Original subtitles

NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL ENTRY

It was 270 years ago, in the Genroku era.

Under the dictatorship of the Fifth Tokugawa Shogun,

there was unprecedented sacrifice.

Forty-eight lordly houses fell,

and over 30,000 samurai lost their masters.

Still, no one plotted rebellion against the government.

The situation was that bad.

Meanwhile, an Imperial Messenger arrived from Kyoto

and the Shogun's Ceremony of Response was planned for...

March 14, 1701.

SWORDS OF VENGEANCE

PRODUCED BY TOEI COMPANY, LTD.

STORY AND SCREENPLAY BY KOJI TAKADA

CINEMATOGRAPHY BY YOSHIO MIYAJIMA, HANJIRO NAKAZAWA

EDITING BY ISAMU ICHIDA MUSIC BY TOSHIAKI TSUSHIMA

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR TOSHIYUKI FUJIWARA BACKGROUND ARTIST SABURO NISHIMURA

COSTUMES BY YUZURU MORI MAKE-UP BY SEICHI TORII

WITH TOEI ACTOR CENTER

STARRING

KINNOSUKE YOROZUYA

SONNY CHIBA

HIROKI MATSUKATA

TERUHIKO SAIGO

TSUNEHIKO WATASE

MASAOMI KONDO

MARI KO OKADA

RYO TAMURA, KENSAKU MORITA

YUSUKE SATO, MITSUTERU NAKAMURA, ETSUO SHIMA

TETSURO TAN BA

GO WAKABAYASHI, KYOKO ENAMI

MIKIO NARITA, YOSHI KATO, TATSUO ENDO, SHOJI YASUI, SHUJI OTAKI

TAKUYA FUJIOKA, NOBUO KANEKO

SHINSUKE ASHIDA

YOSHIKO MITA

MARI KO OKADA

TOSHIRO MIFUNE

DIRECTED BY KINJI FUKASAKU

EDO CASTLE

Lord Asano.

-Kajikawa. -Yes.

What were you talking about with Asano just now?

After today's ceremony, I'm representing Lady Keishoin

to meet the Imperial Messenger.

-So, it's about that. -I understand.

If it's for Lady Keishoin, I can arrange it for you.

The arrangement was...

-already accepted by Lord Asano. -Asano?

What a pity.

-He knows nothing. -Lord Asano.

He's assigned to entertain the messenger.

But he's either a rather slow learner, or just not sharp enough.

I always wonder if he's going to embarrass himself.

It's really nail-biting.

The Shogun General is arriving soon.

The gate's been opened.

He's coming soon.

You understand, Kajikawa? Don't rely on Asano.

Make sure of things yourself.

It'll be a disaster if he blunders in front of the messenger.

Kira!

My old scores...

should be settled!

No, please!

Let go of me! Damn you, Kira! Don't run!

Oh, no! Kira!

Stay calm!

-Someone's fighting! -What? A fight?

-Calm down, everybody! -Let go of me!

Lord Asano!

Let me go! Let go of my hands!

I'm a lord. I'm prepared for anything.

Let me go!

I'm from the Takato faction. Is my lord safe?

-Who did it? -I'm Yasubei Horibe of the House of Asano.

I want to know if my lord is safe. Does anyone know?

Quiet, everybody!

The sword attack against Kira was perpetrated by Lord Asano.

Calm down!

We're going to investigate. No one else was involved.

Now, no more disorder!

I'm Kataoka, Lord Asano's retainer. Please let me...

let me see my lord! Just a glance!

What? Lord Asano has gone mad?

Indeed. It's a terrible shame.

We'll have to wait for an investigation for the details.

In the meantime, who will replace him and serve the Imperial Messenger?

-I'll leave it to you! -Understood.

Of all the days for this! What a fiasco!

Asano is wicked! No investigation is needed!

-Punish him right away! -Yes.

ASANO' S RESIDENCE

Brother-in-law.

-What's the urgent matter? -Lady Asano.

-A terrible thing has happened. -What?

-What's the news? -I'll tell you.

At the palace, my brother tried to kill Kira.

My lord tried to kill someone?

-Is this true? -Yes. It's the truth.

Was he hurt?

-No. -How about Kira?

Did my lord kill Kira?

I don't know yet. I hurried straight here.

What a shame.

It's a life-or-death matter.

And you can't even confirm the details? How disgraceful.

I'm so disappointed!

My lady!

I'm profoundly sorry!

Brother-in-law, please go back right away

to find out what happened to them, then report back to me.

And as for my safety, please don't worry.

By order of the Shogun, we will question you.

Tell us the truth.

-Understood. -You were to serve the Imperial Messenger.

What made you try to kill Kira in the palace?

-Tell us the truth. -Yes.

Lord Kira...

embarrassed me. I couldn't stand it.

It was the final straw.

However,

it was a personal grudge.

I acted rashly, and inappropriately for someone of my position.

To the Shogun General...

I deeply apologize.

So, how did he embarrass you?

It no longer matters.

Why not?

It would be better if you were to explain yourself.

It's too late now.

Whatever I say would be an excuse.

If only...

If only...

What?

The tip of the sword...

It was three inches...

too short.

I wish...

I had killed him.

I'm a samurai.

Not a killer.

I regret only that my skills came up short.

Well, well. I didn't do anything to provoke him.

He just went mad.

Some people go crazy in springtime, when the trees are budding.

It's really an annoying accusation on his part.

So, when he attacked, how did you fight back?

How? I can't fight a crazy person.

He slashed you twice, but you didn't try to protect yourself?

Not at all!

He's in charge of ceremonies and rituals.

I had never imagined I'd need to draw my own sword in the palace.

Sir...

His Highness wishes Lord Kira a speedy recovery.

The chamberlain is asking for your consideration.

I understand.

Regarding the investigation you conducted, we asked His Highness to appraise it.

He has now reached a conclusion.

"Judgment."

"As for Lord Kira...

even in the face of danger, he considered where he was

and didn't fight back. This was good behavior."

"He shall not be subjected to punishment."

"He may rest well and leave whenever he wants to."

"As for Lord Asano,

it's reported he committed a crime in the palace,

an attempted murder, out of a desire for vengeance. This is unforgivable."

"He shall be held in the custody of Lord TAMURA,

and I order immediate execution by hara-kiri."

-Certainly. -One moment. Please.

Lord Asano is a rather major feudal lord.

Ordering him to commit hara-kiri immediately is too cruel a decision.

No! It is His Highness's judgment!

Even so, in a quarrel, both sides have their story.

Further investigation is needed.

Meanwhile, Lord Kira should also be suspended

until we discover the truth.

Silence, Okado!

-The judgment is already made. -Let me humbly say something.

Please listen, esteemed superiors.

When I interrogated Lord Asano, he was so solemn.

He couldn't have lost his mind.

Moreover, "Both fighters are to blame." So says the law of the samurai.

Unfair judgement will disgrace the authority of the government.

According to the investigation, Lord Kira didn't even touch his sword.

Therefore, we don't consider it a fight.

A samurai's fight is about killing or being killed.

It's natural to fight back when attacked.

But if you applaud Lord Kira's non-resistance,

there will be only cowards in this world.

Enough! How dare you!

I serve His Highness too as an investigator.

But a mistake can't be ignored, even in an emperor's orders.

I sincerely request reinvestigation and fair judgment.

Lord Yanagisawa, I ask for your thoughts on this.

To me, Okado's opinion sounds fairly reasonable.

After all, a low official is foolish.

"Foolish," you said?

For us serving the Tokugawa government, the words of His Highness are law.

Never forget that.

In my humble opinion, even His Highness is a human.

—He too could make a mistake. -Silence!

His Highness's decision is flawless!

I tell you all once again.

Proceed immediately in enacting the judgment.

Sir, Lord Asano's retainer, Kataoka, is here,

asking to see his master one last time. What shall we do?

-Well, it's rather... -I understand his feelings.

With the compassion of the samurai, I grant his wish.

Understood.

MY lord!

-My lord... -I'm glad to see you.

I wanted to tell my men...

about my suffering, but there was no chance.

Excuse me. It's time, Lord Asano.

When you heard what I did...

you must have been upset.

Forgive me.

Toda...

I'm here.

It's about time, isn't it?

-Yes. -Please proceed.

YES.

After that, nobody in Lord Asano's hometown, Banshu-Ako,

knew what had happened to their lord in Edo.

The journey from Edo to Ako is over 680 kilometers.

It took a messenger four days nonstop.

Darling...

it's time to get ready.

You shouldn't be late for the wedding.

-I know. -Father!

Father, special messengers are here from Edo!

-Special? -Yes, Mr. Hayami and Mr. Kayano.

-Soon they'll be at the main gate. -Wait.

-When did they leave Edo? -On the 14th, I heard.

The 14th...

Anything the matter?

-Chikara, deliver this to the Hashimotos. -Certainly.

-I'm going to the castle. -All right.

I remember the beaches of Dannoura

And the fighting on ships, but now

I am back to this world To fight a life-and-death battle

Seas and mountains

Quake in unison

I hear the war cries from the ships

On land, shields lined up like waves

Shining white in the moonlight

Glistening swords

Reflected in the sea

Helmets

Studded with metal stars

Water...

-Kihei! -Yes.

I never thought you'd be a good bargainer.

-But you know how to sell your daughter. -Thank you. Have a drink.

This groom has a bright future.

You're lucky to have such a pretty daughter.

Your late wife must be happy.

-Indeed. -...at daybreak

What looked like enemies Is revealed to be a flock of seagulls

-War cry-- -Hold on!

That sound...

It's to assemble.

Ako's peace was disrupted at once.

A few hours later,

the next messenger brought tragic news.

They're here!

Mr. hara!

Mr. hara, thank you for coming all this way.

Is this really our castle?

-Calm down. Yes, Ako Castle. -Where is the castellan?

-In his office. -Quickly!

Hurry UP!

Mr. Oishi...

Soemon, welcome home.

What's the message?

-Our master... -Come on, just say it!

His lordship was placed in the custody of Mr. TAMURA.

And at the residence, he committed hara-kiri...

hara-kiri?

Also, the government will confiscate...

the fiefdom and dissolve the House of Asano.

Dissolve?

Moreover,

on that day, the residence was vacated. Lady Asano became a nun.

She's now called Yozenin. She returned to...

her hometown.

I'm speechless!

And...

what of Lord Kira?

Sadly,

our lord failed to inflict a fatal blow.

Lord Kira was given no punishment at all.

No...

punishment at all?

Indeed.

What a judgment!

-How unfair! -Shut up!

Young samurai should show respect. Leave, everyone!

We understand, but this is a serious matter. Forgive us!

So, did he leave last words?

Kataoka was permitted to see him.

"I wanted to tell my men about this suffering,

but there was no chance. When you heard what I did,

you must have been upset."

"Forgive me."

"Forgive me?"

-Is that what he said? -Yes.

What else?

Here...

His farewell poem.

Blossoms blown by the wind

Long for springtime, just like me

I will never see that season again

I wonder, what am I to do?

I will never see that season again

I wonder, what am I to do?

Soemon, you fulfilled your duty.

You can stand down. Rest easy.

Help him.

Please, hold on to us. Here.

Mr. Oishi. We have to get moving.

At a time like this, farmers and townspeople tend to riot.

-Please give orders soon. -What orders?

Block access to the castle first. And keep the people calm.

Without that, there could be even more confusion.

I want to ask you to look after the scrip of our feudal domain.

Scrip?

Lord, why worry about money at a time like this?

It's precisely in times like these that people worry about money.

It's important to relieve their anxiety.

Okajima, take charge of handling scrip immediately.

Right away!

Excuse me.

My lord, I have a question. What's to become of this castle?

They're dissolving the house, confiscating the fiefdom.

Beyond that, they may demand evacuation of the castle.

-Tell us. Are we going to surrender? -Don't be stupid.

We're proud of our bravery.

We'll never give up the castle without a fight!

My lord, please command us. We're ready to defend up the castle!

Hey, don't speak nonsense!

-Be quiet! -Lord?

As for this matter...

-We can't decide immediately. -Why?

We have 300 retainers.

With their families and servants, that makes 3000.

We mustn't decide their future so hastily.

Listen to me well!

As of now, the eyes of Japan...

are scrutinizing every move we make.

Whether we die...

or live...

we must not panic.

We mustn't make fools of ourselves! So please, I implore you!

This is what I think.

Our lord said...

"Forgive me."

Those were his last words.

That's what was in his heart...

as he faced death.

He cared about us, right to the end.

News about the dissolution of the Ako fiefdom

spread among the townspeople.

Quiet!

Don't be nervous! Stop pushing!

Line up! Anyone rowdy will be killed! Can't you hear me?

-Don't worry. -Quickly! Move it!

A rumor spread that Oishi would defend the castle.

Many masterless ronin swarmed the castle to offer help.

I used to work for Lord Asano. I am Izeki.

I came here to offer help. Let me see Mr. Oishi!

He's busy now! Keep quiet!

I'm Okano. I once was their watchman.

-I came to help! -I'm NAKAMURA.

Let me see Mr. Oishi.

MY lord!

He can't see you. Please go back!

MY lord!

You there! Fuwa?

It's you, Fuwa. You too?

What a load of crap! Our passion means nothing to them.

Bunch of ignorant jerks!

Hey, where're you going?

This will take too long. I'll get hungry.

Clear a path!

I'm Ueda, from the Asano family in Aki. I came over as a messenger.

-Open the gates! -Let him in!

Mr. Oishi. Did you read the letter sent from Edo

by the head of the Aki branch?

So you understand that if you resist the government,

not only the main House of Asano,

but all its relatives, including me,

will face punishment.

Tell us. You understand?

-Yes. -Then why don't you surrender?

According to Ono, you're the only one who objects to surrendering.

There is a reason why we can't give up the castle.

What is it?

The government's judgment was utterly unfair and unreasonable.

-What? -Utterly unfair and unreasonable, I said.

It's extremely regrettable for us to surrender this way.

-I understand how the retainers feel. -Rubbish!

In the first place,

this trouble was caused by the insanity of Lord Asano.

Don't hold a grudge!

In any case, the future of our house will be a decision by consensus,

so please keep watching the situation for a while.

You mean, depending on the consequences, you might fight the government?

How dare you!

You only have 300 retainers. You couldn't possibly win.

Insane retainers, fighting for an insane lord's cause.

-You'll be a laughingstock! -Excuse me.

But Ako castle is ours, built by our people for our people.

If the government tries to attack, we will fight to the last man.

That's the way of...

the samurai, I believe.

So be it! We disavow our ties to your house.

We'll be the first to attack you! Be prepared!

Don't see us off.

You're our enemies now. We're off!

Mr. Oishi!

What's the idea?

You need to focus on the restoration of our house.

You shouldn't offend your relatives.

I beg you, evacuate the castle immediately!

Doing so will cause the government to take pity on us and offer a pardon.

If this turns into a siege, that means not only the families of our retainers

but also 5000 townspeople will undergo terrible torture.

To be honest, that's what I worry about.

Do you have any ideas?

As I see it, defending the castle is the worst idea.

Surrender is the best option.

Or we could show that we're willing to become martyrs.

That's how we can ask for our survival.

Martyrs. Following our master...

I see.

-I didn't think of that. -No, no, no!

Don't get me wrong. It's just a way of pleading.

I didn't mean real hara-kiri.

-Please don't do anything crazy. -Brilliant idea.

-Thank you. -But--

Wait, Mr. Oishi.

Mr. Ono! You talk too much.

-What if we all have to die now? -Shut up!

I don't know! If you're so smart, why don't you think for yourselves?

-Mr. Ono! -Mr. Ono!

Hurry up! Leave the bulky stuff.

Take only valuable clothes. Quickly.

-Do you have everything? -Yes, we do.

You forgot your baby!

-Goodness! -Father!

Son! Did you get a boat?

A while ago, Mr. Okuno and Mr. Okabayashi fled with their families.

-So no boats are left. -What? Damn it all!

-Those cowards! -What can we do?

Bring a wagon instead. Quickly!

-Who let you in? -Are you fleeing?

I'm not fleeing. I'm only fed up with Oishi's insanity.

-Insanity? -He's completely crazy.

Defending the castle? Martyrdom?

I can't make my family suffer on that madman's behalf.

You guys should leave here too. Make way for us.

Mr. Ono, you accused me of making mistakes with the accounts.

-It's true that 300 ryo was missing. -Three hundred ryo?

-Open that cashbox! -It wasn't me!

It must have been Okuno or Okabayashi.

-Catch them. They're still around. -Open the box!

No! I'm not a dirty coward!

Dirty pig! Scoundrel! I'll punish you!

Wait!

Don't let them go!

-I won't let you go! -Get off me!

Hashimoto! Did you see Ono?

-No time for that now. -What?

My father-in-law committed hara-kiri.

-Father! -He followed his lord and killed himself.

Father...

Too hasty...

In mid-April, an army of samurai led by Wakisaka from Awaji

approached the Ako fiefdom.

They planned to take over the castle on the 19th.

Fuwa! It's a shame, the Ako samurai becoming so weak.

They're going to hold the castle and commit hara-kiri.

Really?

-To try to preserve their house. -So stupid.

I'm fed up. Time for a quiet life as a farmer.

-You'd better leave too. -So long.

Mr. Fuwa.

I'm Oishi's son, Chikara. May I speak with you?

-How do you know my name? -My father told me.

You were our best swordsman. You killed a man and angered the lord.

I was immature then.

Teach me how to commit hara-kiri.

I'm embarrassed to say it, but I have no knowledge.

Chikara, how old are you?

Fourteen.

-Fourteen... -I'm ready.

I just don't want to disgrace my father.

Well, I'm afraid I don't have experience killing myself.

But don't take it seriously.

To die is much easier than to keep yourself fed and alive.

Pardon me.

-Here I am. -It's finished.

How beautiful.

I painted this at Ono's request, but he's since fled.

The artwork has no owner.

What's Chikara doing?

He's getting ready.

He's grown up. Even more adult than me.

Is today really the final day?

I don't know.

-Mr. Hazama, it's been a while. -Chikara, nice to see you.

I came here with my father. Please treat me well.

-Your name? -Emoshichi Yato.

I come here on my father's behalf.

How old are you?

Sixteen.

Your noble intentions will be appreciated. Come in.

-Horibe! -You've just arrived from Edo?

I heard about the siege.

-What on earth is going on? -Hold on.

-hara-kiri? -Impossible!

Yasubei.

-What's this all about? -Mr. Oishi's decision.

I feel awkward.

-I don't want to embarrass myself. -Well, well, here you are.

Welcome back.

You may be tired, but it's time. Please be seated.

Please.

We're all here.

This final meeting of the clan has 56 people in attendance.

Everyone, please raise your heads.

You may raise your heads.

Since our lord's death,

some of the 300 retainers fled and others simply disappeared.

You're all that remain.

In the era long spared by war,

it is not easy to decide to die.

Therefore, having 56 men ready to die is significant.

Now, this meeting is about martyrdom.

-Following our lord... -Wait!

Let me cut in before this starts.

Five of us came from Edo today,

but we aren't here to commit hara-kiri! Martyrdom is noble,

but Kira, who started all this trouble, is still alive.

-What do you all think of that? -I can't let him live.

When I saw His Lordship on that final day, I made up my mind.

I'll kill Lord Kira and avenge our lord.

This is why we can't die with you here.

We bid you farewell and will return to Edo at once.

-Excuse us. -Wait!

Mr. Oishi, I totally agree with what he said.

Forgive me, but I won't die here either. I'm going to Edo too.

Wait!

You're brave but lack manners. Calm down!

Listen to Mr. Oishi to the end.

Now, allow me to tell you what's really on my mind.

Our lord was executed. And our clan is to be dissolved.

I lay all the blame on Lord Kira. He's our mortal enemy.

If we let him live, as retainers we'll disgrace our lord.

Which means...

I held this meeting about hara-kiri...

to find comrades with iron will.

Because our true objective is Kira's gray-haired head!

So, revenge-- Are we taking revenge?

However, we must bear this in mind.

Our enemy is not only Lord Kira. Lord Uesugi is behind him.

The government that made an unfair judgment is our enemy!

-The government... -That's right.

What we're going to do goes beyond avenging our lord.

It's also treason against the government.

So even if we succeed in revenge, we'll be punished.

Furthermore, our families will inevitably face decapitation,

and their heads will be hung on display.

To carry this out, we must all have the resolve to accept these consequences.

Our clan will end.

Our late lord would be ashamed to see it.

Nevertheless, I dare to commit treason.

Men...

are you with me?

Without question!

Of course!

I'm with you!

I share your determination.

Once we reach agreement,

we must be patient until the right time for revenge comes.

I request you please leave the planning to me.

Please take an oath...

with your seal of blood.

I understand. I will obey your instructions.

-Men? -I will obey!

SIGNED, SOEMON HARA, 14 APRIL 1701

JUNE 1702

LORD YANAGISAWA'S RESIDENCE

-How was it? -Well, Lord Yanagisawa is...

stricter than I expected.

-Things won't go your way. -I see.

Mr. Oishi. Please.

A gift from Mr. Oishi.

That's fine. Raise your head.

You requested

for Lord Asano's brother Daigaku to take over the house.

His Highness will kindly grant your wish in the near future.

Your suffering since the surrender will be rewarded.

Thank you so much.

On behalf of Daigaku, I express the deepest gratitude.

I don't yet know where the fiefdom will be.

But the house of Asano continues, which is good.

Wait for further updates.

-Understood. -That's all.

You may leave.

What's the matter?

I requested to speak about another issue. It's about...

the re-investigation of Lord Kira. What happened with it?

Yes, that.

As for Kira...

We made him retire.

I'm aware.

What punishment will he be given?

Enough!

We never judge a retired person.

In that case, we must decline your offer.

What?

Even if you give us a massive fiefdom, as long as Lord Kira is safe,

-Daigaku will disgrace his late brother. -Oishi!

Don't embarrass me.

If you demand too much, you may not get anything.

Please reconsider Lord Kira's re-investigation.

-Leave! -Please.

-Go away! -Please!

I ask you reconsider the matter.

-I implore. -Go!

Go at once!

What do you think about Oishi?

He seemed like a gentleman to me.

I don't see that in him.

He's a rare samurai in this time of peace.

He has already given up his life.

And he's scheming something.

If so, isn't he waiting too long?

If he's planning revenge, why worry about the future of the house?

Exactly. This is his plan.

He's trying to find a good reason to kill Kira,

so his vengeance is justified.

So, in theory,

Lord Asano's enemy is not Kira,

but the government's decision.

Oishi requested re-investigation of Kira. That's his opening gambit.

Next, he turns his blade on Kira.

My lord...

would you postpone

granting the new fiefdom?

Over time, they may become disjointed. Oishi's plan may fail.

Listen, Zusho.

Send Lord Kira to Yonezawa Castle.

-To Yonezawa? -Oishi can't attack him in the castle.

Tell Mr. Uesugi about it.

It's a good idea.

LORD UESUGI'S RESIDENCE

Send my father here. Zusho...

arrange for this at once.

I'm sorry, but we can't do that.

No?

Why not?

Mr. Yanagisawa is trying to put the responsibility for this on Uesugi.

If we protect Lord Kira, all the criticism will fall on us.

Also, if there is any trouble in our fiefdom...

it could be grounds for the destruction of our clan.

Yanagisawa would betray us?

He is sly. During the reign of the Shogun,

he climbed the career ladder from small-time retainer to the highest post.

He'll do anything to enact the Shogun's wishes.

All right, then. Send all our best men to my father.

-We can't do that either. -What?

If he's guarded by Uesugi's men,

it means it's our responsibility.

Then...

what do you suggest?

The Ako side consists mostly of old or untrained ronin.

Oishi is the only threat.

Are you saying you'll kill him?

I'll take care of it.

Leave everything to me.

Darling, what's going on?

Good news! We finally got our chance.

-What is it? -Kira is moving to Honjo today.

Okajima heard this from his aide. We'll ambush them at Eko-in.

Mr. Oishi agreed?

We've waited long enough!

-The Edo team will do it alone. -But...

Your late father will be glad.

Hatsu, when our baby is born, sell this armor.

Fifty guards in total.

Here he comes.

-The woman? -No problem.

She's blind and deaf.

Two of you go on the cliff.

-Okay. -We'll wait at the graveyard.

Okajima and Okuda will be at the end of the procession.

They enter from the right. Shoot Kira then.

That's the cue. We'll attack.

-Thank you. -We had a big catch today.

-Have some. -Thank you, as always.

Excuse me.

-Aren't you going to Eko-in? -What?

What's the matter?

She has stomach cancer. She won't survive much longer.

I hope she lives to see us avenge our lord.

Mr. Otaka!

-What happened? -Hashimoto and Horibe!

-They're going to ambush Kira at Eko-in. -What?

Hashimoto took a gun. His wife was worried about him.

Too rash!

Ready.

Here.

Night...

Night after night

My heart

Goes out to you

My sleeves...

Fire!

-Kira's spies! -One more.

Yasubei, they're here.

-Let me go! -Yasubei, don't rush this!

-Out of my way! -Remember what Mr. Oishi said.

-Your selfishness will ruin our efforts. -Yasubei, hurry!

-Let me go, or I'll kill you! -Kill me, then!

Look what you've done!

You promised Mr. Oishi you'd obey his instructions.

-What a way to act! -Indeed, how senseless!

If you had fired that gun, we'd have all been rounded up.

Otaka, have you done cleanup?

Yes. The bodies of Kira's spies were buried in the graveyard.

-Mr. hara, how's Hashimoto's injury? -Serious.

Even if he recovers, he'll be crippled.

Yasubei, this is your fault. Apologize to everyone.

Father, listen.

We thought this over.

I'm ashamed of the outcome...

but I won't apologize.

-That's enough! -Imagine.

How many times did we ask Mr. Oishi to act?

But he always told us to wait.

He finally came to Edo, but he's too busy to see us.

He even bribed Yanagisawa, hoping to restore the house.

He must have changed his mind.

And just then, Kira was on the move.

I thought it was our chance for all-out attack!

-Senseless! -I understand their irritation.

Kira is old. We don't know how long he'll live.

While we were doing nothing, some of the men have dropped out.

The desire to kill Kira.

-It's a feeling we all share. -Excuse me.

Mr. Yoshida has arrived.

Mr. Yoshida, we couldn't stop the misconduct.

-I apologize. -What did Mr. Oishi say?

He'll leave Edo tomorrow morning.

He asked me to give you back the covenant you all signed at the castle.

-For now, at least. -What?

He said, "I'll drop the whole thing for now."

"They're all free to either leave or stay with me."

That's too much.

-Too cruel! -That's right.

It's true some went the wrong way, but we are united in seeking vengeance.

That's enough. He has changed his mind.

He's just waiting for us to give up from the hardship or lose our resolve.

Listen, all of you!

Mr. Oishi also said, "I don't want help from madmen."

Madmen?

"We aren't petty thugs. Killing Kira blindly is no good."

"We want to commit treason against the government."

"People would be disgusted, and would consider us mad men serving a mad lord."

"Of course, living as ronin must be hard."

"It must be frustrating. But don't throw your life away in reckless insanity!"

"If you are an outlaw, leave us!"

"If you are a madman, leave us!"

That's everything.

-That is Mr. Oishi's message. Goodbye. -Please, wait!

Yasubei, I warned you. You made him angry.

Now we'll be excluded from the operation.

We have no choice! Apologize and commit hara-kiri.

-I'll do it with you. -Don't rush!

Anyway, let's discuss how to apologize to Mr. Oishi.

-Yasubei? -I'm still not convinced.

Mr. Yoshida, let me talk to him.

Please arrange it.

Since he came to Edo, he's visited our lord's grave every night.

Wonder what's on his mind.

Whenever I see him there, I feel an eerie sensation.

It gives me goosebumps.

In Kyoto,

at Minoya Inn...

a medicine seller, Iheiji, is staying there.

He'll tell you who to kill.

They're thugs, but expert assassins.

They won't fail.

YAMASHINA, KYOTO RAKUTO

Heave ho! Heave ho! Heave ho!

Heave ho! Heave ho! Heave ho!

Here we are!

Welcome home.

-You've been good? -Yep!

Let's move.

How are you feeling?

Much better. Thank you.

I've never had morning sickness this bad.

-Maybe at my age... -No, it's because we moved here.

It will be a hot summer.

-Take extra ca re. -Yes.

My father's letter for you. Please read this while I prepare a bath.

Mother, Mr. Fuwa made these for the young ones.

How cute! Look.

-Wow, a doll. -It's a horse.

-Can I bring him supper now? -It's ready.

I've read the letter. Your father will visit us soon.

He wants to know what's on your mind.

When I visited him last time,

he said, "Is Mr. Oishi avenging his lord?"

"If so, bring your children to my place."

"I'll raise them."

Riku.

You...

will take the children to your father's.

-No, divorce? -I'll write to your father.

Please wait!

I never thought I'd have to live without you.

The same for our children.

Even if they execute me with you, I'm ready for that.

Riku...

I don't want to say goodbye.

But this matter is between my lord and myself.

As your father mentioned in the letter,

it has nothing to do with our children.

But...

leave Chikara with me.

Chikara is young, but he's the heir of our family.

Please understand.

I'll do...

as you ask.

You're snow drifting deep in the mountains

I'm a nightingale in the valley

Singing in the cherry tree

Snow falls on me gently

Paradise turns into hell

I'm so tired

From waiting for you

Chikara, what has become of your father?

When he divorced your mother, I thought finally it might be time.

Now, look at his debauched lifestyle.

While we're working so hard. It's too much!

Do you know how people are making fun of us?

"Ako ronin are fools."

"Oishi is a jerk."

Chikara, we're not blaming you.

But these days we're feeling lost.

I think this is Mr. Oishi's ruse to distract our enemies.

You're so stupid!

They have a clever man, Zusho Irobe. This cheap trick won't work.

The rumor is that Mr. Oishi made a secret deal with Yanagisawa.

Really? What sort of deal?

The Ako fiefdom

will be taken over by Nagai, Yanagisawa's close ally.

And Mr. Oishi and his son

will be employed by Nagai.

No way!

Chikara, you hear anything about this?

Please. Can you find out what Mr. Oishi is thinking?

I'm sorry! Please trust my father.

-He hasn't changed. -Can you prove it?

Please believe me!

Chikara!

Hey! You bastard!

-What? -Wanna fight?

-Shut up! -I won't let you go!

Get off me!

I won't let you! Get out of the way!

Sword!

Chikara!

-It's the police! Run! -We'll catch you!

What's the matter?

Father, do you still intend to avenge our lord?

Please tell me. I can't stand it!

The bath is ready.

Chikara, don't fight!

You hurt?

Father!

Mr. Fuwa! Mr. Fuwa!

SEPTEMBER 1702

Did you call for me, sir?

Zusho, my father told me

the government won't accept Daigaku Asano as the lord.

Did you know that?

-Yes. -Why is that?

Daigaku would receive the fiefdom in Karasuyama.

Lord Yanagisawa let Mr. Oishi know his intention.

But Mr. Oishi refused.

-Oishi did? -Zusho.

-What is Oishi plotting? -It's not clear.

He's currently in Kyoto

giving himself up to debauchery.

Debauchery?

That makes him a soft target. Why not kill him at once?

Don't let Oishi fool us.

Zusho, my father is right.

Kill him at once. If Daigaku's takeover is cancelled,

their ronin might act.

I'll stay here for a while.

Lord Uesugi isn't well.

I'll accompany him. Got it?

Wow, how beautiful!

Did you mother sew it?

Yes, until the day before she died.

It's finally finished.

She said this was for the raid.

"Great color to wear under the black uniform."

She also said that...

I can't imagine how sad she felt.

She always wanted to see her son avenge the lord.

How long do we have to wait?

I'm old. I might die before the day comes.

If that happens, how could I face my lord in the afterlife?

Some die, while others are born.

We have no choice but to wait patiently.

You have a guest.

Mr. Oishi, long time no see.

Mr. Ono, how are you? Please come in.

-I'm almost finished with this painting. -I'm sorry to interrupt you.

-I have a request. -Tell me.

I heard you left the clan's money and Lady Asano's possessions

with the merchant, Amagawa-ya.

That's right.

Among those goods, my household items were included.

-Could be. -They're definitely there!

I asked Amagawa-ya, but was told they cannot be returned

without your consent.

I'm ashamed to ask such a thing,

but living as a ronin is hard. Also, our second grandchild was born.

It's a hard life.

Would you sympathize with me and help me reclaim the goods?

All right.

I'll write to Amagawa-ya.

Really? Thank you very much!

-Would you like a drink? -I'd love one.

Thank you.

-Thank you. -Have a look at them.

I asked him to paint...

all the pictures in this room.

Excellent.

So, this room is called the Flower Room.

In the Flower Room, with the flowery ladies.

I'm so jealous.

-It's done. -Let me have a look.

-What is this? -Darling!

-Interesting, isn't it? -It's horrifying.

He sometimes jokes around like this.

Mr. Oishi, you divorced your wife.

And now this lifestyle of yours, it's concerning.

-Do you still want to kill Lord Kira? -Of course not.

It's just a design.

-It blends in with the flowers-- -Rubbish!

It's a lie. You can be honest with me.

You've never painted like this.

You loved flowers and people. You knew how to enjoy your life.

But you've changed. What a pity.

Mr. Oishi, soon Lord Asano's brother will be given a new fiefdom.

Once that happens, give up vengeance. However small the fiefdom is,

he'll be permitted 100 retainers.

I'm terrible as a swordsman, but an excellent accountant.

I'll help you live your life again. This is for the good of the Asano clan.

I'm loyal too.

I guess I went overboard with the joke in this picture.

To be honest...

I'm tired of vengeance, tired of serving a lord.

I don't want to run away from this life quite yet.

Let me live a life of leisure.

Excuse me.

-A guest for Mr. Oishi. -Who?

The old man. Your regular guest.

-I See. -Mr. Oishi.

Don't go away. I have more to say.

On the 18th, the Chamberlain summoned Daigaku, the late lord's brother.

His request to restore the house was rejected.

Daigaku was deprived of the fiefdom and sent to the house in Geishu.

It's a harsh decision.

With this, the house of Asano in Ako has perished forever.

Summon our people in Kyoto to Maruyama at once.

Understood!

Mr. Oishi.

Mr. Oishi.

Who is it?

-Murder! -Help, anyone!

Quickly!

-Yamayoshi. -Boss, I did it.

Idiot! You killed the wrong man.

Mr. Hashimoto. Mr. Hashimoto!

Mr. Hashimoto.

Wake up!

Listen. Mr. Oishi came to Edo.

He's at Kawasaki.

We're gathering. Get ready!

Mr. Hashimoto.

Come on! Mr. Oishi has come!

So what?

I'm tired. Leave me alone.

Where is your wife?

-She's at work. -Where?

Fukagawa.

Selling her body.

-Why? -To pay off our debts.

Mr. Hashimoto! Do you call yourself a man?

You made your wife a whore!

-Is drinking that important? -Shut up!

She's my wife. Whether I sell her, or kill her, is none of your business!

-Get out! -Mr. Hashimoto, you've lost your mind!

Stand up now!

-For the sake of your family! Please! -Get out!

Go! Go now!

-Hashimoto! -Get out!

Mr. Hashimoto.

I'm...

Lord Kira's guard, Heihachiro Kobayashi.

I saw an Ako man storm out of here.

Anything the matter?

Here's 50 ryo.

Will you tell me where Mr. Oishi is, or any other information you have?

I won't mention your name.

You better leave Edo with your wife and child.

Go ahead, kill me.

My body is poor, but my heart is noble.

I won't betray my men.

That's enough.

We know Oishi is in Edo.

Wait! Wait! Wait...

Wait.

Mr. Oishi is here!

Mr. Oishi, welcome!

-Mr. Oishi! -Mr. Oishi!

Everyone, I know I've kept you waiting.

Now that the government has made its decision about the clan,

I can act without regrets.

We'll correct the mistake of the government with our own hands.

And we'll avenge our lord.

I, Kuranosuke, will lead all of you!

Any news from Kyoto?

-Is our baby all right? -She's fine.

Hatsu.

-Let's leave Edo. -What?

Our revenge...

has been called off.

-No way. -We have money. Look.

-How did you get it? -I'll tell the master.

Wait!

Tell me. Where did the money come from?

-It doesn't matter. -It does!

The money came from...

-Yes, Kira's men. -How terrible!

-Give it back now. -Don't worry.

I didn't betray my people.

Hatsu...

don't you want to live with our child?

You know the answer to that!

But please!

If you feel anything for me, return this money...

right away.

I beg you! Right now!

Darling! Darling, please!

Kira is at Uesugi's residence.

He insists he's looking after the lord.

-They're all on high alert. -They think we'll raid his house in Honjo.

Is there a map?

Only an old map obtained from a former resident.

Kira tightened the security, though.

It's been fortified with gates and a spiked wall.

First, make an accurate floor plan.

Then, find out the exact time Kira will be at the residence...

in Honjo.

KIRA'S HOUSE AT HONJO

-Thieves! -Catch them!

-Wait! -Kill them!

Go, go!

Hurry!

They're from Tsuchiya's unit, the Shogun's guard.

Tell Tsuchiya at once!

Wait.

Put out the light.

-Sir! -I know.

So Kira wants to search my house? Refuse his demand!

Tell him, "Two thieves broke in, but we killed them."

Tea master, it will soon be time

for the year-end tea ceremony hosted by Kira.

Yes, I'm invited too.

Will the tea ceremony be held at his house in Honjo?

-That's right. -Will Lord Kira be there?

-Of course, he's the host. -And when is it?

I mean, I want to know

because I want to come here sometime to make ceramics for tea.

There would be no point in me coming by on a day when you'd be absent.

It's December 14th.

-Hello, are you Mr. Otaka? -He's Mr. Wakiya.

Do you know him?

-He looked like one of my haiku friends. -Who?

Mr. Otaka is a ronin for the Ako clan.

He came to Edo after the clan perished. Or so I heard.

Thank you, sir.

Forgive my sudden visit. I couldn't find Mr. Hashimoto.

We're attacking Kira tomorrow night.

-Really? -I want to tell Mr. Hashimoto now.

-I may know where he is. -Where?

A girl came to collect money the other day.

She's called Osen.

-I'll take you to her. -All right.

What do you want?

Get out.

-What? -Just get out.

Darling, wonderful news.

The raid's finally on, tomorrow night. Get ready.

-Raid... -Let's go home.

Too late.

All I care about now is sake and the money you earn.

-Darling, how can you say that? -You idiot!

You're no longer a samurai's wife!

-Enough! -Mr. Hashimoto!

This is too much.

-You're too cruel to your wife. -It's none of your business!

-Leave. -I'll take you home.

For the sake of your wife.

I see. You've got a crush on her.

Okay. Come and get me. Kill me, and you can have her.

Mr. Hashimoto, stop!

My darling...

forgive me.

What have you done?

She is...

my wife.

Jujiro,

remember our deaths. If only...

it was six months earlier, I wouldn't have ended up like this.

I blame Mr. Oishi's delay.

Tell him that.

No!

Mr. Hashimoto!

Mr. Hashimoto!

DECEMBER 14, 1702

-What's this? -A bowl made by Koetsu.

It's called White Snow.

-It's snowing heavily today. -A gift for me?

-Yes. -But why?

When I asked you to sell this to me, you refused.

-A tea master like me can be fickle. -I see.

Your kindness is deeply appreciated.

AKO LORDLESS SAMURAI

-Who is it? -It's Hazama.

Jujiro, we were worried about you.

-What? A child? -Mr. Oishi?

-He's upstairs. -Jujiro!

A child? What happened?

This is Hashimoto's child.

-He dropped out, didn't he? -No!

Mr. Oishi, Mr. Hashimoto wasn't well, so he couldn't be with us.

That's why...

he killed himself and his wife.

I see.

-Mr. Oishi! -Jujiro, give me the child.

My wife will raise her.

She wanted to have a girl. Now, go get ready. Don't be late.

-Good girl... -Jujiro!

Get ready.

I'm ready!

ASANO CLAN RETAINERS' STATEMENT

It's them. Tell Mr. Uesugi.

Some take revenge. Some stop it.

Heave-ho!

-What's going on? -Keep quiet!

It's the Ako clan's raid.

Raise the lanterns along the wall and crouch under them.

Understood!

Listen, neighbors.

We're Lord Asano's retainers. We came here to avenge our late lord.

We apologize for the inconvenience. Please understand

and ignore our presence!

Everyone, if you see any of Kira's men climbing the fence,

push them down.

Even if it's Kira himself, we won't hesitate!

Understood!

Damn it!

-Spare me. -Get the candles.

Hurry UP!

-Give me your hand. -Okay.

Head to the back room.

Go to the back!

Wait! Wait!

Everyone, stand back!

Are you okay, Fuwa?

This way.

Bed room.

-Still warm. Find him! -Spears!

Follow me!

LORD UESUGI'S RESIDENCE

Open the gate! Open the gate!

-Lord! Don't go! -Let me go!

I'll kill all the Ako ronin! I'll avenge my father!

-Get out of my way! -No, I won't.

-Would you see our clan ruined, Lord? -Shut up!

-Which is more important, the clan or me? -The clan.

-The clan, of course! -Shut up!

My lord, please understand. If I let you go,

we, all the Uesugi retainers,

will suffer like the Ako ronin.

-Any luck? -We searched everywhere,

-but still can't find Kira. -What are your orders!

Search further until you find him!

The dawn will break soon...

-Jujiro! What are you doing? -Can't you see?

-I'm looking for Kira. -Don't scare us. Hurry!

Hurry UP!

-Don't hide here! -Get out!

-Move! -Get out!

-Spare me! -Where is Kira?

I don't know. Spare me!

Everyone, out!

It's not him!

-Not here. -Where's Kira?

-Men, found him? -No.

Jujiro?

I heard a voice...

so I stabbed.

Jujiro, withdraw it!

Jujiro, the whistle!

That's the whistle!

Hey, the whistle!

Whistle!

We got him! The whistle!

Head towards the whistle!

Lord Kira.

We'll look for the wound inflicted by our lord, Asano.

Let's check.

Don't touch me! Keep away from me!

Oishi, I'm a government official of high rank.

If you kill me, it's treason.

You will be executed. Knowing that, will you still kill me?

Don't try to argue!

Hip, hip, hurrah!

-Are you awake, my lady? -What's happened?

I'll tell you. Lord Oishi's messenger, Kichiemon Terasaka, just arrived.

Lord Asano's 47 retainers, led by Mr. Oishi,

raided Mr. Kira's compound.

They successfully avenged our late lord.

Then, they went to Sengakuji Temple,

and offered Kira's head to our lord's grave, reporting their victory.

My lady, I understand how you feel.

It's been a long time...

since our lord died.

I...

apologize to the retainers.

I was swayed by rumors.

I was angry, thinking they'd given up on vengeance.

I was so sorry for my late husband.

I became thoughtless.

Forty-seven loyal retainers...

loyal to our lord alone.

Forty-seven loyal retainers.

His Lordship would have been glad...

to hear this news.

The Ako ronin led by Oishi have been placed under custody

of Hosokawa, MORI, Matsudaira and Mizuno.

The prisoners are behaving calmly as they await judgment.

Although they broke the law,

their attitude as samurai is admirable.

The chief inspector and many daimyo

request they be spared on the grounds of demonstrated loyalty.

Certainly.

His Highness was pleased.

He was glad such loyal samurai remain in these times.

Mr. Yanagisawa, we must judge them carefully

and reward their loyalty.

Well, well...

what models of decency you are.

Don't you realize...

the sword that Oishi is lowering on us?

-Meaning? -Think of this.

The Shogun is the master of all samurai.

Their loyalty should be respected.

-That's why-- -Let me finish!

If we accept their violence...

we fail to observe the law.

The Ako ronin...

have raised this question through their actions.

Insolently, they dare to resist the government.

They disgraced not only us but also His Highness.

Moreover...

they did it underhandedly.

They deserve worse than decapitation.

Their leader, Oishi...

for a small-time lord like Asano, he overstepped his place

as a retainer.

FEBRUARY 4, 1703

LORD HOSOKAWA'S RESIDENCE

"Lord Asano attempted murder

on palace grounds, and was punished by execution."

"Lord Kira, considered innocent, was unpunished."

"Seeking revenge...

Asano's 47 retainers united,

and they killed Lord Kira."

"They're not afraid of the government and have displayed lawlessness."

"Therefore,

we order them to commit hara-kiri."

The following message comes from me personally.

Due to their corruption, the Kira clan was also punished.

Their fiefdom was confiscated and the clan was dissolved.

I heard...

that His Highness was moved by your loyalty.

This is because he regretted...

his unfair judgment on you last year.

You must be satisfied to hear this.

Thank you.

Knowing this, we can end our lives...

without regrets.

A nightingale.

It's a fine day.

-So lovely. -Indeed.

An old man like me can end life beautifully, like a flower.

Mr. Oishi is a master at growing flowers.

Retainers at other houses...

must be pleased.

LORD MORI' S RESIDENCE

LORD MIZUNO' S RESIDENCE

LORD MATSUDAIRA' S RESIDENCE

We're ready.

Mr. Chikara Oishi, please come.

-Yes. -Chikara.

We will follow you soon.

Please don't worry.

Farewell.

All the others have finished.

Mr. Kuranosuke Oishi, please come.

Every one of them...

died noble deaths.

You made them into great samurai.

I'm in awe.

Thank you.

Regardless of rank, a samurai is a samurai.

What do you mean?

They were indeed great.

But it wasn't me who made them so.

Rather, I was supported

and guided by them...

to accomplish our shared duty.

The oldest of us was 78, and the youngest...

was 15 years of age.

We were 47 samurai.

No, there were more.

Some tragically died before us. They were truly...

truly magnificent fellows.

And now, they must be waiting for me.

Time to go!

Ako's 47 samurai were buried in Sengakuji Temple.

Times have changed, but they are remembered with respect today.

THE END

Subtitle translation by Sumiko OKADA