Original subtitles

FLOWING

Adaptation from the original novel by Aya Koda

Cinematography by Masao Tamai

Music by Ichiro Saito

Cast:

Kinuyo Tanaka, Isuzu Yamada Hideko Takamine

Mariko Okada, Haruko Sugimura Sumiko Kurishima

Chieko Nakakita, Natsuko Kahara Seiji Miyaguchi, Daisuke Kato

Directed by Mikio Naruse

TSUTA HOUSE

I'm back!

Fujiko, you're really coming on

I'll do some practice when it gets a bit cooler

Eh? Someone's been using this

Nanako... watch what you say. We all have to live under one roof

Namie says her payment slips don't tally up

She's got the cheek to suggest we've been cheating her

I've got it all written down here

So what?

You could've simply made them all up!

You've no right to point the finger of suspicion at us

A country girl like you...

...with filthy hair and grubby hands!

That's right. When you first came here, you were absolutely clueless

Exactly

You had no idea how to treat a client

I heard you even asked them to feed you!

You didn't even know what salmon was before you came here!

Well, where I come from in Chiba, we don't have such food

Oh, dear me!

Yes? Tsuta House...

Yes? You want to speak to my mother?

Ponko, don't stray too far!

Mother, it's the Geisha Guild for you

- You told them I wasn't here? - Hmm...

What's all the noise downstairs?

Well, Namie's complaining about her pay

She's got to understand we've a business to run here

I'm getting no sleep at night, so at least keep them quiet during the day

It's the end of the month, though, and the bills are due

All they say is, "Where's our pay?"

Just pretend not to hear them

ACCOUNTS

- How many for dinner tonight? - You'll have to ask Yoneko

She never seems to lift a finger!

Where are you off to?

Just out

- Excuse me? - Coming!

And you are?

I've been sent by the employment agency

Here...

Just wait a moment, will you?

- Who is it? - The new maid

Do you want these?

Come in

Thank you

Mrs... something... Yamanaka? How do you read these characters?

It's pronounced "Rika"

- "Rika"? Oh! - Unusual name, isn't it?

- Sounds foreign to me - Hard to pronounce, too

At your service, mistress

Please, there's no need to be so formal

- Are you married? - My husband died the year before last

And my child died last year. Since then I've been supporting myself

Oh, really?

I would actually prefer to employ an older person like you

You shouldn't talk about the elderly like that!

Everyone over 30 here is considered old!

Anyhow, you can order young people around but they're not very sensible

- Older people know better... - They're always whingeing, though!

I'll do my very best for you, if you'll take me on

Everyone I've been to see has said I'm too old

Let's try you out and see, shall we?

Well, this is where we all eat, work and sleep

We don't have any special requirements

I'll do my best for you

Mother, I'm just going out

- Where to? - Just out

Just because the new maid's here doesn't mean you can swan around

- Where's Namie? - Gone out somewhere

- Where's Fujiko? - Gone for a cold drink

Not again? She's been having them all day, she'll get stomach ache

Show her around the house

- Come on, then - Yes...

There's the toilet

That's the kitchen

And this is your room

This is the bathroom

Nanako, show her around. I'm going to get Fujiko

That's how the senior geisha can act!

- Let me help you there - That's all right. I've finished now

I hope you don't mind getting your hands dirty. Otherwise, you'd better leave now!

That was Yoneko, the mistress's younger sister. She's bone idle

Katsuyo is the mistress's daughter. She doesn't miss a trick!

- Nanako! - Yes?

- Is Ponko down there? - Ponko?

Isn't that Ponko I can hear wailing?

Well...

...I wonder where she could be

Look out for her. She's not been very well recently

All right!

They look after the cats better than the girls in this place!

Your name's difficult to say so we'll call you "Oharu" instead, yes?

Whatever pleases you, mistress

- Would you give this a rinse for me? - Yes, mistress

It's all right, I'll get it

Hello? This is Tsuta House...

Oh, hello there again

Of course...

You're requesting Namie? Very well

Yes, me, too...

No, not at all

Yes, let's make it next month

We all have to work for a living

Very well. All the best

Good morning

Morning

- When you've done that, run a bath - Yes, mistress

Oharu, come here

Someka?

This is our new maid

Pleased to meet you

Someka lives in an apartment nearby

Nice to meet you

You're naughty, running off like that

Ponko's here now

- Did Namie say anything to you? - No, nothing special

I just wish you girls would come and talk to me straight

I'll tell them you said so

You there!

Be careful there

I shouldn't tell you this, but we're not permitted to have a fire

Is that so?

It's against building regulations

Do you know that prayer to guard against fires?

Trace the character for "water" on your palm three times...

...then raise it towards the fire. You should try it

Can I help you?

I'd like two bonito and three packets of seaweed for Tsuta House

- For Tsuta House? - Yes

Oh, welcome to the store

The problem is that your last bill is still outstanding

I told the girl not to order anything more until the bill's been settled

Oh... well, today is my first day working for them so I know nothing about that

Well, I suppose you've been a loyal customer...

...I can give you one bonito

And the seaweed?

Just let her have one packet

Oh, don't do that!

- How does that feel, madame? - Fine

- Are you off to Fujimura's? - Yes

Pass me that

Where on earth has Namie disappeared to?

She's got two bookings tonight

Maybe she's gone looking for extra work on her own?

Although she's young and resilient, I wonder if she can handle it

I'm off now

See you later

Have you any sauce? Sauce?

Madame would like some sauce?

She's so untidy!

- Good evening! - Yes?

Oh, it's you, sister

- They said you weren't feeling well - I'm not. And I'm up to my neck in debt

I've got something to tell you. Is anyone upstairs?

It's an untidy mess, but go ahead

- Oharu, tea for two upstairs - Yes, mistress

I owe her a lot of money

That's her elder sister. She lives near the Kishibojin Temple

Oh...

The two sisters have mortgaged this place to the hilt

They are stepsisters with different fathers, though

So, have you had any news from Osaka?

There's no reason to expect any

We haven't signed on anything

Anyway, we're disconnected completely

To think you turned down Mr Hanayama for that good-for-nothing, eh?

How much did he swindle from you for his new business venture?

Have you just come here to scold me?

Not at all. I have a gentleman I want to introduce to you

He's a director of a steel company

He's invited us to go to the theatre with him

Excuse me

- This is the new maid I told you about - I see

Welcome, madame

We're relying on you...

...because nobody is perfect in this place!

I look forward to being of assistance, madame

Please excuse me

I'll have one of these

So, I think this fellow may help us out

The steel industry's big business these days

- Do you think he'd lend us money? - Well, that's all down to you

This is your last one, right?

Ponko! Naughty cat!

- Is Namie back? - No, not yet

- Mummy, buy some more - You've had enough

Is my aunt here?

Yes. She never forgets to show up at the end of the month!

Oh!

So pleased to see you

You should be careful, your voice travels

Are you hungry? Not that we've much to offer

No, I ate earlier

And I always go to bed early, too

Good idea. It saves on electricity bills

And it keeps the wrinkles away!

Someka, I expect you to start paying me some interest

Good evening

Yoneko, can't you start working a little harder?

Enough. I'll be going grey with all the worrying I do

That scared me to death!

Ponko?

They're so beautiful

A geisha's costume is her weapon. We spend a lot on kimono

The one your mother was wearing this morning was a real eye-catcher

I was once a geisha for about six months, you know

- We were all bought these kimono - Really?

My mother went into such debt to buy them

Did you not like the life of a geisha, Katsuyo?

I wasn't suited to it

Everybody said I'd never be successful in this business

I'm just no good at flattering people that I don't like

Mother's exactly the same, but she has remarkable talent

She's beautiful, too

Still, it seems to bring her nothing but bad luck

What kind of man will you marry, Katsuyo?

- No one would marry me - Why do you say that?

What did you used to do, Oharu?

Me?

Nothing in particular

I was just an ordinary housewife

But what becomes of girls like me?

My mother spends all day flattering people...

...but no one really cares about her

That's why I fight for her

There's a guy here, says he's Namie's uncle. And he's really angry

Namie's uncle?

Yes. And there's something nasty about him

I'll see to him

Welcome, sir

How may I help you?

And who are you?

I'm the maid

I've only been here four or five days

I want to see the mistress of the house

I'm afraid you just missed her. She's gone out

I bet she's hiding somewhere, eh?

It's better for her to eavesdrop on me from behind the screens

She should come and talk to me face-to-face

Eh?

I don't know if you know my niece...

...but they put her to work here and then cheated her out of her wages!

We can have this talk elsewhere if she wants

I can't wait around

Tell the mistress I'll be round later, eh?

I'll be back to pick up all the money that my niece is due

She's the only one of our sisters who succeeded in becoming a geisha

She's pretty and sings beautifully

There's only five years between us...

...but with my looks, people often think we're mother and daughter!

Now where was it? You were the best geisha at a party I attended

Mr Muramatsu says he has heard you sing before

Your reputation is well-deserved

Well...

Oh?

Isn't that Mizuno's wife?

From the Mizuno restaurant

She used to be a senior geisha to my sister

Isn't that Mr Saeki with her?

- Excuse me for a moment - Where do you think you're going?

At least it's a bit cooler today, isn't it?

I'm Mrs Tsurumoto from across the way

I see. Very pleased to meet you

Everyone's been telling me what a wonderful maid you are

Bye

Welcome back, mistress

Can I have a word, Oharu?

And now the rowing motion...

- Welcome home - Afternoon

I don't want you talking to our neighbours. All they do is gossip

I'll be careful from now on, mistress

Mother, something terrible has happened

What is it?

- Namie's uncle showed up - From Mt Nokogiri?

He kicked up an awful fuss. He said he'd be back

Oh...

Oharu, do we have any sake left?

Oh, there was some in it yesterday

You have to keep it under lock and key, otherwise they'll just drink it all

- Go buy some more - But...

It's almost the end of the month. Tell them I'll settle up then

The mistress has so much to worry about

Her elder sister keeps tight control of everything

She's been swindled by her man, and business isn't looking good

And some girls have left us this year ...

...Yukimaru, Tsutaji and now Namie

- That's three of them! - There used to be seven girls there

Oharu! Over here!

There you are

- Come and have a drink with us - Come on

Thank you, but maybe some other time

- Buying sake? - For a client?

No

It's for the mistress to drown her sorrows

Well, enjoy yourselves. Please excuse me

- Why is she always so formal? - She's not, is she?

I'm back

How come you went to the theatre?

Who did you go with?

Why do you want to know?

What's wrong with me going to the theatre occasionally?

My aunt wouldn't invite you anywhere without an ulterior motive

Stop worrying about me

Shall I bring some sake up for you, mistress?

Sake? Yes, please do

Oharu...

...have you been on your own ever since your husband passed away?

Yes

I never thought a woman could live without a man

Oh, yes... I'd very much like you to stay

Three free meals a day...

...two days off a month, and 3000 yen monthly

I especially appreciate you being here

- Thank you, mistress. I accept - Yes?

A geisha's life looks glamorous from the outside...

...but it's not always like that

It can be, sometimes, though...

Mother! Telephone!

You're not a little child any more!

You don't just disappear when I've made all these arrangements

Eh?

Mr Muramatsu? Yes, he's still here waiting for you

So come back right away

I arranged all this for your benefit!

Yes... yes. Look, I know how you feel, sister...

...but, like you say, I'm not a child any more, so I refuse

Right in front of Madame Mizuno, as well! How embarrassing!

Carrying on like that at my age!

Look, leave it to me, I'll sort it out

Eh? The money?

I don't have it. If I had it, I wouldn't be in this state

Look, I know you think I'm useless, but just give me some time, OK?

Yoneko, you good-for-nothing!

TO: MR G IWATS U, KIMITS U, CHIBA PREFECTURE

300,000 yen? How do they reckon that much?

There's no way we're paying that!

They've got a cheek!

- Oharu! - Yes?

- Will you check on Fujiko for me? - Of course. Anything else?

- See if Nanako is at the beautician's - Yes, madame

- She plays mah -jong in the mornings - That's her own business

I have nothing but bad luck!

I'm just going out for a bit

I wonder what my sister's up to. That man's coming tomorrow, right?

I just wish she'd tell us where she's going and why

- Good day to you! - Come on in

Is she in?

- Have you got a client this early? - I'm sorry about the other day

I don't need any apologies. Today's the last day of the month, right?

I know, I know

That Mr Muramatsu that you met, he's such a nice man

Despite your behaviour, he wants to see you again

He wants to offer you help. You don't meet many like him nowadays

Look, I know I owe you money, but I have to say...

...no matter how reduced my circumstances become...

...if I don't like someone, then I can't...

Is that so? You and Yoneko are both the same

You'd do anything for a man that you liked

Yoneko's not a geisha girl, but you can't live like that nowadays

But you? You've mortgaged this place to pay your man's loans

Mortgaged to my rich sister

If you're trying to blame me, then you're barking up the wrong tree!

- Where are you going? - I'm going round to Mizuno's

I think she's got a temperature

I keep telling her to look after her

- What's happened? Where does it hurt? - My head hurts

See what's happened?

Come in

Phone for a doctor!

Anyway, I'm going out

I await your return, mistress

Hold it there. Lean in a little more with your shoulder

Catch it properly. And...

Good. That's all for today

I'll see you now, Otsuta

- Thank you - Say hello to your mother for me

- Bye-bye - Goodbye

That's Umeka's daughter

Umeka's a housewife now

She's not keen on her daughter becoming a geisha, though

Something wrong?

There's something I want to talk to you about...

I see...

I saw you at the theatre the other day

Please forgive me for not saying hello

- Shall we go outside? - Yes

Coming!

You're very quiet

Last time I saw you, you were yelping like a puppy!

I can't bear to watch injections

Stop it! Lt'll make you better

How old are you now?

I'll get Oharu to help. Oharu!

- Yes? - Can you help me hold her?

- You want me to hold her? - We need you

- Right, be still - Excuse me

Now, Fujiko...

...you're such a clever little girl, aren't you?

You'll listen carefully to what I tell you, won't you?

If you wriggle around like that, the needle will break and it'll be much more painful

Very brave! There's a clever girl. It'll all be over in a second

Really? Well, come as soon as you can

She's waiting here, so hurry

What's Mr Hanayama doing?

Oh, I see. That's good

Mr Saeki will be here in five minutes. Will you explain it all again to him?

Yes

I feel embarrassed in front of Mr Saeki for causing you all this trouble

Not at all

It was all thanks to you that he got the job as Mr Hanayama's secretary

I was thinking he'd make a good husband for your daughter Katsuyo

Oh, really...

I just wished you'd come to me sooner for help with your financial problems

Otoyo's treating you appallingly. And what's with this fellow from Chiba?

It's like they're all trying to tear off a piece of you!

I think you've been far too complacent in your business dealings

Yes? This is Umemura's

Yes, she is here

Yes...

Yes, of course. I understand

For me?

Mr Saeki said Mr Hanayama has just returned so he won't be able to make it

Is that so? Many thanks

- Well, that's a shame - It is

Fujiko's not been feeling well, so I should go back

May I suggest that you meet with Mr Hanayama?

I couldn't

Why?

Apparently he still talks about you, you know?

After what happened between us, I couldn't possibly...

But you didn't agree to meet Mr Saeki to ask for help from him alone, surely?

You wanted to enlist Mr Hanayama's help, too

Isn't that the truth?

Dear, oh, dear! You're not a girl of 20 any more, Otsuta

I know you too well

Just leave it to me, it's no trouble

Thank you for everything, as always

Take good care of her

- Don't give her anything to eat today - Very well

Thank you so much

Telephone for you, Aunt

- Who is it? - Mr Momiji wants you to come over

I don't want to go out to work elsewhere with Fujiko not being well

I'd prefer to do the maid's work here

Hello? Yes...

Yes, but unfortunately Fujiko's ill...

- Tell the mistress I'm off to Shinkine's - I will

Sorry I took so long. The local store was out of ice, so I had to go to another

Someka, I got what you asked for

Thank you

I'm really hungry

No food, or you'll have to have another injection

I've no idea where your mother's disappeared to

- There's your bread roll - Thank you

- And three croquettes - Croquettes are so cheap and tasty

You'll need these

I'll give you one

Thank you

I had them refried for you to keep them hot

That's very kind of you

- Any pepper? - Yes

- Oh, it's empty - I bet there's no chilli powder either

Buy some next time, but don't tell them it's for me

Pass that sauce

And a little ice

Welcome home

Evening

Welcome home

How's Fujiko?

Her stomach's hurting, but it doesn't seem to be anything serious

Her mother ought to be looking after her

The doctor said no more injections!

Really? That's good

- Where's her mother? - She had to rush out

Unbelievable, isn't she?

Welcome home, mistress

Sorry to keep you waiting

You must be feeling hot. There you go

That's nice and cool for you, isn't it?

Welcome home

Where did you go?

I went looking for him... but he wasn't around

You should be ashamed of yourself, chasing around after him like that

What was I supposed to do? The child's sick and he's the father

What? He left the child with you and disappeared!

Didn't Katsuyo's father do the same thing to you?

I'm going to take a bath

Sorry...

...I didn't mean to compare my situation to yours, sister

I'm not even a geisha... I'm just Fujiko's mother

And you let us live here with you...

Is it raining?

Mother...

What is it?

I'd like to meet my father. Would that be so bad?

I have no idea why you and he split up...

...but I can't bear it

As you have no one to turn to

Don't worry about me

It's parents that are supposed to worry about their children

Silly girl!

What are you crying about?

Listen, Mr Saeki is coming over sometime soon

Why don't you go to the cinema with him?

You said you wanted to take a boat trip on the river

It would be so lovely and cool on the river

Look, stop hanging around your father, will you?

Mr Momiji? It's Someka here

Thank you

Listen, if you need a geisha to entertain you, please let me know

Please let me know, won't you?

WOMEN'S EMPLO YMENT OFFICE

- She's gone to the temple, you say? - Yes

She said she wanted to avoid a rather troublesome visitor

Welcome, madame

Another polite greeting?

Everyone says what a wonderful maid you are

Not at all. I'll bring tea...

Wait, wait! I have a favour to ask of you

Please give this to Madame Otsuta

There's 100,000 yen there. Tell her I brought it for her

I'll tell her more about it when I see her next time

It's such a lot of money...

Well, I have to be somewhere rather urgently...

...so could you quickly write me a receipt?

I see, madame...

Miss Katsuyo is out, I'm afraid, but Miss Yoneko is in...

...so maybe it would be better to hand the money to her rather than me

I'm sure Madame Otsuta wouldn't want them to know about the money

Very well, then. I'll take the liberty of counting the money here?

Hey! Is there nobody in?

Oh, it's the man from Chiba...

Namie's uncle?

Yes

- I'll go and talk to him - But...

- You count that - Very well

Many thanks, madame

You always say she's out!

She is out, I'm afraid. Please come in and see for yourself

And who are you?

- I'm an official from the Geisha Guild - An official?

This is my younger sister's establishment so I'm no stranger here

My mistress told me to ask you to wait

I'm not leaving until I get what I came here for!

I'll come in

Please come this way

Here's your receipt, madame

- Hey! Which way am I going? - This way...

What shall we do?

Lt'll be all right

She went to the temple for a lucky talisman

- And he turned up while she was out! - Yes

He's not carrying a knife or anything, is he?

Don't be silly!

You certainly can't judge a person by their looks...

...and that mistress looks like she wouldn't hurt a fly!

It's a violation of my niece's rights! She used her like a whore!

What does your Guild have to say about that, eh?

Well, I don't get involved in such difficult matters

- I really wouldn't understand - Eh?

Tell me, is it true that there's still a stone quarry on Mt Nokogiri?

A quarry? Of course there is! I work there, don't I?

Just look at my hands. I use a pick every day

Is that true?

Because "Nokogiri" means "saw"...

...I always thought that's where saws came from!

You silly woman!

Hey! Isn't that her?

Mistress...

...I was given this for you by Madame Mizuno

Really?

Listen, don't tell anyone about this

And go and get some snacks and two bottles of sake

And bring three sake cups. Plus we need some fruit...

Pears will be fine. Get two

Right, I'm going home. Your turn to take over!

I'm terribly sorry for all the trouble

You'll need more than a lucky talisman to deal with him

Really?

- I gave Oharu some money for you - Thank you

It's 100,000 yen from Mr Hanayama. Mr Saeki brought it round yesterday

- Thank you so much - Don't mention it

Don't let them get their hands on it

Hey! What's going on?

Quick! Or else the whole neighbourhood will hear

- Hey! - If you need me, give me a ring

- Thank Mr Saeki for me - We'll talk about it later

Thank you

Are you all right, sis?

Mummy, I'm scared

- Hey! - I'm awfully sorry

Let's go back upstairs, shall we?

There you go, two pears

And one apple

- Can I pay for the apple separately? - Yes

What did you say? What kind of a fool do you take me for?

You think you can settle this without paying me?

Please lower your voice, we have a sick child downstairs

Please excuse me

Sorry for taking so long

Your change...

...440 yen, mistress

Oh? I only gave you 100 yen

Oh, that's right

I'm sorry. This is my change

There you are

Even the maid's making fun of me!

You tell me that business is down and you can't give me any money...

...and yet even the bloody maid's got money to throw around!

Sorry, but the change was from my own shopping

I bought an apple for Fujiko

Before he died, I remember my own child was overjoyed to get an apple

Hey! We're not discussing the dead!

- That's all, Oharu, - Yes, mistress

I'm not leaving until I get my money!

- Look... - Good morning

Yoneko's man, the cook, has turned up

Come on! You've come all this way, at least just look at your child!

I don't want to. We already discussed this

And what did you say? "Fujiko's mine, I'll look after her!"

I only came here because I feel a duty towards your elder sister

Just look at him

He always thinks he's so high and mighty

If you can't look after her properly, then I'll have to take her away!

Pleased to see you

If you're going to yell at each other, do it inside, not on the doorstep!

Sorry I haven't been round for a while

Please take this to cover the cost of the medicine

What's this?

You'd better come in

Listen, I've already settled everything with her

But you ought to give her a good talking to

She still comes pestering me for every little thing

Yoneko!

Well, you'd better come in anyway

- Delivery! - Round the back

1000 YEN

What time is your last train home?

Eh? I'm not leaving with only 50,000 yen!

You can't fool me!

I've given you all that I have

You live here in the heart of Tokyo and you say you haven't got any money?

Listen, I'm ready to settle this in court if you want

All I need to do is inform them

I know you're all in this together

It would do no good dragging this through the courts

No good to who? I'm not the one in trouble!

Mother?

Is that a client with you, Mother? Shall I come up?

Oh, you're back

I'm worried about you

What's all the shouting about? Is he threatening you?

- What? - Now, now

Has he hit you, Mother? Tell me if he has

It's fine, it's nothing at all

What are you talking about?

Just stop worrying about me, it's fine. It's nothing at all

Oharu, bring some food up. One bowl of rice and tempura

As soon as you can

Mother!

I'm the one who should be worried. Where have you been all day?

Hey! What's going on?

I'm coming now!

- Always at your service - Thank you

- Take him to a hotel, understand? - Yes

I'll deal with him for you

I don't know if he'll like it, though

Please be careful

He'd better not be taking me anywhere strange!

Not at all. Why on earth would we do that to you?

You can get a good night's sleep somewhere nice and quiet

Careful

Take care, won't you?

Welcome home

Quick, in here

I've heard it's been awful

First, the shouting match between the guy from Chiba and Katsuyo...

...and then Yoneko's Ex turned up!

- How do you know? - Bad news travels fast

Someka met Koito...

...Koito told Chiyoko...

...and Chiyoko told me, that's how I know!

It's so hot

- Where's Someka? - She went home early today

Hey, did you know?

Someka lives with a man ten years younger than her!

Did you just hear a man's voice?

You've left your laundry out on the floor above

Oh, I'd forgotten about it...

Take it down immediately. You shouldn't leave it out

I'll see to it at once

- Are you new here? - Yes

My name's Rika Yamanaka, 45-years-old

Long time no see, isn't it? Are you on patrol?

- Oh, were you in bed? - No, not yet

Oharu, bring a hand towel and some cold water

- No, it's all right - Please just rest a while

- Listen, order a bowl of noodles - By telephone?

- No, from round the back at Hakuga's - OK

- Mr Hakuga? - Eh?

A bowl of noodles, as fast as you can

Well, you can laugh all you like...

...but a police officer's life is hard

We often put our lives in danger in the line of duty

That's why police officers all look so strong

In handsome uniforms!

You should marry one, Nanako, then you'd never be afraid again

- He's got a gun and a truncheon - You're right

Right, I'd best be going

Just stay a little longer. Oharu? Oharu!

I'll pass it up to you, OK?

Got it?

What's up? Has your phone broken?

Wait till you taste the flavour!

- Good morning, madame - I bet they're all still in bed

CURRICULUM VITAE MISS KATS U YO KANNO

Good morning

You can't still be in bed, surely?

I've already had my lunch

But geisha are never early risers, it's bad for your health!

It's because you're working so hard

What are you doing there, Katsuyo? A curriculum vitae?

What on earth for?

I apologise for not returning your money for last month

Listen, Otsuta...

You, too, Katsuyo. Listen to me.

If it goes on like this, you're going to go bankrupt...

...so why not change your business?

What? Change business?

Well, is Katsuyo going to inherit this business?

No, she detests the whole geisha business. I was thinking more of Fujiko

Fujiko? That'll be ten years from now. What will you do in the meantime?

And this place is mortgaged...

I know that. I shouldn't trouble you any more with this

I know someone who may be interested in running it as a hotel

You could sell this place for a good price, pay me back...

...and then invest the remainder in the hotel

Someone's interested in buying this place?

Madame Ohama Mizuno wants to start up her geisha business again

- Madame Ohama? - Right

I'll be back. And tell her she won't get rid of me for 50,000 yen!

I'll come by and pick up Namie's things later in my car

He's gone at last

You think that's the last you'll see of him? What a carry on!

Tsuta House has one of the best reputations in the business...

...and yet that fool swaggers around here like he owns the place

And you think I should sell the place despite its reputation?

It's not my idea, it's Madame Mizuno's!

Ask her yourself if you don't believe me

- Good morning - Morning

It's so busy here that it's impossible to get any sleep

I don't know what Otoyo said to you...

...but unlike her I would never charge interest on a loan to my own sister

I know you're having trouble and I worry about you...

I'm sorry

But whatever happens...

...I would never reproach you for anything

But if you were to take over the house...

...then I would prefer you to have it rather than my sister

Oh, Otsuta, you're taking this all so seriously

I'm far too busy running my own place, anyway

You're always summoning me urgently!

- It's been a while - Yes, it has

That's because you'll only come if it's urgent!

That way, Mr Hanayama can't complain

He's not as patient as he used to be... Like he's expecting the worst to happen!

Tell him he'll damage his liver with all that stress

He should arrange to see Otsuta some time

Why don't you bring him round here this evening?

This evening?

You told me he'd made the same suggestion

"I haven't seen Otsuta for such a long time," he said

What I think he means is that he'd like to see you

As he's getting older, Otsuta...

...he's feeling nostalgic about you

I wonder...

He was my patron but we parted company

So what?

Tell him Otsuta is in a spot of trouble and needs his advice

He wouldn't say no, would he? He's not that kind of person

He still has feelings for you

He always looked after you, never letting you wear the same kimono twice!

And he gave you that 100,000 yen the other day

About that 100,000 yen...

He gave it quite willingly, didn't he?

It was just like he was giving out pocket money, wasn't it?

Listen, I'm fine...

I felt terrible having to ask him for the money

I couldn't ever trouble him again...

And how long have you been a geisha?

At any rate, you must meet up with Mr Hanayama

And you, Mr Saeki, owe a great deal to Otsuta, too

Let's make it 7:00 this evening

If you can't bring Mr Hanayama along, then we'll go to him

There's a strange atmosphere here today, don't you think?

Not only today. There's always a strange atmosphere in this house

But I'm glad the mistress is meeting an old client

It'll do her good... It'll do us all good

- Oharu, come with me - Yes, mistress

- Good day! - Is that the kimono man?

- Which sash will you wear, mistress? - Help me with my hair, Oharu

- You have such beautiful skin - Not any more!

Back in my day, we used to take great care of our skin

Girls don't bother so much these days. Or with their hairstyles...

It just doesn't look the same somehow, does it?

No...

When we were young, geisha were seen as very different creatures

We always tried to be better than the other girls

But that's all changed nowadays

Our costumes, our hairstyles, our artistry...

...all those special things about a geisha are disappearing

Young geisha today are just like any other women

It will be autumn soon

Last year's colours simply won't do

You can't go out to see clients dressed inappropriately, now, can you?

Miss Someka, can I tempt you with something new?

Let me see... How about this one?

A very popular colour this season...

Good day. I have the perfect colour for you, madame

If you get your hair done in a traditional style, you'd look even more stunning

- Oharu, would you call me a car? - Yes, mistress

Welcome back, madame

Are you going out somewhere?

Where have you been?

I heard from a high school friend about a sewing machinist job

What? A sewing job?

I feel bad staying here for nothing and not paying my way

Are you being sarcastic?

No daughter of mine should ever have to do work like that

Please don't even think about doing such work

Those machines make such a racket...

I'll be back later

This way

Where's your sister seeing this client?

Do you know, Yoneko?

No idea. She can still turn heads, though

That awful little man from Mt Nokogiri...

...I heard he swindled her out of 50,000 yen!

I suppose I am to blame for that whole situation with Namie

But she's such a disagreeable person

I couldn't stand her!

And I hate her even more now that she's gone

I have nothing to apologise for

I won't even deign to discuss the matter

It's difficult for my mother, though

She has a heart of gold really and that's her weakness

That's why she ended up separating from my father

I guess she's just unlucky

I'm afraid Nanako's with a client right now

Eh? Yes...

Number 1565, Koishikawa

Yes, I understand

Is that a client?

Someone called Mr Takayama

Takayama?

He said he's at that inn on Koishikawa

I see...

I knew it! The embers of their love have been rekindled!

He's her old employer

- The guy who promised to marry her? - That's the one

Oh, it all makes me so jealous!

Someka, why don't you treat yourself? Might bring you luck...

Don't you think the colour's a bit dull for me?

I'm only just 50, you know

Who knows how long I'll live, or when I'll have a chance to wear it?

I think a subtle colour suits you better. It'll make you look younger, too

You think so?

Shall I buy it then?

Yes?

Madame Someka? Yes, she's here

Is that a client? Tell them I'll be right over!

I understand, yes

- They need another geisha at Ishimura's - Any place will do me

I've got to start paying for my new kimono!

I'm off to find myself a new patron

Someka, your man won't be too pleased

Oh, so what?

Your guest has arrived, madame

Really? Thank you

This way

Sorry to have kept you waiting

Oh? You've come alone?

Yes... I'm terribly sorry

I'm afraid it was impossible for him to come this evening

I told him I couldn't go without him...

...but he said he had some pressing business

No... it was too much to expect him to be able to attend

It's not your fault

Madame Mizuno instructed me to offer you whatever help you require

She even phoned him

Thank you

But... it was hard for me to pluck up the courage to come here

But now...

Please excuse me...

...but your meal is ready to be served

- Please bring it in - Yes, sir

Hello?

Is that number 1565, Koishikawa? May I speak to Mr Takayama, please?

Welcome back

Oh, that wasn't much fun after all

Oh... it's me

Well, I'm not sure...

All right

Why treat him so harshly? It's been a long time

- Do you have a 10 yen coin? - What for?

- Just for a moment... - Give it me back after

It's heads. That's it, then. I'm going. Thanks

You know, that inn isn't that wonderful

And to ask you to come to an inn... well, that's just bad manners

She's right

Hello, is that Takaya's? Can you do me a chicken sandwich?

Plus vegetables for two. And bring them over to Tsuta House, yes?

- Is mother not home yet? - I wonder where she's gone

Should I wear a kimono or a Western-style suit?

Why not put on fancy lingerie and wear a kimono over the top?

- You can get out of it quicker - I beg your pardon!

Where are you off to?

I know, don't I, Nanako?

Please tell sister that I'm taking a day off

- How are you getting there? - By car

- Don't go too fast! - Oharu!

Yes?

- Get me a cab, will you? - Yes

Welcome home, mistress

Let's take this discussion elsewhere, shall we?

We can't have you coming to the house and screaming at us

You deserve to be screamed at!

But we were the ones who were fooled, you know?

She lied about her age by two years

I know I shouldn't say this, but Namie and I never got along

I never did anything against her...

...but what right did she have to act like that?

I spoke to her harshly...

There, you see? You've just admitted you mistreated her!

- The police are here... - What the hell did you call them for?

He said that he'd like you to accompany him down to the station, too, mistress

What? Me as well?

If you're going, Mother, then I'll go with you

She's had to go with that Chiba man to the police station?

Well, I'll go straight to the station, too

It's nothing serious. I know someone there

Is that so, madame?

Well, thank you so much, madame

What's going to happen?

They'll be fine. This geisha house has one of the highest reputations

Is it really that bad for the mistress and Katsuyo?

- It's true - What will we do?

- What's going to happen? - Oharu! Is the bath free?

Yes, it is

- I'd like to take a shower - A shower?

Still burning with all that passion from last night, eh?

No, not passion, just disappointment. I wish I hadn't gone

There's nothing worse than a stingy guy down on his luck

What are you talking about?

I think now is definitely the time to break up

He thinks he can have me for old time's sake without spending any money!

I'm so hungry. I haven't had breakfast yet

- I'd love curry and rice - I'd like that, too!

- No, you're still only allowed porridge - Only porridge?

Lt'll be ready in a minute. And I've got you some pickled plums

Oharu, pickled plums always bring bad luck!

I don't know, even talking about them is unlucky!

Is that so, madame?

Hello?

Yes, that's right

Madame Someka?

Oh, Someka's there, is she? Perfect

Call her for me

Hello, Someka?

Listen, I promised to entertain a client for Madame Mizuno this evening

- Could you stand in for me? - Who, me? Well...

Thank you so much

Yes... yes...

Thank you so much for considering me in your place

Can I just ask you, are the songs timed to five beats or seven beats?

...and it changes there?

It's such an honour to be asked to take your place, mistress

Who'll pick you up from the police station?

Oh, really?

Well, please take care

Good afternoon

Oh, welcome, madame

I've just been at the police station and it's not looking too good

Anyway, they'll be home later after they've been questioned

Really?

The mistress just called to ask me to take her place this evening

I'm all excited about it...

...but it's too bad that she can't make it herself

I see... She asked you?

Well, do your best for Otsuta, won't you?

Yes, of course

I'll telephone Mr Saeki to come. You should have a man in the house

- You must be exhausted - Welcome home

Sorry to have caused you so much worry

Sometimes these things just happen

Tomorrow Mr Saeki will come here

- He'll speak to the police for you - Thank you

I've learned a lot from the experience

Aunty, mummy's gone

- Oh? Where's Yoneko? - She just popped out

She's always popping out, that one

I have some things I'd like to discuss with you...

- Can we go upstairs? - Very well

It's late, Fujiko. Go back to sleep

I've been thinking things over at the police station...

...and I'd very much like you to buy this house

Oh? Why is that?

Do you not see that's the only way?

After this, the reputation of this house will be in tatters

It would be better than watching it fall into ruin

Really?

Well, I'll have to think about it

I don't know if I'd want to...

It would be much better for us if you were to buy the place

Well, I'll talk the matter over with Mr Saeki

I didn't tell you this before...

...but that money from Mr Hanayama was given as a final favour

Say no more

I thought as much

Forgive me

I can no longer depend on men for my welfare

Please excuse me

Someka's back!

Oh, I fancy going to Hawaii! By plane, of course

And say goodbye to Japan

Welcome home. Everybody's back

I thought so. I knew everything would be all right

Oh, I'm so drunk

It's great work, being a geisha

The bright lights...

...and the beautiful arrangements of yellow flowers!

Fine food to eat...

...gorgeous kimono to wear...

...and making money through entertainment

- There's no other work like it - You're right!

It's always such fun when you can fool the punters

And fooling them is my best trick!

What's wrong?

- Are you all right? - I'm fine, I'm fine!

I'm fine!

Oh, no, I feel terrible... terrible!

I heard that Otsuta has been in a spot of bother

- Are they all back home now? - Yes, they've all returned

It wasn't anything the mistress couldn't handle

Listen...

...we're looking for another maid and I thought of you...

- You're just joking - No, I'm serious

You must excuse me, I'm in the middle of cooking

It's an absolute travesty for us all, being taken off by the police

And your reputation will be tarnished from now on, too

I wanted to talk it over with you...

...about selling this house and paying off my debts

Really? So you're going to open an inn like we discussed?

No, I'll continue here in my profession as a geisha

This is the only profession I know

Continue at Tsuta House?

Madame Mizuno agrees it's a good idea

She'll buy the house and then rent it to me

Eh? And when did you reach this momentous decision?

Last night

- It's settled, then? - Yes

I'll receive half the money when we sign the contract

At last, I'll be able to pay you back all the money I owe you

Please excuse me

Mr Saeki has just arrived from the police station

Really? I'll be down in a moment

Excuse me

- Mr Saeki? - Yes

Now I see. Madame Mizuno's putting up all the money...

...but Mr Hanayama will be the actual owner

Very smart

That's not how it is at all

I have no idea what you're up to...

...but I know it's not what it seems

It's all very typical of a geisha!

You'll get your money back with interest

- Can I offer you one? - No

- Oh, thank you so much, Mr Saeki - It took slightly longer than I thought

Carting me off to the police station? You amaze me!

We've been through all of this

You were almost up on a blackmail charge...

...and wouldn't have been going home for quite a while

Well, let's have Namie's things, then

Well, now it's all over. Let's drink to that. Oharu?

Yes, coming

Excuse me

Sake at midday? Things are looking up

- Mr Saeki... - Pleased to see you

I must thank you for all that your aunt is doing for my younger sister

I hear she's willing to buy this place. I really am most grateful to her

Please give her my best regards

I'll call on her soon to thank her

Sister, won't you have a glass?

No, I never partake between meals, that's my rule. Thanks anyway

Please...

Oh, don't bother doing that for me!

You have much more important guests here

Tell Someka that she has to pay me back everything this month

Another one?

It's got a funny taste

Well, that's the end of it

And Namie has a new job

At some third-rate place

Well, tell her to drop in to see us some time

I wonder...

She's stuck as a third-rate geisha now, so she wouldn't come round here

Oi! Call me a rickshaw, will you?

A rickshaw? Certainly, sir

Please...

- I'll get going now - Thank you

From now on you, your aunt and I will have many dealings together

Mr Saeki, I'm going out, too. Will you walk with me?

I'm going back to my office

Just as far as the bus stop, then?

What she really wants is for you to take her to see a film

Good job they had you around...

...otherwise this place would've been finished

- Bye - Many thanks

So, you think my mother should continue in her profession as a geisha?

Well...

I want her to leave the profession for good

If only you could advise her...

There's no way I could do that

I shouldn't really say this to you, Katsuyo...

...but I think that life as a geisha probably suits your mother best

My aunt thinks so, too

I feel sorry for my mother

Do you have any marriage plans, Katsuyo?

- I haven't given it a thought - Why not?

To be given away as a bride? Or take a husband into my home?

You're free to choose whichever

Yes, it's up to me

But I'm from a disreputable geisha house that has little earning potential

Who would want to marry a woman like me?

My husband could become the house manager...

...but young people nowadays aren't interested in the business

- I don't know if that's true - I wonder...

But it can't be helped now

I'd only feel ashamed if I got married

I was born into a famous geisha house but only trained as a beginner

It feels like I'm only a half-geisha

I don't know what I am

Marriage is just a dream

More importantly, though, I worry about how I'm going to make a living

"...and they all agreed." Understand?

- What's this? - This?

Just hold on a moment

Yes... that's right

She hasn't returned home yet

- Who is it? - I understand, yes...

- It was Madame Otoyo for Someka - Oh, pay no attention to her

- Aunty... - Coming

Morning

Have you been drinking, Someka?

Forgive me, mistress

My sister just phoned for you

Mistress...

...that man of mine went back home to the provinces...

...yesterday evening

Are you talking about your boyfriend?

He probably thought nothing would ever become of us

Seems he's gone back home to get married

I did everything for him! Men can be so heartless!

Let's read over there

Listen, Someka, you may not want to hear this...

...but I think it's for your own good

After all, he was ten years younger than you

Better to be done with him while you still have another chance

Please! Don't be so harsh on me!

Did you feel the same when you separated?

But you'd never have got married so it's better that you've separated

And you should repay my sister's loan as soon as possible

I'm relieved that I'm selling this house

Lucky for you, you have something to sell

I've only got myself and my samisen - playing to sell

I can't earn enough to repay my debts

But now you've only yourself to feed

Mistress, I'm working as hard as I can every day...

...but it's still not enough

You know what? I checked at the Guild office

They said they'd received all my payment slips

But when I asked the accountant, the amount you'd sent was lower

So however much I work... Listen to me!

Isn't that right, Nanako? You said the same when Namie left

"These payments don't add up." You showed me your notes, didn't you?

- Yes... - They can hear you on the street!

Someka's making the same complaint as Namie

You can't give us back the hours we worked...

...but you can give us back the money

Well, you never settle up what you owe me...

...so I don't pay attention to the slips

So you admit it, then, you fix the payment slips?

Maybe Mother makes the odd mistake now and again...

...but that happens everywhere!

- Oh, is that so? - All geisha should quit their jobs!

- Katsuyo... - You're just feeling sorry for yourself

If you don't like the work then you should leave

Thanks for your kind advice! Let's go, Nanako

Someka...

Come on, we can find work elsewhere, this isn't the only geisha house

I know I have obligations to you, but I also have reproaches!

- Someka... - Why don't you get out, then?

OK, then... I will get out

I will get out...

I'm crying... but it's not because of what you've said

I'm crying... because my lover has left me

You know nothing about men!

What's so good about knowing about men?

Eh? What does your daughter think she's talking about?

So, women don't have to depend on men? Is that right, mistress?

Mother!

Enough, Katsuyo!

She thinks that women don't have to depend on men!

Right? She says women don't need men!

Mummy!

Good

No, that's wrong. I told you before. Do it again...

Yes...

Careful...

Careful... good...

Good

That's enough for today

You have to study very hard if you want to become a geisha

- Oh! - Mistress...

I had far too much to drink the other day and spoke out of turn

I can't apologise enough, forgive me

Please forgive me, mistress

Stop that, Someka. There's no need to apologise

Mistress...

...will you let me come back?

It feels so good coming back here and seeing the new trainees...

...I think I'm going to cry

I intend to make a completely fresh start. I hope we can work something out

Mistress...

...that Nanako is awful, isn't she? She's working at Tsutaji's now

As she wishes

- Where's Katsuyo? - She's upstairs sewing

Is she really? Katsuyo?

How nice!

I love that noise the machines make. I'll go up and see her

This is for you...

Oh, you shouldn't have

I'll let Otsuta keep the house for a while...

...but I may move her out and open a branch of my restaurant there instead

At the house?

And what will become of the girls there?

If they want to continue as geisha...

...then they can all go across the river and find work there

Still, I've seen their new trainees and none of them has any potential

Otsuta's been a geisha many years but she's still no judge of character

They'll all turn out just like Namie

One has to put in years of hard work to become a geisha

I'd like you to consider this...

...you're a woman with many fine qualities...

...and I think you're wasting your talents as a mere maid

What do you think?

I don't require an immediate answer...

...but I'll give you a month or so to make up your mind

I was also considering Katsuyo...

...but on reflection I don't think she'd fit in at all

If you say no, I have plenty of others to choose from

And the mistress knows all about this?

Of course not

So?

Well...

...I don't think I can accept your offer, madame

I'm terribly sorry

Really?

Very well, then

Don't breathe a word of this to Otsuta or anyone, will you?

No...

Well, then, if you'll excuse me...

- Good - Fujiko's coming on, isn't she?

- You think so? - Oh, very promising

I have a new geisha to present to you!

Oh, I say!

- May I present Takiko to you - It's a honour to meet you

- How wonderful she looks! - Congratulations

I see that you've fully recovered, Madame Otsuta. I'm so pleased

Thank you so much

We're starting up our business again with some new faces

I wish you all the best

Please excuse us

- She must've cost her 300,000 yen - You reckon that much?

That sash she was wearing was nothing special

And her hair wasn't arranged properly at all, was it?

But they don't care about those things nowadays

That's true

Mistress, I bought these for everyone as they looked so tasty

It's my treat

Oharu, you're such a kind person

Isn't she? I don't know what I'd do without her help

Not at all. I'll bring the tea through in a moment

Oharu, get the girls to give you some help

- Kiyo! - Yes?

- What is it you're making? - I'm no good

I'm not sure I'll be able to make anything! I'm just practising

You're very diligent, Katsuyo

No, not really

I just know that I have to find some kind of work

I can't do what my mother does

I have to find some means to support us both when she gets old

You're right

You know, I'm so glad that you're here, Oharu

I can always talk to you and ask your advice

Of course, I'd be happy to offer you help and advice anytime

Yes... I know that

And I realise that you may not be here forever...

Well, I'd like to take a short trip to my late husband's hometown

- In the provinces? - Yes

I have to visit the graves of my husband and child

After that, who knows?

My husband's relatives are very strict

I left home so I could be free from their constraints...

...but now I feel it's selfish of me to stay away

I see...

Please try one of these sweet buns, they're delicious

The End