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A Shochiku Film

Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX

A port town in North Africa in the dead of night…

In a corner of a noisy yet somehow melancholy saloon… … …

Sits a man in the midst of a journey to nowhere…

He has no nationality… Roaming is his destiny…

Excuse me. A woman is here to see you.

Woman? I'm not in the mood.

She came all the way from Japan.

From Japan?

In Japanese.

You speak Japanese?

A little.

Are you Torance of Arabia?

They used to call me that.

But I lost all my dreams about it.

Wine and women are all I want.

What do you want?

I'm looking for a man.

He left Japan twenty years ago.

I heard he was in North Africa.

I came to find him.

By way of Alexandria and Casablanca.

His name...?

Torajiro Kuruma.

And you?

I'm his sister.

My name is Sakura.

I was... his friend.

Where is he now?

I'm sorry, miss. Torajiro passed away.

He was a good man.

We all admired him.

He was a perfect gentleman.

He was loved and respected by the poor.

Don't be too discouraged.

Be careful on your way home.

Torajiro! Shibamata!

Shibamata?

Damn!

Fine as a cat.…'

Then, you're...

No.

I'm only a bum. I killed a man, I'm a fugitive.

No! You're my brother.

No.

Your brother was a hero called the Star of Alexandria.

Brother!

Ouch! It's hot!

I'm sorry.

It is hot.

Brother!

It's time for lunch!

Brother!

Tora-san's Heart of Gold

Kiyoshi Atsumi as Tora

I was born and raised in Shibamata, Katsushika… Kiyoshi Atsumi as Tora

Kuruma is my family name… And my given name is Torajiro…

Kuruma is my family name… Chieko Baisho as Sakura And my given name is Torajiro…

Chieko Baisho as Sakura

But people call me Tora, Chieko Baisho as Sakura the street peddler…

But people call me Tora, the street peddler…

Fumi Dan as Masako Yagyu

Masami Shimojo as Uncle

Chieko Misaki as Aunty

Gin Maeda as Hiroshi

Hisao Dazai as President Gajiro Sato as Genko

Hayato Nakamura as Mitsuo Yoshio Yoshida as the troupe leader

Chishu Ryu as the High Priest

Machiko Kyo as Aya Yagyu

Producer: Toru Najima

Planned by Yukio Takashima Shun'ichi Kobayashi

Written by Yoji Yamada Yoshitaka Asama

Cinematography: Tetsuo Takaba

Music: Naozumi Yamamoto

Art Direction: Mitsuo Degawa

Sound Recording: Hiroshi Nakamura Sound Mixing: Ryuji Matsumoto

Lighting: Yoshifumi Aoki Editing: Iwao Ishii

Original Story and Directed by Yoji Yamada

She's late.

She is.

Who?

Mitsuo's teacher is coming.

She could come to my house, but it's so shabby.

It's all right. This is like your home.

Isn't Mitsuo's teacher on maternity leave?

Yes. Her substitute is coming to see us.

A brand new teacher?

I heard she's very pretty. Right?

Young and pretty?

Isn't she here yet?

Not yet.

Aren't you going to the bank?

Not until I see the pretty young teacher.

Consider your age!

You'll influence Mitsuo.

Go to the bank!

Okay, okay.

What if Tora comes back now?

The pretty teacher and Tora.

Stop it!

Don't even suggest it.

I guess I better go.

It's him!

More trouble?

Expect the worst.

What if Tora falls for her? A disaster!

What'll we do?

Get rid of him.

How?

Insult him or something. Be firm.

I'll handle it.

Hi, President!

Welcome home, Tora. We missed you.

Are you well?

Sure. Thanks.

How's business?

The same old thing. Slow.

Hello.

Looks like we've got a customer.

My name is Yagyu. I'm from the school.

The school is...

Miss Yagyu! I'm so glad you could come.

Mitsuo's teacher? Thanks for taking care of him.

My brother.

Mitsuo's uncle?

"Uncle" makes me feel old.

It so happens you're Mitsuo's father, Hiroshi. Say hello.

I'm his father. Glad to meet you.

Can't you greet her a little better?

Move, step aside.

Aunty, make some tea for her. Come in.

Out of the way, Octopus.

Hello, Mitsuo.

Aunty, bring some sweets for her.

Trouble the minute he gets back.

Got a new one?

Frankly, I disagree with the present educational system.

So do I.

I feel sorry for today's children.

I feel the same way.

They're all different.

We should respect each child as an individual.

We sure should.

Some keep to themselves. They won't even play.

You don't say. That's too bad.

Does he have friends?

Plenty.

What kind?

All kinds.

Shinbei of lga. He loves to gamble.

But I haven't seen him since he got married.

George of Komatsu. But he's gay.

You should see his beard. It's like a brush.

He's a riot.

She meant Mitsuo's friends, not yours.

Oh, Mitsuo's friends?

Like the kid with the big head?

Tea is ready.

We're talking now. Don't bother us.

She's practically uneducated. She always butts in.

Please.

Hiroshi, why don't you say something?

Talk with her.

She came all the way to see us.

Mitsuo's particular about his food. Does he eat the school lunch?

Never mind his food.

We're talking about his future.

He can be a doctor, maybe, or a lawyer.

His father's only a factory worker.

I want Mitsuo to go to the best college.

As his uncle, I want him to.

Is that asking too much?

Later!

I have something to discuss with you.

Later!

You'd better leave now.

We're talking. It's important.

What about Uncle?

Don't you care about your son?

I can't let you handle Mitsuo's education.

Mitsuo's my only nephew. I worry about him.

Being an uncle isn't easy.

Still there?

He's planted like a tree, that idiot!

Sakura and Hiroshi can't speak with the teacher.

I'll make him regret this.

She's leaving.

Sorry to have bothered you.

Not at all. Come again any time.

You live here, too?

Yes, for a long time. Right, Hiroshi?

Come and say goodbye to her.

Thank you for coming.

Do look after our son.

Goodbye, Mitsuo.

Excuse me.

I'll walk with you.

Might be some bums around.

The next PTA meeting... Not this way.

When will the next PTA meeting be held?

It was too much. I can't stand him.

I'll settle with him... but good!

Hey, are you as stupid as ever?

Only trash. This is no place for children to grow up.

I disagree.

A temple, a riverbank to play along. The children here are lucky.

Where do you live? In a good neighborhood?

Azabu maybe?

I live near here.

See those wires over there? I live below them.

So near?

I'll walk you to the door.

We're through for the day.

Where's Tora?

He's outside.

He can't get in.

He's regretting what he did.

Mitsuo, supper's ready.

Let's eat.

He must be hungry.

Just ignore him.

A circular?

How's your man?

As usual.

Take good care of him.

A rummage sale?

Anything for the rummage sale?

You're eating?

Better eat this, too. I should've told you sooner.

It's hot but good.

Go on, eat!

What's that? Spuds? My favorite food.

And you cooked them for me?

Soy sauce...

Why the cold silence? Any beefs about me?

I hate to say this, since you've just come back.

But think of what you did.

Did I do something wrong?

You certainly did. Think about it.

We wanted to speak with Miss Yagyu about Mitsuo.

You monopolized her with silly talk.

We couldn't say a word to her.

What's worse, you took her home.

I bet you never stopped talking.

The thought alone makes me ashamed.

You people don't know how to talk.

So I talked with her about Mitsuo.

Is his education silly talk?

I did you a favor. Yet you accuse me?

You call that a favor?

What? You got some complaints against me?

You could've done us a favor by leaving them alone.

If she'd been a man, you wouldn't have cared.

The way you people talk! You're disgusting!

You're disgusting.

Why am I disgusting?

You don't give a damn about Mitsuo.

You just wanted to impress the teacher.

What?

Education? Ha!

You're only a lousy brother-in-law!

What are you doing?

Act like an uncle should!

We're right, and you know it. So you're mad.

That's enough. He got the point.

Do you understand?

Let me have my say.

I'm only a printer. I never went to college.

So I'm pinning all my hopes on Mitsuo.

You haven't got any kids. How could you ever understand?

Hiroshi, you're right.

Tora, apologize to him.

Yes! Apologize.

Please.

He's leaving.

Brother.

You're being silly. I know you're hungry.

Sakura, if you happen to see that teacher again...

And if she asks about me...

Tell her I had a fight and left on a trip.

Somewhere, far away...

With an empty stomach, wishing Mitsuo happiness.

So long.

Mistuo. It's your turn.

Swing your arms!

Was Hiroshi really that mad?

Can't be helped. Tora caused it all.

But she is pretty. Can't stop Tora from falling for her.

Welcome.

Let's forget about it.

Wherever he is, he must feel sorry for what he did.

Old ladies, misses, may I have your attention?

How about some bathing articles?

Buy something. Not just one, please.

A shampoo set. I'll give you a special discount.

Everything begins with "Ichi" or one. Japan began with Yamato.

Followed by "Ni" or 2.

Nikichi along the Tokaido Highway.

Buy these so you won't be hated by anyone.

Next, "San" or 3. 3-3-6 is a lucky number.

Osen of Mishima died from hard labor.

Tokyo National Hospital

Thank you.

Take this quick.

I'm finally back!

Nanny!

Nanny... I'm back.

Miss Aya!

I'm well. I'm all right now.

God smiles upon you.

Please don't cry.

The doctor assured me I'm well.

I won't have to go back to the hospital.

I'll stay this time. I'll live here from now on.

I'm so happy for you.

Thank you. Just one more bag and that'll be all.

Stop crying and help us.

Bessho Spa

Tsuruhachiro Bando 's Troupe

May we have your attention, please?

Our sincerest thanks for your continued patronage and support.

Today will be the final performance for our show.

We'll present the popular drama, "Little Cuckoo."

Be sure to see it.

Enjoy the show.

The heroine will be played by Sayuri Ozora.

The play is by the great author Roka Tokutomi.

Sir!

Mr. Kuruma!

We met in Koshu.

Yes. I'm Sayuri Ozora.

Thank you for everything that time.

It's good to see you. How's your father?

He's well. He's the leader of our troupe.

That's nice. Give him my regards.

I'll come and see your play.

Thank you very much.

We'll be waiting.

Your friend?

Yes. Mr. Kuruma.

We met him in Koshu, didn't we?

Today is the last chance.

And now our show, "Little Cuckoo."

A love tragedy about Takeo and Namiko.

Everyone will be moved to tears.

You'll be getting well again before long.

Just stay in bed and have yourself a nice rest.

Let's go.

Doctor!

Do you think Takeo will really come back to me?

Of course. I contacted him myself.

He'll be here today, or by tomorrow at the latest.

I wish he were here now.

Doctor!

How is she?

She's asleep.

It's you!

Takeo!

I'm back, as you can see.

I'm so glad.

Why is it that man must die?

I wish I could live a thousand years... more... forever.

What are you saying, Namiko?

You'll get better... without fail.

I promise I'll help you recover. I'll see to it.

Before our next act, I have an announcement.

Today we're honored to have with us an old friend.

A man who came from Tokyo just to see us.

Mr. Torajiro Kuruma!

Glad you could make it. Come closer.

You were very kind to come and see our show.

We're grateful.

Thank you for the gift, too.

It was nothing at all.

Come closer. Sit here.

I always tell the troupe to work hard.

People know when a performance isn't good.

We'd be laughed at.

We must always do our best.

That's what I tell them.

Today, knowing a man of your stature was in the audience.

It encouraged us greatly. Thank you.

Let's not be so formal. Let's just drink.

Sit next to him.

Drink up, everybody!

Your daughter's a real beauty.

Thank you.

Her mother died young.

I had to raise her myself. I couldn't do much.

Your mother died?

I'm sorry to hear it.

She must've been beautiful.

Yes. But they say I look like my father.

Stop talking nonsense.

You're good-looking, too.

On the stage, you look great.

You're joking.

Thanks. Keep bringing sake for them.

Good sake? Sure?

Don't bring them slop. Actors are gourmets.

Mister!

Mr. Kuruma!

Thank you for everything. Goodbye.

Thanks a lot for last night. We enjoyed it.

Take care of yourself. Goodbye.

Good luck! We'll meet again somewhere.

You worked hard last night. Thanks.

Don't mention it. Here's your bill.

This includes the party?

I understand.

Will you tell the owner to come? I want to speak to him.

Sorry.

Hello? Toraya speaking.

Bessho Police Station?

Torajiro Kuruma? He's my nephew.

Will you wait just a moment?

It's terrible!

Tora's been arrested for cheating.

Where?

Bessho...

Where's that?

I don't know.

Are you still there?

I'm Torajiro's sister. What did he do?

Excuse me...

Where's the police station?

Thank you very much.

Excuse me.

I'm Suwa from Tokyo.

I've come for Torajiro Kuruma.

You're his sister? Thanks for coming.

Where is he?

At the bath.

At the public bath. He'll be back soon.

Please sit down.

I'm sorry he caused so much trouble.

If he pays, we won't charge him.

The inn people agreed, too.

We just kept him here so he wouldn't run off.

Call the inn.

Well, here it is.

It's the bill.

And, he didn't like our food here. So, we had his meals brought in.

Sushi, eels and noodles.

Will you pay for that? It's a regulation.

Of course.

Coffee? 8 cups?

He treated all of us.

At first we refused. But he insisted.

I'm sorry for that.

It was a real nice bath.

It would've been even better with cold beer.

But not in the police station hotel.

Hi! You came sooner than I thought.

Thanks for lending me the soap. This, too.

Got any lotion or something?

I'll go get it.

Nice place, huh? I don't mind staying longer.

What're you saying? We were worried.

Thanks for everything.

Next time bring your family.

Thank you.

So long, Tora. We'll miss you.

Drop in at my place when you come to Tokyo.

Take care...

Thank the captain for me.

It's great to be on the outside!

Are you mad or something?

Sakura...

Mitsuo's mother...

Madame Hiroshi Suwa.

It's Culture Day. I'm going to a museum with my daughter.

Good for you. My deadbeat nephew is coming back.

Tora's coming home?

Yes. We're discussing how to deal with him.

That's easy. Just don't let him in.

That's too much.

After all, we're running a shop.

Bilking is terrible. Even worse than theft.

It was settled out of court.

So what?

Keep calm.

Stay out of this. You look like a clown.

I know how you feel. But Tora must've had a reason.

The other day I was too hard on him, I guess.

It's like I kicked him out.

We can't do it to him again.

He's right. Sakura went to get him. Consider her feelings.

All right! Have it your way!

Where to?

Out. I don't want to see him.

I'm home.

Welcome back.

Mitsuo...?

At the temple.

Where's Tora?

He's coming.

Uncle.

Hi, President.

Welcome back.

All dressed up. Why?

It's Culture Day.

Keep quiet!

Tora, you.…'

Wait.

Tora, you owe them an apology for making them worry about you.

I know. I'm sorry. I meant to apologize.

You even paid for me. I'll pay back the money.

It's not the money. Just don't do it again.

I know.

You should be sorry for the last time, too.

The last time?

About the teacher.

Oh, you mean the teacher. I'm sorry. I guess I was younger then.

Younger? It was only last month.

You're hopeless!

Tora, you're not young anymore.

We don't care about your falling in love.

But that teacher is young enough to be your daughter.

If you were married, you'd have a child her age.

That's right.

I see.

Suppose she has a beautiful mother and you'd fallen for her.

Nobody would have any complaints about that.

You're that old.

I see.

The teacher's mother.

Am I really that old?

Time to take stock of things?

Hello.

Teacher!

Some sweets...

Mitsuo's uncle! You're back?

Yes, I am.

How nice! Hello, everybody.

Hello.

Nice to see you again.

Excuse me.

Where to?

Brother, remember what Sakura said.

Sure. She just told me off.

Her mother'd be right for my age.

This way, Mother.

My mother's with me.

How I've missed this place!

Mitsuo's mother. I told you about her.

How do you do? She's very kind.

I heard she visited you here not long ago.

I felt like coming here myself. So I came along.

Do any of you remember me?

You're the late Mr. Yagyu's daughter, aren't you?

Are you the proprietress?

I heard you were ill.

Yes. Three years in a hospital.

So long?

Then, Miss Yagyu happens to be your daughter?

Of course. She's my mother.

We never knew.

How are you now?

I've recovered. I feel wonderful now.

This shop hasn't changed at all.

I used to buy sweets here when I was a student.

In fact, I'll buy some sweets now.

There was a pretty little girl here then.

It must have been her.

Her? Yes, I thought she could have been the one.

You've grown to be a fine young woman.

You had a brother, as I recall.

He had small eyes. He looked funny.

Whenever I passed, he'd follow me.

Yelling, "Goldfish" at me.

He played with my violin case and teased me.

How is he these days?

He must be a fine gentleman now. Where is he?

He's right here.

You?

Of course. You have the same face. How good to see you!

It's been thirty years, hasn't it? Time flies...

Where is it?

Crying again?

She's like a child.

She cries about the river and temple.

I can't help it, I get so emotional.

Three long years in a hospital!

She was bedridden before that.

So, I can't really blame her.

Are you satisfied, Mother? Shall we leave?

So soon?

It's getting cold.

At least have some tea.

Thanks, but the doctor is still strict with her.

Excuse us for dropping by.

Come again whenever you like.

Thank you. You're not a little boy anymore. What's your name?

Torajiro?

Come to visit me once in a while.

I feel lonely when my daughter is at school.

Have a nice day.

Goodbye.

I'll go part way.

Why, thank you.

Sakura, remember what you said to Tora?

The museum! It's still Culture Day!

What've I done now?

High Priest!

Aya?

Thank you for the nice gift.

Not at all. How do you feel?

I'm fine, thank you.

You must be busy with your mother and your school.

I'm afraid I can't get married.

Nonsense! The men will cluster about you.

Please introduce her to a nice man.

Take care of yourself.

Tora! Sorry to keep you waiting.

Shall we go?

Who's that?

My friend, sort of.

A marriage of convenience.

She was forced to marry a postwar millionaire to save her family.

There must've been many postwar millionaires.

There sure were.

All the illegal things they did with the U. S. Forces!

Was he the teacher's father?

That's right. Soon after she was born, her mother got sick.

And then she got a divorce.

I feel sorry for the woman.

Beauty and happiness rarely go together.

Sakura, why are you so depressed?

Don't worry about today.

He's right. Tora's our misfortune.

I know.

But...

For you.

Why, thank you.

It's rare.

The museum...?

Crowded. I couldn't see a thing.

Where's Tora? Isn't he back yet?

It's already eight. Where can he be?

Sulking, I suppose. Off drinking somewhere.

Sit down.

I know how he feels. I used to have a crush on her myself.

You mean, with her mother?

I never heard that.

Don't laugh. She wore a school uniform.

She used to carry a violin.

I used to watch her. I was fascinated by her.

I was only a laborer.

I often promised myself I'd work hard.

And get rich so I could marry a girl like her.

Maybe you can. You own a big company now.

Welcome back.

We ate.

Never mind. So did I.

Did you drink, too?

Yeah. I had a little French wine.

Where?

At Yagyu's place.

You mean, at her house?

Right.

Real nervy!

You should've said your family was waiting and come straight home.

I did say that.

What did she say?

She said to send for my wife.

Whereupon you said you weren't married.

What was I supposed to do? Lie?

I hope you didn't eat like a slob.

You always slurp your soup.

And use chopsticks to play with potatoes.

You sure are short on imagination!

Do you think they eat only potatoes?

Just because you eat them all the time?

So, what did you eat?

Imagine a dining room, like you see in foreign movies.

A vase of beautiful flowers by the window.

A painting on the wall... Jesus eating with his disciples.

"The Last Luncheon." Jesus says it's his last.

The two ladies folded their hands and prayed.

"The Last Supper."

Then, "Amen."

Her mother opened her eyes and said, "Let's eat now, Tora."

Then we began our dinner.

Are they Christians?

What did you have, a big steak?

Steak? Socialites don't eat greasy things like that.

We had baked fish and some real good soup.

A couple of side dishes and pickles.

Simple, respectable food.

Her plates were real good, too.

Not like the cheap junk you buy from street peddlers.

They're genuine antiques.

Only a little rice in the bowl.

She held the bowl in her delicate fingers. Ivory chopsticks.

"Well, let's eat."

Each time her chopsticks touched the bowl,

they made elegant sounds. She chewed her pickles properly.

She sounded like a little cricket.

Then she finished.

We had fruit for dessert. Tea and soft music.

Then it was time for me to leave.

I stood up and said goodbye.

"Must you leave so soon, Tora?"

"Yes. I'm afraid my family will be worried about me."

"Oh, I'm sorry. And thank you. We truly enjoyed supper.

"Right, Masako?"

"Yes, indeed, Mother."

"Then, good night."

"Tora, be sure to come again soon.

"My daughter will probably be out. And I'll be lonely."

"I understand."

They saw me to the gate.

The sky was full of stars.

Sakura, is it all right to see her again tomorrow?

I suppose so... as long as you don't bother her.

I'll get a good night's sleep so I'll be ready for tomorrow.

Good night, everybody.

You shouldn't have said yes.

I couldn't help it. What else could I say?

Let's not argue among ourselves.

We should stick together to get through this crisis.

Good night.

Shall we go? Mitsuo, we're leaving.

Gen!

Have you seen Gen?

He isn't here?

I want him to go on an errand.

I can do it.

Oh, no.

Where can he be?

Is Sakura's husband working at a printing plant?

Yeah, but he isn't making any money.

He can barely support his family.

He looks sincere. He seems nice.

That's all he's got to offer.

I wanted Sakura to marry a college graduate.

She married the man she loved. She's lucky.

I suppose so. At least he isn't a downright fool.

Which college did you graduate from?

You gotta be kidding.

Work harder! Quit loafing!

Well, my teachers all wanted me to go to college.

But my parents died young on me.

I had to work to take care of my sister, so...

You had a hard time, didn't you?

I sacrificed everything for my sister, so to speak.

But she's forgotten all about that.

I don't think she has.

She's grateful to you, I know.

Think so?

How many...?

I hate to admit it.

I'm over forty.

You mean the sugar?

I thought you meant my age.

You're funny.

Somebody from the High Priest.

What about?

You here?

What do you want?

Why, welcome.

I'm sorry if my brother's bothering you.

Not at all. I'm glad he could come.

Please.

From the High Priest. It's for you.

Thank you.

Apples, maybe.

Nanny!

We were talking about you.

What did you say to her?

Nothing.

Finished?

Next, the gutter.

Why not take a break?

Never mind.

He's been working so hard.

Never mind. I'll leave him here.

Just give him leftover rice and soup twice a day.

That'll be enough.

Or, if you feel like it, give him a little dried fish.

He's only joking.

That's enough.

Was he only joking?

He certainly fooled me.

I took him seriously.

Gen!

We've got to do something about this.

They're all gossiping about Tora.

"He loves the daughter."

"No, he loves the mother."

Some of them are even betting when he'll be jilted.

I'm like Tora's relative.

I don't know what to do.

Sure is a mess.

What is?

Tora.

Everybody knows about it.

How embarrassing!

It's mostly because there isn't anything else to gossip about.

Tora, have you seen Gen?

There he is!

He went to the right.

Hi. Nice day, isn't it?

Miss Aya, your lover is here.

Don't say that. You'll embarrass her.

Then, what should I call you? Her husband?

You sure beat me. Why not go buy sweet potatoes?

Thank you again.

Good morning Tora?

It's such a fine day. We're lucky.

I made this to wish for good weather.

Shall we go?

Take good care of her, Tora.

Don't walk too much.

Shibamata Grade School

Hello.

I've been to the PTA meeting.

Really? Please come in. I'll finish soon.

I've come to apologize.

About what?

About my brother. I'm afraid he's bothering your mother.

Not at all. In fact, I should thank him.

He's so very nice to her. I'm glad.

He's really not annoying you?

No.

Tora's always like that. Can I help?

Thank you.

Put these here?

He's gone on a picnic with her. She's so excited.

Will she be all right?

He has so little sense.

Oh, no! Mitsuo drew this?

Uncle

He lied.

He gave up college for me? What a lie!

Not true?

It's not.

He left home when I was young and stayed away twenty years.

I had the hard time.

I thought it strange.

He makes up stories.

It must be fun to have him around.

Absolutely not.

All he does is cause trouble. He's a problem.

To us, he seems like the kindest brother in the world.

I don't have a brother.

All I have are an uncle and an aunt. And they're not kind.

I guess it's hard on you.

We sometimes talk about you.

It's not easy to maintain that house.

Actually, I don't do a thing. It's been sold.

The house is...

We asked the new owner to let us stay as long as Mother lives.

As long as she lives?

Her life is limited.

The doctor told me to let her do as she pleases.

You can't believe it, can you?

No. I really can't.

I can't, either.

I had a fight with the doctor.

Maybe a miracle will happen. Do you believe in miracles?

I didn't know...

I'm sorry.

I shouldn't have mentioned it.

Goodbye!

Good evening.

Come in and have some tea.

Thanks, but Mother'll be waiting.

Masako! I'm in here.

Oh, my.…'

He took me to a park. I enjoyed it immensely.

I'm glad to hear that. Thank you, Tora.

Not at all. Come on in.

Thank you. But Mother and I must leave.

I have to stay.

You're always treating Tora to meals.

So we'd like you to stay for dinner, such as it is.

We were going to call you.

You came at the right time.

Please come in.

Hurry up.

Anything else to buy?

No? One, two, three... nine, including Mitsuo.

You're impossible.

They so kindly insisted. Isn't that right?

Please stay, for Tora's sake.

Tora with a face like a billboard.

You're all so funny!

President, we're starting to eat.

Just a minute. I'm phoning.

Forget about the Octopus.

Let's start eating.

It all looks so good!

Just simple food.

Better than hospital chow.

What a thing to say!

Aunty worked hard preparing it.

The potatoes look so delicious!

I'm afraid the room isn't very deluxe.

This isn't much, but help yourself.

Uncle!

More trouble with the tax bureau...

Octopus!

What's wrong?

Merciful Buddha...

Not the Sutra! Right now, we're Christian.

Why? Did someone die?

It tastes so good!

Have some more.

That's enough.

When I was a child, I used to love to eat these.

But Grandma forbade it.

So I asked our maid to buy them. I ate them secretly in her room.

How delicious they were!

I hid in an upstairs room, too.

To eat what?

Not to eat, to smoke. I was smoking.

Stupid!

It's fun to do things secretly.

I read love stories for adults.

I shaved a cat. It looked like a weasel.

I was so happy when I was a child.

Come to think of it, nothing nice has happened since then.

I agree.

Nothing good has happened to me, either, since then.

You, either?

Me, either.

What's so funny?

How much was an order of sweets then?

About 30 sen, I guess.

30 sen.

How much is an order now?

Let me see. Prices are going up. It must be about -60 yen?

Now you see how naive she is.

When I took out a 10,000 yen note,

she was surprised I made that much in a month.

The other day, too.

I was broke. I couldn't pay for the laundry.

She told me to borrow money from a bank.

What's funny? That's what banks are for.

She sure is naive.

She doesn't know anything about the world. Like a child.

And there's more...

Stop it.

Why?

You're always making fun of me.

I'm ashamed I don't know about worldly matters.

You've been sick. It's not your fault.

Right, Uncle?

Right. It's not fun having to worry about money all the time.

You're lucky.

That's right.

Think so?

Am I really lucky?

Sakura, I can't help envying you and your wonderful family.

You all earn your own living.

I've never earned money in my life.

You can always start.

You can do anything you like.

You can work. You can earn money.

I can?

Can I do that?

Why not? You can try.

Do you think so?

But what could I do?

"What could I do?"

What could she do?

Well, let's see...

I'm not strong. I can't do physical labor.

Riding crowded trains is bad for her health.

She could get bruised.

Stuffy places are no good.

Nowhere that's damp. Light work in a warm, sunny place.

Can't you think of something?

How about opening a small shop near here.

A shop!

That's a good idea!

Not bad.

A shop would be nice.

What would you sell there?

Yes. What could I sell?

Not sweets. You can't make any money.

Fish and vegetable shops smell. She wouldn't want one.

Well, what else?

How about a toy shop?

A toy shop? That sounds nice.

What about stationery?

That sounds nice, too.

No.

Why?

Little brats with snotty noses. Their hands are sticky.

"Sell me something."

Could you stand it?

Any more ideas?

Like what?

How about something on a quiet back street?

A cozy little shop.

A kettle of boiling water. Reading a book by the stove.

Customers come in only once in a while.

But they're all noble, wealthy ladies.

The goods sell automatically while you're all chatting nicely.

The shop closes at twilight.

It's closed on Saturdays and Sundays, of course.

But it makes enough money.

Could that be possible?

What would she sell there?

That's for you to decide.

I've got an idea. It's just right.

Jewels. How about it?

That's it!

Nobody around here can afford jewels.

How about a printing shop? Huh?

You're early.

Eating now?

They're having a festival. I can make some money.

More rice.

Miss Yagyu phoned just now from school. Her mother is ill.

She has to be hospitalized.

But she refuses to go.

She said her mother won't listen to anybody but you.

She needs your help.

I better go now.

Yes, go.

I visited her place so much these days.

The neighbors may be gossiping about us.

So what?

Let them gossip. Now, go!

Right. I'll go.

Was it all right to say that?

Don't involve me.

It's all right.

How's the lady of the house?

I'll go through the garden.

You aren't in bed?

How do you feel?

Your daughter wants me to persuade you to go to a hospital.

Don't worry, I'm all right. She likes to exaggerate.

Is that so?

I don't look pale, do I?

Not to me.

And. I ran most of the way. My heart's pounding.

Your medicine.

Thank you.

There are lots of leaves around, Tora.

Have that boy come again.

I'll have him come today.

He's a nice boy.

It'll be winter soon.

Wilted flowers. Falling leaves.

The days get shorter.

I hear the temple bell in the evening.

It makes me feel so lonely.

I don't like winter. I hope it passes quickly.

It'll pass... sooner than you think.

In March, things will turn green again.

Flowers will bloom. It'll get warmer.

The cherry trees will bloom. Spring.

The larks will sing by the river.

Iris will bloom along its banks.

You'll get better by then.

You'll be able to work like your daughter and Sakura.

I wonder why a human being must die.

Human beings?

Well, let me see... I don't quite know how to put it.

In short... ah... well...

If man lives forever...

The world would be overflowing with people.

The planet isn't very big. It'd be packed.

A guy couldn't find a place to stand.

People'd be pushing each other into the sea.

They'd be crying for help.

They'd end up drowning like that.

You don't want to think too much.

You're so funny!

Really?

Am I funny?

Tora came back and said she was all right.

I was relieved. But she's not well?

I'm sorry I couldn't help you.

Take care of her.

Goodbye.

Is her mother sick?

Yes.

She has a fever.

Colds these days are stubborn.

Stop it.

This goes here.

It's for your teacher.

These old-style measures are illegal.

You can't buy them in department stores, even if you want them.

Take a good look at them.

In the old days, carpenters used them.

They built houses with them.

Hello, officer.

The clothes you're wearing.

Dressmakers used these measures.

Craftsmen in Japan can't do without them.

Japan started with the Yamato Province.

Islands started with Awaji, thieves with Goemon.

The first gambler was Chohan...

Take a close look at them...

It's Tora.

Excuse me.

Hello. How's your mother?

Not too well. I took the day off to care for her.

Is that so?

You came to visit her?

Yes. This is for her. It's not much.

Thank you.

She had a shot. She's asleep.

Well, tell her I came. Give her my regards.

Thanks for coming, but...

Is there anything I can do for her?

Let's see...

Anything. Anything at all.

Last evening, I asked her if she wanted to eat something.

She said the potatoes at your house were good.

Potatoes?

Potatoes!

Boil some spuds!

Why the big fuss?

We have customers.

Forget them. We're busy.

Sorry, we're closing for the day.

What's up?

I'm sorry.

The teacher's mother got worse all of a sudden.

She likes the potatoes we had. She wants some.

So I bought these to boil.

Come on. Make it snappy!

I'll do it.

Hurry up!

Cooking potatoes takes time.

Then get started. Hurry up!

We will. Calm down.

Why so many?

She'll be all right, yes? This can't be the end for her?

She'll be okay, yes?

I saw her yesterday. She looked great.

She just doesn't feel well.

These spuds'll make her perk up.

Sure. Don't worry.

Isn't that right?

Are they done?

I have to wash them and peel them, and boil them.

That'll take time!

Will you please calm down?

Buddy.

At the Yagyu house...

What? Tell me.

Lots of cars. People coming and going...

We'd better get over there.

I'll go with him. Take care of Mitsuo.

Third house from the end. Understand?

Thank you for coming.

You did come?

Tora, my mother passed away a little while ago.

Excuse me.

Why must she die while I live? I wish it had been me.

Instead of her.

Is everything all right?

Finally. It took time to settle the debts.

I lost the house, but I'm relieved.

Such a big house. You must've had a difficult time.

How's the baby?

Fine.

Welcome back.

Good morning, children.

See how thin I got? Don't I look nice?

Why, Tora!

I'm glad you came. Come in.

This is good enough.

This is fine.

I've been meaning to come and see you.

Where's the old woman?

She moved in with her son.

She has a grown-up grandson.

Is that so?

Now that I'm alone, I feel lonely. I'm getting ready to move out.

I hear you're moving far away.

Yes. A town in Niigata, up north.

I wish I could stay in Tokyo, but I've no choice.

It snows in Niigata. I like snow.

Is that so?

Sakura told me...

You've known for some time your mother wouldn't live long.

I raised hell with her.

I wish I'd known it sooner. I acted like a complete fool.

It must have really hurt you.

I feel so rotten, so ashamed of myself.

Don't feel that way.

You always tried to please us. You made us feel happy.

Really. I mean it.

I sure hope so.

But if I'd known, I think I could've done something more.

Listen, Tora.

It's hard to ask this, but...

Did you love my mother?

Don't be silly! How could I possibly?

You didn't?

No.

But I'm sure she believed you loved her.

The last thing she said was...

She wished she could see you again.

When she was about to die, I leaned close and whispered.

"Get well quickly. We'll go and see Tora."

She smiled a little and nodded. That was all.

Nobody really loved her. Her life had been empty.

But at the very end...

You came along. You were with her, even for only a month.

She was lucky to have you. I know how happy she was.

Sakura... a man's life sure is short.

We were all eating at our place.

It seems like only yesterday.

It sure does.

Miss Yagyu's mother looked so happy.

We even discussed what kind of shop she should open.

You know, I've been thinking about that.

And I got a good idea.

What?

A flower shop.

A florist?

Good idea? Flowers around her, a perfect match!

It's a beautiful idea.

Little things like buying, deliveries, cleaning up...

I'd have done all that.

All she'd need to do is sit there.

And make pretty bouquets and sell them to the customers.

The shop would do well.

If all that had come true,

I'd have quit street peddling.

I'd even be around for New Year's for a change. Like you want.

Were you really thinking that way?

I didn't know.

If only the poor woman had known you cared so much.

I'll tell her at her grave.

I'll be going now.

Take care of yourself.

You take care, too.

Don't worry. I'm healthy. I won't die.

Grannie, it's Toraya!

Do you have your purse?

Grannie!

I'm bushed.

Happy New Year!

The grannie at the Yagyus!

Hello, how are you?

Well, look who's here!

I'm so glad you could come.

My grandson brought me to visit the temple.

Grandson? What a fine young man!

Glad to meet you. I hear you were kind to my grandmother.

Thank you.

Where from?

Tsuchiura. We drove. The traffic was terrible.

The president next door.

A big wheel.

This is her husband.

"Dear Toraya people, Happy New Year!

"I'm truly grateful to you.

"You are all so very thoughtful.

"Memories of you warm my heart.

"I've just arrived here. I've no idea where things are.

"But rest assured I'm doing my best.

"By the way, how is Tora?

"Is he on a trip even during the New Year's season?

"How happy I'd be if I could see him here in Niigata."

Tora!

Is it Tora? Am I dreaming?

This sure is some place!

They said it was near, so I walked. But their near is real far.

I'm bushed.

Carry his bag for him.

Are you all right?

Aren't you cold?

All the walking made me sweat.

Watch it. It's heavy.

Help him.

The End