Original subtitles

GROWING UP [TAKEKURABE]

Producers FUKUSHIMA Tsujin SUGIWARA Sadao HATA Ippei

Original novel HIGUCHI Ichiyo Screenplay YASUMI Toshio

Directed by GOSHO Heinosuke Camera OHARA Jyoji

Music AKUTAGAWA Yasuhi Edit KUBO Kazuo Sound OKAZAKI Michio

Lighting IRIE Susumu Assistant director JORIE

Clothes KAWAKATSU Set ISA Shinzo

Cast

MISORA Hibari

ICHIKAWA Somegoro KITAHARA Takashi YANAGI Eigiro

MOCHIZUKI Yuko YOSHIKAWA Mitsuko KISHI Hatae MOURI Kikue

It's a long road surrounding the doors of Yoshiwara.

There is a light shining in its trench, from the third floor of the bustling brothel.

The hustle of carts and buggies gives an idea of that flourishing time.

People prefer to say how cheerful this town is despite its name, Daionjimae ("In front of Buddha")

Year 26 of the Meiji era [1894]

Sorry for being late.

Boss, you look good.

- Are you going to work? - Yes.

The bell has struck two o'clock.

What's this ridiculous hat you are wearing?

What are these fringes for?

I've asked you what they are for.

Ask the teacher of the Public School.

Arrogant prick, picking at Public School. A school is a school, no matter if public or private.

Don't be so conceited.

I'm not. Let me go ahead.

Go ahead if you want.

I can't if you surround me like this.

- Coward! - Coward from Omotemachi.

I can't compete with Yokote.

Why did you do it?

- What do you mean? - Last year's festivity.

One of us and one of you had a fight.

You Omotemachi guys won and you carried him on your shoulders.

You slagged off Yokotekumi!

And then you took unfair advantage of the moment I wasn't there.

I don't remember this happening.

Do you, Hitoshi?

I don't care.

Watch out at this year's festivity. We'll take revenge.

I understand that Yokote has his own ways.

You're so disgusting. With that calm look.

- You'll see what happens if you take us for idiots! - You son of a moneylender!

And you... you are the son of the carpenter's boss.

What have you said?

You're always hiding in your castle instead of fighting!

- What a coward! - Come out now!

Hi handsome, do you want to play with me?

Your father is coming! He's drunk.

- He's drunk. - We'd better withdraw, hadn't we?

If he knows we're fighting, we'll get a bad licking.

Let's beat it!

- Wait and see! - So long!

What's happened to you, Ryotaro?

Nothing!

Put on your kimono.

Grandmother, the Yokocho guys have gone away.

You shouldn't join those louts. You are going to inherit this business.

Poor people's sons are very jealous.

It's true. They envy the Omotemachi people.

Come on, Ryotaro, have tea and...

-...afterwards you'll go out to collect. - Yes.

RYUGE TEMPLE

Eggs are round but depending on how you cut them, they're square...

- Hello, Sangoro. You work a lot. - Yes.

- Hello, Oshin. Sorry for the inconvenience. - It's all right.

Get ready and make a lot of kumade. This year there are three holidays.

Much work and little money.

- Have you seen Shinnyo? - No.

Your father is looking for you. What are you doing here?

I'm calculating fractions.

Why do you always avoid your father?

Where is my sister going to?

To a shop where they produce buddhas and accessories.

And why can't she go on...

...like up until now?

She doesn't earn too much this way.

Why do we have to earn so much money?

Money is important for everybody.

My sister is going to be a concubine.

It's true, isn't it?

It's what father wants.

You are a bit distant because you are his second wife. That's what everyone says.

That's why my sister is going to be a concubine.

What are you saying?

That's what the others will be thinking.

Don't you understand that I actually don't want her to leave, either?

I don't want...

She's my only sister.

Hurry up! Go and see your father. He wants to speak with you.

Run!

We're here.

Listen, Shinnyo, do you know when Mr Tajima's thing is being celebrated?

Go and ask him instead of loafing all day.

What's that face you're pulling?

When something's wrong, you hide and avoid my eyes.

Darling, don't say that.

You spoil him too much!

He needs to get to know life.

Do you understand, Shinnyo?

People speak about this temple's good name,

but not everything is done by burning incense.

- Where are you going? - I'm going to Tajimaya's.

Stop by Musashino Ya's afterwards.

Please order two roasted eels, to be paid by Ryumei Temple.

Bring me a cigarette.

Darling, if you treat him like that, Shinnyo will lose courage.

Recently I have been noticing criticism in him when he is in front of you.

I am very worried...

...about him taking the wrong path.

Stop it.

He's sore because of his sister.

At his age, the word "concubine" sounds like a very dirty thing.

So you're saying that Ohana has to leave by all means?

Also bothering me with this? For Ohanna it means a promotion.

But people will be thinking...

Who cares what people will be thinking?

In front of Buddha...

...I can't send her as a geisha.

Shinnyo....

He has to learn once and for all how to earn a living.

Monks live in poverty nowadays.

Hi, Sanchan.

Is Shinnyo in?

He just left.

Really?

We wanted to talk about the festivity.

We're going to wait for him.

What do you want to discuss with Shinnyo?

You are from Yokocho, aren't you?

- Of course I am. - I see...

Are you licking Shota's ass, too?

That's not true.

Hey, Saburo, don't betray yourself.

I'm not one of those.

- It's true. - Yes.

I wonder where Shinnyo has gone to.

Shinnyo!

Oh, it's you, Midori.

Where are you coming from?

I just took a bath. What about you?

That's none of your business.

How rude.

Whatever you like.

Recently you haven't even said hello when I have.

What's wrong with you?

None of your business.

Do you want anything from me?

Yes, one thing.

Tear that branch for me.

It's a cherry tree branch.

I can't reach it.

No, not from that side. From this other.

Quick, quick.

Be careful.

Have you hurt yourself?

You're bleeding.

It's nothing.

I'll give you a handkerchief.

I don't care.

Shinnyo!

Why are you following me?

Why are you coming here?

It's none of your business.

You contradict yourself.

If you have finished, go away.

I am going to pray to Buddha.

But you have just taken a bath.

Is there anything wrong with taking a bath?

Are you going to prevent it?

It's none of your business.

What are you doing, Sachan?

What a coincidence! You are together.

You nasty little beast.

Sachan, come to the paintbrush shop.

I'll buy you something.

Thanks a lot.

- What a surprise. - What?

- Go to that shop. - Everyone thinks that Midori is in love with you.

And they also say that you two will get married one day.

- Midori will be the appropriate wife, won't she? - Don't talk nonsense.

You've blushed!

I'm going to Kyoto.

To Kyoto?

I am going to live in the mother temple.

I'll miss you.

I must go.

That's why I don't care about her.

Shota will try to conquer her, then.

- I don't mind. - Are you sure?

Midori isn't my business.

Shinnyo!

The Yokotemachi guys are waiting for you. They want to discuss the festivity with you.

It's my turn, isn't it?

Thanks, Midori.

I'll leave the money here.

Good, thanks.

Fig, carrot, pepper, mushroom, burdock...

Fig, carrot, pepper, mushroom, burdock...

Midori, your turn.

What's the matter, Midori?

This is very boring.

Why, but you're winning.

Isn't there anything more amusing?

Think about it.

Well, well, Midori, how much you have.

- Has your sister given you this money? - Not only her sister.

She also receives it from an employee and a boss in Daikokoya.

- Right, Midori? - I envy you so much.

But you used to be like that, didn't you?

You were called Matsubaro.

- It's true. - Was it like that, madam?

That was a long time ago.

Here's the wretched state of a famous oiran.

- What shall we play? - What could we?

- What can we do? - Midori... - What?

- Behave well. - Why?

Just because.

Take this.

Girls...

- I'm going out for a minute. - All right!

- Sorry to leave you on your own. - Good luck.

I wonder how many there are. Let's count them.

Bye.

One, two, three, four...

Midori, what are you going to do with this money?

Shinnyo!

Shinnyo!

Are you still angry?

I'm sorry.

Please forgive me.

I overdid it.

No. It's for me to say this.

Can we be good friends?

I don't know.

- Is your finger any better? - Who knows?

You're still angry.

Shota will put you in a good mood.

Right?

Don't interfere.

Why don't you go away, then?

I am going away. You are so mean.

What's wrong with you, Midori?

- Will you pass them to me? - What? - The tabas.

From Aoyama pier I'm looking at the Eastern Mountain.

If I don't collect anything, my grandmother will scold me.

You have to pay something. Moreover, the rent is still unpaid.

Work out something.

Shota!

I'm sorry.

Always the same excuses.

There are many children in my family.

My father works a lot, but he doesn't earn enough.

We are going to sell stoves...

...and we'll pay your debts.

Please accept it.

Please.

I am begging you.

Don't use your tears. I am used to that.

Pay me right now.

Wait, please.

I am going to do all I can for you.

Please.

Listen, Shota...

- Midore is waiting for you in Suzuya. - Is that true?

She said she wanted to see you.

- Is that true? - Yes, she told me.

Really?

Let's go. I'll go with you.

Why don't you go and see her?

TANAKAYA ACCOUNT BOOK

Come on, let's go!

Don't you wish to go?

I can go...

- Promise me to pay after the festivity. - Yes.

Hurry up.

- I don't want to get into trouble. - Nothing will happen.

Just say you're from Yokochokumi, so we'll get a better press.

Because you're clever.

Whenever those from Omotemachi say something, give a smart reply.

- Your adversary is Shota from Tanakaya, right? - Yes.

It's true that Shota is harrassing poor people.

So are you with us?

It would be great help for us if you accept.

Isn't that so, guys?

Shinnyo, say yes, please.

Midori!

Are you alone, Midori?

Yes, I wanted to be alone. They have all left.

- I wanted to talk to you about the festivity. - About money? - No.

Omotemachi has good support. You'll organize a fine celebration.

Wait, Tatsuo!

Are you coming as a spy?

Let me go!

Buzz off!

I'm sorry.

- Serves you right! - What are you doing to the poor guy?

Don't interfere, you bitch!

What was that?

Your sister is the most sought after in Daikokuya, that's why you live in luxury!

Despite being a peasant from Kishu!

What's wrong with being an oiran?

Thanks to you your father will become the boss in Daikokuya...

...and your mother will have a job.

This kimono and these shoes were paid with prostitution money.

Sanchan, say something to them!

Why do you keep silent? You're a man, aren't you?

Because his father always invites mine to drink sake.

I will invite him, then!

- I can't. - Coward!

You'll see at the festivity! Fujimoto from Ryuge temple is with us!

Shinnyo is in favour of us.

Shinnyo?

It's true.

Shinnyo is the most intelligent one.

- See you. - Goodbye!

He's already ours!

They are such brutes.

You should have come out sooner.

Well, I thought that...

...there would have been more racket.

Shinnyo is with them...

Welcome home.

How dirty it is.

Don't move!

It's your turn.

I'm going to beat you this time.

- Ready? - Let's go!

In the temple of Toyokocho

I'm tossing a one-sen coin

- What's happened? - Oh dear!

What's happened?

Mother...

- It's broken. - What?

It's our master's...

...favourite vase.

What a dreadful thing to do.

What shall we do?

I don't know...

Mother!

Master, something terrible has happened.

- What? - Quick, my dear.

The vase in the living-room has broken into pieces.

- The vase? - Quick, my dear.

I am very sorry.

What will happen to us?

What an atrocity.

Who has broken it?

It's one of the Daikokuya family's treasures!

Who has done this?

Is it you?

Or is it you?

Is it you who has done this?

Listen...

It's me.

It's you?

That's right.

Darling...

Darling...

Master...

I am at a loss for words to ask for forgiveness.

This is an atrocity.

Come on, Midori...

Apologize.

Midori....

It's too mischievous.

Orin!

I was almost scared to death.

Fortunately it's been Midori.

If it had been another girl, who knows what would have happened.

We haven't done it on purpose.

- Right? - Shut up!

Go and play on the street!

Come on, girls.

Go away, all of you.

Go home.

Come on.

- Let's go. - Excuse us.

Darling, I'll take care of everything.

So dreadful.

Grandmother...

Sorry.

He has invested a lot...

...in Midori.

When grinding the sesame seed, they say

that the Shogun parade is happening again

Phew, what a relief. I thought it would be worse.

It's all right. My sister is there.

They say Daikokuya wouldn't be working without Omaki.

It's true. My sister's customer is a banker. They've been together for three years.

And then there is Mrs Yone from Kabutocho, she's with her.

My sister rejected a marriage offer with discount from an important man.

She didn't like the idea.

I'm going to see her.

We'll be off, then.

I'll give you a bit of money.

This for Kayo. And this for Koma.

This for you. And this for you.

Let's hope the festivity day will be as beautiful as today.

Yes. Because if it rains, all our work will be pointless.

Yes. Since your father doesn't earn much.

He doesn't cherish much hope, he is always flattering people.

How can you say that?

Even if I'm flattering everyone right now, I'll be a good salesman.

- I'll earn much money so you won't have to work, mother. - Oh, really?

- I'll be waiting for that day. - You'll see.

And when Midori becomes an oiran, I'll be her customer.

What? Do you like that girl?

But there is still a long time to go for that.

Eggs are round but depending on how you cut them, they are square...

This is very nice.

What shall we choose for underwear?

I think this will be fine.

It will suit you well, Ohana.

Even if it is a bit expensive, it's all right.

It's important for women.

Listen, Shinnyo, when you finish that, go to the store and take the fabric to be sewn.

Answer me.

You'll thank me for this in the future.

Yes, indeed.

Father...

What?

- What? - Darling...

I have chosen this fabric.

How nice, isn't it, Ohana?

- You have a visitor. - Oh, really?

I'll go and say hello, then.

Sister...

Are you sure...

...about marrying that man?

There is nothing I can do about it.

I have accepted it.

He is going to get a little house ready for me.

I am going to marry a wealthy man.

I don't want this.

I don't want this.

- Absolutely not. - So what other option is there?

The world is like that.

Take your friend Midori's case.

I don't like her at all! I despise her!

- Hello, welcome. - Is it ready?

Yes. Sorry it's taken me so long.

You don't look good.

I can't go to anyone and complain,

I know I have ill-treated my own body.

I imagine you are worried. And lonely.

Not at all.

I'm fed up with men.

Really?

What's this party you've arranged.

Midori has bought us everything.

What a great girl.

But, Omatsu...

When I see her,

I feel very sorry for her.

She'll go through the same as me. She'll end up with a bad health.

What can I do for her?

But Midori doesn't care.

Besides, she is very selfish. I don't like playing with her.

Oh dear, as soon as she is away, you talk ill of her.

She is whimsical.

What about you? You always count on her money.

Madam, don't tell her anything. It's a secret.

- I'm leaving! - Yes.

You forget this!

When milling the sesame seed, they say the Shogun parade will come again

Hello, Shinnyo.

Welcome.

What do you need?

This fabric, please.

Oh, you want me to sew it?

It's for underwear.

How beautiful.

- Who is it for? - For my sister.

Please finish it before the festivity.

And so Ohana is going to get married?

I had heard rumours.

- What do I know. - Shinnyo.

Aren't you going to stay and play? Midori will be back soon.

I'm off. See you later.

Little sister...

What?

It's good.

It's good, isn't it?

It's melting.

Eat it all up.

- What? - It's for you.

You didn't have anything left, did you?

No, that's why I've come.

Thank you.

Why don't you come to Ryo on the festivity day?

Will you, little sister?

Listen, Midori...

I've had these strange dreams lately.

What are the dreams like?

For instance: I'm running barefoot across a field...

...and climb up a khaki tree.

And throw khakis at the people walking past underneath.

And skip rope with friends.

It's a dream about when you were a kid.

The truth is...

...if I could be again a little girl for ever, I'd be very happy.

I don't believe that.

Oiran!

Oiran, are you still here?

- Coming! - Please.

Has the customer arrived?

Is it Mr Hama or...

...Mr Yone?

Don't ask me nonsense.

I believe that...

...your way of thinking and father's are wrong.

- You think so? - Because...

...I love you a lot, sister.

I can't stand the thought of you becoming a concubine.

But I think it's preferable...

...to being an oiran.

Oiran?

Listen, Midori...

I have thought we could...

...do a screening with the magic lantern.

I have slides at home.

If something is missing, Midori can buy it.

- Is that ok with you, Toku? - Yes. Great.

I want to do the monologue.

- Well, I want to do theatre. - What about Tokiwaza?

Projections are fashionable. My plan will be successful.

I will be the projectionist.

And Sangoro will be the curtain-raiser.

Sangoro?

Him reciting would be an amusing thing.

It would be even funnier if he pulls that face.

Those Yokocho guys would be certainly surprised...

...at our performance.

They'd die out of envy, those useless rogues.

I don't know why Shinnyo has sided with them. Isn't that so, Midori?

Shinnyo has a penknife, even if he is a monk.

A penknife!

He is someone dangerous, a typical Yokocho guy.

The typical son of that monk who...

...allows his wife to sell...

...paper flowers at the festivity.

These people are different from us.

Right, Midori?

Why are you criticizing Shinnyo?

We had better organize something...

...the others can't do.

- Listen... - Yes?

That's the artist. They say she's good...

- Shall I call her? - She won't listen.

She is very conceited.

As she has good customers in another area,

she doesn't pay much attention to this district.

She's a simple artist.

Hey!

- Sing "Akegarasu". - Yes. Thank you.

What a nerve.

Drum sound.

It's a place where you can usually hear the shamisen,

but it's different at the festivity.

Only once a year does this place turn into something more cheerful and lively.

The neighbourhood people decorate their stalls and buggies.

People walk up the pier almost from inside their places.

Youngsters walk around full of enthusiasm.

RYUSENJI AREA

There you are.

Forgive me.

- I can't get the festivity dress ready. - Never mind, mother.

I think it's a pity that you feel ashamed.

The festivity lasts today and tomorrow.

Today I have...

...a very important job to do.

Really?

Come on! Get close! We are going to tell you...

...the history of the war between Japan and China!

But first I want to show you...

...a little dance!

RYUSENJI AREA OMOTEMACHI HISTORY OF JAPAN/CHINA WAR

- Is it ok like this? - Yes.

Zenchan, bring me some scissors.

- Madam! - What? - Lend me some scissors.

I feel so good.

I'm a bit drunk.

- Never mind. It's holiday today. - Yes.

I won't be able to walk.

What are you saying?

Geisha Umegae had a pot

If you beat it, there is lots of money coming out

Come on, drink more.

Hey, Shochan, Yokocho hasn't organized anything this year, either.

They are dying out of envy.

- Nobody knows what they're up to. - Let them try and take revenge because of last year...

I'll receive them all.

Those Yokocho guys will see!

Midori is really late.

I guess she is making herself up...

- ...for you. - Nonsense.

What a beautiful sash.

Approach the light.

Turn around, Midori.

Yes.

You look awfully pretty.

Come here.

Midori, Sangoro has come to pick you up.

He says they cannot start without you.

- It doesn't matter. - Really?

See you another day.

What's happened, Omatsu?

How pretty you look.

Shotaro!

Why haven't you eaten?

I'm not hungry. I will eat later.

That's not good. Things are done at the right time.

You have to come back.

Come on.

See you, girls. He'll come later.

Tell Midori when she comes.

- Hurry up. - I know.

- Have they left? - Yes.

- What a hiding place you've found. - I'm so relieved.

- What's wrong? - Well...

- I asked her for a loan three years ago, and still haven't returned it. - Really?

She puts on lots of airs.

Although she is a hateful old woman, people don't stop flattering her.

All because of her money.

She'll finally kill herself with her money. That old hag!

I wish it was mine.

If I had money, I'd go to hospital....

....to detoxify my body for a while.

- What's wrong? - Shinnyo isn't coming.

He says his sister is going away.

It's been suddenly decided.

Tough luck for us.

Well, it doesn't matter, we'll get by.

Come on!!

He is in a hurry and wants to celebrate it as soon as possible.

He has hastened to build another house nearby.

And it's ready now.

He feels like celebrating it at the same time as the festivity.

You are lucky to be loved by such a wealthy man.

It's better to celebrate the wedding at night. It's not an official marriage.

That's what his father thinks. He is a considerate man.

Dear, Shinnyo is sitting perfectly motionless in the main hall of the temple.

What a stubborn lad.

He only had to go and pick up his sister's clothes.

He leaves me speechless.

- I'll go. - No. That's not what he needs.

I'm going to order it to him.

Ohana, you look very pretty.

You can't?

I'll do it!

- Hello! - Midori, you are very late.

- Midori, we were waiting for you. - Yes, yes.

Why don't you light the lantern?

It's a waste of candles.

Don't be stingy.

Hasn't Shotaro noticed, either?

His grandmother has come and fetched him for dinner.

- Really? He's not here? - No.

Hey, boys, let's start the performance. No problem if Shota is away. I'm here.

It's true, let's start!

Okuma, get ready.

They've come!

What about Shota? Where is he?

Shota has to come out!

Where have you hidden him?

Shota isn't here.

You are a turncoat!

You are blemishing Yokocho!

Tell me where Shota is hiding!

Step aside!

Why are you down on Sangoro? If you want to fight with Shota, why don't you look for him?

Don't poke your nose into this!

This is my area. I won't allow you to barge in!

What was that? You are heir to the whore who is your sister!

What have you said? Is this all coming from Shinnyo?

That's obvious.

The sandal is enough for you!

Here you are! Damn it!

Don't run away, Sangoro!

What got into you?

- Hey, let him be! - Don't interfere! Boys, go after it!

Destroy everything!

Toku, bring the police!

The police is coming! Boys, let's go!

You deserved it!

Are you all right?

- What are doing to me? - I am Shangoro!

Shut up!

You bastard!

- Do you want to die? - Yes!

I'll be a ghost and kill you all!

Shut up!

Bastard!

- Do you want me to hit you more? - That's enough!

Let him be!

Fighting is stupid!

Don't harrass the weak!

Why can't you get on well with each other?

You'll be soon adults.

Leave once and for all!

- Shut up, old hag! - What was that?

Such brutes.

Are you ok, Sangoro?

- Are you feeling all right? - Yes.

You haven't been hurt?

Thanks.

- Shall I see you home? - No. I'll go by myself.

Madam, don't tell my father.

Why? You haven't done anything bad.

Even if I haven't done anything bad,

- he'll tell me to go and apologize. - Why?

Because we are poor.

Don't talk nonsense.

Midori, sorry for being late.

I wasn't hiding, I just didn't know.

You don't have to apologize.

I am their objective and they wanted to fight with me.

I've just seen Sanchan and he was crying out of rage.

I am furious as well.

Damn Shokichi! He's done senseless things!

Shota....

...they have treated me as if my face...

...was worse than mud.

What have you come for?

He's come to pick up his sister's clothes.

They're ready. Wait a minute.

Shinnyo,

don't act in a base way.

- What's happened today? - Well...

Madam has told me. I didn't know.

What are you saying?

Tonight my sister's last day...

...is coming to an end.

I've been in all day. I haven't been out.

But Shokichi's said you had.

He's lied.

He hasn't.

Everyone knows Shokichi.

He wouldn't have destroyed our area without your support.

Who is behind them, manipulating them,

and showing a serene face to all others?

Madam, hurry up, please.

No matter how intelligent you are,

and in spite of being a monk in Ryugenji,

Midori from Daikokuya...

...isn't to be persuaded as easily as that.

My grandmother has told me that your sister is going to be a concubine.

Shinnyo,

I feel totally ashamed about...

...how I have been treated by a boy like Shokichi.

I no longer want to play around here or go to school.

You have humiliated me in a horrible way.

Shinnyo, I am very grateful to you!

Do you dare to say anything?

When the dragonflies arrive at the rice field,

the autumn air begins to be fresh.

The clock on the tower sounds somehow sad.

From that moment on, customers come and go looking forward to seeing prostitutes.

There are important people among them.

That's what a former prostitute says.

- How cold it is. - Yes, indeed.

Winter is very tough for the poor.

How is your health?

- I feel even my bones are rotting. - That doesn't sound good.

I am sorry I can't do anything for you.

Midori hasn't been coming lately, has she?

She doesn't go to school, either, since the festivity.

I guess she feels ashamed.

Poor girl...

Sanchan....

Hello Midori, where are you coming from?

I've gone to the temple to say my prayers.

- For your sister's business? - Yes.

- What are you doing here? - I am looking after the kid.

Is it your brother?

No. It's the son of my father's boss.

Well, well, you are looking after Shokichi's brother,

who was the one who hit you?

I've no choice. I can't complain. I'm making a living.

The most difficult thing was to work when being hurt and to keep it from my father.

Sanchan, take this.

Thanks.

I'm off. I don't want to meet anyone.

I am very grateful to you.

I've told you. I'm not bothered by what happened at the festivity.

It's my fault.

You've become a better person.

My father has told me...

...that there shouldn't be any sides nowadays, but that we must support...

...each other to overcome difficulties.

He has even stopped drinking sake.

Shinnyo....

And your sister.... How is she?

She is a very sad woman.

Rumours say that she leads a life full of luxury,

- now she's in a good position. - Nonsense!

You don't understand.

And so, Ohana,

you've come without telling him?

- I'm having a very bad time. - Why is that?

When his wife comes complaining,

don't do anything else but use flattering to calm things down.

That's your task.

Dear, don't be so brisk.

Shut up!

I am saying this for her sake.

Ohana....

Go back to your home.

I understand there are things...

...that make you suffer,

but if you endure them, you'll get used and you'll save my prestige.

That man treats you well.

That's the most important thing. �Do you understand?

Follow my advice.

Father!

Please...

- Allow my sister to stay. - What was that?

Mother, please.

I feel very sorry for my sister.

You should treat her as well as I do.

You speak too much.

Why can't my sister stay here, where she was born?

It makes me terribly sad to think how lonely she is in Tamachi.

If she goes back there,

she'll die.

I'm sure she would die.

Father...

- Please... - Shut up! - Dear!

Take care of that!

- Sister, take your medicine. - Thank you.

Does it hurt you?

This medicine seems bitter.

Sister, take it in one go.

Why aren't you taking it?

I have the feeling that it's useless.

Oiran, are you awake?

- What do you want? - I beg you.

- I know. - But...

- My sister is ill. - You are so affectionate.

Omaki, you understand, don't you?

Sister, you ought to rest.

You can refuse.

I am going to tell him myself.

Midori!

Don't interfere.

But you are ill.

- You can refuse. - I can't.

Why?

You'll understand.

It's not good if there's so much work when you're ill. I shouldn't have prayed for that.

What's wrong?

Why are you crying, sister?

Because you are so innocent.

Why?

Stay always like that,

never grow up.

Why are you saying this, sister?

I'll take the medicine...

...because you have brought it.

- It's got cold. - It doesn't matter.

I don't want you to end up depending on this medicine.

Even if I have to pay with my death.

- Midori... - Yes?

Sister, I'm leaving. Take care.

Take care on your way back.

Goodbye.

Shinnyo, forgive me.

I couldn't say anything.

When my former husband died,

I didn't have anywhere to go. Your father accepted me as his wife.

I have only one thing to tell you.

- Your father doesn't want you to be a monk. - Why not?

- He says it has no future. - I refuse!

I won't follow my father's advice.

I'll go to the main temple in Kyoto.

Hello, is the lady in?

What's the matter with you, madam?

Madam...

Oh... it's you, Midori.

Such a long time.

Are you drunk?

- Well! - However much medicine I take, I don't recover.

My body...

... is desperately suffering.

That's why I've drunk.

Are you ill?

My sister has fallen ill, too.

What's wrong with you?

On thinking that you are going to have the same fate as me,

I've had a laughing fit.

I'd never seen you like this.

Like this?

Prostitute... Soldier.

Why are you looking at me like that?

It's unlucky.

I'm amazed.

You have such a very white skin. And a beautiful face.

You stand out completely. I ignore how many types of business are waiting for you.

You will be a very popular oiran.

Turn around towards me.

Come on.

Listen to me.

Turn your head. And don't put your hand on your hip.

Otherwise you'll seem to be fatter.

It's better if the red colour...

...decorating your ears is very lively.

It will look much better like this.

Listen...

I'm giving you advice.

- Come here. - "Buddhist festivity and new year..."

Shinnyo!

Midori!

What are you doing?

He's so unpleasant.

He doesn't know how to fight in public.

He is wicked.

Do you mean Shinnyo?

But you are in love with him.

Madam...

I'm good at guessing.

But that relationship doesn't work.

Because you're going to be an oiran.

What does that have to do with it?

To be an oiran means...

...that if you are being paid, you have to serve...

...anyone, even the most disgusting person.

They can't complain.

June is a blooming month.

Midori....

Ask your sister.

I was too...

...an oiran.

I remember I also spoke impudently.

Wish those days came back.

Your face...

...frightens me.

Really?

What dreadful things I've told you.

Forgive me.

What's wrong?

I don't know until when...

...you would have been ignorant.

Careful, it's dark.

What's happened to you?

Is your belly or something aching?

Madam...!

What?

What shall I do? I don't want to!

I don't want to! I don't want to!

- Is it here? - Yes.

Orin....

Shouldn't we call a doctor for Midori?

- She isn't ill. - She isn't?

How clumsy you are. She has grown up.

Grown up?

It's something that is celebrated by all families with a daughter. It's that.

Oh.... That.

That's it.

It's like that.

- Let's tell the master, then. - Yes. I was waiting.

I've come running because I heard you were ill.

Have you seen how beautiful it is?

I'm glad you are all right.

But are you feeling bad?

Are you angry?

You'd prefer I wasn't here?

It's not that.

What a shame. I've come on purpose.

I haven't asked you to.

Leave me alone.

When you feel better,

we'll take a picture of us both at my place.

We'll put on holiday clothes.

Shinnyo will die out of envy.

We'll amplify the picture and hang it in the window of that shop.

All right, Midori?

How well you two get on.

How lucky Midori is,

supported by someone so reliable.

Please support her always.

What are you saying?

The watermill turns and turns

Turns endlessly

Shota!

Go away.

I want to lie down.

Go away.

Take your book along.

Midori!

She is very whimsical.

- Shota... - I'm off!

She goes on pulling a face at me.

Don't hold it against her.

I am sorry I've bothered you.

Midori... Goodbye!

From that moment on,

Midori�.

...behaves as if she had turned into someone else.

She has stopped having fun on the streets.

There are people admiring her change since she has become more feminine.

But there are also disappointed people, as she seemed more cheerful before.

Why aren't you going out for a while?

You look so pretty...

Because I don't want to go out.

What's the matter?

What?

Tell me the reason.

You can go out and sport what the master bought for you.

You're acting so weird.

Come closer, come closer!

Mister, this is very good.

Come closer, come closer!

Midori, are you there?

What are you doing?

Take this, it's oshiruko.

They have ordered three plates, and I've brought them.

They are telling me to bring you one.

I'm helping at the rice cake shop. They pay well.

Why do we human beings have to grow up?

What are you saying?

Why can't we be...

...children for ever?

Don't talk nonsense. Who wants to be a child for the rest of their lives?

I don't want to be an adult.

Well, I can't wait to be a grown-up.

I don't want to.

I don't want to.

By the way, now that we're discussing adults,

do you know that Shinnyo is leaving tomorrow for the main temple in Kyoto?

Shinnyo is going to the main temple?

Yes, that's it.

Is it true?

Is it true, Sanchan?

He just told me.

Oh no, raindrops!

Damn it!

Why does rain have to exist?

How cruel. There is neither Buddha nor God.

It harrasses us poor people.

So...

...what do you want?

Tell me.

Don't repress yourself.

Father, mother,

from today on, please think of me as if I was dead.

Midori, what are you saying? Don't say ill-omened things.

Well, it's like that.

Do you think I am unaware of the meaning...

...of being an oiran?

Midori, don't say this.

If I didn't do this,

father and mother couldn't live here.

Orin....

We can't go back to the village, either.

- We don't have a place. - Midori, shut up.

Moreover,

they have invested a lot of money in me.

I have to work to return it.

I'll work hard.

Midori....

And so... you are going to start.

I'll arrange everything so you can start.

Yes.

- These won't do anymore. - True. What a waste.

This rain is awful.

Well, well...

Where is Shinnyo?

He's gone to visit Ohana.

What does he want from her?

He is ignorant of parental feelings.

What clumsy hands you have.

You aren't going to fix your clog like that.

And your hem is stained.

How careless you are.

Shinnyo, use this to fix your clog.

Do you want me to lend you my umbrella?

Midori, I...

The truth is...

It's true that...

Midori....

What are you doing, Shinnyo?

- My clog has come off. - This is Daikoku's.

Oh well...

- You can put on my clogs. - And you will go barefoot? - I'll be fine.

Come on, Shinnyo.

You've turned into a good person.

I don't deserve this praise.

You've had such bad luck.

- Come on, put them on. - Yes.

- You are wet through. Dry yourself with this. - Thanks.

Has anything happened to you?

- I'm going to the main temple. - To the main temple?

I don't want to keep staying in this temple here.

I'm coming from my sister's. I wanted to let her know.

- I don't have anything else to do. - I see.

And so you're finally leaving?

I'll be missing you.

Shinnyo....

We have to share the umbrella.

What's up, Shota?

Are you doing your round also today to collect the loans?

That's right.

There is no other choice.

My grandmother's business happens to be...

...her only reason to live.

Oh, really?

Midori is going to Daikokuya today.

Yes, I've heard.

Madam!

What's wrong?

She doesn't like me, but...

What does this have to do with it?

It has nothing to do with it.

It's not my fault.

I can't do anything about it.

It's not Midori's fault, either.

The world is to blame for it.

Congratulations.

This is a little present...

...offered by the master.

Thank you very much.

Yes.

This is from Ochune.

He is so kind.

- Please register him, then. - Yes.

And this is from...

Oh, really? How kind he is.

- Register this one as well. - Yes.

But today...

...she isn't going to work.

She is only going to the shop to try on the kimono.

So people will remember her face.

Thank you for everything.

She is taking a long time, isn't she?

What's the matter?

I'm going to see. She must be ready by now.

Yes. Go and see her.

Look how beautiful it is.

Are you ready?

You look so pretty.

I'm leaving.

Thank you for everything.

What's the matter?

It looks like the greeting before a wedding.

MIDORI'S DEBUT

Omaki, oiran!

Omaki, oiran! Please come!

Midori....

What are you doing?

We're leaving.

THE END