Original subtitles

We're going to have to re-dig that.

This isn't a job for two women.

Good morning.

Good morning. Good morning.

What's the problem?

Our air raid shelter is flooded.

You can use mine.

Although you two would do well to evacuate to the countryside.

I'm just one man, after all.

And I'm out most afternoons.

It will do my heart good if you use it.

Thank you.

Thanks for your help.

Was that you playing the violin the other night?

Yes, you heard?

I figured you wouldn't over the sound of the rain.

Mr. Ichige,

the glass in your windows will blow out from bomb blasts if you don't tape them.

If I do that, I feel like I'm in a cage.

- It's depressing. - That's dangerous.

I'll do it for you on Sunday.

It won't bother you if it looks nice.

Thank you.

The head of the local civil defense unit barged in the other day.

He said my skylight was a risk,

he told me to board it up.

I told him the glass was specially embedded with wire mesh...

and wouldn't break, but he wouldn't listen.

People seem different since the March 10 air raid.

People are riled up.

Mr. Kiriyama's chickens seem oddly agitated recently too.

I wonder why...

- I think you just want their eggs. - What?

Maybe it's because the children are gone.

The children?

The children were always making a racket,

but they've all evacuated to the countryside.

Actually, it's not just the birds,

I've become sensitive to noises myself.

I wonder how Yuichi and Teruko are getting along...

Ouch!

What do you call that song?

Huh?

The song that you always play on the violin.

Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto.

Please play it for me sometime.

No, I'm a poor violinist.

I took a job at the bank because I didn't have talent.

You sounded fine to me.

Thank you.

But Satoko, you didn't...

What?

I'm an ignoramus, who didn't even know that music.

No, no.

I'll play it for you sometime.

It's sad somehow.

You're right.

It looks like the glass door is injured and bandaged up.

They're bombing Nakajima Aircraft Company again.

Again and again.

Our Nation's Skies

- Here you go. - Thank you.

- Is your mom in bed? - Yes, I'm going to bed now too.

That hits the spot.

Did you see anything out there?

No, nothing.

I understand that you don't have to go to the front, Mr. Ichige.

- I imagine you don't think it's fair. - No.

Mr. Aso's wife is worried that he'll be drafted again.

She said she was jealous that you were Class C.

I thought men declared Class C were weak, like my father.

Were you sick at one point, Mr. Ichige?

No, when I did my physical exam,

even men that were a little weak were declared Class C.

Plus, I did my physical exam in my hometown in Shizuoka.

I imagine a Tokyoite like me looked like a weakling...

compared to those Shizuoka farm boys.

- I'm sorry. - There's nothing to apologize for.

I hear Class C men are being drafted now,

but I doubt they'll take me at my age.

I turn 38 this year.

That's how old my father was when he died.

Of tuberculosis?

Yes, the year after the Second Sino-Japanese War started.

I was 12.

It must've been hard.

My grandfather left three rental houses to my father.

They're in Setagaya.

We're making ends meet on that money.

I wonder whether it's better to die from disease or war.

They're both bad!

Nobody wants to die.

National Spiritual Mobilization

Oh, good morning.

Good morning.

- Good morning. - Good morning.

I'm so sleepy.

It's getting to be a nightly event.

I wonder if the war won't end, now that Roosevelt died.

I sure hope so.

I hear Meiji Shrine was razed.

- Good morning. - Good morning.

Oh, bad luck finally came knocking at my door.

Bad luck?

My little brother and his wife came after their house burned down in Shinjuku.

They were firebombed, just like Civil Defense said,

and before they knew it,

they were the only ones left alive from the fire.

He was laughing like a fool the whole time he told me.

He laughed until he cried.

I think he isn't right in the head.

I'll have to take care of them for a while.

You never can tell.

They said not to bring anything, just to come as you are.

So that's what your aunt decided to do.

I thought he was the son of an owner of a steel factory. They have money.

Business is booming from the war.

It's not easy to print an invitation these days.

I wonder what Tomo plans to wear for the occasion.

The groom is going to wear his uniform.

I imagine the bride will have to wear works trousers.

Tomo is six years older than you.

You're not a child anymore.

I'm sorry you have to dress so plain.

I'll be fine. I'll get married.

I'll marry and have children.

- I'm done. - Already?

Yeah.

Mr. Ichige?

Yes.

A relative from Akita sent us some dried rice cakes.

I thought you might like some.

Come on in.

I hear people who work...

at financial institutions aren't permitted to travel now.

They're to stay, to keep essential urban functions in operation.

It's an act of devotion.

I'm not going anywhere either.

I don't want to go to the countryside.

I'm fine living in a burned-out house.

You know what's mostly leftover after a fire?

I have no idea.

Corrugated steel.

I wonder where in a house corrugated steel is used.

It has to be the roof. Anyhow, there's a lot of it.

You could easily collect it and build a shack.

I planned to study to be a teacher,

but my mother wouldn't hear of it.

She said I should be like the children of families with two parents.

She won't let me work.

She wants me to marry into a family with both parents,

where I won't feel inferior to anyone.

I graduated from the girls school,

and I ended up helping around the house...

and working at the town council,

to avoid having to serve in the volunteer corps.

It's been just me and mom for a long time.

It's no way to live.

What's wrong?

Satoko.

That was embarrassing.

I'm going home.

Good night.

I wanted him to have a head,

even if it was just a wig,

but the wigmaker's store went out of business.

What can you do?

Thank you.

Tomoe, you look really pretty.

- Oh, yeah? Thanks. - It's true.

Congratulations, everyone.

I'm going to take the photographs now,

so please turn your attention this way.

Ready...

Go!

It's pure cotton.

Wartime profiteers live well.

They're proud and can speak their mind.

I hear they earn their money on the black market.

They brag about how easily they can buy food.

People berate greedy farmers.

I wonder if you could get along with a family so different from ours, Tomo.

Tomoe Kanie...

You said you didn't like the "e" at the end of both my given and family name.

I thought you'd be happy to see me with a different name.

I forgot about that.

It looks delicious, but I'm too full to eat it.

Let's have it tomorrow.

We've had too much already.

Maguro sashimi, vegan tempura,

cubed pork, pickled shellfish...

Who was that girl that you told should get married soon?

These days, a lot of girls want to marry into families in the countryside.

"We Will Win This Holy War" Japan Well Prepared as War in Europe Heats up

You'll be getting married soon too.

Mom.

Soon...

Soon. Soon.

Soon. Soon.

Soon...

Always "soon."

Take cover! Take cover!

We always take dad into the shelter.

Dad doesn't want to burn up.

It's just like the blitz in March.

I wonder if that's Koenji or Asagaya burning...

It's the opposite side of the train station.

Air raid! Take shelter!

Hurry! Take shelter!

I don't care if we get burnt up.

I don't like it, but what are you going to do?

Getting burnt up isn't so bad...

so long as we survive.

Why can't I get permission to move?!

The air raids have damaged the railways,

and transport is difficult now.

We're only allowed to grant travel permits to...

bombing victims and people who lost their homes.

So are you telling me I just have to stay and wait to get bombed by the US?

I'm allowed to issue them to the elderly,

but you're still young, Mr. Nakajima.

Air defense activities have to be carried out.

Do you really believe we can put out the fires with a bucket line,

when incendiary bombs are falling like rain?

Do you think we can fend the Yanks off with bamboo spears?

Aunt Mizue?

I got burned out! Everything's gone!

I'm glad you're all right.

We heard Yokohama was hit hard and we were worried.

Yokohama is a field of ash.

Look at all this food!

How much rice can I have?

As much as you please.

I made a lot tonight.

Thank you.

We should draw her a bath.

I know I smell...

I'll bathe last.

We just bathed a couple of days ago.

Mizue, we can only bathe once a week.

Just on Fridays.

I'll boil some water so you can wipe yourself down.

Satoko, get the forks and the dishes.

You have pineapple?!

We saved just one can.

Mizue, please tell us what happened.

I know your house burned down...

but what happened to our brother and Mineo?

They died.

It started at around 9:30.

They died in the government office and the factory.

I couldn't find them, but I'm sure.

- It's certain. - Where were you?

I went to see a friend in Urawa...

to get some wheat flour.

When I was about to leave, the train stopped.

The next morning, I hopped a truck bound for Tokyo.

When I finally arrived in Yokohama,

the house was burned down.

Nothing was left.

Nothing was left of dad's office, or Mineo's factory.

So you didn't actually see our brother's or Mineo's bodies?

I looked for them...

They might still be alive somewhere.

They're dead!

I waited 10 days.

I had a blanket in the bomb shelter that wasn't burned up,

and I waited, but they didn't come home.

I'm sure they were blown to pieces.

It seems absurd that they're all dead.

Mizue!

What do you plan to do?

I don't need much food.

That's not what I meant.

Aunt Mizue, you must be tired.

You should get some rest.

I'll get out the futon.

She got up in the middle of the night and did her laundry.

Air raid warning!

Air raid warning!

Aunt Mizue,

be reasonable! What are you doing?!

Mizue, they're coming!

I can't move, the sirens make me vomit.

Mizue!

Mizue!

Aunt Mizue, let's get in the bomb shelter.

- We'll be safe. - No!

The shelters aren't safe!

I don't want to roast in a filthy pit!

I won't go!

Don't say that, Mizue!

No! No! No!

- Mizue! - No!

- Cut it out, already! - No!

Mizue, do you plan to live here?

Tsutae, please let me stay.

We're family. We're sisters.

I think you understand that...

you're not permitted to move to Tokyo.

You won't be able to receive rations.

What will you eat?

I'll...

Satoko can take care of that.

Government officials get perks.

Don't talk nonsense.

I don't want Satoko getting wrapped up in this.

Mizue, we're struggling to get by.

I apologize, but we can't help you.

Can I use the store room?

I'll pay rent.

I can do the shopping every day.

I'll go even in the rain, even if the sirens blow.

I can do without the rations.

In fact, I might have extra that I can sell to you.

How about it?

Look at this. You'll understand that I won't be a burden.

You'll see...

Life insurance policy, bank,

my post office account,

my personal seal...

and 380 yen in cash.

I'm just renting you the room.

You don't have to pay rent,

but you'll do the shopping every day.

I will.

And I'll eat separately from you.

By myself, on a small grill by the well.

Please do. And if you get strafed...

by enemy aircraft when you're shopping, you have no one to blame but yourself.

I understand that.

It's impossible. Aunt Mizue doesn't have clothes or anything.

She can't do the shopping.

Mom, we can't make Aunt Mizue live apart from us.

It's the only way.

I'll do the shopping.

I'll even wake up early on my days off.

I'll ask the town mayor to help me buy things on the black market.

I'll do anything. I don't want to,

but we have no choice.

Aunt Mizue can chip in for living expenses.

I'll pay 50 yen a month.

Satoko,

you may well live to regret this.

Thank you, Satoko.

We should try to get along. We could die at any time.

Uncle.

- Hey! - Do you need some help with that?

You look like you're getting winded.

Forget it!

This pump can't beat me.

What do you need?

- I brought your evacuation paperwork. - Oh, thanks.

I can never figure out red tape.

It's complicated.

I filled it in lightly with red pen.

Just trace over it.

Sorry for the bother.

Have a seat.

Is this OK?

It's just fine. I'll take it to the office tomorrow,

and get your permission to relocate.

Evacuating is like going to the front.

You leave everything behind,

and go to a place you don't know.

But I'm sure your daughter will be relieved to see you evacuate.

No, I'm just a nuisance to her.

She's been writing me for a while...

that there's no food in the countryside either.

And that if I'm going to move there,

I should be prepared for that.

She's just looking out for her family.

I married her off without a proper dowry,

so I can understand that her position is difficult.

Even still, telling me that I have to be prepared for that...

It's not something that a girl says to her father.

But look how well you've done with your field here.

You'll pull your weight on the farm.

Thanks for cheering me up.

I shouldn't complain like that.

Thank you for your help with the letter.

Sure. I'll be heading off.

Just a second.

Here, a little something for your troubles.

What is it? I don't need anything.

No, it's not worth turning down.

Just take it.

All right, if you insist.

- Thank you. - Sure.

It's sugar...

This is valuable.

Long time, no see.

Good evening.

Rations are 10 days of corn and soybeans. No rice.

I'm sorry for the trouble.

Recently,

there are no rations of miso, soy sauce, or salt.

I had this made with my allowance at the bank.

It's funny that I take my lunchbox from work to home.

You didn't donate the aluminum?

I've had pickled plums in my lunchbox for a long time.

It's for the pickled plums.

You can donate yourself into misery.

I'm going to go ahead and eat.

Come on in.

The mosquitos will get you out there.

Don't mind if I do.

Have you seen bodies after the bombings?

I haven't.

I went to see.

There were a lot the day after the big bombing in March.

A lot of looky-loos came to gawk.

It's so horrible, I can't believe it.

I saw bodies on the roadside...

that I couldn't tell if they were men or women.

They were like logs.

Army trucks just ran over them.

The bodies floating in the river...

were beautiful.

Their faces especially...

just seemed to be asleep.

I heard the stories about how the bodies drifted...

and piled up on the shore.

It's creepy.

I was relieved by it.

I thought it didn't look like...

a bad way to go.

Did something happen today, Mr. Ichige?

No, but if the war comes to the mainland,

I could be blown apart by naval artillery,

or crushed under a tank,

and dying humanely is a remote possibility.

Okinawans took refuge in caves and shelters,

and every last non-combatant was killed with flamethrowers.

They sprayed the flames into the recesses of the caves,

and people were instantly burned to dust.

I'll close the door.

I'm surprised you were able to find mosquito repellent.

My wife bought a bunch last year.

It's valuable now.

Is your wife well?

She's always good.

She's evidently running a women's league in the countryside.

If you're in charge, food comes easy.

They're back.

The primary target is turning and heading west.

Are you OK?

They're not headed in this direction.

We haven't gone in your air raid shelter for a while.

They say that Tokyo is so bombed out...

that there's nothing left to bomb.

Could be.

Who's to say?

Even if all of the factories are gone,

there are still people like you and me living here.

Aren't people worth blowing up?

Should we boil it?

And the tempura?

Do we have oil?

- Pumpkin rice? - Let's cook it with the rice.

Aunt Mizue, you eat with us from now on.

Right, mom?

Is this shark?

It's better than pork.

Good morning.

Hey, Satoko.

Good morning.

I have a favor to ask.

Could you stop by tonight?

Sure.

See you then.

Good evening.

Come on in.

Are you saving the articles?

No, I send them to my wife every 10 days.

Regional newspapers don't carry much information about Tokyo.

She worries.

What are those marks?

That's for articles I thought were interesting.

Potato Thief Nabbed

Vigilantes killed him for stealing a potato.

The vigilantes were found not guilty.

It's strange...

Stealing a potato and killing a person.

You can tell the kinds of things that pique my interest.

It's instead of letters.

It's an interesting idea.

I'm sure she's glad to read them.

It's not just for her.

I worry too:

If I don't contact her, I might lose her.

And the kids too.

I send the kids a separate letter.

It might seem a little girly,

but I worry.

In any event,

I'm doing everything I can to keep linked with them.

Everything you can....

You said you had a favor to ask.

I completely forgot.

Here's the key to the servant's entrance.

There are few bank branch employees, so I have night duty sometimes now.

The weather is getting warmer,

and this room gets muggy when I'm away.

I was hoping you'd stop in and air the place out.

OK.

Thank you.

They aren't here yet.

It's tough when the time comes.

But the weather's good.

Hello.

- Oh, I'm sorry. - You're here.

Thanks for coming.

I'm sorry for the trouble.

I'll keep it for you.

I guess this is it.

Farewell.

You've been good to us.

Things will probably get worse,

but please take care.

This is your grand send off.

Just perfect for players exiting a performance.

Evacuate! Farming districts are waiting.

This is far enough.

It's getting ridiculous.

Let's say our goodbyes.

Paint me a picture.

- A picture? - Send it to me.

- A picture of what? - A sketch of the countryside.

That's a fine idea.

It will do me good.

Take care, everyone.

Goodbye.

Let's go.

Hey,

I decided not to go to Matsumoto.

I'm sorry that I put you to the trouble of putting together all of those documents.

I'm truly sorry.

Really?

I got some roasted barley yesterday,

why don't you help me eat it?

I have some decent tea.

They were poorly packaged, so they broke into pieces,

but they're still tasty.

Thank you.

They're good.

I'm glad to hear it.

I bet the Takas haven't arrived at Ueno yet.

They're probably just getting on the train.

I imagine so.

It's tough...

They'll have a half day's wait at Ueno.

People who have somewhere to return to are lucky.

Me - I was cast aside by the daughter I brought into this world.

I'm stuck here because I'm unable to move.

It's pathetic.

Your home is good.

Things being what they are,

every home is a little discombobulated.

That goes without saying.

But you have three women...

working together in lockstep.

That's just on the surface.

We're actually pulling in different directions.

Sometimes we hate each other.

I can't take it. I really can't take it.

Why?

Why did you do it?

Don't you think it's pitiful?

I can't bear to look at you.

Get out. Get out.

Go, right now!

What's wrong?

This morning I had three scoops of rice in the pot,

with one scoop each of bean meal and soy beans.

Mizue was poking her chopsticks in the pot and eating...

the beans, making revolting noises.

Satoko, lunch was at 11:30,

and when I get too hungry, my stomach gets funny,

so I took a few of the beans.

It wasn't like I stole them.

There are barely any beans left.

Who are you to kick me out like that?

- Mizue, I... - Forget it. I'll just have the beans,

I don't need any rice today. Will that satisfy you?

You two always eat so much.

If I get hungry in the middle of the night, I'll just have water.

I'm sure you'd be angry if I ate the tomatoes in the garden.

Are you joking?

Shut your mouth.

Satoko, this is your fault too.

What? Why?

Mizue is emboldened by your inexplicable kindness.

We should treat her like a renter, like she asked.

I'm going to bed, to keep from getting hungry.

Let's eat.

Thank you.

I'm doing all I can for her,

but I get angry when she acts that way.

I know that was hard to watch.

Don't fight...

She doesn't have anywhere to go.

I understand.

I understand.

But you have to value family.

People ultimately die alone,

but it's important that you're not alone until then.

If you were blown away in an air raid,

it would be better to be holding hands with one or two people,

so you wouldn't have any regrets.

Two is better than one...

And three is better than two.

I like your pants.

They were my dad's. I had the zipper taken out.

Maybe I'll do that with my brother's pants.

- Do you mind? - Not at all.

The first star is out.

The scratches in the column are from two years ago

Comparing heights on May 5

Everything's quiet.

I want a fire, even though the weather is hot.

Pretty soon we won't be able to eat food like this.

There's no way to get cotton.

It's going to get worse, you can count on that.

But sitting around worrying isn't going to help.

Maybe we can make some clothes out of cotton tomorrow.

I almost forgot: Mr. Ichige came while you were out, Satoko.

He thanked you for taking care of his house,

and left three eggs,

but for some reason, he immediately left.

Really?

Satoko, come here.

It looks good.

This will be for when you get married.

The kimono I've saved for you...

will all be gone.

I don't care: I prefer Western dress.

Farmers are greedy.

Don't let them rip you off.

This will do.

Tell me if I'm walking too fast.

I tend to march like a soldier.

OK.

Oh, look at all of the children.

- How about you? - Nothing. - Can you find any, Ryota? - Nope.

Are they elementary school students?

I haven't seen children in a while.

It got away!

- Is it over there? - No.

Hello!

Mr. Tomioka?

Private Tomioka!

There you are.

Private Aso.

Come on in.

Sorry for the bother.

I brought what was promised.

- Ma'am. - Of course.

I'll take that.

Don't worry.

He has something to give you.

You can see he's a man you can trust.

We served together in Manchuria.

- Shall we? - We shall!

It's home made - easy on the tongue.

Women enjoy it too.

It chases away the heat.

Thank you.

We're going to eat our lunches.

We'll eat outside.

It's more comfortable that way.

Suit yourself.

We'll see you later. Satoko, let's go.

Goodbye.

This is good.

I didn't want to let the farmer see our pitiful little meal,

although I did hold back on the barley.

That was unpleasant.

Do you want to give up on bartering and go home?

We came all the way out here.

We should have brought Mizue with us.

The three of us could have had a picnic.

I don't think she likes to travel.

She said she'd do the shopping,

but she's only left the house twice.

She used to love going out.

I hope things go back to the way they were.

I'm thirsty.

Mom, give me a hand towel.

Give me a hand towel.

This water is really warm.

You're drenched with sweat. Take that off.

No.

If you wash it, it will dry soon enough.

Never mind.

The water's great!

Put your clothes on.

Why are you so grumpy?

People will see you.

Hurry up and get dressed.

Does it bother you that much?

You're just like me.

Not so much the face, just the body.

I don't care about that.

Mizue said as much.

She said Satoko has the scent of a woman.

It sounds dirty.

I agree with her.

You're an adult now.

I'm sure everyone can tell.

The one who feels it the most keenly...

is Mr. Ichige.

Am I wrong?

It's not possible.

Mr. Ichige looks at you.

He notices the way you move and the words you use,

and relishes them when he's alone.

I imagine you think of Mr. Ichige from time to time too.

Mr. Ichige...

doesn't just remember, he imagines.

You understand what he imagines, don't you?

That's just what men are like.

Satoko,

don't let your guard down with him.

Ordinarily, I'd forbid you from visiting a married man...

whose wife is away.

I wouldn't permit it.

I'd do whatever necessary to stop it.

Mom...

But...

But things being the way they are,

you don't have anyone else.

I'm glad he can be there for you.

I almost want to bow to thank him for taking care of you.

That doesn't make sense.

But it's true. That's how I feel.

I know it doesn't make sense,

but don't let your guard down with him.

If you do, the woman will always be the loser.

Is that what you mean by letting down my guard?

Have you told Mr. Ichige that you love him?

No, of course not.

You must never say that,

no matter what.

If you do...

everything will fall apart.

You have no way of knowing this,

but women can be easily ruined.

Have you ever been ruined?

Yeah.

Other than your father, just once.

He was...

Stop, I don't want to know.

Maybe it's too much for you to handle.

For me,

the memory is etched into my brain.

This happened a long time ago, right?

Yes, long ago.

Our fathers, summoned to the heavens,

Our brothers, summoned to the heavens,

soars away with his comrades aligned

Mom, I thought you hated that song.

I do.

But it channels the mind.

Our father was also called to the sky.

Our fathers, summoned to the heavens,

Our brothers, summoned to the heavens,

Amid stormy seas, tilting great ships,

and fierce water-drenched battles,

even today, we remember

Over northern and southern seas,

Our fathers were summoned to the heavens,

and our brothers were summoned to the heavens.

After the enemy is crushed,

we see their smiling faces

rising in our minds today.

rising in our minds today.

Mom...

Japan doesn't hold any foreign territory anymore.

We'll be wiped out at Kujukuri.

It's just a matter of time.

One hundred million will give their lives.

So, what are you going to do with those kimono?

I want my mother to wear them before she dies.

I put your gifts there.

Good for you, ma'am.

There's 9 liters of rice at the bottom.

I put some pork in your daughter's bag.

There are laws about this, so don't get caught with it.

Be careful on your way home.

Thank you.

- I hope we can count on you again. - Thank you.

Is he a war buddy?

Yeah, I guess.

Everyone who's been to the front is a war buddy.

It's the only way to survive.

Look, someone forgot his pants.

Actually, I'm to enlist the day after tomorrow,

for the second time.

The war is coming to Japan anyway.

There will be no more frontlines or home fronts.

I'll be grateful that I won't have to worry about food once I'm back in the army.

Take shelter!

It's the bombings.

It's far away.

Mom, what time is it?

Almost 12:00.

Oh, Aunt Mizue, it's you.

I've been here a while.

When you're asleep, you look just like when you were a little girl.

Say it isn't so.

- Where's mom? - Outside.

She's in charge of air defense this month.

If it gets dangerous, I'll carry you on my back.

It's OK, I can still walk.

Don't worry, you're family.

I'm sure you'd do the same for me...

if I couldn't move.

That's true, but...

Air raid alert!

How's Satoko?

- Mom? - Your fever?

- It's down. - Then get dressed

Hachioji and Tachikawa have just been hit. They're coming tonight.

Mizue, don't just sit there, help Satoko change!

I wonder if it's really that dangerous.

Aren't you afraid?

Your brother and Mineo died in the bombings.

Satoko, I sometimes consider the possibility of...

an incendiary bomb hitting this house.

Then, we'd all be the same.

You've taken care of me, and I'm an ungrateful brute.

A person who has lost her home and family...

can only be a brute.

- Good morning. - Hey.

- Are you all right? - Yes, thank you.

Mr. Isogai is off today.

He went to check whether his family in Hachioji is safe.

That weird cloud was scary.

There was a similar cloud after the Great Kanto Earthquake.

I'm sure many people died in Hachioji.

Satoko, are you off the day after tomorrow, on Sunday?

Yes.

There's someone who's been helping me recently,

and I have quite a bit of rice at the bank office.

But you'd have to truck out to Omori to pick it up.

Do you want it?

Yes, absolutely.

It's nominally 250 yen for 18 liters, but 300 yen on the black market.

OK, I'll check with mom.

Thank you.

I'll make boxed lunches for you two.

I'll make them extra good.

Thank you.

Teikyo Bank

It's pretty.

At least the sea doesn't burn.

It's good...

Your mom must be a good cook.

I don't know.

You're probably good too.

I can't cook at all.

This is good.

What is it?

You're young.

I can tell by the way you eat.

Now I'm too self-conscious to eat.

Women reach a stage in their lives where they're beautiful,

no matter what they're doing.

You're at that age now.

Eat.

I won't stare.

I'll eat.

Thanks for keeping my place clean...

though it was a bit awkward to have you see where I sleep.

I'm sorry. I was curious.

I'm going to get some water.

Satoko.

You're beautiful.

I've never thought so.

But you're beautiful to me.

I want to always be with you,

to be close to you.

But I don't want to be coddled.

I'm not going to ask you for anything.

Please understand.

Hey, you two.

- What are you doing. - We're not doing anything.

This is a shrine!

This is consecrated ground. Bow your head to the Emperor.

Where did you think you were?

Give me the ladle.

I'm sorry.

Let's go.

Let's go to bed.

Go ahead.

That concludes the programming day for JOAK,

Tokyo Broadcasting Center.

- Goodnight. - Goodnight

Make sure you have put out all fires before going to bed.

What are you doing?

Go to sleep.

Tonight is strange.

I'm tired.

Hey, I can see your light!

I'm sorry.

How's that?

Who is it?

It's me, let me in.

It's you.

I brought these.

I got them from my garden.

They're for you.

OK.

Eat them.

I will.

I'll soak them in well water overnight,

and eat them chilled in the morning.

No, eat them now.

- Now? - Yes, now.

OK, let's eat.

They smell like the sun.

So, do you feel better now?

Yes.

I'm sorry I woke you.

It's OK, you couldn't help yourself.

I'll open the side door. Come on in.

Let's go.

It's damp in here, I'll open a window.

But the light will be visible.

I don't care.

You're cute.

I'm not cute, and I'm not beautiful.

Don't be difficult.

Still, I love you.

Is that wrong?

A mosquito.

Mr. Ichige...

Yeah?

- What? - I thought you went away.

Little fool.

I was just looking for a match.

I want you to understand...

Yes, what?

The war will soon be over.

By the fall, or at least by the year end.

The war?

Will be over?

How do you know that?

I have a friend at the newspaper.

He told me.

Sweden and Switzerland have been helping hammer out an agreement.

Plans to send Konoe to the USSR to request that they broker a peace deal...

- are also making headway. - So, the war won't come to the mainland?

If peace negotiations can be resolved by fall.

If it drags out much longer,

Japan will definitely be invaded.

At Kujukuri?

If that happens,

I'll be cannon fodder on the beach,

- or crushed under a tank. - Mr. Ichige,

you won't have to fight, will you?

You said you wouldn't.

I know a Class C man who's been drafted.

He's 34...

Not much different from me.

I've been scared recently.

Turning into Aoba alley terrifies me.

I was convinced that my draft notice would come today.

I stood frozen at the corner.

Feeling weak in the knees is a real thing.

Mr. Ichige.

I'll be in a foxhole at Kujukuri,

engaging the enemy on the beach,

with the seawater seeping in. Even if we lay down,

it will be impossible to gain cover much above the waist.

We'll be drenched, crawling around in the foxholes,

waiting to die like frogs.

We'll carry bombs packed in orange crates on our backs,

so we can take out tanks when they run us over.

They probably weigh around 20-25 kg.

I'll be stumbling ahead with all that on my back.

Odds are I'd just be shot by a tank and blown to smithereens.

Class C men have lived blithely until now,

so maybe being killed so pitifully is fitting.

Didn't you just say the war was going to end?

Don't die.

Don't go! Don't die!

I won't fight.

I'll stay here.

Can you do that?

Yes, I believe so.

Will you stay with me?

I will.

That tomato was good.

Can I have more?

Yes.

This time chilled overnight.

Do you want to...

You do, don't you?

Someone's watching, turn out the light.

USSR Declares War on Japan

The Soviets have moved into Manchuria.

I wonder what's going to happen?

One of the two nations will land in Japan,

or the USSR and the US will start competing with each other.

Mr. Kawamata,

for the last three days you've been wearing long sleeves...

buttoned to the top.

Is that to protect against the new bomb?

A single bomb took out Hiroshima.

There was a military directive...

that white clothing protects against burns.

We have to set an example for others to follow.

Why do you keep sighing?

You can leave early if you're under the weather.

- Can I leave? - Go ahead.

There's no deadline on that. You can do it tomorrow.

Then I'll do it tomorrow.

I'm going home.

I heard you called. What do you need?

You've been away for days.

I wanted to know why.

I've been sleeping at the office.

My boss's wife died.

Have you been staying with his wife?

No. I'm not with his wife.

The train has been packed with soldiers.

I was finally able to board it early this morning and arrived at the bank.

So, can you come home today?

I'll have to work late today and work night duty tomorrow.

The day after that I have to see a friend about an urgent issue.

I'll be home in three days, on the 14th.

Three days!?

You won't be back for three days?

I'll try to come home early, in three days.

Really?

Yes, really.

See you then.

Satoko, get up.

Today's the 13th. I heard at the ration center...

that the new bomb is to be dropped on Tokyo today.

Hurry.

Several people at the office said the same thing.

- Don't go into work today, Satoko. - I won't.

Ship-based aircraft have entered the Yamanashi district...

and are heading for western Kanto.

Ship-based aircraft aren't bad, are they?

One B-29 is dangerous.

Only one airplane carries the new bomb.

Mizue, pay attention to the report.

Don't worry, I'm listening.

Air raid!

- Take shelter! - Eastern military report:

Enemy aircraft have entered the Tokyo-Yokohama district,

Boso, eastern Kanto, northeastern Kanto,

western Tokyo-Yokohama, southwestern Tokyo-Yokohama...

The B-29s are attacking in groups.

Eastern military report:

One enemy B-29...

is moving into mainland Japan from southern Boso.

It's here!

Satoko, hurry.

Eastern military report:

One enemy B-29...

Take shelter!

Take shelter quickly!

Take shelter quickly!

Thanks.

- Are you sick? - It's nothing.

Mizue.

Eastern military report:

The enemy flew south leaving Japan,

after dropping leaflets.

Eastern military report...

It left.

The rumor was baseless.

You can't relax your guard.

Hiroshima was hit after the alert had been lifted.

Aug 14, release the power of 100 million

Mom.

- Do you know someone named Zengo? - Zengo?

He's the first son of your uncle. He's five years your senior. Why?

He died in battle.

I guess they couldn't get the message to Hokkaido.

I read in the newspaper...

that a good air raid shelter would protect you from the new bomb,

even if exploded directly above you.

Is that right?

Who has a good air raid shelter anyway?

I wonder what the leaflets dropped yesterday said.

Excuse me.

Yes.

- Welcome back. - Is your mother in?

Do you need to talk to her?

Please come in?

If you don't mind.

Thank you for taking care...

The war is going to end.

It will be a complete surrender.

What are you talking about?

Japan lost.

You heard this from your friend at the newspaper?

Yes...

I stayed at his place last night and he told me everything.

The US, UK, and China issued a joint declaration at the end of July.

This is it.

Now the Soviets have signed, and it's four countries.

They have stipulated specific conditions for Japan's surrender.

Japan has no choice but to accept.

Mr. Ichige, why don't you take off your gaiters?

- You look uncomfortable. - I am.

I'll take them off.

Shall I read the conditions of surrender?

"The sovereignty of Japan should be limited to...

"Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, Shikoku, and other small islands as we determine.

"That is to say Japan's governance of Manchuria, Korea, and Taiwan,

"which Japan took by force, is to be relinquished.

"After the complete disarmament of the Japanese military,

"personnel will be permitted to return to their homes,

"and to return to peaceful and productive lives."

Excuse me.

There will be no military and no soldiers.

Has Japan's surrender been formally decided?

No, not yet.

Opinions are divided on the conditions of the surrender.

The army believes that Japan should fight to the last man,

should the dignity of the national polity not be preserved.

This rain is a relief.

All we have is leftovers, but please eat.

Wow, it looks great.

Thank you.

- Is it sweet? - Yes.

We didn't have any sugar, so I added salt.

I read in a magazine that it would make it sweet.

Salt? It does taste sweet.

What will happen if Japan surrenders?

The joint declaration said that basic human rights would be respected,

but we will be occupied by an enemy army.

Maybe all the men will be castrated...

and all the women raped, like we were told.

But that's still better than being incinerated by the new bomb.

Or things might go back to the way they were.

Maybe...

Who's to tell?

I'm going home.

Don't share this information with your neighbors.

I'll let you know if anything happens.

Thanks for telling us.

It's disheartening not having a man in the house.

I hope you'll be a source of strength for us.

I'll do what I can.

Good night.

Thanks for the food.

Satoko, see him off.

Mr. Ichige, are you happy?

Yes, I am.

I didn't think it would happen so quickly.

It doesn't matter if your draft notice comes next week.

Even if you enlist, The war will be over before you see the front.

Yes, I could even tear up the draft notice!

Damn, this rain is miserable.

I'm cold.

It feels like the rainy season.

Won't you come in?

No, I'm going home.

I'll play the violin for you.

Mr. Ichige,

when the war is over,

your wife will come home.

It could be the next day,

or in six months,

but she's coming back.

I don't care.

I'm going home.

I love you,

but you can't come between me and my family.

That's true.

Please believe me.

Satoko thought, "My war is just beginning."

When I was most beautiful,

towns crumbled into pieces,

and from this disaster you could still see the blue sky.

When I was most beautiful,

many people around me were dying...

in the factories, by the sea, on nameless islands,

Fumi Nikaido

and I lost my chance for a fashionable life.

Hiroki Hasegawa

When I was most beautiful,

Yuki Kudo

nobody showered me with presents.

Yasuko Tomita

Men only knew a military salute.

Leaving behind their beautiful gazes, everyone departed.

Ryoko Takizawa, Tomoko Saito, Ayu Kitaura, Tadafumi Tomioka

Yota Kawase, Risako Tokoro, Tamaki Tsuchida, Seizo Fukumoto, Junko Kimoto

When I was most beautiful,

my mind was empty,

Go Riju

my heart was hard,

Koichi Ueda

and my arms and legs were chestnut brown.

Renji Ishibashi

Eiji Okuda

When I was most beautiful,

my country lost the war.

It seems so ridiculous.

Based on Kono Kuni no Sora He by Yuichi Takai

I rolled up my sleeves,

and walked proudly through defeated towns.

When I was most beautiful,

jazz played on the radio.

I devoured the sweet music of a foreign nation

like when I started smoking again.

Poem When I was Most Beautiful by Noriko Ibaragi

When I was most beautiful,

I was very unhappy.

I was clueless.

I was terribly lonely.

That's why I decided that, if I could, I'd live a long life,

and I would paint beautiful pictures when I got old,

like the old Frenchman Rouault.

Written & Directed by Haruhiko Arai