, and she keeps hassling me.

Oh, mother!

Will you come shopping with me?

Autograph please!

She's no looker up close, is she?

See you later, kids! Let's go.

What are you looking at?

Come on.

I want to study piano, dancing and acting, naturally. And singing too!

Jazz first.

Apparently all stars need to sing jazz now.

Who said that?

I'm not as stupid as everyone thinks I am.

If you're going to be a jazz singer, put the comic down and learn English.

That's right! I thought the same thing.

- Got a dictionary? - No.

Choose one for me?

- Is this French? - German.

- So this is German? - French.

How about this one?

English?

Huh? How are English-Japanese and Japanese-English different?

Come again?

I see! English-Japanese is more expensive!

What did they teach you at school?

How should I know? It's all the same, isn't it?

Well, you'll learn soon enough. We'll take this.

- Kyoko Shima? Will you sign this? - Kyoko! We love you!

Hey, do you know how much I make a month?

No, I don't.

Including radio, TV, magazines and posters, I earned 500,000 yen.

I can buy fur coats, perfume, jewels, cars... Anything!

Right. The sun revolves around you.

- But there's one thing I can't have. - What?

- You, Nishi. - Huh?

Will you be my boyfriend?

No way, no thanks.

Why not? Hasn't it been lovely, you being my escort?

I'd rather stay your escort.

I'm in love with you, but you look at me so coldly.

You're salable goods.

I don't see a price tag.

You don't have to have everything, do you?

But I want you. Now, tell me.

Do you like me, or don't you?

I have my career. And a woman.

That doesn't matter.

Do you like me, or not?

Not.

That's strange. I can't believe it.

You're in love with yourself.

Better than someone who doesn't love themselves. Love me, won't you?

No.

You won't regret it.

I'll buy you anything. Do anything. I mean it.

Don't insult me. You may be a star, but you're still a kid with rotten teeth.

If you have time for men, why don't you brush up on your nursery rhymes?

- Kids should stick to kids' stuff. - Me, a kid?

Yes, a baby. Success has gone to your head.

Has it, now?

You just don't get me one bit.

Fine! I never want to see you again!

Hey!

You damned idiot!

That was your fault! Pay more attention!

This is a model of the Space Expo. They'll finish building it in a week.

Rockets, satellites, space stations...

If you have any good ideas, now's the time to share them.

It's too big. We can't afford it.

They'll pay. Don't worry.

Anyway, Nishi. Where's Pearly Whites? I haven't seen her in a while.

- We'll need her for the expo. - Boss!

Big news! Apollo's factory is on fire!

APOLLO REDUCED TO ASHES

CAMPAIGN TO BE ABANDONED?

The greatest damage we at Apollo face

is our candy vending machines being empty.

Useless, laying idle.

Production on our new line Apollo Queen has completely stopped.

What a disaster!

The problem is, if we have no Queen Candy to sell,

the prize we've been offering will be meaningless.

We were winning the sales war against Giant and World by a mile.

But not anymore!

What a disaster!

How much do we have in stock?

Nothing.

- How long to rebuild the factory? - Six months.

What a disaster! What a disaster!

- Six months! - They've gone into hibernation.

This is our big chance!

It's basic math! Three horses eating hay. One of them falls ill.

That leaves more for the other two!

Let's demolish Apollo now, while we can!

- Can we produce more? - No problem.

Their whole campaign is in tatters.

Apollo is in critical condition.

We'll crush them and dominate the market!

Yashiro, Goda! We're counting on you!

Yes, but shouldn't there be some honor among rivals? Decency, I mean?

Huh?

We don't have to act like thieves.

They have a long and storied history. Shouldn't we...?

Shouldn't we what?

There were two rival lords who helped each other

when a famine swept the land.

The spirit of Bushido?

Sportsmanship. Fair play.

Honor and decency you mentioned, right?

Are we here to discuss philosophy?

No, all I'm saying is...

We aren't living in feudal times anymore.

If we did as you suggest, Giant would walk all over us.

We have but one course of action. More publicity, more sales!

- Sell, sell, sell... - You're still young.

Young?

All you think of is publicity.

Your point?

There's a limit to sales.

After a certain point, the public just won't buy.

Not everyone wants to eat caramels.

You're behind the times. You don't understand the age of media.

Listen.

Modern people are worse than babies. Worse than dogs. Why?

Because they don't think.

They work like slaves in the day, get drunk and play pachinko at night.

Or they listen to the radio, or watch TV.

When do they have time to think? Their heads are empty.

That's where we come in.

We'll hammer our message into their heads over and over again.

"Delicious caramel, nutritious caramel, World Caramel. World, World, World!"

Then every time they see a pack, they'll automatically buy it.

Do you get it now?

We can control them with radio, TV and movies.

We can make the masses think and feel whatever we want.

The media is the dictator, the emperor of the modern age!

Such conceit! You're too arrogant.

I have faith in the modern age.

- So can you sell more caramels? - Certainly.

No. We can't.

Sir, you were a great man but the times have outpaced you.

You're a dinosaur. A nuisance. You should resign!

What do you...?

Excuse me.

All right, Goda, do it your way.

But make sure you double our sales. All right?

Production's up, but we're not threatening Apollo.

It's just a coincidence.

Isn't this a little ruthless?

It's our policy! You just keep putting our name out there.

Compassion, fear, restraint, compromise, trust...

A publicist need not know these words!

What's wrong? Are you okay? Someone help!

Oh, poor thing! We need help!

WHO WILL WIN? WORLD VERSUS GIANT

We have mountains of stock, but our sales are slowing!

It's only temporary. Apollo is out of the race.

Sales are everything. Raise the wholesale commission.

Wine and dine the buyers who matter.

Sales are everything! So sell!

Increased sales all depend on you fine men.

We're also doing our best to boost production.

Sell! We've got to sell!

Try World Caramels!

Giant's Silver Caramels are delicious!

Excuse me a moment.

Oh, look who it is!

- Let me pour you a drink. - Thanks.

WORLD

WORLD CONFECTIONARY

CARAMEL

It's like Giant and World have gone crazy.

It's not just like it, they have! What the hell are we doing?

Trying to survive.

We're putting the noose around our own necks.

That's just how things are these days.

That's just how things are? Not for me, I say.

Let's stop fooling around like this, please.

Marry me!

I have to turn you down.

Don't you love me?

When I do marry, I want to quit my job to be a proper wife.

But could you put food on the table with your salary?

What's wrong with being poor?

You're sweet, but you're naive.

Why get married and live like paupers? I like things how they are.

Tricking each other and using each other?

Work is work, and love is love.

We love as we cheat. It's so thrilling!

A love like that will last.

No, it's all crap!

Here's some advice, as your lover.

If we stop and think, we'll be crushed.

Did you know that Kyoko Shima has found herself a manager?

Really?

I hate seeing you like this. It makes me want to spur you on!

I guess I do love you, after all.

Sales have come to a halt.

On top of that, I'm told retailers have started dumping stock.

They're panic selling.

Prices may drop. But we can't back out.

The competition deadline is soon. I want to make a final push.

The Space Expo opened yesterday,

but we need to extend it, go even bigger...

Very well.

- But a smaller budget. - Huh?

With enough money, even a child could do it.

Your job is to do it without spending a fortune!

- But... - Goda.

About your promotion to director of publicity...

The boss has agreed.

So this is your chance to show what you're made of!

Let me have a go on it!

No, I want to ride it!

No, you'll get it dirty.

No, I won't.

Just for a minute.

- Is your sister around? - No.

You'll break it if you ride it.

She isn't here?

She moved out. It's far too dingy for her.

Moved where?

We have no idea, but she sends people here with messages for us.

- Who? - Different people.

If she gets in touch, will you ask her to call World Confectionary?

Okay.

Be careful with that! It's very precious.

We're moving too. This is no place for Kyoko's parents.

Be careful. Don't carry heavy stuff.

He just needed some nourishment.

Money certainly cured him.

Come on, call a taxi!

Okay, okay.

- Look, that's Kyoko Shima. - Really?

She's putting on airs.

- Please can I have your autograph? - Later, honey. I'm busy.

- She's so stuck up! - Yeah!

I don't care how busy you are, you could've told us your new address.

Where've you been?

I really didn't have a moment to spare.

Anyway, let's get to the point. Did you get my letter?

You know you have to be there for our prize draw, don't you?

I want your help over the ten days until then.

It's simple enough.

Wear the space suit and hand out caramels at the Space Expo.

From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. every day. All right?

Okay, make it a week. You're probably busy.

- That might be a problem. - Why?

Radio and TV work is quick and easy, but I can't stand up all day.

You can rest on your breaks, of course.

I'll be too tired to record. My voice will be all hoarse.

Record?

A record company offered me a deal to make a jazz record.

I'm taking lessons.

A jazz singer, eh? Good for you.

But you are bound by our contract.

Your obligation to us comes first. Understand?

I don't like to say this,

but I'm the one who discovered you and made you a star.

Never mind the contract, what about what you owe me?

Allow me to remind you

that all this time I've been giving out caramels in a space suit,

it was never actually in the contract.

The contract only covers newspapers, magazines, radio, and TV.

I never signed up to being a peddler. I've been had.

Oh, dear.

Okay, look, let's forget the contract.

But we really need you to be on the floor for us.

I'll pay you a separate fee. What's your price?

Here.

Someone put you up to this. Who?

Never you mind.

If that fee is agreeable, I'm all yours.

She's changed. She scares me.

Our budget's been cut,

but our only option is to keep using her and using her!

How much did she ask for?

We're out of money. I'm not spending a penny more than I need to on her!

But we can't make her if it's not in the contract.

We have to.

Is there a way to?

There is.

- You! - Huh?

Date her. Kiss her. Lay her!

Are you serious?

She's in love with you. That's why I had you accompany her everywhere.

So she wouldn't act up.

But you slacked off. And now look what's happened!

It's your duty to sort this mess out!

No! I won't do it!

You can't refuse.

You told me to keep my hands off her.

That was then!

I don't love her.

She has a good body.

My answer is no!

It's an order!

As of today, I'm director of publicity.

This is your director's... No, this is your company's order!

Sleep with her and get control of her.

Mr. Goda!

Hurry up!

Get going!

Beat the drums, here comes the night

Running through the darkness, from one to another

Without the slightest sound, creep up and spear them

With lightest of steps, approach and kill them

Let rivers of blood run from them

Bleeding, bleeding

Sell it to the native women

Sell it to the native women

The native women, when they see the blood flow

Oh, how happy they will be

They leap and dance with joy

Dance, dance

Possessed by the god of death

Leave them, discard them

We can't help the dead

Traveling from one darkness to another, to a funeral

Traveling from one darkness to another, to a funeral

Floating in the azure blue sea

Floating...

When I wink, I want you to throw the streamers.

But not at my face.

If I go blind so young, thousands of girls will be heartbroken.

Here she comes!

Miss Shima! You were wonderful!

Nice to see you.

You know why I'm here?

To pay me?

No.

Oh? To hear me sing, then?

- To love you. - What?

To make love to you.

Don't be silly.

Happy now? Isn't this what you wanted? You've got everything in the world now.

How conceited. Don't talk to me like that.

I don't care about you.

Even if you were the best, I wouldn't be interested.

- Get lost! - No!

- Why not? - Orders.

- Oh! Goda's? - No!

Then whose?

- Shut up. Come with me. - Get off!

No one tells me what to do.

You think you're a star, but you're just a puppet. A toy.

You're just the media's flavor of the week.

So what? I don't mind being a puppet or a toy.

As long as I'm having fun, that's enough.

Fun? The public are fickle. They'll soon find another star.

And you'll end up a nobody.

So what?

You're very strange. You envy me, don't you?

You regret you lost me? I'm happy and content.

The man I love is taking care of me and business.

What?

How dare you? Go!

Get out!

I will. But tell me one thing. It's my job to know.

Who is this lover? Who's managing you?

Me.

Wait. Listen to me.

Shut up!

Don't be so upset.

You double-crossed me. I thought we were friends.

You can't rely on friends these days.

Look what you've become!

Come on, grow up!

Listen. It's kill or be killed. Cheat or be cheated.

That's how it is these days.

Change, or you'll get left behind.

Who made you this way?

- I quit Giant. - Huh?

What's your salary? How about in ten years?

And when you retire, still a small fry who never made it to the top?

I'll do anything for money.

You dumped Kyoko, so I picked her up. What's wrong with that?

What's wrong with making a fortune?

I'm forcing myself to do it.

Yokoyama! Don't you remember all we've been through?

We played rugby together and sang together.

Those days are long gone. Forget them! Move on!

Don't put the blame on me. One clay you'll understand.

I already do.

Are you crying?

Don't forget, you're a star.

Your fans don't come to see you feeling sorry for yourself.

I'm angry.

Angry?

Anger and tears are useless.

Crying is foolish. Getting angry even more so.

The smartest people only ever smile.

Smile, Kyoko.

Smile and forget about everything.

Right! Back to work!

Teenagers are fickle. You've got to hustle.

Let's see. We're flying to Nagoya tonight.

Then we'll fly back for the TV show tomorrow night.

Kvoko!

They're lovely. Thank you.

GODA RESIDENCE

Hello?

He's still not back.

He was coughing up blood today, so I thought he'd be at home.

No, he comes home late every night.

This is Fu. It's a silly name.

I see a big future for you.

And you'll have a rich, kind and handsome boyfriend.

Behave!

That's me, by the way.

- Another highball. - Coming up.

Has Goda been here?

No. I hardly see him around anymore.

His days are over.

Can I interest you in her?

She's the next Kyoko Shima.

I hear World lost Kyoko.

Goda sure is smart, but Kyoko outsmarted him.

Slum girl fools big shot from a major company.

It serves him right.

He's fighting a war alone. What a fool!

You're just like a World marshmallow.

So you're here?

Where's Kyoko?

It didn't work. I failed.

That's unacceptable!

I'm sorry, sir. But I did my best.

You can't manipulate me anymore.

You think it ends there?

The campaign will continue.

Even if Kyoko comes back to work for us,

what would that change?

We'd sell a few more caramels, that's all.

Power. Money. I'd get another promotion!

Coughing up blood all the while? You'll suffer for all that?

Not me. I'm getting out of this business!

Quit? Then what?

I'll live like a human being. My life will have meaning.

Are you dreaming? This is Japan.

No matter how meaningless or inhuman the work, you do it or you starve.

Taxi drivers, teachers, everybody.

We all run around like madmen.

That's not what being human is. Not that you'd know.

You didn't marry for love.

You heartlessly tore Yashiro down and stole his job!

And I respected you. I wanted to be like you.

What a fool I was! You have no idea what it means to be human.

If you have a problem, take it up with Japan, not me!

If you want to live like a human, leave. Go to blue-eyed wonderland.

But as long as you're in Japan, you'll do as I do and do as I say!

Now, go back to Kyoko and get her to wear this space suit!

No. I'm not going to end up coughing up blood like you.

And one day, what happened to Yashiro will happen to you.

Fool! We must sell candy. We must win!

No! I won't sacrifice my dignity!

You're a total idiot!

Shut up! I can't count on you.

I'll do it by myself! I will win!

So you really are Japanese, after all! You can succeed me.

I'll never be like you.

You think so?

WORLD

Give them a smile.

A bright smile.

THE END

NOBUO MINAMIKATA, MANABU MORITA

SHUICHI MINATO, MITSUHIKO KUROSU

KEN YAMAGUCHI, JOJI MIYAJIMA, GEN HARADA

KOJI KOSUGI, FUJIO KOMEZAWA, KOJI MATSUYAMA

NORIKO KUBOTA, TOSHIKO KISARAGI JUNKO KOIZUMI, MITSUKO TANAKA