Original subtitles

TOEI

We'll be regretting this ship.

No way after four years of toiling on this rotten boat.

Hey, who goes there?

Keep silent!

What's the matter?

Let's go!

I can hear voices.

Chota, careful! Don't get swept away!

There are sharks around here!

- Iheiji! - What?

The lights down there, is that Hong Kong?

You bet it is! We're almost there!

And there we'll find Nishima-san.

And can we trust this Nishima-san?

Of course we can trust him.

I'll become a merchant, like him.

Shit!

Who's there?

Muraoka Iheiji.

Come by me.

I love you.

Shiho!

Shiho!

Iheiji, are you all right?

The tide is very powerful.

Shiho-dono.

Ten years have already gone by since I've left Shimabara.

All I was thinking at was the Muraoka restoration and you, Shiho-dono.

Now, after having traveled around the world, I've become a merchant in Hong Kong

with two friends of mine. They're not too bright,

but, waiting for my triumphant return, I'm determined to swim with the stream.

ZEGEN

Look! What's that?!

Have mercy! We are from Japan! Help us!

If you kill us, you'll be damned!

Look! There's more of them!

Help them!

Careful!

Come on!

Directed by IMAMURA Shohei

MEIJI 34 NEW YEAR HONG KONG

It feels so good being on firm ground after four years, doesn't it?

Come on, boys!

Hey, it's that way! Let's go!

Man, I am starving...

Me too...

Is it true you came swimming all the way from Japan?

He's funny, this guy is!

We came swimming, that's true.

I got you!

Because you've cheated!

Cheated?! Me?! Dare say that again!

It's here.

"NISHIYAMA SEA FOODS"

Maybe it's not the same Nishiyama...

Damn, how it stinks!

Are you Nishiyama-san?

Yeah.

And who are you?

I am Iheiji.

I was a fish seller in Nagasaki.

Iheiji?...

That's right!

It was you who were saying...

.. Japan was opening up to commerce and young people should go abroad!

You've been an inspiration to me!

You came all the way to here to tell me this?...

We met in Hong Kong. You told me you'd take care of me!

Yes, that's true, but sometimes one says no matter what...

Everyone knows you are a trafficker.

That's true. I am, as long as I make money. A lot of money!

Hey, where are the ciggies I sent you?

Your ciggies... There are too many good-for-nothing here we have to feed...

Iheiji... look and see what came of all these ambitious guys...

Come on, play on... You parasites!

You have glistening eyes...

How long will you keep them glistening?

Hey! You don't know where to go, do you?

Go to the Japanese Consulate.

They'll take care of you.

The Japanese Consulate?! What has it got to do with us?

That's a Japanese Office, taking care of Japanese citizens. That's what it is!

Where's the Japanese public office?

Dunno.

It's by the sea, isn't it?

Hey! What the hell are you doing, thief! Police! Somebody call the police!

He ate my chicken!

I only asked for money...

Is anybody in?

I wonder what I am going to do about you now...

Work! Give us any kind of work! We're not afraid of working!

I beg you...

I beg you, get him off my back!

This guy is busting my balls!

- Imbecile! - That's enough!

It'd, indeed, be better to separate you.

Very well.

Come in.

Your Excellency, Shimada the barber is here.

Very well.

Oh, Shimada the barber...

.. needs someone to help him.

See with doctor Yamashita.

one as a servant and one to pull the rickshaw.

In my youth, I thought I'd make a name for myself.

I wandered after leaving Nagasaki, and ended up settling here.

How long has it been?

Twenty years.

You ought to work hard at our shop and make an honest living.

If you have scissors, you can work anywhere.

Good day!

Good day to you.

That's Tomonaga. He's from Nagasaki as well.

Who's that?

Muraoka, from Shimabara.

Your wife asked me about getting funds to expand your shop.

I found an Indian fellow willing to lend the money.

I'll be your guarantor. Your place could use some work.

Tell your wife the good news.

I've kept you waiting.

Where's he from?

Japan.

Put this around his neck.

Don't be so rough!

Calm down.

- Already? - You'll be fine.

Get started. I'll take over later.

This is Muraoka Iheiji. He's going to be working here.

Did you hear me? Shizu!

"Shiho-dono,

It's been six months since I've opened a barber's shop.

I've hired the Shimada couple to help me,

but they're dumber than asses. "

MEIJI 35 SUMMER MUKDEN

Is Shimada in?

Hey, I've asked you if Shimada was in!

He went out.

When will he be back?

He shouldn't be long now.

Where did you learn to speak Mandarin?

On a cargo ship, during... four years.

Well... so you were a sailor!

And you, are you from Nagasaki?

From Sanada.

Come have lunch with me at the Consulate.

I'll be waiting for you.

Manchuria?!

Manchuria? The province, isn't it?

Exactly.

- Go to Manchuria to be a spy? - Exactly.

We'll go there disguised as healers.

Why me?

After the Sino-Japanese war Russia gained a foot in Manchuria.

Our Army must find out Russia's true intentions are.

Knowing one's enemy means defeating him.

Do you understand?

Yes, but I've just got settled here, and, you understand...

Enough!

Yes.

Stand up!

In the name of our beloved Emperor...

.. I appoint you my aide-de-camp.

- Starting when? - Right now!

But that's impossible! I want to be a storekeeper!

What?! Are you forgetting you are our Emperor's baby?!

- Baby?! - Yes, the Emperor's son!

I only am my father's son.

Stupid moron!

The Emperor is Father and God to all of us! Remember this!

The Emperor's paying you for this! Open it!

But... it's way too much!

Give thanks to your Emperor.

The single track railway will run through Manchuria.

We must prepare for possible war, upon which the Russians would use

the rail to send great amounts of supplies and soldiers to the front lines.

When will construction begin?

Our mission is to gather intelligence on the railway,

as well as on Russian movements centered around Mukden.

Shiho, are you cold?

Are you cold? Shiho...

What are you doing?

- What is this? - A photograph, sir!

That much is obvious. I'm asking about this here!

- It's a hair, sir. - I can see that.

I'm asking whose hair it is.

The hair of the woman in the photo.

Useless dunce!

Oh, Shiho!

My photo of Shiho!

Shiho's hair!

Captain!

Long time no see!

No! No!

"WELCOME, SOLDIERS!"

It's cheap! Come in!

FENGTIAN - SUMMER

Tell me: are there any Japanese brothels in Mukden?

Tome!?

You know that woman?

No... I was wrong.

It's sad having to prostitute oneself like this, isn't it?

- Muraoka. - Yes.

Japan is small, with no riches

We have to leave in order to get bigger.

These women sacrificed themselves for the good of the nation.

That's devotion, so you shouldn't show pity.

- Understood? - Yes.

Nothing ever is all black, or all white.

- It's for the good of the nation. - Yes.

I wonder how can this heal...

- Work! - Yes, sir!

Handsome! Here! Come on, handsome!

Good evening, babe! Listen: re all the women around here Japanese?

Why? Why do Japanese women sell themselves to the Russians? Why?

Handsome...

I consider myself lucky when I'm chosen.

We prefer Japanese men but they haven't got a dime!

That's not my case. I'm loaded!

Hey...

You're from Shimabara, aren't you?

Come by our shop!

You remember Tome-san?

She worked here for a time.

Apparently she got bought by Russian engineers.

I saw her with them.

- Tome? - From Manchuria to Siberia...

Seems Japanese girls are aiming for even Moscow.

They'd put Napoleon to shame.

- But... - Worried about them?

If they've done away with shame and chastity...

What do they have to fear?

Is that how those girls really feel?

You'll tell me stories of Shimabara, won't you?

I heard a man from Shimabara was here!

Could you speak to my parents on my behalf?

Has the money I sent reached them safely?

- Japanese men are so handsome! - Don't see them around enough!

Hush! We're going to hear about Shimabara first!

I don't plan on returning to Japan.

- But... - I didn't like Shimabara much.

I didn't want to end up the wife of a poor man.

So I ran away.

Now my family has one less mouth to feed.

I still want to do right by my parents.

You shouldn't hang around here.

Russian men get terribly jealous.

- You've changed, Tome-chan. - I wouldn't know!

Use women to get information about the Russians.

Isn't that too dangerous?

Wretched as they are,

they're still daughters of the Empire.

Proud women of Japan! Danger comes with the territory!

- We know that, but do they? - Fool!

It's for the Empire! You must live for the fatherland!

Haven't you realized that yet!?

The land you serve is the Empire of Japan!

Not Nagasaki, not Shimabara!

When will construction begin?

When will it be completed? How strong will their forces be?

- Let them be spies. - Alright...

Tome-chan! Tome-chan!

Can we talk?

I have to go to Harbin for work.

I understand. If it's for our country...

I'll do it.

Tome-chan...

I'll do it for the Empire!

Won't you lie with me, Iheiji?

Oh, please!

I want you to,

so that I will always remember Shimabara.

Please!

Right here?

Right here.

Right here, right now.

"To Inada Daisuke-dono, Shimabara, in Nagasaki, town of our beloved fatherland.

Your parents won't worry any more, despite being so cold in Manchuria, I assure you.

I'll deliver this money to them for sure.

Were I to fail, I vow to perform harakiri.

Cut straight across.

Then cut upwards.

That's how it's done.

It'll hurt, though.

Why ask about this now?

I'm a man of my word.

Sorry, sorry.

We're in trouble.

- It's Tome, she's... - Calm down.

Tome...

.. was taken away by the police.

Tome went too far and got found out.

- What should we do? - Nothing.

Mukden won't hold much longer. We're to leave immediately.

I will send you the horse-drawn sleigh at five o'clock.

- What about Tome? - Tome was a great help.

A true Japanese woman.

Muraoka.

Hurry and get ready.

Captain! It's Tome!

That's Tome over there!

We may end up the same someday.

Tome died for our country.

She did well.

Give her a proper burial.

I have orders elsewhere.

This is where we part ways.

Take this.

Let go of personal greed and live for the fatherland.

There is no greater honor.

Also, about the money you've been taking behind my back...

Those are funds graciously provided by the Emperor!

- Don't forget that! - Yes, sir!

Farewell!

A Japanese man's duty is to live for his Fatherland!

MEIJI 36 HONG KONG

Hello. I'm looking for Mr. Shimada, the barber.

Tomonaga! Tomonaga!

He has sold his shop.

And where can I find him?

That I don't know.

And the barber Shimada, do you know him?

Yeah, he's down at the harbor, on the jetty.

On the jetty?!

You see?... They took my shop, so I had to start from scratch...

And then, they robbed me, too...

I was left with nothing, and I couldn't pay my debts.

But, tell me... Wasn't Mr. Tomonaga standing security?

That's true, but he had gone to Singapore.

I didn't have his address, I couldn't get hold of him.

But, didn't you talk to him when he came back?

I did, but when he came back it was already to late.

I must have been bewitched by that Indian's black magic.

But, tell me... are you feeling alright?

- But, I haven't finished... - It doesn't matter!

And you call yourself a Japanese...

Why should I share poor Shimada's misfortunes?

You ganged up with that Indian!

No! How dare you say that?!

I was away on business!

You could have helped him when you came back!

No way! That's impossible! That Indian is a demon!

Shut up!

Mr. Shimada has been too naive.

You have a soldier's eyes!

Me, I live for the Fatherland!

Oh... a merchant... That's too much...

A merchant living for the fatherland?!

Tomonaga!

Shiho!

Iheiji!

You have dared, you jerk! My Shiho!

- My fiancee! - No, wait!

Iheiji! No, sorry! Muraoka-san...

- Shiho, Shiho was... - So you're calling her Shiho!

Shiho-sama was a whore in Singapore!

If she's here now, it's thanks to me!

You, the Indian!

I'm buying this shop. How much do you want? How much?

It's not for sale! But I'll sell it to you for $ 5,000

- 5,000... - Cash!

Alright! I'll be back! I'll be back!

Father of our people...

My Manchurian whores...

I'm borrowing... I'm borrowing this money. It's for the Fatherland!

Count now, Tomonaga.

I'm redeeming Shiho from you.

Is that clear?

Your smell...

Your smell of man...

Iheiji, my love, take me into your arms, please!

Do you find me repulsive?

It's because of the emotion.

They can't sully my beloved Shiho! You are the most beautiful in the world!

Tell me... We won't leave each other again, will we?

Never... Never ever!

Together forever...

Oh, I'm so happy!

What?! You've got no hair?!

Tomonaga-san liked me shaved.

That's absurd! I can't believe it!

Wait.

The bastard!

How are you feeling, my darling?

Perfect!

What's the matter?

I find you radiant, that's what the matter is.

That's easy: a happy woman quickly forgets her past.

- Now, Muraoka-chan... - What?

They say there are a lot of Japanese girls held prisoners.

Held prisoners? Whom by?

By local pirates.

Where?

At the far end of the harbor.

Poor girls...

Tricked by faithless men...

They'll sell them to Manchuria or to the South Seas!

Shiho!

I'll gather the men. Make me something to eat!

Are you Japanese?

- Yes. - Yes.

Great! Come with me!

Hurry, come!

Move! Come aboard!

Come on! Hurry!

Move!... Move!

Go, run!

Are you Japanese?

Yes.

Scram!

Help! Help!

Go join the others! Go!

Behave yourself!

Hurry up!

- Japanese? - Yes.

Yes? Come quickly!

Are there any more Japanese girls?

Muraoka Iheiji has come to revenge the Fatherland!

En garde!

En garde!

To the ship! Move! Move! Go!

Move! More quickly!

- Hey, what're you doing in here? - Get him!

Hurry up! What're you waiting for?! Move!

En garde! Cowards!

Good job!

- Come on! - Come, this way!

What's going on?

You came back alive?!

You didn't even have enough time to turn around Shiho, did you?...

Look at it. The strength of this sword is tremendous!

It's so nice!

My first bath in ages!

I'm so happy!

It's not easy sending all those girls back to Japan, Iheiji... I mean, Muraoka-san.

They all came here illegally, so, officially, they don't exist.

We can't get them out, if we go by the law.

But...

You know we won't be able to.

But, still...

We have to do something! They were abused by bandits and vile men! You know that!

After all, we are dealing with filchery and greed.

After all?!

They're told they'd get rich overseas.

They went aboard driven by greed.

It will never be acknowledged officially.

What's more, all of this embarrasses their family and the entire country.

What's your proposition, then? What are we to do with them?

Well, you have no choice... Put them to work.

Now, seriously, I'm counting on you oyabun!

Really! They have no respect for our house!

You always act passionately, not thinking about the consequences.

like when you were a child

I'm sick and tired of your damned Fatherland!

Shut up, woman! And don't use this tone with me!

I'm hungry.

Even if you're hungry...

you can still do this!

Right, Kiyo-chan?

Right!

Hey!

Found this guy in the harbor. Had no place to sleep, so here he is.

His name is Komashi Buta.

Oh, you are dead drunk!

What have you done with the stuff you should have bought?

I needed a helper and I didn't pay attention.

You mean... there's nothing left?!

Those were our last money...

Judging by your presence you must be the famous oyabun Iheiji.

You're spot on, I'm Muraoka.

Please, do come in.

Moron!

Oyabun, I've heard you were forming your clan and...

.. I've come here in a hurry to beg you to take me in.

I'm from Kobe and my name is Butamasu.

Scum! Aren't you ashamed to have tricked a young girl to sell her!

Dog! And you made her pregnant, too!

Did I sell you in Kobe?

Was it really me?! I can't remember it!

You swore you'd marry me!

I never swear!

These things happen, you know that! One has to be careful!

If you got fooled, it means you're downright stupid!

Put him under!

And what would have your life been had you not been sold?

You'd have become a cheap whore, a lowlife bitch,

wallowing in your own slime!

Stop playing innocent! You piss me off!

I am bored with you!

Shut up!

How dare you! These girls are soldiers of Japan!

$ 25,000?!

$ 25,000 for house and board?!

There's a lot of them!

And here's another invoice. It's from the pirates.

$ 7,000...

We'll have to pay, or they'll be coming after us! I'm telling you!

You know, we really are in a tight spot...

We must find money...

Even if we bargain...

Well, well, it'd seem your hair is growing back...

I'm sorry... Please excuse me.

I'm sorry...

What do you want?!

I'm sorry for intruding...

but I can't get Shiho's gorgeous body out of my mind...

Lend her to me and I'll give you $ 5!

- You! - Old fool! Are you joking?!

- $ 30 and you got yourself a deal. - $ 30! - Shiho!

- What... - That's too expensive!

Or, then, it's for the whole night, starting now...

Tomonaga!

My love... That's how a woman becomes stronger...

- Forgive us... - Forgive us...

What now?!

- Listen, oyabun... - What?

We've done nothing for days. I'm so horny...

Well?...

My heart is filled with desire...

Won't you sell us somewhere, oyabun?

What?! That's absurd!

Sell us, you'll have enough to pay your debts and get into business.

We also must make money... We have debts to our parents!

I'll be damned!

Come on! Sell us, please!

Shiho also knows and and agrees!

Will you?

Shiho too?!

Hey... Where's Shiho?

She left early for the Consulate.

Look! She's coming back!

Stop a little farther. There!

Sachi-san... Kiyo-san.

I've sold you in Singapore!

That's great news!

I know the place very well; you'll like it.

Great!

The Japanese Consul has interceded in our favour...

.. and I paid 10% for this kind favour.

How can you restore the Muraoka house and become a merchant without money?

Now... there's no reason to hesitate.

Selling two or twenty girls, it's the same thing...

You're pushing me to become a zegen, aren't you?

Yes... What's so bad in being one?

You'll just trade girls.

Dealing in such a trade, me, the great Muraoka...

There are a lot of women who want to be sold.

I was one of them.

Darling...

Why don't you want to help them escape poverty?

It all is for the country's greater good!

I'm sure this time it's for the love of the country!

For the love of the country?

You've let him shave you once again!

This is the last time!

Revered captain Uehara, I'm trying to serve the country the best way I can.

I managed to save the dumb girls from our country from the hands of the pirates,

and I find myself now forced to get involved in the women trade.

All things considered, it's better selling them than sending them back home.

It's better for themselves, for their families, for Japan.

They'll serve the country, revered Sensei.

Why was death your final choice?

Listen to me.

You all are criminals in the eyes of our Motherland.

First, you came here illegally.

Then, you, the mothers of our future soldiers,

destroyed your machine for making babies for our country.

- Is that so? - It is!

Third: you all bring shame upon yourselves and your families.

Fourth:...

.. you've lost your virginity, privilege of your future husbands.

Shame on you!

But, there is a way for you to have your sins pardoned.

Trust me and...

.. save your money,

send your money to your families, to your beloved relatives!

And pay more taxes to your Motherland, who loves you and...

.. and takes care of you!

To work!

441st! That's it! That's great business for you, ain't it?

Am I complaining?

All these girls come from honorable families.

Daughters of important, rich men! They are virtuous!

Their ancestry is irreproachable!

I give you now Tsuyako from Goto!

Peach skin, a golden heart, she is exceptional! A wonder!

And still only seventeen years old!

- 300! - We have 300 there!

- 350! - 350! We have 350 there!

- 400! - 400?

- 450! - 450?

Anyone giving more? Anyone?

Sold to the man there!

O-Tsuno from Shimabara, please! O-Tsuno! Here we go!

Youth is not all, beauty is not all!

She has the best heart in all of Japan!

Come on, let's go!

Admire her beauty...

Hey! Stop it already!

- How old are you? - Thirty... one.

- Really now? - Thirty-three.

Thirty-three!? Get her out of here!

C'mon, c'mon! We're moving ahead with it!

And now, here's the next one: Ueno from Amakusa!

Please!

Here she is: just sixteen years old!

- Well? - 300!

- 300. - 330!

- 330. Who bids more? - 400!

400, once! 400, twice!...

"... and especially Iheiji-sama, whom I've come to see as an almighty God,

my guardian angel, my help of last resort.

Work is tough, but I'll come back my head held high. "

That's it. I've put the essential in. Now, it's for you to work.

Please forgive me for being to old and nobody wanting to buy me!

Iheiji-oyabun!

What?...

Oh, Singapore Kumai-chan!

What are your projects now, oyabun?

- What? - Must have gathered quite a nice capital by now!

Well... listen, oyabun.

Between ourselves, there aren't enough women in English Malaysia!

- Not enough?! - Yes! There're too many...

.. Japanese women in Singapore!

You should open shop in here, if you want to do business.

- Where's that? - Kuala.

- Kuala Lumpur? - That's right!

There are rubber tree forests, tin and copper mines,

There's lots of money and not enough women.

There's a market you should tap!

A harbor, that's where you find men.

The main harbor, it's bristling with activity!

There's tons of miners, plantation farmhands, sailors from all over the world!

But there's no Japanese!

There's really a fortune to be made! The town of fortune!

I could get you a license from the Viceroy himself!

Captain Uehara,

I'll be leaving for the Southern Seas.

I'm living with evil and good.

I'm opening the road for my country,

for the development of its trade.

I'm dedicating my sacrifice to you!

MALACCA STRAITS

SWETTENHAM HARBOR

- Here they are! - Here they are!

- Banzai! - Banzai!

Once again!

Banzai!

- Oyabun! - Oyabun!

Happy to see you!

Thank you very much, thank you very much.

Thank you very much.

- And where are the brothels? - That way, very close by.

Please, please!

It's very hot, isn't it?

It's because we're right on the Equator!

- It doesn't bother me. - That's very well.

We've arrived.

That one is Genkichi's...

.. and that's mine, the "Butamatsu".

And that one is our Boss's. It works like a charm!

It looks kind of mournful for an outpost...

That's true, oyabun, and I did my best to find another one.

- But we have a small problem... - A problem?!

Yes... There's a wiseguy in town who controls everything.

His name is Wang and I can assure you he's no softy...

- Wang, is it? - Used to be a pirate under Fuken.

He owns some thirty brothels around here and a dozen more in town. Best spots.

All places and all sideboards we'd want are on his turf!

Let's not pretend: our girls have to work aboard!

But, like always, a little money will do the trick.

Here's the license for the brothel.

Excuse me now, but I must catch the ship for Singapore.

- Thank you very much. - Oh?... Thank you, thank you.

Thank you, thank you.

Goodbye, goodbye.

Hey, where's Wang's house?

He has one almost everywhere. There's one down there.

I don't know anything! I swear! I don't know anything!

Hey!

Is that you, Wang?

Shiho.

What are you doing here?

So it was you!...

Do you know him?!

I met him in Singapore. He was just one of my clients.

Who is he?

He's my husband.

It's alright. My masters will appreciate it.

I have to let them know first. We'll talk about this again.

Who are you taking me for? Neither of us has masters in this business.

That's true. What are you doing in my house?

We've come to say hello.

Most grateful. Of course, my house is your house.

Come, come! Get aboard and have me! Come! Where are you off to?!

Did you see Fumie?

I didn't.

I've looked for her everywhere! She's disappeared!

What?!

The Boss is coming this way!

- Welcome. - Welcome.

We don't know where Fumie-chan is.

- Since when? - Not long. Since early this evening.

Do you know if she has a boyfriend?

There's a Malaysian guy she's been seeing quite a lot, but I don't think that...

She's been swept of her feet by the Malaysian charm...

He bewitched her and kidnapped her.

Damn! We must find her!

We don't know the Malaysians too well, it will be difficult!

I don't care! It's your job!

Go and hang in every room the portrait of our revered Emperor.

Understood?

Shit!

If she left early in the evening, they must be far by now.

Hurry and go hang up portraits of the pig Emperor.

There's little we can do about the search.

- Understood. - Understood.

- Genkichi. - Yes.

THE EX-CONVICTS REINSERTION ASSOCIATION

- State owned brothel?! - Yes.

We'll call them "national brothels".

Hear me out: we'll first settle in Port Swettenham, with your blessing, of course.

Then in Singapore, Hong Kong, Saigon, Bangkok, Manchuria. Everywhere!

All the brothels will all be part of our imperial project of expansion.

They're now saying the State writes the school textbooks.

Then, why not imagine state owned brothels?

The private sector is very well. So, it should work just fine.

What are you saying?!

A nice Consulate like yours must be costing the nation a pretty buck...

On the contrary, state owned brothels would bring the state a lot of money.

Why wouldn't a country like Japan admit that?!

Have faith in the whores, they are regular moneymakers!

I can't understand you.

You don't?!

Still, I owe my master, captain Uehara, the foundlings for my thinking.

Don't you ever again mention that one! And your conscience? Don't you have one?

Conscience?

Don't you feel any shame for trafficking women?

Not at all.

I'm convinced it's a very good thing.

That's unbelievable! And to think people like you come here every day from Japan!

Our motherland sends her daughters abroad to facilitate its expansion.

Thanks to them soon all the sidewalks in the East will be Japanese! That's not bad!

As for myself, I intend faithfully pursue my mission.

What are you mumbling?! You've got no mercy!

They were not that happy at home.

But, maybe, you don't like women too much...

Get out of here!

Very well. But I'll be back and, maybe, someday you'll change your mind.

Goodbye, sir.

It's been four years now... Do you remember?

We were about to get married...

You disappeared. I waited two months for you!

One day, a Japanese decided to buy me. That's all there is to it.

But I wasn't in love with him.

- That was Iheiji, wasn't it? - Not at all.

It was someone else. Iheiji is a childhood friend.

I sent you a message.

What are you saying?! What message?

I had to do three months in prison. A bad story.

Couldn't get in touch with you. I was stuck.

Had you received my message in time, would you have stayed?

I think I would have.

Shiho... I want to start all over again with you.

You're married now!

Nothing has changed in what concerns you.

Time changes a woman more than it does a man!

You wouldn't be here if you didn't still love me.

Tell me...

This brothel we want to open... Are you alright with it?

If you are hungry, there's a tavern at the end of the pier.

- Alright? - Yes.

- How's things? - Fine, Boss.

Welcome back, oyabun!

Not like this!

That's it... Oh, welcome back, dear.

- Welcome back. - Is this a new game?

I'm teaching them.

Get undressed, dear.

They have to learn how to treat a man right.

Listen: I will set up and train a kidnapping squad!

- In kidnapping?! - Yes.

I have a gang of ex-convicts from Singapore who'll be working for me.

Once trained, I'll send them to Japan and they'll bring me lots of girls.

But that'll be the last time they'll break the law. They'll become honest men.

Thing is, all of them will have to send me ten girls fit to work.

From the ten girls I'll be buying two at a fair price - ¥ 1,200

Thanks to this money and the eight girls, they'll be able to start their own brothel

They'll give up a life of crime and earn an honest living.

That's generous of you... You'll touch him when your turn comes.

The more we'll stimulate the opening of brothels, the more we'll be exporting.

Boats will be swarming to Japan. Will get rich!

Gently!

And the more our girls will make, the more they'll send back home,

the more their parents will pay in taxes. and the more the motherland will get rich.

I hope a woman can appreciate how smart this is!

I'm a genius! I should be decorated for this!

Dear! Dear! Dear!

Wang has approved the brothel.

We can open up!

What?! You went to see Wang yesterday, while I was away?

Yes, I did.

Tell me... Did Wang...

You are insulting me! As well ask me if I sold my soul to the devil!

Ah, if you wouldn't hold me...

I don't know what happened! It shrink suddenly, madam!

Please, make me a child, Shiho!

I want a child! My child!

That's impossible...

You know...

You know what I used to be...

I used to be a whore.

One never knows, my love...

My love!... My love!

Hi! D'you fancy me?

Hello, darling!

Hey, don't you have anything in your pants?!

Nobody's interested!

Don't bother with that one.

If you want to have a good time, I can sell you some...

MEIJI 37, FEBRUARY THE WAR WITH RUSSIA

Where’s the Boss? The ship has arrived!

Room nr 2.

Shota-san. You'll have the merchandise by tonight.

Great.

- How much is it? - $ 33.

Three dollars more?!

Prices are going up because of the war in Manchuria.

I'm sorry, but all of this is Japan's fault!

And the truth is I'm making you a special price.

I'd be charging any one else $ 35!

Oyabun! Just look at this!

We've brought 35 girls!

They're from everywhere: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and all stunningly beautiful!

Great job. How are things back home?

Just great!

Debts are mounting, taxes too, there're 2 girls for every boy and all talk about war

Aside this, everything's fine.

There's no money and parents sell their daughters. Secretly, of course.

Minus two girls, that's ¥1,200, minus 200 expenses, 80 in rent, that gives ¥920.

Here you are.

- Yes. - Thank you.

With the 31 from today, we have a total of 65, right?

That's right.

There still are seven ex-convicts in Japan and they'll each bring ten girls.

Even if I sell half of them we'll obviously have to open five or six new brothels.

- I'm off. - Where to?

I have to convince the newcomers to accept their fate.

Thank you.

Come here, girls!

The heart... It's the heart it's all about.

If you don't sell your heart, your actions are justified.

Alright?

I paid ¥200 to your parents, 300 for getting you here,

¥10 in taxes and ¥ 25 in interest.

I paid everything up front!

You owe me all this money!

They say a woman can be strong in certain moments, isn't it so?

Poor girls!

Sell your bodies! And you'll be able to buy a lot of gold!

That's the way of making your beloved parents happy!

You'll be able to send money to your parents.

You, or you... Now you are my wives.

You are my soul wives!

I'll never abandon you!

Your hearts are joined to my heart!

You can sell your bodies, of course.

But, in five or six years, you'll be able to go back home, in shinning glory!

Moron!

Slut!

Imbecile! Did you really think you could escape like this?!

If you try to run away once more, I swear I'll kill you!

Sorry... sorry.

I'm beginning to get bored: he's sweating so much!

Now, I'm a regular businessman!

I'm the only Japanese to be able to open a casino!

Don't forget to take 20% on the bets!

Understood.

Dear brother,

I now am the owner of a 200 acres plantation.

It's been 13 years since I've left home and I have at last become a big landowner.

Today I've received the photo of the new house in Shimabara, built with my money.

Here, at last, is the much awaited moment of the Muraoka house restoration!

Oh, look at this! A proof business is doing fine!

Yes. They say he brings them from Japan. He surely has got money now...

Oh, what a splendid villa!

He also has a rubber tree plantation. Money begets money, you know.

The Emperor has appreciated your effort. Here is the golden bowl as reward.

It is a great honor for all of us.

And now...

Glory to you, glory to you, revered Emperor, most respected Empress.

Bow down!

May this Meiji 38 be a great year for you!

A Happy New Year!

To the fall of Port Arthur!

Congratulations!

Cheers!

Cheers!

And now, have fun, everybody!

- Be a good little soldier. - Thank you.

Hello, oyabun!

Oh, Kumai-san!

You've got rich and powerful!

I am not at all surprised.

In Singapore, all they talk about is your success. You got to be famous!

- A Happy New Year, oyabun-san! - Happy New Year to you too.

I'm a cloth merchant and I've just opened shop and...

.. I've come to express my gratitude for your help and protection.

Have a drink.

Oyabun.

Long time no see.

Fumie! Where were you hiding?

With the Malaysian guy. Where did you think I was?

Oyabun... Can I have some saké?

That's water!

Ask for forgiveness!

I don't give a damn on your story! You should be ashamed of yourself!

Imbecile! You'll have to pay back your debt!

Ask for forgiveness!

Forgive me.

I'd like to work here to pay back my debt.

But do you know what the Malaysians think?

That this still is their land!

That the English and the Japanese make the laws.

I shouldn't be telling you this!

What are you doing here then?

When one is very poor, do you think one has a choice?

Don't.

Let her be. She's fine here.

No more bets? No one? Game!

Three-two, odd!

20% for the bank!

This way the money. Thank you.

Will this go to the nation?

Who knows?...

Who's going to check?...

What are you up to, Kino?

I'm pregnant again. So I have to get rid of it.

That does it...

Oh my God... Shiho will take care of this.

Please, it's for you...

There's around ¥ 8,000...

This is my contribution as a businessman in this country.

What business do you mean?

Well, my rubber plantation and my export-import dealings.

Would you be so kind and be more precise?

The list is a long one, as you very well know.

You make a lot of money exploiting those poor girls.

Of, course it's big money. Huge money, even.

Even companies like Mitsuishi or Yusen...

.. don't make this kind of money.

- Shouldn't we talk about... - A Japanese association?

Yes! Exactly!

Listen! There are hundreds of Japanese bodies without a tomb!

We have to do something!

We must put these bodies to rest!

This is a national shame!

This is an intolerable situation!

To remedy this I founded the Japanese Association.

It will collect money, with your help, you who are its new members.

If not, that's what could happen to you...

Were you aware that 90% of the members are whores?

Mr. Ikenami will be our president. Mr. Takenauchi our vice-president.

And, finally, the treasurer will be Muraoka Iheiji

With that having been said, I congratulate you all.

Master Uehara,

I was very moved by the news of the occupation of Mukden.

I go on following your instructions to the letter...

.. and doing my very best for the prosperity of Japanese Empire.

- Oyabun dono. - Congratulations.

Hey... aren't you Tome's friend?

Tell me, wouldn't you be Muraoka-san?

Exactly.

The war got horrible in Mukden!

A thousand soldiers for only ten girls!

It was unbearable, so I went back to Japan.

I was in Shimabara looking for girls. She accosted me, so I took her along.

In Japan I had no parent, no friend left to help me.

So I got married in Shimabara.

He was an old miser, who used to call me a bitch, or a whore.

So, to revenge myself, I ran naked through the village!

My God, my God...

Damn you!

Shit-hole Japan!

Fucking Japan!

Tome-san was on a mission. Japan used her.

She got killed by the Russians!

Can you believe it?!

Oyabun, the Russian fleet will be passing through here coming from the Baltic.

Where did you hear that?

- In Singapore. - And who told you?

An officer.

Damn you! Japan is trying to spot the Russian flag.

It's not the time to sleep!

Oyabun! Can we change the guard now?

Very well! Changeover time!

Relief! Relief!

Do you really think the Russian fleet will come?

Haven't got a clue. Hurry up! Relief time!

What does Boss Iheiji think?

Since the beginning of the war, business has been bad.

The Russian fleet is not the only reason.

Business has slowed down a lot.

Everywhere, but like yours... There must surely be something else...

You want to say I gamble?

I do and I also drink!

I lead a debauched life. And it's because of you.

You are the only reason.

Drunkard! Keep your mouth shut!

I've always been in love with you. All the way since I was a kid.

You know it! But it's Iheiji who got you, and he has a dog's life! Fucking fate!

You're wimping like a woman! C'mon, get out!

Let's say I haven't heard anything.

Leave!

Shiho! Let me have you just once!

- Let me go! - Shiho!

You slept with Wang! Everybody knows it!

So, you'll sleep with me too! What difference is there?!

Scram! You moron!

Sis'! Sis'!

What a coward!

Aren't you ready yet?!

Fumie-chan... Have you calmed down?

Yes.

Be careful to the Malaysians' charm this time round...

And don't forget to regularly lubricate your engines.

Yes.

It has come! It has come! The Russian fleet has come!

The devils!

- What an awful sight! - I was better off not knowing!

Oh, God!

That's enough! Shut up!

We mustn't panic!

- My God, have pity of our Navy! - My God, let them go back to Japan safely!

Oh, my God...

Have pity of our Emperor...

Have pity of us!

I've counted forty-seven...

- Wanna bet? - Yep.

I put $10 on the Japanese fleet.

And I put ten on the Russian fleet.

It's already won.

Shiho!

I have to talk to you.

I want you... all for myself.

Impossible. I am Iheiji's, you know that.

Iheiji can manage.

You will help me. Even if I am not to touch you.

Think about it. I'll wait.

And then there's your wife...

She is not the one who can help me.

Shiho! Don't hurry, I'll wait.

I can't. I can't.

Chinese are patient.

Iheiji worries too much about Japan...

Winner or loser, what does it matter?!

All of this has nothing to do with you and me.

A nation is a little like the black smoke you see there...

Don't you think so?

I understand what you're saying, but...

The truth is that, unfortunately, I love you...

MEIJI 38, SEPTEMBER RUSSIAN-JAPANESE PEACE TREATY

Let's drink for the victory!

The building is yours...

But the eight girls and the furniture will be your collateral,

if I can't repay you.

I want ¥5,000 for all of this.

Why do you want to borrow so much money?

Gamble debts. I played against Wang and I lost everything.

If I don't pay him by tomorrow, I'm dead.

- Give him the money! - Wait!

I've just paid $40,000 for the plantation!

We have nothing left.

I already paid it all last year.

I know, but we don't have the choice!

- We must invest... - I know that!

We have to help him!

He has the gambling demon inside of him. There's nothing we can do.

You know... there's another way.

What way?

Shiho to negotiate directly with Wang on my behalf.

That's my only chance!

I'll never do this!

Out of the way!

You, then, want me to get killed?

He who sows the wind...

.. reaps the whirlwind!

Damn you!

MEIJI 45, JULY

Come on, get ashore!

As you see, oyabun, times have changed.

It ain't a big deal, I'm sorry.

Four, that's all you could find?!

Things aren't what they used to be. The rice price has went up and...

.. if there still are parents selling their daughters, the police scares them.

As we had no choice,

we've put them on regular boat, and got them legit papers.

You understand it cost us a lot.

I had eight girls on the boat when the police came aboard and took them all.

And not just the girls, but the captain, the quartermaster and the ship's boy.

All these people could end up in the joint for eight years.

Oh, oyabun...

Our revered Emperor has expired two days ago.

I found it out in Singapore, late yesterday night.

Do you pretend the Emperor is dead?!

What is he up to?!

Hara-kiri... Just like a samurai...

My dear... Nothing's really forcing you to...

I have to!

Is there anyone going with me to the netherworld?

Answer me! Are you?

You?

You?

No one... Very well.

I must die! I must die!

For my Emperor!

Banzai!

Dear!

Dear! Dear!

How do they manage to do it when it hurts so much?!

Blood!

Oyabun!

The girls! The girls are coming!

The girls from Yamagata have arrived!

- The girls? - Yes!

- The girls? - Yes!

Very well!

- Oyabun! Oyabun! - What?

- Our Boss, Chota, is missing! - What happened to Chota?

- We don't know. - What?!

The girls have also disappeared. They must have left yesterday evening.

As I spent the night with a client I only realized it this morning.

And then this morning I told myself: "Hey, there's no one here!"

The thief! All the girls are gone!

There's nothing left!

Look! It's empty!

That bastard Chota tricked us!

How could Chota do this to us?!

He must have run to Singapore with one of our boats! The bastard!

Hurry, get a boat ready for me! Hurry!

Hurry, to the boat!

That looks like... Wang's boat!

It's towing a canoe! Look!

That's Chota, bro'...

Wang has captured Chota!

I'd like to know what's going on...

Chota and Wang were in it together.

The bastard!

- Impossible! - It'd seem it is.

Wang played him along.

I don't get it. I must be stupid.

Iheiji!

Chota had to pay me, he did pay me. We are even. You can have him back.

Wang! You'll pay for this!

Turn the boat!

Hurry!

Mercy! Forgive me!

It's between Wang and myself! It doesn't concern you!

I'll pay you back for the girls! Let me go! Let me go!

Mercy! Let me go!

Let me go!

- Get it over with! - Iheiji...

Murderers!

Death to the Japanese!

Go back to Japan!

Overthrow the Japanese!

Attack!

Burn them!

Burn Japanese products!

Be quiet!

Follow Wang's instructions!

Clear the street!

Stop making noise!

Let me through! Let me through!

Go away!

TAISHO 8, JUNE

That's the third boycott in less than ten years.

Keep calm, it's just noise.

Even if they burn some Japanese merchandise,

Japan will hold on. Believe me.

In the meantime, we don't even have one client.

Let's accept Malaysians and Indians. It'll make up for the missing clients.

No. No Malaysians, no matter what.

They bewitch the girls.

I already have two who were bewitched.

It'd seem Yamagata girls are very vulnerable to this kind of stuff.

Women are vulnerable.

- More than others. - Don't joke about this.

That's a moral problem.

- The Emperor's photo will protect you. - Yes...

But it seems the new Emperor's photo is less efficient.

Moron!

I wonder why the Consul doesn't step in in here.

I've written him to draw his attention. Something can be done here, for sure.

Thank you. You always are so kind.

It's nothing.

Here comes the police! A couple of cudgel blows and all's over.

That'll teach them!

There he is!

What are you doing?! Have you gone mad?!

- Oyabun! - Oyabun!

Iheiji! You won't sack any one!

So that's what it was all about! Are you pleased with yourself?

Calm down, Iheiji!

Let me go! Let me go!

Behead them!

Damn Japs!

Damn you!

- It's so hot! - Damn Englishmen!

C'mon, show a little patience!

They'll be back soon, on their knees, begging us!

What makes you so sure?!

Japan will overrun this country, in less time that it takes saying it.

Japan has already taken back all its islands in the South Seas.

These islands are right by this country.

If only it could be true...

Listen...

Japan is a small country, almost without any resources.

Its future lies with China and the South Seas.

It's its historic destiny!

I see...

Yes.

I'll get you out of here! Alright?

I need an audience with the English Governor. The Police Chief is overwhelmed.

I guessed as much.

Here are your clothes and some money.

- Now, we must get out all my men. - I don't have that kind of money.

The boycott...

- And the rubber price has fallen 30%... - That's too bad.

I'd like to know why we can't work anymore?!

I think it's because of the new Emperor.

We have no choice. We have to stop.

The decision was taken by the authorities.

And you, what are you going to do?

Me?... I'll surely get married to that Indian...

What about you?

Me...

I'll be running away to Ipoh.

Nobody will find me there.

I'll go back to Japan.

Madam...

Would you be so kind and keep my savings?

Of course.

- And mine too? - This goes for everyone.

Don't worry. I'll take good care of them.

Hong Kong... Sixteen years already since I met the Boss...

I can't believe it our contract ended six years ago...

That's right, time flies, we'll be old soon!

How about stopping for a while your bullshit?

Madam...

If you have really taken care of our savings, I'd like to see them.

They are not here. They are at the bank.

You don't have them! They've never existed!

Is that true, Madam?

I'm sorry, that's true. There's nothing I can do about it.

On the other hand, I'll sell everything I have,

so I can give your money back.

Very well.

We take note of your promise.

You should all have some ¥10,000 saved.

Money it's all that matters.

Without this money, we are nothing at all.

People don't even consider us human beings any longer.

Just look at me.

Madam! Madam!

Fumie has fallen! She's taken ill!

My money! Madam! My money!

Come, we'll get you to bed and take care of you.

My money!

Don't worry! There's nothing to be afraid of! Your money is safe!

Give it to my family...

Leave her alone! You killed her! The Japanese are murderers!

She did you nothing wrong! You killed her! You took her money!

Thief!

My love... I know how much you have suffered.

You are my only treasure! You always will be! Always!

So, here you are... You did well to have come.

I'd like to be sure it's Japan alright who wanted me arrested.

That's true, Muraoka-san.

We have to take measures to improve our fellow countrymen's morality.

Follow me, please.

What did those girls do wrong by living by her bodies?

Do you imagine life gave them another choice?!

What else could they have done?

- You made lots of money! - You think so?

It's the merchants and the companies that get rich! You know that!

There's nothing I can do. Times have changed, Muraoka-san.

They have worked for the Motherland!

You aren't going to tell me that someone, in an office, just decided this!

You'll get the official papers soon. They've been sent two days ago.

To Singapore, to Kuala Lumpur and to Penang.

C'mon, do what you want.

I won't give up!

If you won't give up, sir, you'll be forcefully deported.

It'd be wiser to think about your future.

Get it into your skull I won't leave here until I get satisfaction.

Not before having founded the Japanese National brothel.

It's my life's work and I'll defend it!

Kino!

Kino!

O-Kin?

Hey, O-Kin, wake up!

Wake up!

- Oh... - Hey!

- Oyabun! - Listen!

Listen!

I'll make you offsprings.

The Muraokas will settle here for generations.

No diseases? Everything alright in there?

Alright! Go wash yourself!

Go wash yourself!

Shiho...

- Where's Shiho? - We haven't seen her since last night.

Since last night?!

Fumie-san died yesterday evening.

We went at her Malaysian lover for her burial.

Shiho left all alone and nobody has seen her since then.

- Has she left us? - No, I don't think so.

She must have gone to... to Wang.

To Wang?!

Oyabun!

I'm ready! Where do you want me to lie?

Shiho! Shiho! Where has she gone?

Don't know.

- Is she with Wang? - Don't know anything.

Shiho!

Shiho!

My dear!

Wang... This time you've crossed the line.

Calm down, my love!

Wang...

Come here.

Wang-san lent me $50,000. He paid the bail...

.. to set all the men free...

Oyabun!

They've deported us! We must leave!

Dear...

Money is needed...

.. to wrap up all your businesses...

There still are so many things to sort up!

Iheiji, give me your wife.

I'll right off the $50,000 and I'll give you 200,000 more...

.. for all the brothels and Shiho stays with me.

- Never! - Never?

You have $200,000, go back to Japan. You are rich.

And you won't be losing face with your men.

You know what? I don't give shit on money!

We are not young anymore... Money matters.

It's my country that matters!

Japan has abandoned you!

Maybe... But I love it!

I'd give my life for Shiho. Give her to me!

I need her, Iheiji.

You want to do this to me...

$200,000 for a woman older than 40 years...

Age is not an issue for me! What's more, I know she needs me.

Iheiji... She's the one who will choose.

Alright!

Shiho. Come with me. Let's go aboard.

Be brave!

Iheiji...

I'll follow him.

Shiho?...

Wang will give me some money.

It's been a long time since I've wanted to do business on my own...

And I'll be old very soon!

You must forgive me for what I did.

I thank you for everything.

Shiho!

I'll never forget you!

I love you!

I'll always love you!

It's impossible...

Did I do wrong, o, my Emperor?

Shiho!

Shiho!

What did I do wrong? Tell me!

It hurts!

It's unbearable!

I haven't done anything wrong!

I, who am so righteous,

so honest! Damn it!

Besides, I have other women who have a heart!

Who love me!

My soul wives!

That's what I need!

I... must... leave...

.. a more... powerful... imprint...

.. than... those... Chinese...

.. so... we...

.. must... multiply...

.. the Japanese!

Alright?... Let's go!

Now!

Don't move!

Your legs! Don't let it flow! Don't let it flow!

- Lay down! - Again!?

We are manufacturing babies for the Emperor!

- Lay down! - Yes.

Let's go!

Why are you rushing?

Shut up!

Now! Now!

Don't move!

Your legs!

Take it all!

SHOWA 16, DECEMBER

One...

Two...

Father.

You are already exhausted...

Not at all.

Stop it. It's been a while since it's exhausted.

Don't make fun!

Your Majesty,

I don't know why,

but these last days, lately,

Your Majesty, I feel very close to Your Majesty...

For the Emperor!

KOTA BHARU, ON THE MALAYSIAN EAST COAST

Master Uehara,

I founded here a miniature Japan.

I don't only mean the land, but the quality of the people too,

as the Chinese merchants proved.

Here we are, children.

Welcome, father.

Yes.

Welcome back.

Well, aren't you going out fishing today?

No, the sea is not good.

Is that so?...

It's me, here I am.

- Welcome back. - Welcome back, father.

Very well.

- Goodbye. - Goodbye, father.

Aheji, Saeji, Taeji!

Yes.

How does Japan fare today?

- Everything alright? - Yes!

Very well.

Platoon...

.. stop!

Attention! General check!

Fall in!

Platoon, stop!

Present arms!

Japan...

.. is here!

We'll now attack the Kota Bharu airfield.

Pay great attention to the enemy's ambushes!

- Everyone! - Everyone, shoulder arms!

Be careful, dad!

Don't get to close!

Don't you go, dad!

My name is Muraoka Iheiji!

It's been long! So long!

- What is he saying, soldier? - He's speaking Japanese.

It's Malaysia here, but it also is Japan!

Iheiji-san...

The Army needs whores.

I know that, kid.

I am Muraoka Iheiji, lady seller! I can find you women.

I'll take care ot that!

- Dad! - Dad!

Bastards!

Hey, be careful!

Go and play outside, kids! Come on, off you go!

Where are you going? Don't do it!

Don't you go, father!

Shut up, you old hen!

Be careful!

Your life is not yours any more!

You've got children!

I live for my mission!

Japan has come! Japan is here at last! My Japan!

I'll be able at last to set up the Japanese National brothel!

Hey!

My darling soldiers!

Allow me to take care of the women!

Hey, soldiers!

Hey, soldiers!

- THE END -