Original subtitles

Shochiku Co., Ltd

THE LIGHTS OF ASAKUSA

Directed by Yasujiro Shimazu

Camera: Toshio Ubukata

Starring: Shichiro Yamagami, Ken Uehara

Reiko Kosugi, Mieko Takamine

Marie Matsushima

Oh, Haru!

Beatrice, young lady,

Why such a sleepyhead?

Come now, wake up

It's already dawn

The song goes...

Listen now, the song goes...

Come now, wake up

Wake up, Beatrice

Your father has just come home

Come right down to greet him or else

There's sure to be a scolding

The song goes...

The song goes...

Listen now, the song goes...

Come now, wake up

Beatrice, still deep in your sleep?

Snoring away, you are

Sleepyhead girl, what are you saying?

Grinning and talking in your sleep

The song goes...

The song goes...

Wake up now, the song goes...

Come now, wake up

- Good evening. - Welcome.

Well, well, if it isn't Doc!

What do you mean?

I was hoping I'd bump into you.

I'm going to treat you tonight.

Oh, sounds scary - Pokacho's treat? What's the catch?

Don't be ridiculous.

Ryu, will you set up the game?

You're in a good mood.

Plum, pine, cherry for Sugawara

Dog, deer, butterfly - a dealer's gain

Visitor's tip - January pines, March cherries

The moon of August, December paulownias, and...

November rain You all should come

What's that?

A women's army war song line.

Perfect!

Yup! It's my lucky day and things are perfect in every way.

Well, two can play at that game!

How about that, eh?

You hit all of them.

Wow.

You can have them all.

What! You really must have had a good day.

Calm down, Doc. I'll fill you in when we get back home.

Bye, now.

Leaving me as a loser?

Sorry, Ryu, it's just my lucky day.

Ryu - how many?

Five.

Take off Pokacho's win.

52 sen, then.

See you.

Come again.

Reiko, are you so attached to these flowers?

I'm not 'attached' to them...

You like that guy, don't you?

That opera loafer? Oh, no.

Oh, yes - look at you with that bouquet.

Stop teasing, Beniko.

You know, when I just started,

I couldn't even kick up my legs properly,

and he was the first one to cheer for me.

Ever since, he's been coming every day.

You're in love!

No - it's nothing romantic, it's just...

You can't get him off your mind. That's the first step in love.

Oh, don't tease me - please!

Reiko's blushing! Look!

I'm throwing it away.

A bouquet costs money, you know!

So this is the bouquet, eh?

Reiko's in love.

Stop it!

Did this Pokacho guy attach any note?

No - no message.

I see.

First come some fans, then comes popularity.

Good luck and do well.

Can I have a word with you, Miss Kosugi?

What is it?

You shouldn't take this guy seriously.

Yes, I know.

No guy who comes to these places is decent.

You're growing up, and you'll eventually fall in love.

But you need to make the right choice.

One wrong move leads to a woman's doom.

Allright. Thank you.

Good.

See you.

What was it about?

Mr. Yamagami gave me advice. He's such a kind person.

He's like a big brother.

A brother? You mean 'lover.'

Silly Beniko, Aren't you the one who's attracted to him?

I know all about it!

That not true - well, part of it, maybe...

See? There you go!

But I don't have a chance.

Why not?

Just because.

For you, there's a chance.

You're a maiden.

But with me...

Hey, what's all this hush-hush business?

Gay talk? Very suspicious!

Here's the highly renowned actor, Sir Fujii. Make room!

What's that face, huh?

Say, mister.

Hello, madam.

Can you call Reiko for me?

Too bad.

Reiko.

Yes, madam?

Are you free now?

Can you come back to the house?

Sure. One moment. I'll change.

Let's go this way.

You've grown into a fine woman.

Don't tease me.

Really - your dancing, your looks... You're getting quite popular.

Oh, please.

Really. They love you out there.

The way things look, it's a waste to keep you in the common room.

We can't do anything about that.

If you're up to it, you can be a success even from tomorrow.

I wonder.

Of course you can. It's money. That's what talks in this world.

Money lead to success. It's not about talent.

But I don't have such money.

No, but like I said, if you're up to it, it's very easy.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

Here she is.

Reiko, you know this gentleman?

Yes, we've met a few times at the lounge.

He's going to take you out to dinner.

What do you say? Will you come?

Reiko, why don't you go upstairs and change into a nice dress?

Alright.

Hurry, now.

She looked fine. Why change?

Her kimono's unclean.

That may be true.

Please.

Mr. Handa, excuse me a moment. I'll go and help her change.

What's taking you so long?

Don't give me that look.

Reiko, you should know better,

Who paid for your wardrobe with all these dresses and kimonos?

Picked up a country bumpkin at Uneo and took her in?

Made that girl into an opera actress?

Think well about those things, young lady.

I don't want to say this, but you've cost us quite a fortune.

Come now, this is for your own good, you know.

Yes, I know.

Well then, hurry up and put those away...

No leave them, I'll take care of them later.

Now, which house should I take her to?

How about that house behind Miyato-za?

I'm known there too well. Not a good place to be seen.

I see.

Thank you for waiting.

I'm sorry.

Splendid!

So, what do you want to eat?

Well? Say something.

Mr. Handa, you should get going.

Have a nice time.

Let's go then.

Hello, Sensei.

What are you doing here? We can't afford to miss any cast.

Go back to the theatre.

Mr. Saskaki, as vulgar as ever.

We're just going out for dinner. What's there to fuss about?

Thank you for your patronage, but not tonight, sir.

What?

Sensei!

This girl is under my guidance and is my responsibility.

She even lives at my place.

But Sensei, she is like a daughter to us and we've given permission.

Some parent.

Taking commission from her pay, always making new debts...

How dare you!

As for today, l, as her mentor, reject the offer.

What's important is the stage.

The stage, eh?

Oh, Mr. and Mrs. Toscana, I must inform you...

from now on, you won't be welcome in our lounge.

Take this as the company's decision.

Let's go.

Shit, that bastard! He's just a lowly actor!

What a pest.

He always messes things up.

He thinks a college degree gives him the right to be arrogant.

He won't last long in the play.

I'll get him for this. Get my boys on him...

and he'll be left with a dangling arm.

Yes, right on!

Mister, check this out. Watch me carefully.

See? No tricks. Look, here!

All gain and no loss.

A haIf yen becomes a yen and a haIf - see?

1/2 yen to 1 1/2 yes, and 1 1/2 into 3.

La-di-da!

Mister, what do you say?

Nothing to think about. Just triple your cash!

Not trying? I'm not gonna be here all day, you know.

Come on, give it a try. Here, go on!

It's easy, just like that. So simple, see?

Uh, oh! Police!

Hey, wait up, you, I saw what you did.

What did I do?

You know darn well.

Asshole!

Hey, wait.

Wait, I say! I saw you do it.

Wrong guy.

No, it was you. I was watching.

Come on. You should give it back.

Pick-pocketing from a kid... Have some pity.

What? Are you telling me I'm a thief?

That's right. If you won't give in, I'll call the police.

You opera loafer, you know what you're doing?

You're asking for trouble.

You don't know who I am, do you?

I don't know who you are, but I know what you did.

Look at that kid. He hasn't even noticed.

Come on, give it back to him.

Shut up.

You're coming with me.

Why should l? Just give it back.

You really don't know about this Senkichi of Senzokumachi?

Some nerve!

I may be a loafer, but I'm just!

Why you!

What?

Cut it out, Senkichi.

Hey, Yamagami, don't stop me here.

Taking on a green one like this won't look good.

He needs a lesson.

Come on, save yourself, he's not worth it.

Let him go, just this time. For my sake?

Come on, won't you?

Aw, shit. You're such a pest.

OK, for your sake.

Thanks.

You watch yourself, jackass.

Damn you, oaf.

Aren't you Mr. Schichiro Yamagami of Nihon-za?

That's me.

Thank you for helping me.

I thought I did.

Not knowing Senkichi? No way.

Here he is!

Senkichi, where have you been?

Hey, what's up?

Where were you?

Fukumatsu and Takou looked all over for you.

Sorry, I was making a bit of cash.

You greedy son of a bitch.

A little allowance on the way.

About Mr. Handa's request...

Everything's set.

That was a really crazy thing to do.

You're lucky I walked by.

He's only a pick pocket, no?

A gangster into lots of things. Never mess with him.

Senkichi of Senzokumachi - a real tough one.

It's a miracle you didn't get knifed.

You seem to be known well around here yourself.

I'm an old timer here. Not much to brag about.

Say, where are you from?

I come up here once in a while to look towards my hometown.

Which way?

All the way in that direction.

Where is that?

Shinshu.

Mountains there are awesome.

You are from Shinshu? Me too, from Kami-Suwa!

I'm from Suwa. We're fellow countrymen!

Good to have your acquaintance!

Same to you.

I'm a painter living in Hongo.

Haven't sold any work yet. I'm an opera freak.

My name is Chojiro Kanda, but my friends call me Pokacho.

Boccaccio Chojro - Pokacho.

You're Pokacho?

So you're the one...

What do you want with Reiko?

What do I want with Reiko?

She's so innocent. Don't corrupt her.

Corrupt her?

Everybody knows back in the lounge.

You're mistaken. Sure, I'm attracted to her...

But that's a dancer in a Degas.

Degas? What's a Degas?

A European painter.

I'm attracted to her as a painting - as a work of art.

There is only reason for a man...

You shut up!

My feeling for her is pure.

What you're thinking now that's corrupt and totally nasty.

Shame on you.

Calm down - wait, Pokacho.

No way.

Don't get so upset.

You really are a Shinshu guy. So excitable.

Nasty is nasty wherever you're from.

OK, I understand. I think I get what you mean.

Here, let's make up.

OK, shake.

If that's the case, I'll introduce you to Reiko.

She's a very nice, kind-hearted girl.

Really?

I could introduce you after the show tonight.

That's great.

Oops - I better get back.

See you later.

I'll be watching from the stand.

Mr. Yamagami.

Hi! How's business?

I need to talk to you.

Gonna ask me to shoot your heart again?

Don't joke around.

Now, don't scare me.

There's going to be trouble.

Senkichi and his gang were sneaking into the playhouse.

What for?

From what they'd been saying,

they're plotting to ruin Sasaki Sensei's stage.

They're after Sensei?

They're going to hoot him off the stage.

What do they want with Sensei?

From what I heard, it seems orders are from that bar, Toscana.

Well, thanks for telling me.

Mr. Yamagami, you're not going to take them on?

Senkichi and his gang - just 3, right?

Are you really?

Depends on the situation.

Wait a moment.

Take this charm. It's better not to take them on.

Mr. Yamagami, what are you looking at?

Hi. Senkichi's sneaked in.

He's come to harm Sensei.

Sasaki Sensei?

Toscana's order.

Oh dear, Ohira's Toscana?

You know why?

Yes it must be that - it's because of me.

What? Because of you?

Take your places, everyone. Are you ready?

Say, you, get going, will you?

Come on, take your place quickly.

The Toscana couple wants me to take customers.

You? And who's the jerk?

Handa.

The steel snob?

Sensei saved me from him last night.

That's why they sent over Senkichi.

Reiko!

The man takes her hand jumping around and dancing

The woman joins in, dancing and singing

Everybody to the rhythm

Everybody, sing together

Make a circle

Jump, jump, up and down

A gay and joyous party

Who's that, an officer?

Where is he going?

I'm going to see my lover

Here we go!

Sasaki!

Risking my life to see her

Hey, you two!

Look at my arm, my great power

Go ahead and have a look

What a pleasant surprise

Cheeky.

Here, have a seat

Watch me now

Come on, what's that?

Be quiet!

Shut up, peasant!

What? Westernized beggar!

Be quiet.

Why should l?

People are watching!

Have some constraint.

Do your hugging at home.

Oh, puh-lease not here!

Take back those vulgar hecklings.

Come now dear.

We aren't any entertainer.

We're dignified artists.

Is that so?

Who's heckling?

Yamagami - don't.

Come on out, you!

Our stage isn't any show.

It's a work of art.

Please leave if you can't appreciate art.

Mr. Sasaki.

What's got to you?

Nothing. Just that I'm not going out there again.

Stop acting like a child.

I don't care. I'm not going on such a vulgar stage again.

You can't do that. It may do for you, but what's to become of this play?

Close it then.

That's nonsense. You're not the only one in the company.

You know we can't do that.

In any case, I'm out.

We can't allow that.

Please don't give us trouble.

I said I'm out - I'm out!

What are we to do?

Leave us, everybody.

Marie, we're going home. Get ready.

No, I won't.

Get ready.

I said no.

I'm staying right here. This is my play.

You're to obey your husband!

So self-centred. Such selfishness can't be accepted.

I'll find a partner to fill you in myself.

Do as you like.

Calm down Sensei. Listen to your wife.

Marie, we're going home!

I will not!

Stop thinking only about yourself. What about the others in the company?

Reiko, do you have a sec?

What'll happen?

The playhouse will be fine. But the thing about that Handa guy...

You have got to be strong and fight this out. Do you understand?

If there's any trouble, come to me, OK?

OK. Thank you.

And also...

Today's opera plays "CARMEN".

Oh, hello.

I wanted to pay a visit, but it's too early.

Do you mind my visiting?

Oh, no. Thank you for your trouble.

Oh, please - my pleasure.

By the way, when Mr. Yamagami introduced us before,

he asked me to be your knight and protect you.

I'm determined to keep my promise as much as possible.

Thank you.

No - I'm honoured.

You still have time, don't you?

Yes - plenty.

Good.

Oh, have Sensei and the Mrs. made up yet?

No - it's gotten worse. l feel sorry for Sensei.

That's too bad.

I wish the Mrs. would treat him kinder.

Then Sensei won't be on stage for a while.

He quarreled with the playhouse owner...

and Marie Sensei's sole interest is money-making.

That is sad. Marie Matsushima used to be known as a fine artist.

Surviving in Asakusa is bound to correct anyone.

But you're an exception.

Me?

Why is that?

I'm absolutely sure.

It is dirty Why don't you sit on this?

"Marie M., Beniko Y., Reiko K."

I wonder what's taking Reiko.

I'm sorry to keep you waiting.

Please.

It's about time she comes, isn't, Beniko?

Beniko, I have something to discuss with Mr. Handa.

Mr. Handa, what you were saying about the company...

You need to get me Reiko before we start any business.

No problem. Just leave it to me.

Even the Toscana couple couldn't handle that girl.

Leave it to me, I say.

So, about the company...

If you sponsor us I can gather the trustful ones and start anew.

We won't let you down.

Sure I'll sponsor you, but before that...

I'll handle it fine. Trust me.

Hey why are you out here?

He's here again.

That Handa guy?

Oh, boy. Well, anyway, come on up to our room, then.

Come on in.

What are you doing?

You're being shy because of Yamagami!

That's not true.

I know about it.

OK, OK, I'm coming inside.

Sorry to bother you.

I really appreciate your kindness.

What's that? Don't be silly.

Here you go.

Handa's here again.

The bastard. I should give him a good blow.

Don't bother with that shit.

I'll get that son of a bitch.

Save it and plan well.

A punch-saving account. That's a new one.

It's not funny.

How are you feeling?

I feel really good today.

See? I'm fine.

Look at me everyone, I look well, don't I?

I do, don't I?

Yeah, you do.

Better than yesterday.

I've finally gotten better.

Mr. Yamagami, shall I comb down your hair?

It's OK.

Well, then, over here?

Thus from my grave

Shall I protect my home country

Till the day the salutation of guns and war cries echo

"Two Honourable Soldiers" is next?

So I heard.

"Two Honourable Soldiers." That's why they're practicing.

Lucky guys.

Thus from my grave

Shall I protect my home country

You aren't up to it yet. Asuki, stop singing.

Damn, I guess I'm not, huh?

Katori, Yamagami...

Sing it, you all, won't you?

Thus from my grave

Shall I protect my home country

Till the day the salutations of guns and war cries

Echo once again

The Emperor will return

And when the army gathers

Above my grave

I shall rise and stand high

For his Majesty the Emperor

I'm so envious.

I wish I could be on stage.

Yamagami, after you're done, lend me that iron.

Sure, fine.

Shall I do it for you?

I don't want to infect you.

I'll be fine.

Hey, are you supposed to be shaving?

It's OK, I can comb my hair for myself.

Hey, guys, come on, sing!

You can't be a little girl forever.

You got to start getting reasonable, you know?

You accepted at noon, and now you're whining again.

I hate those who just have to complicate everything.

So, you won't do it?

Too ungrateful girl.

Please - I'll go.

You finally understand.

It's for you own sake and advantage too, you understand that?

Such a troublesome girl.

Beniko, I'm going home.

Take her to the house behind Miyata-za. You know the place, don't you.

Reiko?

I heard you stood up Mr. Handa at Toscana's before.

Don't ever try that this time.

I am not that stupid like the Toscana's wife.

I'm counting on you, Beniko.

Good night, Ma'am.

Don't cry so hard.

Are you really going to Handa? But you hate him so.

It's not because of him.

I just don't want to. Not with anybody.

I know how you feel.

Reiko, you don't have to go.

You're so sweet, even I don't want to let you go.

Say, why don't I go alone and trick him somehow?

Can you do that?

I'll take care of him. I'm not afraid of that slime.

Will you be all right?

I'm not pure like you, anyway.

Oh, Beniko.

Reiko, you be strong and survive in this town of Asakusa.

Ask Mr. Yamagami when you need help.

Mr. Yamagami?

He's fair and just. Very kind.

He's a true man.

He'll surely help you out.

To tell the truth... Now don't laugh, OK?

I've been in love with him for a very long time.

But it's no use, because I've lost the right to be loved by him years ago.

You're wrong, Beniko.

Oh, it doesn't matter any more. It really doesn't.

Beniko, I'm so sorry.

I'm so sorry.

Oh, Beniko!

What's the matter?

Beniko's gone. Beniko...

Beniko? Where to?

She's gone in place of me.

In place of you?

We're mates gathered by some fate. I ask for your help.

Think of a good way to help her out.

Don't you see? This isn't just about her.

It is about showing morals even in a run down playhouse like this.

Well, I can buy that.

Think of something.

Let's see...

To begin with, we need to hide her somewhere.

Yeah, but where?

As you can see, I'm living here in the common room.

What about your place, Katori?

No... Guys in my housing are like beasts. Too dangerous.

My place is tough. I've got a distrustful wife with a big mouth.

I... can't even take of my own self there.

What's up?

Wait.

I'm going to Handa's.

I'm making trouble for all of you. I should just go.

Don't be stupid. Sit down.

It's not just for you. It's our will.

What about Beniko?

Don't worry about her. She's got craft. She can take care of herself.

But she went for me.

Hey, come in.

Good evening.

What's going on?

Reiko, I got all these dolls for you.

I hit the target like crazy.

Pokacho, where's your housing?

Nezu in Hongo.

I see. What do you think?

Sounds good.

They won't look there.

Pokacho, have a seat. We need to ask you a favour.

What is it? You make me nervous.

Will you put up Reiko at your place for a couple of days?

Put up Reiko?

Is this a joke?

It's no joke. A serious favour.

You may be dumbfounded - it all started with Handa, the steel snob.

He bribed Marie and is trying to control Reiko with fear.

Really, that Handa guy?

So we need to hide her. So far, it seems your place would be the best.

Nobody would think of looking there.

As a matter of fact...

I haven't paid last month's rent.

I'm not in any situation to take in any guest.

I'm about to be kicked out myself.

We'll pay for Reiko's share.

There's my debt from last month before we can even discuss that.

So the best thing to do is to pay back your debt.

Yes, that's right.

How much is it?

Would 100 yen be enough?

I'll bring it to you by tomorrow, then.

No, don't. The company can't trouble the newest member about money.

It's all right.

OK, I'll confess.

After the show, I'm planning to disappear.

Disappear?

A guy starting a new theatre movement in Kansai has been asking me to join.

I'll ask for a 100 yen advance tomorrow and then disappear.

How do you like this plan?

You're really going?

Yup. 100 yen or not, my mind is set.

OK, then let's do it. We're counting on you, Pokacho.

Reiko, you should get going. There's no time to lose.

Anything to take?

Leave them.

I'll visit you in the morning.

Hello? Yes...

Marie? Please hold on.

Marie.

It's for you.

Hello? Sorry to have kept you waiting.

What? What did you say?

Don't fool around with me, sending over a fox like Beniko.

She won't do. You better take me seriously.

That can't be. Reiko must still be in the common room.

She's nowhere. You're hiding her there, aren't you?

No, she isn't here.

Anyway, I'll come right away. Good bye.

Hey, good morning!

Good morning? You sly guy!

What do you mean?

Don't start with me. Who's that woman you brought in last night?

You saw her?

Well not yet, but...

The owner's told me she's a real beauty. Who is she?

I'm not supposed to tell.

Tell me. Why hold it from me of all people?

Don't tell anyone. It's Reiko from Nihon-za.

Really? You finally won her heart?

Nothing like that.

Whatever. Do I get to see her?

OK, later.

That's a promise. Keep your word!

Hi, you're here already? Pretty early.

Hi. They'll never find this place.

Here's the 100 yen Katori made for us.

Great - thanks.

Pay your rent right away. The owner didn't look happy seeing me.

I owe about 70 yen here. Shall we buy some beef and...

have a drink with the rest?

No way. I need to go back right away. Things are growing crazy.

What happened?

Neither side slept a wink last night.

Side? What side?

Who's on whose side isn't clear,

but Handa came and complained plenty to Marie sensei.

Marie sensei was suspecting the Toscana couple of hiding Reiko.

Thus a huge quarrel between Marie and Toscana's wife,

we got the office guys on our side and they get the gangsters.

Any violence?

No, but both sides are searching for Reiko with all their might.

I'm causing so much trouble.

Not you, it's Handa, the Toscana couple...

and our Marie sensei.

I don't know.

So I'm heading back right away.

Listen, don't go outside for a while. You too, Pokacho.

Don't worry. Knowing where we stand, I'll concentrate on my work.

I'll finish Reiko's painting.

Good. Work hard.

I won't come for a while, but everything will be OK. I promise.

Take care.

Thank you.

I'll see you off just out to there.

No - don't. Pokacho, take good care of her.

Sure.

Good bye.

Hey, Yamagami, I was waiting for you.

Give me a sec, will you?

What do you want?

Where was it that your friend Pokacho lived, huh?

Why should I know where that bum lives?

Listen. Last night, Pokacho and Reiko ran off hand in hand.

Pokacho and Reiko? Well that's a laugh.

Then what if I tell you Ryu says she saw everything?

Ryu, are you sure you're not mistaken?

I might have...

Opera loafers all look alike, don't they?

Come to think of it, he was a bit taller than Pokacho...

Yes - he was.

There you go. See? Senkichi, don't make false confessions.

I'm a born coward, you know.

Shit. Ah, Ryu, I forgot you had the hots for Yamagami.

We can't talk here. Let's go to the cemetery.

What?

I have a play to be in. I'm not going anywhere.

Cowering away?

You're a reckless fool.

Mr. Yamagami, don't!

You idiot! What are you doing here?

Asukai - he's really bad.

I'm going for a doctor. You go back.

No time to fight - it's a matter of life and death!

Get out of the way!

Asukai?

Yamagami.

Come on, Asukai, hang in there...

Hey, Asukai!

Damn.

He was still talking just till now. Too late.

Uh-huh.

Damn it...He really left us.

Well, even a place like this, it's a tatami room.

He's one of the lucky ones.

He was once quite famous with the diabolo.

Yamagami, we all die, sooner or later.

I want to go out.

So do I. How nice it's be to have you walking beside me...

I want to go to Asakusa.

To Asakusa?

Why? Do you miss Yamagami that badly?

Not just him, but to see the town of Asakusa.

Hey, Pokacho!

Are you busy?

What are you doing?

Since you won't introduce us, we've come to do it ourselves.

Come on, let us meet her.

Pokacho.

Oh, boy...

If not - I want my money back now.

Oh, all right.

I'll introduce you.

Reiko, can you come out here a moment.

That side from here is her room.

Come on out.

What will Mr. Yamagami say?

He won't know.

What if he comes by chance?

He said he won't be coming for a while. It's all right.

So come on out. Please?

Miss Reiko!

Please come out.

Come and join us.

Miss Reiko Kosugi.

I'm Nimura, a medical student.

I'm Sakuragi, a humble poet.

I'm Yasui, a law student.

Nice to meet you.

How about we all go to Asakusa together?

Great idea. We'll have a good meal, watch a show, and bill it on Nimura.

Sure. Everything's on me. Let's go, Pokacho.

Not for the world. That's what we definitely can't do.

Really? That's too bad.

Then how about a game of cards? Two-ten-jack?

Reiko, do you know how to play?

I'll go get the cards.

Well, so you have been painting Reiko.

Why aren't you in the opera, Reiko?

Don't be rude. She is taking leave for recuperation.

Speaking of opera, today's Friday. Program change!

I wonder which plays will be on.

I know one is "Two Honorable Soldiers."

"Two Honorable Soldiers." That's a good play.

Yeah - really good.

Mr. Yamagami, can I have a moment?

Why don't you just give up?

What do you mean?

Are you making a fool out of me?

- How could I? - Be quiet.

You're acting so obnoxiously these days.

You defy me ever since Sasaki left.

Don't give me that sneering look.

Now, give back Reiko. Where is she?

I don't know.

I know what is going on.

What's going on?

It's the talk of the playhouse.

There, see.

And I know you are in love with that girl, aren't you?

Ha, Bull's Eye!

Now, give Reiko back!

Give her back? Why would I?

I'll protect my dear one.

You idiot! What are you saying? You know nothing.

Hold on, Ms. Matsushima, you're making a big mistake.

Yamagami isn't the one who hid Reiko.

You know who?

Of course I do... It was me.

Ask at the office.

I got a 100 yen advance and used it for sending her to Kansai.

If you're concerned, try your inquires in Kansai.

Maybe Rakutenchi or Takarazuka.

Don't mention losing a dear student by pressing her to take customers.

How dare you speak to me like that.

This isn't good. Get away fast.

Pretty smart, huh?

Idiot! Hurry.

I'm all prepared. Look. A ticket to Osaka - see?

You are a sly one.

Let's have a drink before we part. I'll see you at the usual place.

Oh, it's a heart! A heart, my heart!

Wow.

I see your hand.

No showing off, please. Mind your manners.

- OK. Mrs., it's your turn. - Hurry!

I'm not a Mrs. Silly.

There, my take!

Darn, I missed.

You're such a loser, Pokacho.

Oh, Mr. Yamagami!

Hello there.

Let's call it a game, guys.

Yeah, let's.

Shall we go?

Why are you so upset?

Asukai died in the common room.

When?

When I came here, after I returned.

How sad, what a pity.

He was an unfortunate man, I'm sorry we'll never meet him again.

Shut up, I wasn't talking to you.

You haven't told those guys who Reiko really is, have you?

I already did.

What? You told them yourself?

Yes, and even if I didn't, it's obvious who she is once you see her.

- Why be so paranoid in the first place? - What?

Yeah, stop making such a fuss.

If something ever happens I'll fight with my life.

You hit me.

What's got to you?

You bastard you...

Cut it out!

You're so naive. Your life doesn't help a thing.

Listen up. Katori took off, making us 100 yen...

and even took the blame of hiding the girl.

And what's this? You're disgracing Katori.

You've betrayed your fellow men.

I'm sorry, it's my fault.

Yeah, you're as bad as he is.

Please forgive Pokacho.

Can't do that.

Please?

Let's go. Can't stay in a place like this. Move it.

Don't go. Please don't.

Shut up. Now, let's go.

No. I'm staying right here.

All right. Have it your way.

It was my fault. I'm sorry, please, will you forgive me?

I don't know...

But I really thought I could give my life for you.

Am I irrational?

I don't know.

Tell me. You said you weren't going back.

Are you really going to stay here with me?

I just felt so sorry for you.

Reiko, why don't you marry me?

Then the Toscana couple or even Marie won't be able to bother you.

I can't get married.

You don't like me?

I've never thought of such a thing. I'm leaving if you keep this up.

I won't say it any more, so will you stay here forever?

It's OK just to ask you to stay, right? Please, Reiko?

Mr. Yamagami.

Why are you in the rain looking lost?

Did I look lost?

Uh-huh.

Shameful.

I am glad I bumped into you. Can we walk?

Is there anything the matter?

Yes - I'm in trouble.

I was over at my Aunt's just over there to discuss the matter.

What happened?

That incident about Reiko and Pokacho...

Senkichi's been keeping an eye on me ever since. I can't stay in Asakusa.

Really? Sorry we got you involved.

My Aunt says I should go back to my hometown.

Wherever it is, anyone with a place to go back to is lucky.

Mr. Yamagami, won't you come with me?

What?

Last night I dreamed of us becoming a couple.

I'm wishing too hard, I guess.

I know I'm not worthy of you to be your wife.

Stop it, Ryu. I'm not saying this just to you...

I don't want to think about having a relationship for a while.

Are you mad at me? Please don't get angry.

Sorry. I got to go.

Hello, Reiko.

Fine day, isn't it?

Yes, it is.

Where's Pokacho? Nobody's around.

He went out to do some drawing.

I see.

You're skipping school again, Mr. Nimura?

I overslept. I'm supposed to be attending class.

Sleepyhead girl, still deep in your sleep?

Snoring away, you are...

It's become quite lonely, hasn't it?

I feel rotten. Asukai dies, Katori goes away.

And Reiko, too.

I wonder how Katori is.

I'm sure he's all right. He's a tough guy.

Always with hope. He has his own principle, that Katori.

We're lonesome, aren't we?

Yamagami, can you go over to Ms. Marie's room?

I don't need anything from her.

If she wants something, tell her to come here.

No, I mean Sasaki Sensei's there, too.

Sasaki Sensei?

They're talking divorce and going nowhere. Help them out.

What'll happen?

I hope they make up. I worry about them.

Other actors can survive wherever they go.

That's true.

The company's gone so downhill we feel too guilty to leave.

Marie, why can't you understand?

I don't care what you do as long as you give me consolation money.

Where should I take that money from?

You ought to be grateful I even came over to say goodbye.

Don't be ridiculous!

Sasaki Sensei!

My friend, it's time for us to go our own ways. I'm finally divorcing her.

Pay me compensation.

You rejected me. You had no respect.

That doesn't work.

Leave me enough to keep me in show business.

Borrow from friends and make the money.

I've done more than enough.

Yamagami, I've been doing a lot thinking lately.

I'm too old to act anymore.

A good friend from school...

is offering me to write about Japanese theatre history.

Oh that's wonderful.

But she disapproves.

I suggest divorce, and she yells compensation.

Who wouldn't?

Ma'am, I support Sensei's way of thinking.

You be quiet. Who asked you to come, anyway?

You quit acting, too.

Be an ordinary housewife and help with Sensei's work.

No way.

Marie Matsushima is an actress.

I'm still quite popular here in Asakusa.

You got it all wrong.

What do you mean?

You forget that people age. You can't beat young actresses.

Girls like Kumiyo Kawahara, Kiniko Sanjou, Umeko Tsukgase...

Can't you see their power? Their power of youth?

Those hams?

Hams...but popular.

Get out.

Ma'am, don't you have any love for your husband?

Of course not.

Look deep inside your heart. You have a history together.

So what?

Yamagami, it's all right.

This is between the Mrs. and me.

Apologize to Sensei. Now...this minute.

No way!

No way? So you really won't apologize?

I hate persistence. Drop it.

Now what?

Watch me, Ma'am. I may be talking big, but in the Asakusa,

there's never been an unsettled matter when I intervene.

I'll have to cut off a finger if I'm to fail with this talk.

That's dangerous. Stop it!

I don't have a family. I'm free to do whatever to myself.

Nobody will care if I cut off a finger or two.

Are you ready, Ma'am?

Yamagami!

Wait, Mr. Yamagami.

Let me think.

There's nothing to think about. Apologize to Sensei.

I'm sorry, it's my fault.

I didn't know you cared so much about us...

I'm sorry I behaved so roughly.

But I'm relieved.

Sorry to have worried you on such a matter.

I'll write a good book. I promise.

And I'll do whatever I can to support you as your wife.

Mr. Yamagami? He's in that room.

- What is it? - I need to talk to you.

OK. Please excuse me.

What's wrong?

Oh, God - the Toscana couple... They've got Pokacho.

They got him? How?

He went over to Toscana to get Reiko's things.

Shit, that reckless fool.

Hurry and help him out, won't you?

They've called Senkichi and his gang and are about to beat him up.

They'll get Reiko's hideout out of him.

Jeez - I don't have time for Pokacho now.

Coward!

Are you afraid of Senkichi?

Are you really the Yamagami of Asakusa?

You call me a coward?

So I did, you chicken.

Hey! Open up! Open up!

Stop whining. You're not going anywhere, loser.

Expect a nose bleed, buster!

And a broken arm.

We're really gonna do him? I could take him alone.

Let's get started before we are interrupted.

We're counting on you. We don't care what you do to him.

Let's do it!

Come on, let's go!

Ichi, you stand watch outside.

It's Yamagami. He's here.

Move.

Shut up, bastard.

What do you want, huh?

Fukumatsu, get out of my way.

Let go, asshole!

Gunji, I've come for Pokacho.

Pokacho? What's that?

You don't know?

He's your guest upstairs.

Sure we have a second floor. Go up and check it out.

Hey, what are you saying?

You're a tough one, Yamagami!

Shut up!

Don't get rough. We can talk.

Open the upstairs door.

Open it.

I will, I will.

Get down.

Weirdo.

Mr. Yamagami.

Thanks. Sorry for the trouble.

Let's go, idiot.

I'm really sorry. I truly thought this was the end.

You're a good man, but you're just too reckless.

You went there for that thing?

But Reiko's running out of clothes, and...

There's supposed to be her precious memories from childhood in here.

Hearing that, I just couldn't sit still.

I see.

I told her I was going out to draw so she wouldn't worry.

You make a good couple.

Mr. Yamagami,

I want to marry Reiko. What do you think?

Mr. Yamagami?

What does Reiko say?

She says if you approve, she'll accept.

She has this thing of loyalty for you.

OK, I approve. Get married.

But you have to study really hard and promise to be a great painter.

I will. I'm totally committed.

"Come to Osaka."

I need to go. Wait for me at the playhouse.

OK. Come back soon.

How did it go?

I took care of it.

- Oh, blood. - Just a scratch.

I'm glad it went well.

Ryu...

What is it?

Don't tell anyone. I'm heading for Osaka now.

Katori's waiting. I have no more business in Asakusa.

I'm going to Osaka and look for my way of life.

Take me with you.

As a maid is fine. I'll do anything.

I'll wash, I'll clean...

I just want to be by your side.

Please.

Mr. Yamagami, please take me with you.

Look what a pretty view.

I've never gone beyond Enoshima on the Tokaido Line.

Really?

How about some tea?

THE END