Original subtitles

Daughters, Wives and a Mother

Directed by: Mikio Naruse

Here.

The first instalment and my seal?

Your husband's doing well.

Not too well.

A little higher.

Lower the light.

Eyes higher. A little more.

Just a little more.

What do you say?

We need room for a catch phrase.

Yes.

It's a poster.

I'm the artistic type.

Your art isn't commercial enough.

Did you spill it?

No!

But she must be cold.

Art will keep her warm.

So you were here!

How do you do?

The shop was full.

You'll soon own the building.

Don't be silly. We can't even catch up with rent.

Reiji, this!

What?

Insurance?

She was introduced by Sanae.

Oh! Her friend.

It's a trust deposit.

10,000 yen a month and 230,000 yen profit in 77 months.

You knew?

You too?

How can I with my salary. I studied it.

It's only a nuisance

Oh yeah?

How about your art?

I'm sorry. Art comes first.

All right let's go. Now smile. That's the way.

Your younger brother applied.

Reiji! A million?

So I thought you would too.

Nonsense!

We haven't got the income.

But an investment is much better than a fixed deposit.

We can't even try to imitate Reiji and Miye.

She's operating a tea room.

But your son and daughter in law are both working.

Yes, one in high school and the other in kindergarten.

We have a lower investment plan.

I flatly refuse.

You can invest your movie expenses.

A movie costs only 55 yen a piece.

You can afford it.

You receive a pension.

Send her to see your own family.

I'm going there right now.

Hello, my boy.

Mama home?

She's at home.

You're a good boy. Another one.

And auntie's here too.

Oh! Totsuka.

Hello.

Visiting?

I've been here a week.

I was going to see you tomorrow.

To collect.

But I...

What happened?

I quarrelled with my husband.

Come in.

Is your sister home?

I called on your brother and sister.

His wife arranged everything at once

She's older. She used to be a model

But you failed with Kaoru?

Her mother's quite a character.

Like my brother-in-law. But Kaoru doesn't run away

I envy you. You can come home any time.

Bring that bean-cake.

The little boy ate it up.

Then phone Fukado to send some.

Ok.

New around here.

Let's get down to business.

I'm hoping of a substantial deposit.

You better talk to them.

Ok

Ten pieces.

We want ten cakes. Please hurry.

You could have bought them.

I was told to order from Fukado beyond the station

A guest?

Yes.

Let me do it for you.

Never mind.

For dinner...

Will Yuichiro be back early?

We can't depend on him.

For us, anything will do.

Sanae is here.

Never mind her. She is just being willful.

Mother.

Sister.

Yes.

She has a guest.

Delicious?

Too sweet.

You're extravagant.

That neighbourhood is full of famous eating places.

Yes.

I think it's about time you went home.

My husband isn't home.

Why?

He's gone to Izu. He said it's a trip of the company union.

All the more, you should be home to look after his parents.

The have their grand-parents.

And servants.

They're proud.

They've all been there long before I got married.

But it's your duty to control them.

That's right.

You should take full control.

I've lost all my energy.

They say women and stockings have grown stronger,

but the poor housewife!

It's the same here.

What a thing to say!

Not in this home.

Even if I wanted to,

or if I was told to get out of here, I have...

no place to go.

So you're resigned to life?

He's late every night.

It's terrible news.

What happened?

Sanae's husband is seriously injured.

Injured?

Yes.

We were notified.

The bus overturned.

It happens frequently.

It's near Izu. I wonder if sister got there.

Yes.

See if the bath is hot.

Yes.

It's not serious.

It was a big party and quite a number were hurt.

I pity sister.

She should have been home.

Hello?

Yes, it is...

What?

Yes... I see...

Thank you for calling.

Well?

After all...

it's awful!

Dead?

He died?

Was she in time?

No. She...

She wasn't?

Yes.

How terrible.

How awful!

Hello, mother?

You're all going to the funeral?

My husband says he's going too.

I haven't got one, so I'll wear a dark suit.

And the obituary money.

Mother says 500 yen is enough.

How much will Reiji take?

He took 3,000 yen on the night of mourning.

Yes, he took as much as 3,000.

That's right.

Yuichiro's mad about it.

He didn't consult anyone.

Hurry up.

How about it?

This isn't a wedding.

How's the hat?

I wish I'd bought that handbag.

500 yen is enough.

We're not directly related.

No use showing off.

We're not like Reiji.

He can afford it.

Aren't you ready?

All right.

You won't go to a movie tonight, will you?

We go.

Oh, Totsuka.

Going to the funeral?

Yes, he was good to me in many ways

Was he?

There's uncle!

Was he connected?

I didn't know about it.

What happened to your marriage proposal?

I turned that one down, and...

But you're 24...

isn't it about time?

Yes.

Did they inform us Sanae will be sent home?

Not exactly.

But the go-between came and hinted about it.

So soon after her husband's death!

They hinted to Sanae too.

Who did?

No one in particular.

They're just making things unpleasant for her.

Is that the kind of people?

Looks like it.

Nothing strange.

What does she say?

What can she do about it?

That means she'll come back here.

Oh my!

She's to blame too.

Always crying on her mother's lap.

I'm to blame.

I should have sent her back.

How old is she?

34

The old counting, 36.

She can't be a model.

Of course not. How could she!

Can't she work in your office?

To get her into my company...

isn't so simple.

All she could do would be serve tea.

How about your place? You do nothing.

Nonsense! That's Kaoru. You play with children.

That's it! A kindergartener.

How could a lady like her work in a kindergarten?

She couldn't go to work.

Then she could get married again.

She's nearly 40.

Impossible unless she's very rich.

She should bring back a nice fat sum.

Yes.

The grandfather controls the entire fortune.

How about our property? She's entitled to a portion of it.

Mother gets one third and we divide the rest.

Really?

That's great!

How much money do we have?

We have none.

Your father left us...

only this house and land.

It's worth about 40,000 yen per tsubo.

More without the house.

Why is that?

Too old. It'll have to be torn down.

How many tsubo have we?

About 200.

Nonsense! It's only 160.

160 tsubo.

The value?

Wait a moment.

Let's see. That's one third of 6 million 400 thousand yen.

Mother gets 2 million 133,300 yen.

We get 850,000 yen each.

How wonderful!

There will be a tax.

Never mind that.

We'll have Sanae come.

And I'll feed her until she marries or gets a job.

I think that's the only thing to do.

This is for last month.

The note is due on the 25th.

Right.

I read your letter.

But i want to quit.

Lending money isn't my business.

I know, but...

Thanks to you, my business has grown.

But they're changing the bottles.

That means the caps I'm making have to be changed.

And I need new machines.

I want all the money returned next month.

Another million is impossible.

But you...

Excuse me but it's urgent.

The chief?

Yes.

I'll be right back.

Please about that million.

I must refuse the proposition.

I'm in a hurry.

Wait a moment.

Hello? Oh Haruko? Yes, he's here.

What a rotten guy.

He was really nasty.

And then?

Then...

Telephone.

What?

Telephone.

Is she so attractive?

Hello?

So long!

Hello? Oh it's you. Sure I know.

It's already finished, a masterpiece.

But it's not ready. It's still in my head.

Just leave it to me.

Is sister back?

Yes, she came back today.

With a lot of luggage.

Where'll she put it?

And you know, sister Kazuko fired the maid.

Oh did she!

But why? It's her own home.

Let's give her a welcome home party.

What? What's that? Property?

You're persistent.

Don't worry. Just leave it to me.

Posters? They're ready.

The property?

You share an inheritance.

You're lucky.

How much?

None of your business.

Sanae is here.

You're welcome.

I'm happy to be home.

Please.

Mum.

What?

This auntie is going to be with us from today.

Live with us?

Yes, so let's be good friends.

Will you read to me?

Of course I'll read to you.

Good, because the maid's gone.

Yes.

What a child!

Now go on and play.

This suits me.

Sleep with me in the other room.

It's comfortable here.

I want to have it understood. How much shall I pay for my board?

But why... you mean how much.

How about Haruko?

Haruko? 2,500 yen.

Then 5,000 from me.

So much?

It's different with me.

But can you afford so much?

I have money... a million yen.

Auntie, read to me.

But where did you get it?

His life insurance. It's all I have.

I see. Then you can relax for a while...

and think about your future.

All of us are concerned about you and your future.

I'm sorry.

Auntie, please read to me.

The length of the locomotive is 21 meters long.

It's weight is 140 tons.

It's pulling power is 1,600 horsepower.

It's speed will go as fast as 110 kilometres per hour.

Can you buy it for a million?

You still awake!

But how much is a million yen?

What about it?

Auntie has a million yen.

What! Auntie has...

At this late hour...

A little drink.

I came because I'm desperate.

I beg of you, please ask him.

I'll have to hang myself.

Uncle, you're always talking about committing suicide.

But listen, this time I'm really struck.

Honestly.

But we haven't any more money left.

We mortgaged this house for that other money.

Nobody knows about it.

Thank you.

The bath is ready.

I suppose Yuichiro will be late again tonight.

He isn't quite fair.

When I paid him interest, he wanted to lend me.

When I'm hard up, he avoids me.

I've heard enough.

It's late. You better go.

It's no use waiting. He phoned he would be late.

I want to see Yves Montand.

Has he come to Japan?

It has come.

Who ordered a dish like that?

I'm sorry. My Papa says he's hungry.

You could have sandwiches made right here.

I have an enormous appetite these days.

From golf?

I'd like to play. Take me with you.

What could it be about?

You go ahead and take your bath.

Ok.

That Mr. Tetsumoto often used to come to our house too.

About money?

I think so.

How audacious!

What is he doing?

He has a small factory.

I hear it isn't doing very well lately.

But he's her foster-uncle.

So Yuichiro can't say no to him.

Sister, you have one million yen?

Who told you?

So it was true. How great!

I'm going to be nice to you.

Don't be silly. That's all she has.

It's better than a dumb husband.

How many years do you think you can live on that money?

Anyway, it's thrilling to have cash.

Brother hasn't.

Reiji acts as if he did, but doesn't.

Sister Kaoru's always broke.

Sorry we're late.

If your going out, tell me so.

I didn't eat till 8 o'clock.

I'm sorry.

Do you always have to meet outside?

The neighbours talk.

Are you listening to me?

I'm already over 60.

I can't be your maid forever.

Kaoru promised to quit her work when she married.

Then until you had a child.

Will you ever have a child?

It's nice to be together.

Going to movies, concerts.

I'm not jealous because my only son was taken from me.

But every home has it's customs.

I just want the wife to comply to them.

Do you hear me?

Yes.

To the bath?

The most crowded time. And most unpleasant.

Be careful.

Let's go to an apartment.

An apartment?

Away from her.

She would appreciate you more.

But to leave mother all alone...

We'll support her.

And a boarder would be an income too.

You tell her.

Why should I?

Why do you make me the bad one?

I can't tell her. And an apartment...

I'll get the money.

I'll ask my brother.

No debts for me.

It isn't. I have a share to receive.

Share?

Auntie.

What are you doing here?

Auntie, give me 10 yen.

I gave you yesterday.

But, please...

Then a caramel.

Too bad. I wanted to talk to Sanae.

She went to the graves.

You must have missed her at the station.

Yes

I hope you don't mind my asking but...

will she remarry?

Remarry?

Do you agree?

If it's a good match.

I don't disagree, but she only has just come home.

But mother, Sanae can't stay single.

She's still young.

Yes, you're right.

There's nothing definite.

But I wanted to ask you.

Sister! Have you become a fashion model?

Come on, you get in too.

I'll look ugly with her.

All right.

Buy this.

Your port wine?

850 yen for a dozen.

Don't mind me.

Here's 400 yen.

Kaoru phoned to ask me to find her an apartment.

Apartment?

It's the mother-in-law problem.

She wants to go away?

Not with that husband.

He's too soft a man.

But he's active in the union.

I'll give him credit.

Hello.

So you came this morning.

You haven't met him.

He's our brewer in Xofu.

Kuroki.

This is my elder sister.

So you're the culprit.

What do you say?

This is for free.

Is it genuine?

Of course! It's worth 400 yen.

400 yen? What a slick operator!

Then you treat us.

Let's all go.

What an unusual group!

I want to have a full-course meal.

I'll be obliged.

I can't.

Kuroki will buy the drinks.

Haruko!

All right.

Really?

Hello? Oh it's you, Sanae.

Yes, I see.

Yes, have a good time.

Was it Sanae?

She's having dinner with Reiji's friends.

On her way back from the graves?

Can't he dance?

She can't.

I have a long way to go, so will you excuse me.

Really? Do you have to?

They're back.

Look at this.

What?

It's a shortcake.

She bought it.

I knew you wouldn't buy such an expensive cake.

I'm not as rich like my sister.

Take a bath.

I'm sorry we're late.

Let's all finish it.

Your brother will be back.

Because it's the end of the month?

As long as he works for a company.

I pity him.

Don't be silly.

He can't play around.

Naturally, because he's the head of the house.

Oh excellent.

Sister bring plates.

She bought it. Don't order her around.

But I gave her a good time.

Yes, I enjoyed it.

What a treat this is.

Keep one for Yoshiro.

Keep this piece. He likes strawberries.

How about a piece for Yuichiro.

I was going to eat two pieces.

Leave me one for my husband.

I give up.

But I'll treat coffee.

Have you?

Upstairs?

So you drink coffee at night?

Yes, it's good.

Don't you drink?

Later.

Go ahead.

Don't do that.

You have beautiful hands.

It's mother's hands that are beautiful.

I heard that father fell in love with her hands.

Is that so!

Are hands so important?

I suffered because I never labored.

But you were born with nice hands.

Hands reflect the person. They differ.

How about mine?

They couldn't be worse.

I'm relieved.

Sister, coffee!

Yes.

Our insurance expires.

How much will we get?

I saw this dress.

It's out of the question.

How much?

5,000 yen for 20 years.

Times change and the value of money changes.

Sanae seems to be back.

Talk to her now.

I'll talk to her.

That money of yours...

It's silly just to waste it.

You could make a profit. Or go to work.

You can't go on doing nothing.

Yes.

But it's hard to get a job.

I'd suggest you use that money.

Get an interest.

Your monthly 5,000 yen you can't pay forever.

But you can't start a money-lending business.

And a bank interest will be only 0.5 percent a month.

Lend it to me at one percent interest.

Not all of it.

Half a million.

You'll get 5,000 yen. Your monthly interest.

All right.

To tell you the truth, it's for my wife's uncle.

He's going to expand. I've invested.

With interest.

I'll guarantee your investment.

How about it? I think it's not a bad idea.

How about it?

Yes... But I wonder if he.

Mr Tetsumoto?

He's a good and honest person.

You don't need to worry, I'll handle it.

Agree?

You do?

You have not eaten the cake yet.

It's all settled.

That's fine. This is delicious.

Mother doesn't eat?

I like tea better.

What was it about.

Nothing.

I want some coffee.

You had a cup.

I gave it to her.

Them?

Couples are selfish.

Were you too?

I think couples should be.

But I never was.

A couple live forever.

It means they'll never part.

Then you can't remarry.

I don't want to.

Really?

"Never to part" is silly!

But if you could, I'd like you to remarry.

I'm afraid I'm fed up with marriage.

Only once?

How often can you!

You must find a good man.

You're right.

Look this way.

This is a love scene.

Wait!

You run and then jump... and...

This is supposed to be a love scene.

That's the right idea.

First the grapes are fermented. Then they are pressed.

After that, they are put in a barrel.

Then bottled, but there are many kinds of wine.

The white and the red wine.

The wine you take with your meal. Like Sherry and Vermouth.

Then we have table wines. Such as Claret, Burgundy and Hock.

Then, of course, we have stronger after dinner wines.

I'm sorry.

I'm coming to Tokyo next month, can we meet again?

So you have to work on Sundays.

Never mind.

Get some water.

Papa, a ball came out.

So that was the trouble.

Why didn't you go too?

How can we.

I don't like grapes.

Don't be nasty.

Sanae shouldn't go around with Reiji.

Haruko made her go.

So that she would pay the expenses.

They are a bad influence.

Even for Haruko.

You should see that studio of his.

But Reiji is an artist.

He's nothing but a photographer.

I've got pupils who are more artistic.

But it's a mysterious thing.

He's able to make a living.

It must be luck.

We want to live separately in an apartment.

Apartment?

I feel as if we don't have any private live at all.

But your husband won't agree.

His mother won't agree.

We'll settle that between us.

Could you lend us 200,000 yen?

200,000? How can I?

This house is worth millions.

I have a share.

Mother will be 60 next month.

Let's discuss it later.

That's better.

You should live together.

We know you're having a difficult time.

But I think you're fortunate.

You go to work.

You don't see her much during the daytime.

But there's a limit.

She wants me to quit.

In that small house...

We can never be alone together.

He's a mother's child.

Okay, I understand.

You don't!

She stares at me in the middle of the night.

I'll go mad.

Doesn't she sleep.

Good morning.

Hello.

I was just in the neighbourhood. You're lucky.

This is powder soap.

Powder soap is not economical.

That's what they all say.

But this is new powder soap.

Three shirts with one spoon.

It's scientific.

I use it constantly.

Only 150 yen a piece.

Just dip it in.

No scrubbing.

You just put your washing in the water and...

But 150 yen isn't cheap.

You can have it for 100 yen if you buy 10 pieces.

Washing tires me lately.

Do you do the washing?

Young girls refuse to work.

They only know how to look pretty.

She's always painting her lips.

These young girls nowadays...

I heard that Sanae was sent home.

It must be hard for poor Kazuko.

Did you wait long?

You should come into town more often.

I wanted to buy a present for my mother's 60th birthday.

Is she 60?

She doesn't look like it.

How's life?

I mean every day.

It's monotonous.

But my sisters took me on a trip the other day.

Really? Where did you go?

The Kofu vineyards.

It was fun.

You look happy.

But I enjoyed the trip so much.

It was so unusual.

I sympathize with your position.

It happens to be my fate.

How about your brother's wife?

Get along?

We do.

But why did she put you into that small maid's room?

I wanted to have that room.

If I were her,

I'd give you the best room.

I'd be extremely nice to you.

And force you out of the house.

I wouldn't.

You would.

I know your character.

That would be mean.

Yes.

You're nasty.

We must live by our wits.

Are you busy?

No, I'm not. You must order something.

Coffee.

It has been some time.

What a coincidence!

I often come here.

Will you join us?

I want to introduce you to...

Let me introduce myself, I'm Gojo.

I'm Sakanishi.

May I invite you to dinner this evening?

Thank you.

I don't like to eat alone. It's a pleasure.

Is it decided?

I...

Oh! It's your mother's birthday, too bad.

What a nice day!

Be careful!

Granny!

It's my turn.

Go away.

Don't be so mad.

I'm sorry. I apologize.

Why did you do it?

Is she so attractive?

I'm fed up with you.

I was joking.

Joking were you!

I'm taking a trip for about a week.

Forgive me.

Apologizing isn't enough.

Where...

I'll scream.

Please be reasonable.

We've got to go to mother's birthday party.

You forgot?

Please come with me.

I'm grateful.

I haven't forgiven you. I've postponed my trip.

But I won't talk to you.

I'm embarrassed.

It looks nice.

Let's toast.

Cheers.

Mother, happy birthday.

Happy birthday.

Thanks you, thank you.

Mother, you must drink too.

Let's have a good time.

When she gets drunk.

Have you ever got drunk?

When she gets drunk, she grabs anything she sees.

Come over here.

Granny, open it.

I'll open them in the European fashion.

Soap.

Only soap?

But it's imported French soap.

And you intend to use half of it.

I question your character.

From Reiji and Miye.

What?

She chose it, didn't you?

It's a convenient gadget.

It smoothes out your wrinkles.

What a nice pattern, it's from Sanae.

I wanted a dress like this.

I'll ask Sanae to choose a kimono for me.

It's heavy, I can't hold it.

That's wine, it's port wine.

How did you manage too.

Is it a sample?

It's the best we have.

No more sales talk.

Thank you very mach.

From Kaoru and Hidetaka.

Isn't it beautiful.

It was made by a friend of ours.

He's an artist.

Lately they make things all out of shape.

Looks funny.

Complete lack of artistic taste.

It's beautiful, thank you.

This is from us.

Again. You must start tea ceremony.

But what a wonderful set.

But it's no comparison with the set we used to have.

Granny gets so many presents.

Granny will get you a nice present tomorrow.

I want a "Highway Patrol".

I'll get you that one.

You're too heavy.

Thank you very much.

I'm the happiest mother there is.

Let's take mother to a hot spring resort.

Agree.

I want to thank all of you.

It makes me happy just to see you all together.

A mother's concern is the health and welfare of her children.

I'm quite satisfied.

As long as I can be with you and my grandchild, I'm happy.

A portrait of the happiest mother.

That's me.

Oh my! She's so happy, she's falling asleep.

This is the duty of the housewife.

Isn't it a little too fast?

The camera is slow.

It looks natural.

Now comes the preview of the sensational film...

Scenes of love produced by Reiji Sakanishi.

The title is "Hymns of Love".

Music!

Who's that?

A stranger. I couldn't stop.

An insect got in my eye.

What strange love scenes.

Why...

Who's he?

He's a brewer. Good looking.

Did he go too?

He lives there.

That's strange.

What did you do?

Reiji must have used some trick.

Still there.

The suspense is very good.

Hello?

Yes.

Just a minute please.

Sister? Telephone.

Maybe Kuroki.

Are you building up a melodrama?

A Mr. Kuroki

Hello.

He may be in love with her.

She's much older.

Age doesn't count.

How about her?

Yes, but I can't... I'm sorry but I really...

Sanae went to see a school friend.

This is expensive ham.

Please buy it from me.

You're getting to be like Haruko.

I'll make it really cheap.

It was given to me.

But it'll spoil.

Canned goods will last.

Will she be late?

I don't think so. You want to see her?

Good afternoon. How are you today?

Good afternoon.

I'm absent minded.

I just remembered.

He's Mr. Gojo of Kyoto, a famous master of tea ceremony.

I was introduced to him.

Long ago?

Just recently.

May I ask you if you intend to marry again?

I haven't thought about it.

Then why...

A friend wants me to.

I can understand, but...

But what?

But I suppose you will marry again.

I wonder.

If I was under 30, I might.

But I know too much.

About men?

No, I mean about marriage.

All hopes and dreams about marriage have been shattered.

I'm sorry.

You have a future.

It's not about me.

Of course, marriage nowadays is different.

Mine was an arranged marriage.

There was an air raid during the ceremony.

It was a very old family.

They had a new bathtub for me.

"Congratulations" was written on it.

Their grandfather's bathtub was by the window.

Our new bathtub embarrassed me.

But it soon became dirty like grandfather's old one.

They where very conservative.

Even the soup was different.

How was it different?

I liked my mother's soup the best of all.

Was I spoiled?

Perhaps I was.

I'm telling you for the sake of your future bride.

You are very kind.

We have nothing.

I don't mind you staying but how about your husband?

I've waited this long.

But Sanae is late.

I should stay out more.

And let the two eat alone.

They act like lovers.

Complaining again.

But he's a kind and considerate husband to you.

It isn't that, it's lack of character.

I'll speak to Sanae for you. You better go.

What is it?

I must talk to her myself.

Let's wait. You don't need to worry.

We haven't had dinner alone for a long time.

Have a drink?

Beer?

Sake.

Good. And there's your favorite fish.

I'm seeing Reiji at his apartment. I have the key.

Then I'll say good bye here.

Let's go together. It's early.

But...

Never been there?

I've never.

Then let's go. He's lonely without his wife.

My! How nice.

He's kept it neat and clean.

Where is she?

Hokkaido.

Hokkaido, how I'd like to go too.

She's a character.

She always takes a trip after a quarrel.

Is that so!

Living in a nice apartment...

with no in-laws. And yet they quarrel?

But once in a while, one wants to be alone.

A man does.

Does he?

Isn't it?

And a woman?

How did you feel?

You want to know because you're single.

You'll find out.

How about some tea?

Living here a woman could change.

How?

She would have time to observe her husband.

But she already knows her husband?

We all thought when so we got married.

But there are all kinds of men.

Like a ripe melon or a rotten pumpkin.

Yes, you're right.

I'm sorry.

I married into a family very fussy about making tea.

I couldn't boil water in a kettle.

Some are fussy about making coffee.

You like it strong?

My husband would drink 3 or 4 cups.

Reiji's late. Where can he be.

He'll be back.

You wait. I'll fix it.

It's a vacuum cleaner.

Yes, it is.

I've never before...

How light it is. Is this the switch?

Hello. Yes, I just got here.

He's on his way back.

I'll go home without seeing him.

Really? Then I'll see you to your home.

Leave me here.

Then, good night.

Good night.

Isn't it late?

Wasn't he in the movie?

Who is he?

I met him at Reiji's place and he saw me home.

I see. I've been waiting to talk to you.

What's the matter?

Let's go somewhere.

Anything to come?

What do you want?

I'm full.

A drink?

Sake?

Why not? A bottle of sake.

Since when have you?

We drink occasionally. Not with mother.

We're thinking of separating.

Separating?

I can't stand living with that mother.

Oh! His mother.

I've no intention to separate with him.

Could you lend us money for an apartment?

It's no use asking brother.

It's 200,000 yen. Could you?

Yes...

It's an apartment we can own.

We'll pay back in installments, so please.

Yes.

I'm so grateful. I'm glad I waited.

We'll start a new life.

Hidetaka, you agreed to it?

You did?

I see.

You're chasing me out.

You shut up.

That's being too cruel.

I'm your mother.

Ever since your father died I've looked after you.

I put you through college and you got married.

Now you want to throw me out.

You're telling me to die.

We're not throwing you out.

You are! You don't want to live with me.

Get an apartment.

Mother, you don't have to shout.

I understand.

If you leave, I do too.

That'll settle it. I'll go to an asylum.

Mother!

Mother.

Mother, you liked these salted biscuits.

I haven't had any for a long time.

When I quarrel with my wife I come to my mother.

You come to mother...

because you don't have the guts to play around.

You're a mother's boy.

All men are like that.

See what I mean! Only mother understands me.

Why don't you go home?

She may be back.

When she says a week. She'll never be earlier.

It was all my fault.

Don't cry.

A strange couple. You're sure to quarrel once a year.

And then forget you ever did.

She isn't pretty, but she has a wonderful heart.

Why do you make her mad?

He thinks he's so handsome.

We're all good looking.

Brother is... and Sanae.

Kaoru is a pretty girl.

You're the only bad specimen.

A photographer with no brains.

You're not able to appreciate my type of charm.

Your only charm is to make me feel hungry.

Have you any pickles? The kind you used to put in my lunch.

I'm getting hungry.

I have to go. Take care of her.

Don't you think it's about time to go home?

He left my bar early last night and he looked pretty forlorn.

I feel sorry for your husband.

He deserves to once a year.

I'm in Hokkaido.

I can't get back so soon.

What in Hokkaido! In the middle of Tokyo.

I bet you're worried.

I am. See these lines.

I need strategy.

Strategy?

My husband's good looking.

Yes, as good as a canned bamboo-shoot.

But he's popular with the young girls.

That's why you shouldn't leave him.

But this is the strategy of an elder woman.

But a woman loses her self-confidence.

Don't be discouraged.

Oh! It's late.

Then hurry up.

The Kabuki's a rare treat.

What happened?

They aren't here?

They went out and haven't come home.

Good evening.

Good evening. Come in.

Our mother said she's going to an asylum for old people.

Asylum?

We're worried. He's a teacher and if it should get around.

You can't tell what they'll say.

What did you...

I didn't say anything. I only wanted...

Anyway, come in please.

MIDORIGAOKA OLD PEOPLE'S HOME

But I had no intention...

of coming here to stay.

I was only curious, but it looks comfortable.

It does.

I never thought about such a place.

But I don't look unnatural sitting here.

You're still young.

Are they outside?

Let hem wait there for a while.

My son has such a weak character.

No, it's all the fault of Kaoru. I'm very sorry.

It was I who lost my temper.

I'm sorry I bothered you.

When will you enter?

You'll soon get used to it. Let's become friends.

I'm glad it's over.

I see you'll always stay by your mother.

What can I do?

They charge 20,000 entrance fee and 6,500 for room and board.

I thought it was free of charge.

It isn't called an asylum.

It's a home.

It was pleasant.

But I'd never go there. I'd rather die than go there.

I'm glad you're early.

Totsuka is here with a proposition for Sanae.

I appreciate your concern.

She made the introduction look like a coincidence.

You've already met the gentleman?

When his second wife died...

he swore he'd never marry again.

When he saw her...

You know Mr. Gojo, the famous tea master in Kyoto.

He's very enthusiastic about it.

It's a bad habit. You always liked to play practical jokes.

But it's true. That was a coincidence.

How about it?

The idea?

Are you angry?

You can't go to work.

You're blunt with the truth.

It's a marriage to be proud of.

You're pretty.

Take advantage of your good looks.

It's a high class family.

But when they're too high.

Isn't it Tetsumoto Industry?

What? But isn't the number 481-8902?

Mr. Tetsumoto?

No? Who?

I'm...

Bankrupt? Where's he?

I don't know.

Then who are you?

I'm a care-taker employed by the new owner. That's all.

Isn't Mr. Tetsumoto there?

He doesn't come any more?

Thanks.

It's so sudden. Why must you sell it?

I mortgaged this house to borrow some money.

I invested it.

The factory went bankrupt and I'm in debt.

So you want to sell this house?

Yes.

Did mother know about the mortgage?

She didn't know. Did you?

She didn't. I did it on my own accord.

It's not all yours.

It's our property father left us.

That's why I called this meeting.

As Kaoru said just now, it's the only property father left us.

It's ours.

We need mother's consent and yours too.

Mother is entitled to one third of the property.

The rest should be evenly divided.

I'm entitled too.

We calculated it. 850,000 yen a piece.

Wait a minute. We all have our rights.

But there's nothing to divide.

This house.

It was mortgaged and spent.

I didn't spend it.

Then who spend it?

Anyway we must get out in one month. Right?

As it stands now.

Let's stop arguing and get down to facts.

It's the first time we face a problem.

Talk about our responsibility.

I didn't spend any.

Me too.

None of us, except you, have spent a cent.

Even mother hasn't. How are you going to account for this?

It was wrong for me to have mortgaged the house.

But I did it with good intentions.

If you judge by results, I can say nothing.

Right or wrong is beside the question.

You'll have to move out. Where will you go?

We must find a place, but that requires money.

So what will you do?

If we sell the house, there'll be some left after paying my debt.

Then we don't even get a cent?

It will be just for little while.

Then you get everything!

What if one of us wouldn't agree to it?

In that case I could do nothing about it.

I see. It means he's renounced his rights.

He's already taken too much.

Then you disagree?

Don't put me in a spot.

Ask sister and Haruko.

Sister?

I have nothing...

Be frank.

But...

You?

Why don't you speak up first?

Basically I disagree.

And I want my share.

So this is why...

you wouldn't lend me any money.

At that time I didn't...

You've got to be hard up to understand.

I refuse.

You should live on your salary. Pay your debt.

But you have no right to what remains.

I want some money too.

I'll have to be an independent.

If we can't agree, do what you like.

However, you'll have to look after mother.

It's a duty we must all share.

I'm... an apartment.

I have a mother-in-law.

Rent a room with sister.

What does the law say?

It's the duty of the child...

provided he has the means.

If a couple, their child and parents had only three potatoes...

They're destitute. Can they ignore the parents?

Legally.

What!

Sister, don't hesitate to speak up.

You've said nothing.

How can you talk like that... in front of mother.

Don't get excited. It's a serious problem.

Mum.

You woke up? Go back to sleep.

Come, let's go back.

Papa and uncles are talking about what they'll give granny.

Granny's birthday again?

Mama, when is my birthday?

Mother.

What would other families do?

As Haruko said, shall we rent a room?

I'll sell insurances.

You could never.

What about the money you lent Yuichiro?

I lent 200,000 yen to Kaoru too.

You're a fool.

They're not getting an apartment.

I can't refuse when I'm asked.

I feel they must be desperate to ask.

You can't hold any money.

The money left over won't be much.

Brother can keep it, but who'll look after mother.

It's the duty of all of us to look after her.

Each of us can put up 1000 yen a month for her.

Each can have her in for one week.

Impossible.

You need the money.

Mother has the right to one third.

You take her over in a package deal.

What a thing to say about your mother!

I was joking, don't get excited.

But I wasn't petted like brother was.

They didn't care about me. See the common name they gave me.

Brother and Sanae were fortunate.

I was born after things grew bad.

What's the use.

The problem now is about mother.

How much does mother get and how much do we get.

Will you take her in?

I meant, can't she get along alone?

We're all left alone some day.

Talk about the family, but we die alone.

We can all take turns to visit her.

I think we should take mother to our place.

Let's do so.

Won't you regret it afterwards?

We're trying to solve this problem in a practical way.

We don't want momentary sentimentality.

I'm of the same opinion.

It'll be a small home.

It won't work. My home is a good example.

If that's the way you feel.

I can't say very much.

You keep out of this.

It's more kin than kind. Kin are strangers.

Things go smoother with real strangers.

Yes.

To think of it, they're all independent now.

They can look after themselves.

But I'm worried about you.

You're so sweet, but you're my only worry.

Then I'm your worst child?

Perhaps you could say so.

Perhaps I am.

But isn't there any kind of work I could do?

A housekeeper or maid... or in a shop.

I can't polish shoes.

How about opening an eating stall?

It can't be done. You're too naive and I'm too old.

You better get married.

Why don't you go to sleep?

It's no use worrying.

But all this came about because my uncle.

I'm very sorry.

I'm very sorry.

I was the one who lent it.

One can never depend upon one's relatives.

They're honest.

Or it may be a way of living.

That's the way I felt.

But I felt most sorry for mother.

Do you really?

Yes.

You suggested that mother stay with us.

What can I say... She isn't my own mother.

I didn't notice it until now.

I always regarded her as your mother.

Although we had no trouble.

I felt inside that there was a gap between us.

But if I regard her as an outsider, I mean in a nice way,

we may get along even better.

It's my feeling.

I'd like to start over

with mother.

What's the matter?

What's the matter with you?

Nothing. It's somewhat stuffy tonight.

Mother.

What?

If the man who I marry offered to have you come with me.

Would you come?

To tell you the truth, Mr Gojo of Kyoto has made this offer.

He made such an offer?

His mother died when he was still a student.

So he suggested you came too.

But I thought you might be embarrassed

and I didn't want to be misunderstood.

What did you think of their talk?

I felt like speaking up.

And tell them that I would look after mother.

But when I thought of how relieved they'd be...

I kept quiet. Also I can't express myself

Mother, I think we better go together.

But I can't decide so suddenly.

It's the best, let's do so.

What's the matter?

I'm just... Let's go to that night club.

Night club?

Yes.

Something's wrong.

Can't a woman invite you?

You dance well.

You said you couldn't.

I'm not too keen.

I never danced with my husband.

This is a farewell dance.

I'm getting married.

Really?

But when did you?

Recently, I had no choice but to get married

Then why didn't you get married to me.

How could I?

Why not?

But your parents are waiting to the day you'll marry...

a nice, young and pretty girl.

Why young?

We just can't.

I've enjoyed knowing you.

I was tired out, my throat parched.

And then I met you, at once I felt revived.

I'm grateful.

Angry? I'm thanking you.

Let's have another dance.

Will you lock the door?

Where were you?

The tower.

It's beautiful, the lights of Tokyo.

I can't come often from Kyoto.

I had a phone call from Miss Totsuka.

The go-between has been decided.

A Mr Ayakoji who's an ex-count.

A family like that must observe various formalities.

The best place is home.

You sure of yourself?

Don't worry I have experience.

When we're in Kyoto, let's go and see all the temples.

The Golden Pavilion, the Moss Temple and...

What?

I'm really grateful, but I decided not to go.

Why?

You can't back out, I consented because you.

That's terrible, you deceived me.

I didn't deceive you.

Were you going to get married just for my sake?

Didn't you think of yourself?

I did, but...

I wouldn't feel comfortable...

if you got married just because they offered to take me in.

But this house is soon going to be sold.

Mother, you will have no place to go.

I'm going to take you with me.

You selling it?

I'll marry you and I won't need an apartment?

Bring your mother.

Just like Gojo.

She can't live in a place like his, she's still young.

She can tend to the baby.

Using her like a maid?

What'll she do?

She's going to Kyoto with Sanae.

I like your mother, she's independent.

Children should be too.

Mrs Aki Sakanishi

Midorigaoka Old People's Home

Where's mother?

To the greengrocer.

Mother?

She went for a walk.

I wanted to talk to you about mother, I want to take care of her.

The house may be small.

Brother's idea?

It's most natural.

She's going to Kyoto with me.

But actually, mother intended...

It's true.

It's a nice day.

Yes, it's a nice day.

Very soon we won't have this park any more.

Is that so?

A bank is building an apartment.

The children will have no playground.

What a pity.

Your grandson?

I take care of it for one of my neighbours.

I get 70 yen a day.

Old ladies like you are very much appreciated.

But not old men.

My son's wife scolded me this morning because I couldn't wash.

Excuse me. Good bye.