Original subtitles

A DAIEI PRESENTATION

BAND OF PURE-HEARTED HOODLUMS

Planning: Hiroaki Fujii

Original Novel: Shinji Fujiwara Script: Yasuzo Masumura, Mitsuo Otaki

Cinematography: Setsuo Kobayashi Sound: Kimio Tobita

Lighting: Koichi Yamazaki Art Direction: Tomoo Shimogawara

Music: Sei Ikeno Editing: Tamio Fukuda

CAST

Kojiro Hongo, Mako Sanjo Jun Fujimaki

Ganjiro Nakamura, Jotaro Senba Shiro Otsuji, Zeko Nakamura

Kazuko Miyagawa, Keiko Yumi Chocho Miyako

Jutaro Hojo, Hachiro Misumi Osamu Okawa, Koichi Ito

Fujio Harumoto, Kenji Oyama Yuzo Hayakawa

Manabu Morita, Toshiyuki Obara Kenichi Tani, Sho Natsuki

Jun Osanai, Koji Fujiyama Shizuo Chujo, Noriko Hodaka

Yuko Miki, Tsuneko Sudo Hiroko Machida, Tadashi Date

Kisao Tobita Nobuo Minakata

Chikara Hashimoto, Kanji Kawahara Toru Konugi, Yuji Yamanaka

Masatoki Sasaki, Kazutoyo Shinozaki Mako Sanjo, Wakayo Matsumura

Takako Ikegami Mitsuko Takesato

Directed by: Yasuzo Masumura

The hell are you doing here? This is Akatsuki Group's office!

This is no place for Gonda Group's hoodlums to be!

Hey, that might've been true yesterday.

From now on, this is our hideout.

If you don't believe me, complain to the top brass.

I want to buy these barracks for 10.000.000 yen.

Do you want more?

Mr. Gonda. I'm not selling them to you, no matter how much you offer.

I consider you my sworn enemy.

Really? How so?

Who sold out our boss to the cops, again? Wasn't that you who set up that drug deal?

You're pushy as usual, I see.

I saw through your scheming a long time ago.

You're trying to destroy the Akatsuki Group, and take over the island.

I have already destroyed the Akatsuki Group.

Your boss and the execs are both behind bars.

And they'll stay there for the next 5-6 years. Only the minor thugs of yours now remain.

You are in no position to oppose me.

I suggest you to watch your back.

Plenty of people would gladly do you in.

Hey! You aren't the Akatsuki Group's executive any longer!

You're just an ordinary bar owner.

From now on, money is the only thing you can rely on.

Fine, be that way. We'll talk when you change your mind.

Thanks for having us.

I can't stand that scumbag!

I wanna kill him!

Toyo!

Seriously? Did you seriously mean that?

Kill him, and a million yen is yours.

Please!

Don't you want to avenge the boss?!

If you don't want to, could you at least shank him good?

For about 100.000 yen?

Aren't you gutsy enough to do this much?

Toyo!

Mrs. Ranko, please stop pressuring me.

Sheesh, you're pathetic!

Each and every one of you is completely spineless!

Excuse me...

- Where's Brother Matsu? - No idea!

Toyo, if you run into Matsu, tell him this.

The Akatsuki Group will be disbanded soon.

He must decide what to do with his life afterwards.

Dear, I'm tired of waiting. When are you going to marry me?

Gotta rake in some dough first.

I don't care about the money...

Moving to Osaka would ease our finances.

Ow!

I can't face your parents like this, with nothing to my name.

You're too old-fashioned.

Who is it?

It's me.

Toyo? Come in.

About time to open the store. I'll be going.

I'll take you with me later on. Just wait until I make it big.

That's what you always say.

Pachinko parlors have been hit by recession, too.

What did you want?

Brother, I had nothing to eat since last night.

I'm just as broke as you are. Deal with it.

Say, do you love me?

I do, from the bottom of my heart.

- Will you marry me? - Of course!

If you're lying, there will be hell to pay.

I will kill you!

Your old man's the problem.

So what if that senile geezer doesn't want me to get married?

- I wish he just dropped dead. - Can't we elope?

Of course not. We have nothing to live on.

I'm fed up to the brim with poverty.

We could become traveling performers. I'm pretty good with accordion.

What a dumb idea...

Hold up, Matsu.

- Whatcha want? - Pay your rent.

Put it on my tab.

On your tab? I can't. Matsu, you haven't paid anything this year.

Aren't we best buddies? Don't be so hard on me.

Personally, I don't mind. But the old man is getting angry.

We're housing a washed-up yakuza who doesn't even pay rent...

What?! Say that again!

I'm telling you, just throw a wad of cash into his face, okay?

All right. I'll pay tomorrow.

Please do so.

Will you be okay, Brother?

Gotta do what you gotta do. There's no helping it.

Well, Bizenya?

When will you do it?

Tonight. We'll toss a stone through the glass, then loot the store.

Then, fence everything at once.

How do we divide the profits?

How much do we get, assuming a fifty-fifty split?

About three...

300.000, huh?

Idiot. Just 30.000.

Hey! There's about 500.000 to 600.000 worth of stuff in there!

We deserve more!

Trying to get something for nothing?

I'm offering you 30.000 out of thin air. I could be much less generous.

If you don't like it, I'm canceling the deal.

What will it be?

We've got no choice. Let's go forward with it.

We need this money to survive.

I'm in.

Now that it's settled, let's grab something to eat.

Can't fight on an empty stomach.

Thanks.

No means no!

Get outta here!

I'm begging you, come with me!

Young Master, don't you want to see how your father looks in death?

He disinherited me!

We are no longer father and son!

Hey, Ginnosuke's in a foul mood today.

His father collapsed and died on the spot yesterday.

Isn't he the son of that traveling actor, Tsumasaburo Nakamura?

Young Master, please don't be like that. Come back with me.

Or someone else could take control of your father's troupe.

I don't give a damn!

Listen,

Tsumasaburo Nakamura led a famous troupe that used to tour all around the country.

Our outfits and stage props are worth about 500.000 yen.

You're really okay with someone else taking over?

500.000 yen...

- Come on, Young Master! - Shut up!

- Young Master! - Get lost!

Get outta my sight!

Now, now.

I am his sworn brother. Name's Matsu.

- Listen up, Ginnosuke. That's a bad idea. - Pipe down!

Listen to this guy. Offer some incense to your father.

Have decency to show filial piety now that he's dead!

I'm coming with you to offer condolences on the Akatsuki Group's behalf.

What about the pawnshop, Brother?

Forget about it. 30.000 or even 500.000 yen won't make a difference.

Then, I'll offer my condolences, too.

Get your act together!

You weigh a ton, damn it...

My, Young Master Ginnosuke!

This way.

Heave-ho!

Young Master is back.

Down we go...

Hey!

Are those the marks who claim the money?

- Just follow the plan. - Count on me.

Are you Ginnosuke's step-mother, Otoku? That calculating bitch who drove him out?

And you must be Inamura,

the sneaky bastard who seduced this bitch behind Tsumasaburo's back.

- What a lousy couple you are! - Who the hell are you?

Matsugoro, of the Akatsuki Group.

I'm Toyo.

Ginnosuke's yakuza friends, huh?

We have integrity, unlike the scumbags like you.

As far as I gather, you intend to take over Tsumasaburo Nakamura's inheritance.

We'll put an end to your schemes on Ginnosuke's behalf.

And what will you do?

Listen up. From now on, Ginnosuke Nakamura's the leader of this troupe.

As for the outfits and the props,

we'll keep them, and all the other junk left behind by the old man, out of your reach.

Keep this in mind.

Enough of your jokes.

Amateurs like Gin aren't fit to lead the troupe.

Not a single actor will work under his leadership.

So, that's how it is. I can see right through you.

You have an eye on our outfits and stage props, huh?

Trying to sell them and blow it on booze?

- Well? Am I right? - What was that?!

Of course Gin has such rotten buddies!

Profiting off your dad's inheritance? You've got some nerve!

Shut up, bitch!

Despite our looks, we have a reputation to uphold.

500.000 yen is just chump change for us.

We'll get Ginnosuke back into shape, and make a proper actor out of him.

Let's hear his opinion on the matter.

Gin, do you have any desire to become an actor?

Yeah.

Wow, that's surprising!

Will you really become the leader of the troupe?

Yeah!

I can't believe it...

Keep your complaints to yourself!

Now that he confirmed it, we will do everything and anything to support him.

Any objections?!

Fine, then I quit.

By then, Inamura of the Nakamura Troupe had made a name for himself!

- I'm not taking orders from an amateur! - Gin!

So far, Inamura's fame alone has been drawing producers and crowds to our troupe.

You can still reconsider.

Don't let these thugs coax you into doing this!

- Bitch, what was that?! - Excuse me?

With Gin in charge,

we'll be stuck with third-rate comedy and off-key shamisen playing.

It's out of my hands now. Let's see what shows you come up with.

Hey, Toku! Let's get going!

I'm too busy to waste any more time here.

Wait, Dear. What about our things?

- We can pick them up tomorrow. - But...

I'm not sticking around these lowlifes any longer!

You scumbag!

You're dead meat!

Never show your ugly mug here again!

What a relief! Thanks for chasing them off.

Don't hold back, Gin! Your friends are welcome, too.

Let's celebrate you becoming the troupe leader.

- Young Master. - Huh?

What a joyous occasion!

Your father, rest his soul, must be the happiest of us all at such a development.

To think his son has succeeded him...

Young Master, being Tsumasaburo Nakamura's successor,

you will attract lots of actors to our troupe. There's nothing to worry about.

I can't thank you enough. Have another one!

All's well that ends well, right?

Here you go. What a happy occasion!

Kayo, would you like some?

I'm so glad!

Brother, when do we begin packing up the goods?

Not another word about that. Things have changed.

You should have a few people available!

I wish I could help, given my long ties to the late Mr. Tsumasaburo.

None of the actors are presently available, though.

Can't you pull some strings for the Successor?

The Successor?

Mr. Fuku.

Our society will not approve of a yakuza member becoming a troupe leader.

You studied acting under the late leader. Repay the favor by helping the Successor out!

Mr. Fuku.

If he wanted money to spend on women and drinking, I would gladly lend some.

But I won't lend him actors. If he wants to mess around, he's in the wrong business.

Listen, Umonnojo. The two of us go back a long time, right?

Could you join the Nakamura Troupe?

Nobody would want to work under Ginnosuke's leadership.

Fuku, the sooner you ditch the troupe as well, the better off you will be.

Thanks for the food.

Miso soup is a great thing all right.

Reminds me of my mother's cooking.

Brother, we've been staying here for three days already.

I could get used to such lifestyle.

Isn't it about time for us to snatch the goods and sell them off?

Don't be so greedy.

There's no rush. We could sell them any time.

I'm back.

Hey. Did you manage to hire anyone?

Nope.

Every last one of them declined in cold blood.

Nobody wants to work for yakuza.

What?

At this rate, Young Master's reputation will be ruined.

In spite of Otoku and Inomura,

I swear to restore the Ginnosuke's Troupe to its former glory.

Hey, Gin. Do you really want to become an actor?

- Yes. - For real?

You heard me.

Didn't you run away from home because you hated acting?

Of course not.

So, why were you so loath to return?

Because of my stepmother Otoku, and Inamura.

I couldn't stomach the sight of their faces.

But now they're gone.

I see.

Do you realize how hard it is to become an actor?

We should just pawn off the goods and be done with all of this.

No way. I refuse to sell them.

But why?

I will become an actor.

Yer obviously not fit for the task, moron!

Shut up.

I was born to a family of actors, so I must become one.

And I'll do just that, no matter what anyone says.

Just think for a minute. Not a single actor wants to work with you.

You can't pull this off all by yourself.

Even so, I won't back down.

This is hopeless.

Do you really mean it?

Yes.

You two can go back.

I will get as far as I can, alone.

I see.

All right. I'm a man, too, so I won't abandon you.

What are you getting at?

I will become an actor, too.

The same applies to you, Toyo.

You kidding me? I never agreed to that!

Toyo, don't you see how our yakuza gig will turn out?

We'll go broke, then turn into minor criminals.

This is an opportunity for us to go straight, so let's do our best for Gin's sake.

Let's make him a real troupe leader and prove those petty actors wrong.

Even if you say that...

Toyo, are you against this?

Do you refuse to do as you're told?

So, you refuse?

Then, I'm not your brother, and you aren't my underling.

I won't look after you any longer. Get out of my sight!

Don't be like that, Brother...

Will you become an actor?

But we're total amateurs. We can't pull this off!

Moron!

Even the best actors in the world were born as amateurs.

Hey, Mr. Fuku. Could you teach us acting?

My specialty is stand-up comedy. I know nothing about acting.

Mr. Fuku, leave it to me.

I know a great teacher.

It's settled, then.

Bring that teacher here.

Meanwhile, I'll round up all of our buddies.

Don't be so sure of yourself...

Hey, come on out!

- What do you want? - Hey, let's get married.

- What? - I want to settle down.

Really now?

Hurry up and pack up your stuff.

I'm so glad!

Well? A perfect chance to elope, isn't it?

At last, my accordion mastery will come in handy.

A traveling troupe is a bit too...

Tae, you would sing, and I'll provide accompaniment.

It will be fun.

Leave your worries behind, and let's have ourselves a honeymoon.

You've starred in a sword fighting drama, right?

Why not shake things up a little?

Well...

Anything's better than selling myself.

Exactly! And you won't have to hide from the police!

Whatever. Bad luck follows me no matter what I do.

I could use a change of pace, though...

What's that, Some?

Brother, I wanna join the troupe, too.

Here's a gift as a token of goodwill.

What have you got there?

A tape recorder. Every troupe needs one these days.

Where did you steal it?

Can't say I approve of your thieving habit.

I've got nimble fingers. That's how I'll make myself useful.

Say, Gan...

Do you still want to marry me?

Of course.

But I'm down on my luck these days...

I don't mind. Let's get married.

- Seriously? - Of course.

I'm so glad!

- Mr. Gan, could you stoke the fire? - Sure.

In exchange, I have a certain request. Will you hear me out?

Of course.

You grew up in the world of Kabuki, so you know the ins and outs of the trade.

You would've become a star long ago if not for your background.

It's such a waste of talent for you to work here!

Here's the thing. Would you like to train a few actors, and help them get ahead in life?

I won't go easy on them.

I am used to speaking bluntly, which is why I'm down on my luck.

Neither actors nor producers could stand me for long.

- Mr. Gan! - Coming right up.

Don't worry. These actors are gutsy enough to take it.

So, who are they?

Ginnosuke Nakamura, the son of Mr. Tsumasaburo, your old friend.

The others are members of his troupe.

- What kind of people are they? - A band of hoodlums.

We've been living the yakuza life to the fullest.

Punch us, stab us, roast and boil us, we won't falter.

We can take the worst abuse imaginable.

We went straight and now we're broke, this is our last shot.

We'd like to train under your guidance.

Mr. Ginnosuke.

You won't throw in the towel, no matter how harsh my lessons are?

We won't.

You won't give up midway through?

We won't.

All right. Let's do this.

I will make proper actors out of you lot.

I have saved 100.000 yen for funeral expenses, but I won't need them now.

I will die working for the Ginnosuke Nakamura's Troupe.

Consider this a funeral offering to the late Mr. Tsumasaburo.

This should be enough to keep you afloat for a while.

Thank you very much.

Sir, do we have what it takes to become actors?

To become decent actors, motivation is the only thing necessary.

Being amateurs, you aren't constrained by the traditional conventions.

So, what play are we going to stage?

Let's see...

Well, it will be a triple feature.

The second performance will feature singing and dancing.

The first play will be "Tokijiro Kutsukake" or "Ishimatsu of the Forest".

And the third one will be "Jirokichi, the Rat".

Property foreclosure form

The first act takes place in a tea house.

I won't feed you the lines. Just get into the role and start speaking.

The tea shop worker, Kyo.

The man drinking at the storefront is...

Hired thief taker, Seikichi! That's me!

Light snow is falling outside.

Act like you're cold.

Yokichi, a clam seller, comes in.

Toyo, stop spacing out!

Clams! Buy some clams!

He tries to sell some to Seikichi.

Hey! Wanna buy some clams?

Wait, Yokichi is eight years old.

Hey, mister! Please buy some!

Seikichi ignores him.

Thief takers have always been a miserly lot.

- Shut up! - Ow!

That's when Jirokichi, the Rat comes walking by.

Poor thing.

Let me buy the entire batch.

- Take this gold coin. - Whoa! Thank you!

Matsu, what's your reaction upon seeing the gold coin?

I'm not hiring an amateur troupe.

Acting business isn't a picnic.

Could you at least watch their rehearsal?

You will see how promising our troupe is!

I have no time for that.

Mr. Omori, your Far East Entertainment

made a good profit from putting up the late Mr. Tsumasaburo's plays.

Now, his successor took over the business.

Won't it be a basic act of humanity to help him find his feet?

Listen, Fukutaro. It's you who lack basic humanity.

Producer Inamura, whom you drove out,

spent over ten years diligently working for Mr. Tsumasaburo.

Isn't it a bit too heartless to drive Inamura out with the help of some thugs?

Sir, we had a reason to do that...

I will not associate with a bunch of inhumane yakuza.

Tell Ginnosuke the following. Disbanding the troupe is in his best interest.

Hey, Mr. Fuku!

I can't wait to see what play those hoodlums will put on.

I would like to extend a helping hand,

but I can't go against Mr. Omori's orders.

Isn't there any way to...?

I won't be able to conduct business if I get on Mr. Omori's bad side.

Could you stop pressuring me?

Yo!

We need these posters, so don't slack off.

Gin, you're so handsome!

I wish your father could see you now.

You don't look like a reformed thug who became an amateur actor.

You look better than ever, in fact.

Here we go.

And done.

Looks aren't all he has going for him. His resolve is also commendable.

They say, being a yakuza is all about reputation.

The same applies to being an actor.

I must add, you made notable progress this past month.

And you've remembered your lines as easily as dry sand absorbs water.

Teaching you was worth the effort.

I am humbled.

To think Japan is full of people like you...

I'm back.

Mr. Fuku!

So, have you made arrangements for a venue?

I can't wait to set foot on the scene!

I'm sorry.

Even the small theaters have turned me down.

Turned you down? But why?

That scumbag Inamura spread all kinds of rumors about us.

Far East Entertainment issued orders that prevent you from performing.

That sleazeball!

He's dead meat!

Do we kidnap his daughter?

At this rate, we won't be able to perform anywhere in Kanto.

It's the high season of summer festivals...

I told you this was a bad idea to begin with.

Cram it!

Listen, want me to try the province?

Where exactly?

Itako.

That won't work.

That's Far East Entertainment's territory, too.

Don't worry.

The regional manager over there is my first love.

He took my virginity.

So, he couldn't possibly decline my request.

Forget about it. I don't want you to get into trouble.

What are you saying?

I've left the notions of hardship behind long ago.

Isn't Itako way out in the boonies?

- Don't like the sound of that, huh? - Shut up!

We're in no position to complain!

Good evening!

Mrs. Ranko!

So, you're that Gin, huh?

You look great.

I'm impressed.

Mrs. Ranko.

Congratulations.

Here's a gift from me.

Take it.

Regrettably, I had to disband the Akatsuki Group.

I'm going to sell my old bar, and move into a smaller one.

You lot, hoist the Akatsuki Group's banner and do your best, for my sake as well.

To Ginnosuke Nakamura, from Ranko of Akatsuki Group

I'm counting on you.

Rejoice, Mr. Gan!

Through great pains, I've secured us a 13-day tour!

Five days in Itako, three days in the mining town nearby,

two days in the port city, and three days at the hot spring resort!

Thank you.

Is that your first love, Kyo?

He seems pretty composed.

Can't believe that guy dumped you.

Come on in.

Ginnosuke Nakamura, Ganemon Ichikawa...

Whoa! My name's next!

Matsugoro Onoe! See?

Toyonojo Bando! That's me!

How embarrassing...

I'm George Oka, and Tae's Helen Moriyama.

- We're like second-gen Japanese from Hawaii! - Listen up!

We've been reborn.

Let's rise to the occasion tomorrow, as befits our new names!

Shall I help you, Young Master?

Mr. Fuku.

Do I have what it takes to stand on stage? I'm a total loser...

Relax. Even if your acting is subpar, it's determination that counts.

If you put up a good show, the audience will overlook your shortcomings.

So, don't worry about a thing.

Don't hold back! Come one, come all!

Glad to have you! Please come in!

Let me introduce my long term employer Tsumasaburo Nakamura's successor,

Ginnosuke Nakamura.

He was a hopelessly prodigal son who strayed off the trodden path,

driven by youthful impulse.

However, he had a change of heart when his father passed away.

He took leadership of the troupe, and chased away the villains.

With hope that his father Tsumasaburo finds happiness in the afterlife,

we present our diligently rehearsed debut performance.

Thank you for watching!

Instead, you should rise in rank, and become a proper sumo wrestler.

Do that, and I will come to see you entering the ring.

Keep it up, Kyoko!

- What's up? - What's wrong, Ginnosuke?

What now? Keep going, wrestler's apprentice!

You're disappointing your father!

"Okay, I will become one."

"I will become a yokozuna."

Ginnosuke!

Successor! What's wrong?

Have you gone mute all of a sudden?

Kyoko!

I'm Kazuo! We were classmates in grade school!

Do you remember me?

Kazuo, have you fallen for Kyoko?

Wait till your mom hears this!

You aged so well!

- I wish I could eat you up! - Hey, dear viewer.

Huh?

- Please return to your seat. - Sorry about this...

"I will become a yokozuna."

I will become one!

I'll become a yokozuna, then repay your favor! Come and see me entering the ring!

- Ginnosuke! - You're taking after your father!

It's time for the long-awaited Gin's Show.

Come in, Ginnosuke!

Ginnosuke!

You whippersnapper!

- Monnosuke! - Who goes there?!

Hang in there, Jinkichi!

- Brother! - Uncle!

What a pleasant smell...

I pass away at dawn, enveloped by the scent of flowers.

I, Jinkichi, lived a happy life...

Come right in!

Thanks for coming!

I, Tokijiro Kutsukake, came to repay the favor! Your life is forfeit!

I will take you on!

Dear!

Draw your sword!

Dear!

Please take care of my wife and child, traveler!

So it shall be.

Up next, something totally different. A shockingly romantic jazz performance!

Welcome George and Helen!

Ishi!

Hang in there!

Brother Shichigoro...

That was so stupid of me! Now, I must die!

Bastard!

Young'un!

Stop right there!

Welcome!

Was it her who revealed the truth?

Mr. Ita, I have always wanted to die by your hand!

- Take him on! - Yes, sir!

Damn you!

Take this!

- Ginnosuke! - Ginnosuke!

Matsugoro!

Ma'am, honorable lady...

I can't believe my eyes, Otomi! It's been a while!

Who are you to say that?

Yosaburo.

What?!

Have you forgotten me?

You did great during these past 13 days.

You made a good impression with your debut performance.

I've arranged to have our next performance in Gunma, two days from now.

Don't let fame get to your heads, and keep giving it your all.

Subtracting your advance from our profits leaves us just short of 40.000 yen.

Divided equally, everyone gets 3.000 yen.

It's not much, but it's honest earnings.

Everybody, pay up 1.000 yen.

- Toyo, collect the money. - Aye!

Here!

Mr. Gan, thanks for teaching hoodlums like us the art of acting.

We'd like to repay the favor. Please accept it.

Having said that, I have a request.

- Go on. - Would you be our matchmaker?

- We'd like to get married soon. - You and who?

I'm marrying Tokiko.

What a joyous occasion!

Please hold the ceremony for us, too.

Once we do the ceremony and take photos, even her stubborn dad will have to accept it.

- Right, Tae? - What should I wear for the ceremony?

Here's money for alcohol.

Can't let the leader shoulder all the expenses.

- Go buy a giant sea bream, too. - Don't push it!

You're the greediest of us all!

It's no big deal. I would've wasted the money either way.

I'm used to being broke.

Right?

Showing off again, huh?

Let me chime in, too.

Gin made a successful debut. That's a fair cause for celebration.

Take these 10.000 yen to rent yourselves a hotel room.

You shouldn't spend your wedding night in the backstage.

The sun's shining down on us!

Let's forget about tomorrow and have fun!

♪ After setting sail from Takasago Bay...

♪ After setting sail...

I'm so jealous...

I'm coming in.

You're having a wedding, huh? Congratulations.

What brings you here?

I was on my way to play golf when I saw your signboard.

Gin built a reputation performing here. As expected of an actor's son.

Would you mind if I helped you out?

I could do you a favor out of respect for your father.

Why did you turn us down before?

See, I didn't know if Gin was a real deal at the time.

Now that I see he's serious, I would gladly arrange things for him.

I refuse.

Now, now. You should cooperate with me if you expect to make a living in this trade.

I have leverage over the regional managers from all across Kanto, you know.

- I refuse. - Don't be so stubborn.

We don't have to resort to weapons to bury an actor.

I refuse!

You deaf or something? Don't you hear him refusing your offer?!

We don't need any damn help from you to establish our troupe!

Now, scram!

You have guts, as befits a yakuza.

Now, the celebratory sake doesn't taste well...

Let's get back to celebrating, guys!

You're late! What took you so damn long?

Keep mucking around, and you'll miss the train!

Is everybody here?

One, two, three, four, five six, seven, eight...

Huh?

Shigeo and Tae aren't here. Are they still in the hotel?

- They have vacated their room. - They're gone?

Where could they be?

I got it!

Your talent would've been wasted on those hacks.

Leave the rest to me. In a single year, I will turn you into stars.

Thank you, sir.

In fact, I'm fed up with the lousy lifestyle of a traveling actor.

And I couldn't get along with those thugs.

We're cut from a different cloth.

I feel sorry for Gin, but we had no other choice.

- It's an opportunity of a lifetime. - Here.

This will cover your expenses for now.

Damn it!

They betrayed us!

Next time he crosses me, I'll snap his hands like twigs!

This is bad. Now, we have a gap in our program.

Leave that to me. I could string a few chords together on a guitar.

Who's going to sing?

I will.

Jazz isn't my forte, but pop songs are a whole other matter.

Can you perform together?

Yeah, we mesh well, right?

You may be onto something there.

All right, we're leaving!

Hey, Mr. Fuku. They haven't put up the posters and signboards yet. What gives?

Well, both big and small show managers have turned me down.

Must be the work of that scumbag Omori.

We booked the slots five days ahead, but he canceled them in just one day.

What do we do now?

The Rat, you're under arrest!

Cease your resistance!

You wish!

You're under arrest!

Serves you right!

♪ The flowery kimono was thrown wide open

♪ The apprentice dancer cried out, please have mercy!

♪ That's how the dance...

The turnout is low.

The consequence of Shigeo and Taeko ditching us?

Those two could pull in a crowd.

Stop talking about Shigeo! You're getting on my nerves!

Publicity.

Our publicity isn't good enough.

I'm fine with two days. Even one day is enough! Could you let us perform?

I can't.

If I oppose Far East's Mr. Omori's wishes, the artists will stop doing business with us.

To keep it short, you've gotten on a bad side of a very influential man.

What a thoughtless move.

This serving is too small!

While acting is no different from hard labor.

- Some tea, please. - Okay.

Come on! Are you kidding me?!

No matter how you put it, this isn't enough!

Only 2.000 yen for a full day? That won't even cover our meals!

It should cover your return tickets to Tokyo.

Clear out before the day's done.

Could you at least wait until our advance agent Fukutaro comes back?

Well...

I wouldn't mind waiting if you let me have her for tonight.

You won't mind, huh?

You scumbag!

Is there no way around it?

No.

I see...

Then, I'll be going.

It hurts...

It hurts!

Stop pretending to be sick in order to stay here!

I'm not pretending... I really am in pain!

Fukaya

What's taking Mr. Fuku so long?

Did he fail to secure even a single contract?

This is bad...

We've been staying here for three days now.

If we fail to pay the fees today, tomorrow we'll be forced to leave.

Money, huh?

We've spent all we had on your wedding ceremony, right?

It's all my fault.

I shouldn't have lost my temper talking to Omori.

Sir, what are we supposed to do at times like this?

- This is disastrous... - Disastrous?

We could always sell the costumes and the props to pay off the debts,

then disband the troupe.

We can't do that!

Traveling actors often end up like this. It's not surprising at the least.

No way, I refuse to disband the troupe we've just assembled.

We don't want to be disbanded either, but there's no other choice.

We may be reduced to poverty, but I won't give up even if I have to sleep outdoors.

I could perform striptease at parties.

I'm good at it.

Stop that!

Are you so eager to become a prostitute again?

Let's sell our stuff.

Wait, Gin!

Don't you want to be an actor anymore?

Of course I do.

- But still we have to sell it. - Enough!

If we give up, it's back to square one for us.

We'll go back to being just a bunch of thugs.

That lifestyle won't lead to anything good.

- Even so, I want to sell it. - No!

But what are we going to eat?

Shut up! Stay out of this, woman!

Excuse me?

If I give up now, I've no right to call myself a man.

Get off my case.

Brother, I could make money in a jiffy.

What?

I'll be back tomorrow. Don't sell our turf until then.

Sounds suspicious.

Trying to ditch us under that pretense?

Of course not. I will never abandon Kayo, right?

Is there really a way out for us?

I've kept quiet about this up until now,

but I come from a family of wholesale liquor merchants in Yamanashi.

We're basically swimming in money.

Sit tight and wait for my return.

You're a real show-off, man.

Special appearance Rising stars of the jazz world

George Oka and Helen Moriyama

♪ I stood by the lighthouse

♪ That last time, we departed

♪ Till darkness came...

It's so hot in here...

Ah! Hey there, Toyo!

Don't scare me like that!

Are you fed up with living on the road, too?

If so, I'll put a word in with Mr. Omori.

We can find you another acting gig.

- Shut up! - Ow!

Stop it!

I've always wanted to do this!

Somebody, come here! Help us!

Murderer!

Brother Toyo!

It's been a while!

Are you doing fine? What of Matsu and the rest?

Where's Mrs. Ranko? Could you tell me?

Mom.

- Bye. - Drop by again.

Mrs. Ranko.

Do you remember that offer you made?

Why'd you bring that up all of a sudden?

You offered to pay a million yen if I killed Gonda.

And 100.000 yen if I cut him up.

Of course I do.

It's all his fault that we've been reduced to this.

I want him to bite the dust!

If I did him in, will you really pay me?

However broke I may be, I am still Ranko of the Akatsuki Group.

I will scrape up enough.

Hey! I'm back!

Toyo!

My pops made a fortune selling sparkling wine.

Don't hold back, feel free to spend it.

What a surprise.

I never guessed you came from a rich family.

Looks can fool you.

A smart hawk hides its talons.

A telegram for you.

Relax. We'll pay the lodging fee in a moment.

Let's see.

"Hospitalized with appendicitis. Come. Fukutaro."

We've arrived at Shinohara Hospital.

Shiroyama line, Shinohara Hospital stop

Shinohara Hospital

Fuku!

Sorry about this.

I came down with appendicitis at such a busy time...

How are you?

Another 30 minutes, and I'd have been a goner. I'm all better now, though.

Glad to hear that.

That's not all.

We can't afford the hospital fees, so I've nearly gone mad with worry.

By way of apology, I had a word with a certain somebody.

Visit Oume, an old lady who runs the local theater, and hear what she has to say.

Don't worry about a thing, just focus on recovering.

She's an amiable old lady, so I hope everything will work out.

Where do you think you're going?

Who is she?

The daughter of the hospital owner.

I believe her name's Masako.

She is stunning...

So, that's how it is.

All right. You can perform in my theater while Mr. Fukutaro remains hospitalized.

I expect to see an excellent performance in return.

That's a given.

Aren't you afraid of getting in trouble with Far East's Mr. Omori?

Just so you know, I can't stand producers who throw their weight around.

Moreover, my late husband was a second generation leader of a traveling troupe.

No different from Ginnosuke in this regard.

Hey, Ginnosuke! Won't you thank the lady?

Thank you very much.

How adorable.

Are you after the money in my pockets?!

I'm not!

Stand back, dear.

- You... You thief! - Watch out!

You are too reckless.

- Ginnosuke! - Ginnosuke!

Acting is so fun!

I'm glad we didn't throw in the towel.

This is all thanks to you, Toyo.

We owe you a lot.

Well, you won't necessarily get rich in this trade, but it will put food on your table.

So, let's keep doing our best.

Who the hell are you?

They must be cops, damn it...

Are you Toyo? Was it you who stabbed the Gonda Group's boss?

You're under arrest for assault.

Can't be helped...

Let me change first, sir.

Toyo!

Did you really do that?!

Yeah, I did.

- What about the money? - Mrs. Reiko paid me.

In fact, I'm an illegitimate child of a hotel maid.

How could you do that for our sake?

Don't get me wrong.

I did that out of my love for acting.

Brother, Gin, Mr. Gan.

Don't give up on acting, no matter how tough the going becomes.

Make a name for the Ginnosuke Nakamura's Troupe in the theatric world.

Become famous enough for the rumors about your troupe to reach me in prison.

Promise me this, Brother.

You have my word.

And I'll do my best in my own way.

Good luck, guys.

Good bye, Kayo.

Toyo, I will wait for you. Be sure of it.

Go on.

Turns out one of the actors was a murderer. I can't believe it!

Apparently, all of them are former thugs.

How scary!

Such a meager audience won't cover our expenses!

Why are we plagued by misfortune?

Stop complaining. I'll keep my promise, even if I have to chew stones!

With just three male actors left, we can't even do the traditional stage walk.

What about sword drama with a female lead?

I don't mind.

Bastard!

I don't want our troupe to focus on sex appeal.

Gin, why are you so fidgety?

That's not like you.

Ju-Juichiro!

Down on your luck, aren't you?

I came to lend you a hand.

I will perform in Toyo's stead.

So, let's see how far we can get!

Since yesterday, turnout's tanked. We're barely drawing 20 people.

Will you allow us to continue performing?

Once I've promised something, I won't go back on my word.

You're free to continue for as long as you want.

What's more, your leader Ginnosuke is not inclined to leave our city.

Huh? What do you mean?

He's gotten together with Masako from the hospital.

When was this?!

You know how men and women are. They'll make use of the slightest opportunity.

This threatens to become a huge scandal, though.

Why?

People are rather conservative in these parts.

Shinohara Hospital's run by the oldest family in the area.

They're rich and influential.

And Masako is their only daughter.

Her getting with a traveling actor is unthinkable.

They'll chase your troupe out of the city.

Is that so?

I am a living example.

I was born to the family of a village elder.

But the moment I married a traveling actor, I've been exiled from the village.

Anyhow, stay on your guard.

This is so fun!

It sure is.

Let's do it again.

Masa...

Let's do it again!

This is so fun...

Hey, Gin! Gin!

- What's up? - We need to talk.

So, what is it?

Gin, this concerns the young lady of the Shinohara Hospital.

What do you think about her?

This is embarrassing...

Do you love her?

I do, from the bottom of my heart.

I would readily die for her!

Well then...

You are an actor.

If you fall in love with a girl or two, your acting would become more sensual.

Despite that, you should forget Masako.

Why?

If the rumors about the two of you begin to spread,

we won't be able to remain here.

But why?

In short, if they drive us out of the city, we will lose our opportunity to perform.

Then, we'll be back to square one.

Could you refrain from seeing Masako at least until Mr. Fuku recovers?

No way.

I need to see her every day, else I'll go mad.

Gin, you aren't a child any longer.

You are the leader of our troupe.

So, restrain yourself for our sake.

I won't.

I want to marry Masako.

That's what I promised her.

Then, you don't care about the fate of our troupe?

Will you disband it, breaking your promise to Toyo?

There's no helping it.

Ginnosuke!

Is that woman more important to you than being an actor?!

You're a disgrace to our troupe!

Mr. Gan.

I have overheard your conversation. Gin appears more sensible.

Desire to be together with a girl he likes is totally normal.

You're asking too much, they won't stay apart.

Also, he's one stubborn guy. Once he made a decision, nobody can change his mind.

You simply don't understand the local customs.

I have a hunch. Their status is wildly different.

Such reasoning ain't gonna fly these days.

Masa?

- Gin! - Masa!

I ran away from home.

Dad prohibited me from seeing you.

He's asking too much, right?

I can't stand being apart from you even a day longer!

I feel the same!

Hey, Mr. Fuku!

What happened? You've been discharged way too soon.

I haven't been discharged. I slipped out.

But why?

The young lady ran away from home.

The entire hospital is up in arms, trying to locate her.

I couldn't just sleep through all that.

They'll be here any moment now.

That's bad!

Don't worry about a thing.

Take this. Rent yourselves a room in some hotel.

Thanks.

It's no big deal. Consider that your wedding present.

Sorry that I couldn't spare more.

This is bad! And it gets worse by the minute!

Hello, Mr. Yamashita.

They've been here since the night.

It's so nice to be married...

Always being together is a wonderful thing.

Hey!

Gin!

Masa!

Whoa there!

Gin!

You're coming with us!

Masa!

There!

You bastard!

It hurts!

My head...

Damn it...

How dare they attack him like that?!

I want to see her...

I want to see Masa! Ow...

Don't you worry. We will break her free.

There's no going back now.

They asked for a fight, so let's give them hell!

That's the spirit! Else the life wouldn't be fun.

So, when do we infiltrate the hospital?

Masa... Masa!

Gin, do you love her this much?

Yes! If I can't marry her, I'd rather be dead!

I see.

All right, then.

I am going to help you.

Hi, sorry to keep you waiting.

Director Shinohara had an urgent case. I'll speak on his behalf.

I love theater, you know. You could even call me a Kabuki connoisseur.

Sir, could you introduce yourself?

Did I forget to tell you?

I am Yamashita, the city councilor, and a legal advisor to the Shinohara family.

I've been given full authority to act for Mr. Shinohara. Feel free to speak your mind.

All in all, I am a level-headed man.

Is that so?

If this is about Fukutaro's treatment, the stand-up comic, there's no need to worry.

Mr. Shinohara is a professional. He doesn't mind treating the poor free of charge.

In fact, this concerns Ginnosuke. He loves the young lady from the bottom of his heart.

This isn't just a transient infatuation.

Plus, our troupe promises the young lady the best possible stay.

To keep it short, could you formally approve of their wedding?

Now listen.

Speaking frankly, they are a poor match.

The Shinohara family's history spans centuries,

and Mr. Shinohara's more powerful than the mayor.

In fact, the two of us run all the city's politics.

A traveling actor has no chance here.

But why?

Some people are indispensable, others are completely useless.

If traveling actors vanished, no one would care.

They're as insignificant as roadside weeds. It all comes down to social status.

What? Say that again, I dare you!

Listen, can we get straight to the point?

Let's cut to the chase, how much do you want?

- Will this much suffice? - What are you implying?

Can we simply drop the pretense?

Would you like me to double it? This makes 100.000 yen in total.

Don't be absurd.

Listen here, you sorry excuse for a lawyer.

I'll make sure Ginnosuke gets to marry the young lady, just to spite you!

Don't come crying to me when that happens. Gin, let's get outta here.

Hey!

Damn that smug bastard. I'd sure like to shank him!

What is it?

- Hey! Where are you going?! - Ginnosuke!

Masako!

Masako!

Do you miss her this much, traveling actor?

Where is she?!

In this case, I can arrange a meeting.

Come to the city restaurant Kamogawa at 8 PM today.

Come alone, mind you.

Welcome.

Everybody has been waiting for you.

Everybody?

Masa! I missed you so much!

You're filthy! Stay away from me!

What?

How dare you demand hush money?!

Are you kidding me? I never said anything of the sort.

What's the meaning of this?

Turns out, traveling actors are the scum of the earth.

Don't go!

So, you are the infamous Ginnosuke?

Do you realize how I feel now that my only daughter has been defiled?

Hey!

You shouldn't have asked to see her.

Was it you who came up with this absurd story?

The hell was that about hush money?!

You talk big, but that's what you must be actually after.

Will you just take these 100.000 yen and leave us in peace?

I'm not giving up!

I swear I'll take her back!

If you keep pushing, I will have to issue criminal charges against you.

I am friends with our city's police chief, just so you know.

That damned Yamashita is a scumbag beyond belief.

Want me to rough him up?

Masako isn't blameless either.

She decided to believe Yamashita's lies over what Gin had to say.

Just how naive can she be?

Well, I was no different when I was her age.

I miss her...

I want to see her, and tell her how I really feel!

Is there nothing we could do?!

Is it time to raid their place for real?

What do you think?

Should we break in and whisk her away?

No.

Let's not involve the police.

If you tried to send her a letter, it will be intercepted.

Even if it reached her, she won't be convinced either way.

I know a way.

What do you suggest?

Listen, what about this?

Let's adapt this whole affair into a stage play.

If it becomes popular, people will start talking about it.

Sooner or later, the rumors will reach her, and she'll learn the truth.

I see.

Well, how about it?

Sounds fun. Let's stage a play to expose Shinohara and Yamashita's scheme.

- That will soften their cough. - I see.

Well.

We are all actors here, so let's take revenge upon the stage!

I will write the play.

It won't be modeled after the traditions of Kabuki.

This realistic play will be Ganemon Ichikawa's magnum opus.

It's time to roll up my sleeves.

Those bastards underestimated us. Let's show them what actors are capable of!

Come one, come all! Watch our original romantic tragedy!

It exposes the society's rotten core!

Driven by his passion, a young man bravely confronts this city's self-important boss!

Our latest, fully original masterpiece in one act and 12 scenes,

called Joshu Love Story, premieres today!

Here's the gist of it! Come right in!

He's surprisingly eager.

- Trashing Yamashita sounds fun. - Let's watch it.

We've got full house today.

- It's hugely popular. - Let's start already.

Hey! Get on with it!

Ready?

Now that Gin's merry singing and dancing show is over,

we present the long-awaited Joshu Love Story!

We hope you enjoy it until the end!

- Young Lady of the Shinohara Hospital! - Stop that!

Call me Masako!

- Masako. - What?

This is so fun!

It sure is.

Let's get married.

I can't stand to be apart from you.

Same here.

Let's stay together until the day we die, Ginnosuke!

- Keep it up! - You're prettier than the real Masako!

Don't stop!

What a sight!

Yes, sir!

Asshole!

You lowlife! How dare you try to deceive the young lady?!

- Tear them apart! - Yes, sir!

Let her go!

- What are you doing?! - Take this!

Let go!

- Masa! - Shut up!

Ginnosuke!

- Masako! - Ginnosuke!

- Quiet! - Take her away!

Director Shinohara, sir.

Is he the one who defiled my daughter?

I want to put him to death!

Please stay your hand, sir.

Don't lower yourself to that vermin's level.

How should we go about driving him out of the city?

Sir, everything boils down to money.

What? Money?

Traveling actors are tottering on the verge of poverty.

We could give him 50.000 yen, and he will happily dance to our tune.

Let me handle the rest, sir.

Very well.

Then, I will give him 50.000 yen.

Here's another 20.000 yen. Consider it a present from me.

I am counting on you.

Wh... Who are you?

Me?

I am a lawyer and a city councilor, Yamashita.

You're the one behind all this!

- Get lost, bossman! - Get outta here!

Cunning bastard!

You'd better reconsider, traveling actor.

The Shinohara family is the most influential family in our city.

A dirt-poor man like you is not their equal.

- What was that? - Knock it down a notch!

Imma punch yer lights out!

You must be delirious to assume you could marry their only daughter.

Your status is way too low.

The hell are you saying?

We live in the age of democracy!

All people are equal! Social status doesn't matter any longer!

I don't count lowly traveling actors among the human beings.

The likes of you are no more than weeds growing on the roadside.

If you disappeared, nobody would bat an eye. That's how useless you are.

Are you kidding me?!

Even the roadside weeds serve to feed the livestock!

They can be used to fertilize the rice paddies!

Us traveling actors exist to nourish people's souls!

We live to entertain the viewers!

- That is a respectable purpose! - Yeah, right!

Don't give up!

You're so cool!

Yamashita!

You call yourself a lawyer and haven't even read the constitution?!

Marriage is a voluntary union between a man and a woman!

No one is allowed to stand between two people in love!

- Get it through your head! - Ginnosuke!

Your superficial argument doesn't hold up.

Shall we drop the pretense and speak frankly?

How much do you want?

This much?

Or perhaps twice as much?

What are you getting at?!

Money, of course.

Let's settle this for 100.000 yen.

That's what you always do! It's unfair!

Enough of your bribery, Yamashita!

Shut up!

Don't look down on traveling actors!

I may be poor, but at least my conscience is clear!

I'm nothing alike a twisted scumbag like you!

Look, you can't handle love like you handle politics.

I won't change my mind for money! Got it?!

- Keep punching! - Kill him!

There's no cure for a fool.

- Hey! - Yes, sir!

Do it.

Why are you still here?!

Take him down!

When money fails, you turn to violence? Is that how a city councilor operates?!

Shut up! Drive him out of the city!

Sure!

Let go!

Ginnosuke!

Ginnosuke! Ginnosuke!

Ginnosuke!

Where is Ginnosuke?

Tell me! Where is he?

Young Lady.

You'd better forget that man.

He has deceived you.

What?

Money is all he cares about. That's why he seduced you.

Lies! I don't believe it!

Young Lady, earlier today he told me the following.

"I will readily forget her if you pay me 100.000 yen."

"There is nothing special about her." That's how he put it.

How heartless!

"I am the greatest actor in the world! That broad..."

He meant you, Young Lady.

"That broad is no marriage material. Don't be ridiculous!"

"I wasn't going to marry her in the first place."

That is what he told me.

Seriously? Did he really say that?

Yes.

Why would I ever lie to you?

Bullshit!

- Don't fall for his lies! - So, the poor should eat what, huh?

Young Lady.

That traveling actor is rotten to the core.

Please take what I told you into consideration.

I always act in the best interest of the Shinohara family.

That's the kind of a man I am.

- How much have you been paid to say that? - Get outta here, you roach!

I will take my leave.

Masa! I've been looking for you!

- Stay away! - Masa?

Don't touch me!

You liar! Filthy animal!

Masa!

Listen to me, traveling actor.

If you continue pestering the young lady,

we will have you locked up.

Right, Chief?

Shall we round up all of those hoodlums?

You lowly thug!

What an awful city!

What a terrifying city!

With tricks, money, power, and brute force, the local boss controls this whole city!

There is not a shred of freedom and justice for an ordinary man here!

The city's enveloped in darkness!

Are you fine with this, ladies and gentlemen?

Am I supposed to simply swallow such injustice?!

Answer me!

This city doesn't belong to the boss! It is our city!

- Keep up the good fight! - Don't back down!

Do your best, Gin!

Ginnosuke Nakamura!

Drink up. Don't hold back.

It's so brave of you to oppose Shinohara and Yamashita. We could never do that.

There's more than one way to ruin their name. Keep the act going as long as you can.

Let's hit them hard while we've got the chance.

Shinohara and Yamashita are like a cancer to this city.

You have impressive courage, I must add.

They'll charge you with libel now that you've staged such a play.

We are reformed hoodlums, dirt poor traveling actors.

We aren't afraid of prison. Let them push their charges for all I care.

We'll get three meals a day. That's already an upgrade.

I see.

In that case, why not openly tell me everything you have to say?

I'll write an article and run it front page.

Muso News: A heartbroken young troupe leader bravely protests on stage

Tell me, Yamashita.

Is this play based on a true story?

No, all of that is pure nonsense.

They want even more money, so they're attempting to spite us.

Hoodlums like them are the parasites of society. It's hard to get rid of them.

You are to blame for this mess we're in. I want you to sort everything out.

Mrs. Oume, could you kick them out of your theater?

That play of dubious substance is bothering us.

Mr. Shinohara is furious.

It's just a harmless prank on their part. Don't pay it any mind.

Society is full of idiots.

I'd rather not have the youth stir up trouble over this. Hope you understand.

No.

This play draws in lots of viewers. It remains in the repertoire for now.

You are one of us.

It isn't right for you to take those actors' side.

What are you saying? Don't be ridiculous!

The likes of you have been shunning me for all my life!

I don't care for you!

Since it came to this, I offer a million yen.

Could you pass it to Ginnosuke, and ask him to leave our city?

They're nothing more than a gang of extortionists, they won't turn it down.

Listen up.

We are a gang all right, but we come from Tokyo.

A few millions is just loose change for us. That won't get us to cancel our play.

Hey, you. Come back when you gather ten millions, then we can talk. Moron!

One ticket.

Two tickets.

Come and see! Thanks for your patronage!

- Ginnosuke! - Gin!

I love you!

Listen here, Yamashita!

Our traveling troupe is made up of reformed thugs.

You're right in calling us human scum.

But here's the thing. You made a mistake when you decided to oppose us.

We've hit rock bottom already.

Life couldn't get any worse for us, so your threats don't scare us one bit!

We aren't as spineless as petty officials and office workers!

With nothing to lose, we're free to live as we please!

Hey, you!

Lackey to Shinohara Hospital's owners!

Blatant bribe-giver and vote manipulator!

You are the real idiot here! The absolute moron!

- Where's Some? - Doing a publicity stunt.

In fact, when I read that article,

I knew this would be a top story, so I rushed here from Tokyo.

I thought this story would sell, too, so I came from Nagoya to see your play. It's great!

- Would you like to appear in our TV show? - Us, on TV?

We have a million viewers. What do you say?

- A million? - Brother Matsu, we're in trouble!

We're under attack!

The local thugs are ripping down the signs and banners!

Damn them! I won't tolerate disrespect from those country bumpkins!

We're pros when it comes to fighting!

- We'll show 'em what us Tokyoites are made of! - I'm coming with you!

Down it goes!

Asshole!

Stop it!

Ow! Ouch!

Get back here!

You outdid yourself today!

Normally, you try to avoid fighting.

Of course. You gotta put some elbow grease into it, unlike the usual extortion business.

This is so fun!

My hand...

Chief, aren't you neglecting your duties by allowing those actors to remain at liberty?

They messed with the yakuza yesterday, and ended up injuring four or five.

Can you arrest them for assault?

Our investigation shows the local thugs started it. The actors won't be held liable.

Be as it may, their play is unacceptable.

It's an affront to me and Mr. Shinohara.

You're about to become laughing stock, too. Just put an end to it!

I'm afraid I can't do that.

First of all, that play appears to be based on true events.

Look, I have connections with the top echelons of police.

I'd like you to cooperate.

Mr. Yamashita.

Everything you resort to keeps further tarnishing your reputation.

As the police chief, I can't overlook this.

- I am staring an investigation into you. - I've never done anything shady.

Public scrutiny is scarier than you think.

Isn't it about time for you to back down and offer your apologies?

The play will be canceled,

while Mr. Shinohara will permit their marriage.

Any objections to these terms?

As long as Ginnosuke finds happiness...

We have no objections.

What about you, Mr. Shinohara?

So be it.

- You can proceed, then. - Let us formally seal the deal.

- Gin! - Masa!

That was so stupid of me...

Don't worry. It's all right.

It's so great to be young...

I will dedicate my life to acting.

All right.

I'll work to nourish people's souls.

And I will strive to become good at it.

Where did that come from?

Those words shall become my life motto.

It's a shame we have to part ways.

I'll never forget you guys.

We'll follow your lead and push for reforms nationwide.

- Stay well. - See you!

Bye!

Good bye, and good luck.

- Farewell. - Do your best!

- Good bye! - Good bye!

- Good bye! - Good bye!

Mr. Gan, acting is an impressive thing.

It can change society for the better.

That's what theater is truly about.

This was the first of my plays worthy of the name.

We're about to appear on TV in Nagoya, huh?

I bet Toyo would be glad to see us from his cell.

Let's not stop in Nagoya.

One day, those banners will proudly soar across the whole of Japan.

The banners of our band.

To Ginnosuke Nakamura, from Ranko of Akatsuki Group

THE END

Translation by: Yume Subtitles by: kagetsuhisoka