All language subtitles for Marutai no onna 1997 576p BR x264-mafalda.eng

A JUZO ITAMI PRODUCTION

MARUTAI

BIWAKO, THE ACTRESS

Ow! Ouch!

Ow, ow! Ouch!

You okay, honey?

Is the camera rolling?

It's rolling.

Say your lines here.

Got it.

Giving birth is a woman's
moment of glory.

Over here.

Giving birth is a woman's
moment of glory.

I'm not gonna say it hurts.

I won't say it hurts.
Are you getting it on camera?

It's rolling.

Don't pause.
Come in right it on cue.

Get me a cup of tea.

And you...

You were too late there. Run over
the second you here, "Owww! '".

Yes, ma'am.

Your tea.

Boiling hot! You want me to
burn my tongue off?

I'm sorry.

Let's get going.

Ow! Ouuuuuch!

Ouch! Ouuuuuuuch!

You okay, honey?

Is the camera rolling?

It's rolling.

Giving birth is a woman's
moment of glory.

I'm not gonna say it hurts.
Got that?

I'm not gonna say it hurts.

Getting it on camera?

Let's go.

It's all right.
You can let it out.

Oooh... It hurts...

NOT!

It's all right.
You can say it hurts.

I'm fine.

Ready? One, two, three.

Now push!

Honey! The camera's rolling, right?
Sure there's enough tape?

Here we go!

One, two, three... push!

Inhale!

Hold it there! I see it!

One, two, three, push!

Inhale!

Scissors!

Here.

It won't cut!

I need sharper ones.

Hey, I see it.
The head is black.

All right. It's coming...

It's out!

It's not crying.

It's not crying... not a peep.

It's crying.

Doctor!

The baby... boy or girl?

A fine-looking boy.

Has he gotta weenie?

He sure does.

That's good. Thank you, Doctor.

- Did you get it all on tape, honey?
- Sure did.

Snap the erase tab off
so you won't record over it.

Okay.

She Thinks of everything.

What a woman.

Okay, that's it.

Let's take a rest.

Not enough laughs in it.

Get me the costume for Act 3.

My tummy keeps slipping.
Fix it, will you?

Excuse me.

That was powerful acting.

Really? Powerful... me?

You bet. Right?

A real pro.

What do you mean by that?
Tell me.

Your acting's got class.

Really? I've got class?

The best, I swear.

Ma'am.

No, this isn't it.

When I say for Act 3, I mean Act 3.
You are hopeless!

Move! You're young, run!

This is not a showplace
f or your special talents.

The crying and sulking.

I quit.

That's the idea.

No, I mean... I quit.

I just... can't bear it any more.

I see.

Then quit!

If you can't take it, you'll
never be an actress.

Koshi!

Who's want to become
bitchy like you!

It's always "Me, me, me."

As a human being, you're the pits.

When I was her age...

And things got tough, I slipped out
so nobody would see me crying.

Harbor lights far away
would blur in my tears.

THE CRIME

Peter Piper picked a peck
of picked peppers...

How much would
a woodchuck chuck...

How now brown cow?

She sells seashells
at the seashore...

Am I that bitchy?

Yes? Who is it?

Package for Mr. Oyama.

Where is it from?

The Tokyo Bar Association.

Get Oyama, the lawyer, now!

What was that sound?

Mitsuko!

Damn!

Stop, damn you!

Are you... all right?

Are you all right? Come on.

Where do you live?
What's your name?

Wait here.
I'll call the ambulance.

Wait here.

The phone...

Okay, let's go.

Are you coming?

His hand!

Quickly, get in!

Oh God, the blood!

Bandage the wound!

Don't die!

What are you guys doing?
Hurry and stop the bleeding!

He's gonna run out of blood!
How about a transfusion?

We're doing all we can!
The rest is up to the doctor.

- Hurry up!
- Please be quiet.

Apply pressure.

Here goes.

Hey, no!

Are you all right?

Koshi! Someone's been shot!

Get to the hospital! Now!

Don't die! Hang in there!

What's that?

What? What are you saying?

Respiration?

None.

- Pulse?
- None.

Oxygen mask. Clear air passage.

Air passage, clear.

THE HOSPITAL

THE HOSPITAL

I'm going home.
Got to get up early tomorrow.

No, you gotta wait f or the police.

It has nothing to do with me.

Got to get home for a facial.

- You're a witness.
- But...

Biwako.

- You okay?
- Yeah, I'm okay.

The media's here to see you.

The media?

They listen to police radio,
and swarm like flies.

- Ms. Biwako Isono?
- Yes.

Can I have your autograph
for my mom?

Sure.

I've got nothing to say.
I don't want to see them.

Here you go.

Thank you.
Shall we go out the back exit?

Yes, lead on!

This way.

Straight ahead.

Thank you.

Give my best to your mom.

What's this?

- Police. Ms. Biwako Isono?
- Yes...

We need you at the crime scene.

But, I've got things to do...

Got to put an APB f or the suspect.
We need your help.

I'm Hatano from Police HQs.

But, what about my facial.

CRIME RE-ENACTMENT

CRIME RE-ENACTMENT

He points the gun, pull the trigger,
'click', no bullets.

Then he attacked me.

And the gun?

Did the guy throw it away?

He still had it.

Now, you attack Ms. Isono.

Hug tight.

Real tight.

And then I kicked him
with my knee.

Stop right there. Get that.

Okay, then, he...

He knocked me down.

Which fist, left or right?

Let's see. His right.

With his gun, then.
That must've hunt.

You, hit her with your right fist.

Just fake it.

Never mind. I'll do it.

Hit her with my right fist.

Are you all right?

Fine. Just acting.

Wow, you're good.

Really? Do you think so?

- Next, the suspect...
- Attacked me, so...

Just fake it, please?

THE PRESS CONFERNCE

Here she comes.

Thank you for waiting.

We'll start as soon as the police
have finished questioning.

Get on with it!

We're sorry.

Please keep it down, it's late.

We need to ask you a favor.

What is it?

Don't say anything
about the incident.

But that's impossible.
That's what they're here for.

This is important,
so listen carefully.

Only you and the murderer
know what happened. Right?

We'll locate the suspect and
get a confession.

What if a certain fact
in his confession is...

something that only you and
the murderer would know.

What does that say about him?

He is the real murderer.

Are you with us?

Let's say the suspect tells us that,

he tried to shoot you with the gun.

But it only made a click,
and no bullets came out.

This is a fact that only you
and he would know.

If he knew, then it can
only mean that...

- He's the murderer!
- You've got it.

Wow... you detectives are smart.

However, what if you
let this out on TV?

What happens?

We say to the suspect,

"You said something only the
real murderer would know".

Then, what if he says,

"I heard it on TV." See?

He'll turn it around in court and say,

"Police torture was so brutal,
I had to say what I saw on TV...

Just to get them to stop."

Wow. He's smart, too.

You can say that.

So you torture people.

- Never!
- Really?

I've seen it on TV.

Hit with a phone book so
you won't leave a mark.

We do not.

You look guilt y.

You're trying my patience.

Can you imagine...

a knife in front of my eyes!

See, I'm still shaking.

Pardon me but your face
looks awful. Are you all right?

Does it look that bad?
Anyone have a mirror?

Here.

Thank you.

Yuk! I look awful!

Did you fight the thugs?

Well, not exactly fight...

I look just awful. Damn it!

Please! Do you know
the 'Sheep of Truth'?

Isn't that a new cult...

that drugs young people
to steal from their parents?

Right. The late Mr. Oyama was
fighting against them.

Think the killer was a cult member?

You mean that was
the 'Sheep of Truth'?

You said he had a knife.

Yes. He had a knife.

And you stood up to him, unarmed.

Yes.

Can you be more specific?

I kneed him in the nuts.

- Which knee?
- Right knee.

- How did you kick him?
- Like this.

If they catch him, will you testify?

Of course. A criminal like that
must get the death penalty.

How many attackers were there?

Can you tell us
how many there were?

I've been asked by the police
not to disclose any details.

There are facts that only
the criminal and I know.

What would the criminals say
if I blabbed it to all of you?

They'd say they're only repeating
what they saw on TV.

You fool. All you had to do
was scare him.

Nobody told you to kill him.

Did you see their faces?

You saw them, didn't you?
Come on, tell us.

Only the criminals and I know,
so I'm not going to answer that.

They could be watching TV right now.

Do you have anything to say to them?

Speak into this camera, please.

This camera?

The man you shot died.

That makes you murderers.

Your poor families! As wives
and children of murderers.

The rest of their lives
will be hell.

Turn yourself in.
The sooner the better.

Do it, while there's time.

Asshole.
She even saw your face.

But...

But she saw you.

You can't stay here.
Lie low in your hometown.

Scare that actress so she won't talk.

How you do that is up to you.

THE NEXT D AY

'Groin Kick Repels Attackers'
'A Crime by the Sheep of Truth? '

'Biwako's Battered Face
Threatens Career.'

They've got a nerve!

Orchids From Channel 5.
7th lot today.

I'm big news.

They've turned you into a hero.

Oh, no. They printed my age.

JTV's Director is here.

Flowers f or the heroine.

- Not orchids, I hope.
- Huh?

Don't worry. This will be
our orchid corner.

You do look awful.

I'm happy you came.

'Courageous Witness', eh?

They really play it up, don't they?

I don't like it.
The murderer is reading this, too.

They've even printed your address.
Better be careful.

IDENTIKIT

IDENTIKIT

The eyebrows.

Too pointy.

Don't turn upward.

Squarer.

Getting closer.

Not so long.

Not so thick.

A little more, square.

Keep your eyes on the screen.

I'm looking.

You only peek and then look away.

Sure you remember his face?

- This guy's rude.
- Tachibana!

Sorry.

Put yourself in my place.

Memory isn't like a photo.

It's fuzzy. Unstable.
Easily affected.

Staring at the wrong face
affects my memory.

Even your potato-face
blows my memory.

Enough already. Keep going.

Hey, you started it.
Who are you anyway?

I'm sorry, this is Tachibana.
He'll guard you from today.

You're an important witness.

We must protect you until the trial.

Wait a minute.
What's this about a witness?

I was passing by.
I had nothing to do with the murder.

I saw the victim to the hospital,
and now I'm helping the police.

I've told you everything I know.
I've done my part.

- Ms. Isono.
- What?

You can't let everyone down.

Don't give me that.

I don't want to become a target
for the cult group.

You already are.

Whether you decide to testify or not,
they're already after you.

That red belt is Chikamatsu.

He and I will guard you.
He's our show-biz expert.

- What's this?
- Arrest technique.

You guys are barbaric.

Either this, or we die.

I don't want to be a witness.

What if I refuse to testify?

Nothing really.

I can say no?

It's not compulsory.

It's not?

And there's no money in it.

Is that right?

That's why a witness gets
everyone's respect.

Are you refusing to testify?

This is Chikamatsu.

I've seen all of your films.

Which one's your favorite?

Oh, "Nuptial Niceties 96"!

That Osaka dialect was hell.

Maybe, but it was worth it.

Thank you.

What about you?

Sorry. I don't see movies.

Barbarism only.

I saw you on the news.

Look at this.
Isn't this bruise just awful?

Just awful. Hey, look!

Can you see it?

Yes, I can.

And here.

See? Right here.

- Okay.
- Enough.

Did you see?

Got him!

Fall back, fall back.

That's it. Get him from behind.

Got him!

Yes! That's him.

Do you see?

PROTECTIVE CUSTOD Y

PROTECTIVE CUSTOD Y

- Have you seen any?
- Any what?

- Any of Biwako Isono's films.
- No.

You haven't?

Let's check outside.

She's too frivolous f or me.

Not one movie?

None, since college days.

I'll lend you a video.

Cut it out.

What?

Settle down.
She's just an actress.

I know.

When the subject is famous,
you have to keep your distance.

What was the last movie
you saw in a theater?

'West Side Story', in an
oldies theater.

That is old.

Who is it?

The police.

Come in. She's changing.

Thanks.

The detectives are here.

Hey! What's going on, buddy?

He's a real cutie.

He's a diabetic.

Somebody around here
spoils him with candy.

Better run, cuty.
This man's scary.

Who cares what you wear!

- Where is it?
- What?

The leopard cart I wore in
'Nuptial Niceties 96'.

Leopard?

Women in leopard hunger f or men,
Truffaut says.

'La Peau Douce'! But he said
'hunger for love', not for men.

Same thing.

Sorry I kept you waiting.

Are you guys for real?

Um?

Hey, guys!

You're getting in?

Please get used to it.

Put the seat belt on.
It's the law.

Try pulling it gently.

This is M2. Marutai B departed 10:05.
Destination: Beauty salon.

You said 'Marutai' just now.
What does that mean?

Someone we're protecting...

- And the 'B'?
- B is Biwako.

So, I'm Marutai B.

That's right.

Gives me the chills.
Like a spy movie.

Nice to see you.
It's been rough, hasn't it?

Hello? M2 here.

Marutai B entered salon, 10:45.

Purpose: To color her gray hair.
Duration: 2 hours.

D AILY ROUTINE

When I am angry~

I drink sake out of a rice bowl~

I try to drink, but can't~...

One, two, three and one, two, three -

Cho-cho-chon, and one, two, three -

Our Marutai really gets around!

Okay, take a breather.

You coming with me?

Geez! 35 minutes already.

What kind of a woman is she?
Not my type f or sure.

Do you have my size?

I'll go and see.

'Keep your chin up, Biwako.
We're all behind you.'

Thank you.

I'll try my best.

Thank you.

Koshi, let's invite the
detectives here.

No, better not.

Waiting outside.

That's their job.

Tough job.

They might be after her.

So, she's in danger?

Just assuming.

Oh, Chin-san! Listen...

This is good. What is it?

Duck. Our Marutai
really cares f or us.

She can be sensitive.

Hey, this is kamo.

The same thing.

How can they be the same?

Domesticated wild duck is 'kamo'.

Is that so?

Domesticated boar is pig.

Remember that gourmet Yakuza?
He taught me this.

It's time for my watch.

Don't sit in one position too long.

It's all this looking up
that does it. Hurts my back.

Remember Michelangelo?

He painted that ceiling on his back
and ended up with a twisted body.

I know the feeling...

Michelangelo, I like him.

Passing Checkpoint 1.

Checkpoint 2.

Here we go.

- Let's use the light.
- Wait.

You're surrounded.
Don't try to resist.

Drop the gun, and put up your hands.

Run!

That way!

You okay?

Hurry!

That way! Get him!

He went that way. Grab him!

Tachibana!

It's just a movie.

You jumped up!

Not funny.

Why did you become a cop?

- I don't remember.
- Tell me.

I don't talk about myself.

My father was a cop.

Ahh, a serious little boy.

No, I was rebel before
I became a cop.

Got into fights?

I had a bad-boy haircut.

So? Why did you become a cop?

I never talk about me.

Okay, then don't.

- Caught one.
- What?

Never mind.

You are really irritating.

A thief.
I nabbed him in a shop.

So you were recruited by the force?

Well, they said I was cut out for it.

Must run in your blood.

When I joined the force,
my dad cried with joy...

I'd been so bad.

When I went home on my first R& R,
the local baker's wife said,

"Turn a new leaf and work hard."
She thought I'd been in jail.

That's a nice story.

I don't talk about myself.

Only to excess.

And you? Why acting?

Simple.

The star of school plays grew up
to become an actress.

Hard to believe it happened here.

We used to rehearse here.

Our company was so small
we only had a shabby little shack.

I came to Tokyo when I was 18.

Was assistant to the late
actress Akiko Kujo.

When to acting school at night and
finally got a part 3 years later.

I was an office clerk.
I had only two lines.

"Boss, you have a visitor."

I was so happy, I must have practiced
those 2 lines 10,000 times.

That's only one line.

Two.

"Boss",

"You have a visitor".
Two lines.

The rehearsal room was here.

Special place, huh?

That was the toilet.

I don't want to forget
what I used to feel then.

A double room...

I'll learn my lines here tonight.

All right.

Good night.

Good night.

See that? A double room.
Looks like she's still got it in her.

You think too much.

Long day, huh? Have a drink.

Thanks.

We won't make the last train.

I guess not.

You still got sauna coupons left?

Enough for tonight.

All right?

You go ahead and go home.
I'm spending the night here.

You want to go.

No, but my son's home from L.A.
It's been a while...

Where are my underpants?

Underpants?

Here, they are.

Go hone. Home sweet home.

And next time?

Can't tell with those cops
hanging around...

I told them I was going to learn
my lines here.

What a nuisance!

Let's go.

THE ARREST

One Salisbury steak.
Here's how I want it cooked.

Super well-done, cracked and
burnt black on the bottom.

Friend egg on top.

Fry the yolk until it's hard enough
to be picked up with chopsticks.

Greasy French fries and rock-hard
broccoli on the side.

We can't make that, Toro!

Why not? That's what
you brought yesterday.

- I get it. You're pissed off.
- You bet I am.

A gourmet cop.

A gourmet order you? Ha!

Hey, Toro. You eating again?

C'mon. You'll lose sight of
what's important.

A detective must have curiosity.

Salinger?

Are you nuts?

For a cop, it's porn, comics...

mah-jong and pinball.

Horseracing, karaoke...
anything a criminal would do.

Have you ever been to karaoke?

No, sir.

Never been to karaoke, and
you call yourself a cop?

Can't just eat, shit,
spank the monkey and sleep!

Hi, I'm Midori.

I'm Tanaka.

What do you do?

I'm still in college.

Ahh, a college boy.
What's your major?

American literature.

You're really fat. How come?

Give it here, you shit!

Quit with that photo stuff!

- Excuse me.
- What's the matter?

Nature calls.

Oh my God...

Let's dance.

Tamao Oki?

The police. Freeze!

Move an inch and I'll blow you away.

Handcuffs! Hip pocket!

Oh my God.

Take care of this guy.

What's this?
A suppression of religion!

Tyranny of power! Let me go!

We must save mankind!

We must separate mankind
into white and black sheep.

I've got no time for this crap!

I can't understand the Yakuza,
but this lot are insane!

It takes time.
You might want to read these.

'The Terror of Mind Control'
'World Religions and Mysticism.'

You actually want me to read these?

The world is doomed, because of
man's greed!

The gods will use fire to
cleanse our karma.

Mark my words, a nuclear war will
happen in 1999. Armageddon.

CRIMINAL IDENTIFIC ATION

CRIMINAL IDENTIFIC ATION

Hello.

This way.

Hello.

In here, please.

Is this the torture room?

I told you, no.

Hey, is this?

A one-way mirror. We can see them
but they can't see us.

Can I have a look?

Hey! I can see you.

Oops, sorry.

This is a mirror all right.

Convinced?

Can we begin?

Sure. Let's do it.

Sorry it's a little dark.

Bring him in.

Get in.

Face this way.

Look up, to the right.

Face that way.

More to the right.

A bit more.

More that way.

That's it.

Get some light on his face.

What do you think?

No mistake,

that's him.

THE CONFESSION

Oki's just about to crack.

Are we doing this right? Talking
about his childhood, marriage...

Hearing his life story f or 2 weeks.

He's taken on a new personality.
We're tapping his original self.

Well, the book says so.

Let him connect to his
pre-cult self.

This should work.

Yeah, it should work.

Did you see his face
when he talked about his father?

He cried.

Almost every day, his father got
drunk and beat up his mother.

He was only three. Just a baby.

The baby tried desperately
to stop his parents' fighting.

The father then abused the baby.

He put a collar on the kid,
tried him to a leash outside...

Hell, I started crying.

Oki believed he was a bad child.

He joined the Sheep of Truth
to escape his guilty conscience.

His real self is still there.

Detective.

They come every day.

It's been a week.

Should we let them?

Not until he asks himself.

Using his family to get a confession
won't hold up in court.

Isn't it funny?

If your cult was ever in danger,
your Guru used to say that...

he'd roar like a lion for all
the world to hear.

Now you get caught, and
not a peep out of him.

Isn't this weird?

Christ went to the cross to bear
the sins of disciples.

Aum's Asahara claimed he could fly.

How about your Guru?
Can he fly?

Yes, he can.

Did you see him fly?

No, but there are some who did.

You follow him because he flies?

No, Without him to guide me,
there can be no salvation.

What happens then?

I can't save mankind.

Why should you save mankind?

We are supper-humans, chosen by god.

A supper-human locked up
in a prison?

Use you powers to get out of here.
Scum!

Okay, we've understood your
goodwill toward mankind.

In the same spirit, there's something
I want you to think over.

Your mother and wife have been
coming everyday asking to see you.

Just letting you know.

Whether you see them or not
is up to you.

Your mother's getting old.

I don't know how long your
sentence will be -

Face it, two people died -
It won't be 5 or 6 years.

Not even sure your mother will
be alive when you get out.

Don't you think you should
talk with her while you can?

In here.

Take 'em off.

It's a different room.

Anything wrong?

No screens between us?

Can't separate you and your
mom with walls.

To your mother, you're still
her baby boy.

You've broken your mother's heart.

I didn't want to make this any
harder for her.

So, I asked my boss for a favor.

We'll leave you here with him.

You're leaving?

Investigators can't get
involved here.

Are the wife and kid here?

Untie him.

The rope?

Can't be tied up in front of
his kid, can he?

Is that wise?

You'll be there, right?

If he gets violent, jump on him.

That's all it takes.

Yes, sir.

I'll bring them in.

Hey.

Just let me say this.

It's about your kid.

Kids get to thinking that
somehow they're to blame.

Like, "Dad won't come home
because I've been bad."

You have to tell him that's not true.

Give him a big hug.

And tell him, you might not
come home for a long time.

But that it's not his fault.
Tell him he's a good kid.

That you're proud of him.

Say, "Look after Mommy
while I'm gone..."

I'm counting on you."

What's the matter?

You okay?

Detective!

- That murder...
- Yes?

I did it!

THE LAWYER

What did you tell them?

I'm just trying to help you.

Did you tell him who gave the order?

Never mind. I'll find out.

But...
By then, it may be too late.

I don't want to hear that
a client of mine...

is found in his cell with
his throat slashed.

Nothing I can do about
what you're spilled.

But you must turn it around
in court. Got that?

Deny everything you confessed.

Say you were visiting your
home town.

We'll find an alibi.

You did nothing.

The police tortured
a confession out of you.

But...

Your family's in the camp.

Don't worry, we're looking
after them.

This is where they're living now.

Do you know what this is?

That's right.

It's an incinerator.

Like a big microwave oven.

Burns bodies, without a trace.

Luckily, the police have hardly
any material evidence so far.

The trial depends solely on how
well you can play ignorant.

- But...
- What?

The eyewitness...

She won't testify.
I guarantee it.

THE WARNING

THE WARNING

Slob.

Who is it?

Kanto Electricity.

Wait a minute.

Come in.

The power's out. The only house
in the neighborhood.

Come here.

Friendly little fella, isn't he?

She won't take you out, huh?
You want to play?

Okay. Let's have a look.

Go check it out.

Where's the fuse box?

This way.

Here it is.

Where's the meter?

Outside.

Let me take a look.

Follow me.

Right here.

Did anyone touch this recently?

No.

Somebody's playing games.

Creepy!

Better tell the police.

I suppose so.

I'll just check it once more.

Here goes.

Thanks. How much do I owe you?

It's a free service.

Free service?
Something you don't see every day.

Clients are our lifeblood.

Let me get you some tea.

No, thanks. We must get going.

Then, take some cookies with you.

It was a gift.

Okay, thank you.

Comfy?

A present f or you.

THAT NIGHT

- I'm home.
- Yes.

Hurry.

I'm coming.

- Hello.
- Hi.

We'll see you tomorrow
morning at 8:30.

Hey, hang on.

No, we better get back to
the station. Right?

Got to return the guns.

Oh, just for a while.

God, am I tired!

Bring us some booze and tidbits.

Can't make much at this hour.

That's okay.
We're just going to make a toast.

Guess why.

How should I know?

The murderer confessed, right?

Detective Hatano was very grateful.
All because of me.

You deserve it.

- Might even get a citation.
- I'll ask.

Don't bother.

She found a wallet at a station,
and pocketed the 70,000 yen.

Why must you say that
in front of the detectives?

What would you like?
Must be off.

There's champagne in the fridge.
Let's have that.

Put the glasses in the sink
after you're done.

You can do that much, huh?

The... the dog...!

They knew when she'd be out.

Perfectly planned.

Someone's after me?

Scare tactics...

to frighten you out of testifying.

What f or? The man confessed.

He's going to deny his confession.

- But why?
- Happens all the time.

Confess with tears, and then
switch their plea to innocent.

That's not fair.

They have Nihonmatsu, a clever lawyer.

You can bet that they do this.

I'll get that.

Ms. Isono!

Oh, the media's here.

Excuse me.

They're like a plague!

No interviews.

Ignore them?

That won't work.
They'd stay until morning.

Neighbors will complain.

I'm not gonna talk!

Then, just make a statement.

Like what?

Like, "I can't forgive those"

who kill innocent pets."

- That's good.
- Doesn't sound like me.

That's why it's good.

I'll get it.

No, don't. Leave it.

I know what they want to hear.

"I, Biwako Isono, will not give in.
I will take the witness stand."

I'll give it to them.

Wait. Let me say something.

Don't say anything heroic, okay?

The criminals also watch TV.

Don't say anything that may
provoke them.

It's news for them, but a matter of
life and death for you.

If she doesn't testify, it will
hurt her image.

Just so that she can testify safely.

I'd rather she testifies.

Agree.

What the hell am I supposed to do?

Wait, maybe...

You're an actress.

So what?

Act out your emotions.

Be natural. No prepared lines.

It was a real shock.

This is my baby.

Just this morning he ran to me
holding a toy bunny in his mouth...

Asking me to play...

It's like losing a child...

I hate to ask in your moment of grief,
but will you still testify?

To be honest, I can't be sure.

I know I should...
My baby was killed, but...

I'm also scared.

To summon up my courage...

I need more time to reflect.

Then, the testimony...

I'm sorry but she's been through
a big shock.

Let's call it a day.

AT WORK

Get me some water.

You're facing the man
who killed your son,

your husband, and destroyed you.

Stab the guy with all the hatred!

Pretend this is the guy.

It's a big close-up... okay?

You all right, Ms. Isono?

Fine.

Need a break?

No, I'm fine.

Okay, let's go.

Blood will spray on your face,
But don't pull away.

Blood will ruin her clothes,
so get it right the first time.

This is a take!

Stand back or you'll get bloody.

- Ready?
- Just a sec, Sir.

Is the mike ready?

Blood, ready?

Yes.

Roll film...

Action!

Blink your eyes.

The other one.
Blink, blink, blink.

The blood looked real, didn't it?

They don't kid around.

No more 'bloody' drama for me.

Forget the 'bloody' jobs, okay?

That's all we seem to get these days.

Still a little too close to the bone.

I'm pooped.

Sorry to bother you at work, but

I need to ask you one question.

Right now?

Sorry, but with the trial coming up...

we must get our facts right.
We'd appreciate your help.

We'll be over there.

It's to do with time.

On the day, you left at 3:30, and

got to the crime scene at 6:30.

Am I right so far?

I've told you a thousand times.

But it took you 3 hours

to get to the crime scene.

Where were you?

Hey! I'm not the murderer here, okay?

Relax, we're just confirming
the facts.

I go where I want!

You went somewhere?

No. I just drive around the city.

Helps me practice my lines.

Koshi!

You will excuse me.

I'm sick of this.

- You think they found out?
- What?

- The affair.
- Who knows?

'Biwako's Fling' won't look good.

I know.

The cops always leak stuff
to the media.

I know that!

Can't wait till this job's over
so I can go to Florence.

Why Florence?

Michelangelo... to see the work
of a fellow backache sufferer.

THE STAGE

All set.

Fits you perfectly.

You have no lines.

Just stand there with
other soldiers.

You do it.

It suits you better.

- I can't do it.
- Nothing fits him.

Wish I could be up there.

Get your makeup on.

Chikamatsu...

One of us has to be up there
to guard her.

Consider yourself lucky.

It can take an actor 5 years
just to get on stage.

Chikamatsu.

The boys are here.

Good. It should go as planned.

This way, please.

- Er...
- Yes?

Hi.

You nervous?

My first time.

Just follow me.

No lines, right?

Nope. Just stand there and
die in last scene.

Die, huh? Can't do that.

5 minutes till curtain.
Standby.

Five minutes.

I can't die.

This way.

I'm counting on you.

Well?

You say, 'Yes'.

Where is Antony?

Who keeps thee company?

What doest thee now?

Why must two people
so deeply in love stay apart...

Your majesty, there is
a messenger from Caesar.

I am here to convey Caesar's will,
the universal lord.

He entreats that the Queen
leave Antony

and put thyself under his shroud.

Leave Antony?

Egypt to thee is like a son of
thine own flesh and blood.

Would a mother sacrifice her
own son for her lover?

Say to great Caesar this.

I belong to thee, Lord Caesar,

Any time thou wishes to grant
me audience

I will kiss thy regal hand.

A most noble and wise reply,
as befits a Queen.

Alexandria is surrounded
by Caesar's army.

Unless I leave Antony
to be with Caesar

they will mercilessly attack
and conquer Egypt.

For the sake of Egypt,

I will kneel at Caesar's feet
and throw my crown.

Forgive me, dear Antony.

Have mercy!

Tachibana!

Pretty exciting, isn't it?

Act II worries me.
I must die in the end.

Do us proud.

I'm really enjoying it.

You sweat too much.
No drinks before stage.

Stand still and don't sniff.

- But...
- No excuses!

Just do it right.

- Well?
- Yes, ma'am.

Good luck in Act II.

- Chikamatsu.
- Yes.

I can't stand it.

Get around him. Go, now!

Behind you! Watch out! Got him!

No, no! Die!

Antony is dead.

The crown of the earth doth melt.

Methinks I hear Antony call.

Thou small asp of the Nile,

with thy sharp teeth this knot
intrinsicate of life at once untie.

Oh Antony!

I will soon be at thy side.

If this be my fate,

I shall gladly accept it as such.

Tachibana!

Bravo!

Run!

Don't be surprised.

I'm the defense counsel.

I'll scream!

Allow me 5 minutes of your time.

Hey, help!

It's about a certain affair.

Biwako?

Are you all right?

Yes. What was it?

Just a fan with some
chocolates for you.

- Apologize f or me.
- Yes, ma'am.

I'm going to change.
Give me a few minutes.

Sorry I scared you.

With those watchdogs
around you all the time.

This was the only way
I could speak with you.

My name is Nihonmatsu.

I'd been a fan of yours ever since
my days as a prosecutor.

I saw you play a teen prostitute
when you were about 21, and

knew then that here was
a star in the making.

I'm honored to meet you at last.

What do you want?

My client plans to plea
not guilty in court.

But he confessed!

The police forced him to confess
to something he didn't do.

When I last saw him, he was
covered in bruises.

The police can be brutal, you know.

I hear you're going to testify.

Yes.

- Sure you saw him?
- Yes.

- Says no.
- I saw him.

- Sure of yourself.
- Well, I saw him.

Think again.
Your testimony can hang him.

- Want an innocent man to hang?
- He's not innocent.

- Says he didn't do it.
- He's lying.

- You may be wrong.
- No.

- Positive?
- Yes.

- H'm.
- Got to change.

Wait.

- If my client is found innocent...
- He won't.

- He will.
- Not if I testify.

He will if I defend him!

Think you can withstand
my questioning?

I'll tear your testimony to shreds
before I'm through.

Sit down.

If he's found innocent,
you're in for it.

You'll be charged with per jury.

We'll also ask f or damages.

There'll be hell to pay for
what you put us through.

We'll sue you for libel.

It's going to be a long battle.

Time and money, needlessly spent.

No time left for the stage.

You're dealing with a cult.
Who knows what they'll do?

I'm really concerned about you.

Don't testify.

Nothing good will come of it.

Why would you want to
risk your life?

You just happened to walk by
when a stranger was killed.

You know Shingyo ji, don't you?

You two are so careless,
we know all about it.

I say this f or your own good.

As an actress, it's all
'downhill' from here.

You don't need a scandal.

There's 3 million yen in here.

What's that for?

Let's say it's a gift for
speaking with me.

To make up for the stress...

I've caused you today.

You mean, a bribe.

No, no. A gift from a lifelong fan.

You probably don't make enough
to cover your wardrobe.

Have you made up your mind?

Yes, I have.

What kind of a fool do you
take me for?

Think you can threaten me like that?

Now you'll find out how loud
a 'downhill' actress can yell!

Help, someone!

Take your hands off me.
I'm a lawyer.

Just asking about her testimony
on behalf of my client.

Did I lay one finger on you?

No. Let him go.

Thank you.

So, you won't change your mind
about testifying?

No.

Sorry to hear that.
I'll see you in court.

Let's go.

Good night.

- You can go now.
- We can't.

- Yes, go.
- Afraid not.

Even I need a little privacy.

Your secrets are safe with us.

Maybe I don't want you to know them.

Let's get you home.

- Don't come up.
- We have to.

Please.

Go home.

How's this? We'll take you to
your floor, then wait out here.

Call us when you're ready.

I might be late.

It's our job.

Past midnight.

No problem.

Even later.

Doesn't matter.

I'm sorry, but I had to see you.

What's up?

Well...

What's wrong?

The Sheep of Truth are on to us.

What!?

If I testify, they'll blow our secret.

So, what did you tell them?

That I have no intention...

of withdrawing my testimony.

I'm sorry.

No...

You wouldn't have had to
worry about a scandal...

if I'd married you.

You don't have to say that.

Go ahead and testify.
Don't worry about me.

Things will be tough for a while
at home and work.

But, I'm used to handling crises.

Guess we won't be seeing
each other any more.

THE NEXT D AY

Are the rumors true?

Did you see him?

His wife says she won't forgive you.

Half the seats are empty.

Shit.

Party booking cancellations.

Oh, shit.

Most of our audience are women.
Scandals like this...

Sorry.

I think we'd better use
the understudy.

Say Biwako's ill and cancel
the show this week.

But that's...

Don't worry about me.

How about stress-related
gastritis?

It's convincing enough.

Sounds good.

We'll line up a hospital and
take care of the media.

That's best f or her.

Just wait until the storm
blows over.

Okay, Biwako?

PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE

PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE

Thank you.

Disappointing, no?

Thinking too much about winning.

Can backfire.

The witness for the
prosecution is here.

Thank you.

You will appear in court
in the second trial,

as the witness f or prosecution.

After I question you, the defense
will cross-examine you.

Better be prepared.

I feel silly, you being an actress,

but I'll play the role of the
defense lawyer.

At the same time, you saw
the face of the murderer.

Yes, I did.

Not many street lights in the area.
The moon wasn't out.

You still saw his face?

A car's light lit up his face.
I saw him clearly.

How far away was he?

Right before my eyes.

- He held a knife?
- Yes.

Weren't you scared?

Thought he was going to kill me.

You panicked.
How can you be sure of his face?

The face was imprinted on my mind.

How old are you?

Actresses are ageless.

Please answer.

44.

Louder. I can't hear you.

44.

Do you wear glasses?

- Sometimes.
- When?

- When I read.
- You need them?

Only f or reading.

The night of the murder,
were you wearing glasses?

No.

- And you saw his face?
- Yes!

- In front of you?
- Yes.

Without glasses?

I was able to...

Hey, are they going to be that rude?

You didn't have your glasses on.

The face was blurred, right?

I saw what I saw, and I remember it!

You're familiar with Shingyoji.

Hey, hang on.
What's that got to do with this?

Answer. Isn't it true you were
with him that day?

Wouldn't you call it an affair?

I don't have to put up with this.
I'm leaving!

Wait, we're only acting.
Don't get angry.

I'm not angry.

It was an act?

Of course it was.
Who do you think I am?

It wasn't an act, was it?

How dare he say things
like that to me?

Better get used to it.

You can't fall apart in the trial.

With that guy defending,
it can get uglier.

No, I don't want to testify!

Why do I have to go through this?

You can't give up now.

I've had it!
I don't want to get involved!

My dog gets killed, a lawyer
threatens me, a scandal breaks out...

I even get yelled out by the prosecutor!

Why me!

Your courage may save us all.

I'm the one who needs saving!

I did what I was told,
and look what happens!

My life's a mess!

Please, testify?

No! I won't do it!
I won't testify!

You've already identified the murderer.
You can't back out now.

No! I just don't want to
take the stand.

You can be penalized for not
appearing in court.

Penalized? How?

A fine.

A fine?

I'll pay the fine and
that'll be the end of it.

Stop it!

Two dead.
How dare you say that!

We're putting our lives
on the line, too!

Big deal!

The thanks I get...

We are grateful.

You don't look so appreciative.

Shut up!

Shut up?

You don't have to yell!

Don't cry.

You...

You scare me when you get mad.

I'm sorry.

We'll protect you with our lives...

so help us and testify.

THE DISAPPEARANCE

You can't find her?

What do you mean?

- She's disappeared.
- But...

She was near breaking point.

Tachibana upset her.

Get out, and start looking.

We're in big trouble if the cult
gets to her.

God, she's a handful.

That's unfair.

We should've been more sensitive.

Don't scowl at me through
that makeup!

Where would she go?

Home, studio, her special places...

Hey, give me the keys to your car.

What? Wait!

Wait!

Let her go!

Police.

Drop the gun!

Let her go!

Stop, or I'll shoot.

Tachibana!

Are you all right?

Don't die!

He's dead!

Oh, no! He's dead!

You're not dead?

Thank God!

You're alive.

This is no time for that.

You've got a show to do,
remember?

You're an actress, aren't you?

I thought... you were shot...

A bullet-proof vest.

Let's go. Hurry up.

I got yelled at again.

Why do you laugh?

Just happy.

I'm just happy.

Thank you... for protecting me.

Just doing my job.
Promise you won't do this again.

I promise. Tell me,
why did you save me?

I did what I had to do.

You could've been killed.

Life's been good letting
me do my thing.

I repay by doing what's right.

You know you're cute
when you're mad.

Stop it.

I'm alive!

And you're alive!

I'm so happy!

Thank you!

Thank you.

D AY OF TESTIMONY

D AY OF TESTIMONY

- Scumbag, out with it!
- Speak up!

Wait just a minute.

Shingyoji...

Here's a picture of you and Biwako.

We don't want this to come out
in the open.

Biwako's a good actress.

We want her to stay up there.

So, what do I have to do?

Don't play dumb!

Biwako's testimony.

Use your influence to dissuade her.

We'll keep our mouths shut.
You do the same.

What if I say no?

You'll die.

You can't defy the cult and stay alive.

Let me make a phone call.

Bet you don't see too many movies.

Any moviegoer would know...

what comes out of a desk.

What do you think you're doing?

Think you'll get away with this?

Oh, hush.

You guys are so stupid.
There are two kinds of old people.

The kind who want to live forever,

and those who are ready to go
any time.

The world's full of idiots.

Thanks to them, it's easier
to get a gun...

And I can end my life in peace.

You think you might
get out of this alive?

Life has a way of ending abruptly...

in the most unexpected places.

Like a roadside gutter...

What a nightmare.

Just like him to do that.

Oh God, today's the big day.

The judgment day has come
for our persecutors.

I may be away for a while.

Maybe for a very long while.

No matter what, hang in there.

Don't forget to pray.

You were chosen.

At the end of last year...

When there was snow outside,

Eiji, Chief and I stood guard
out in the snow...

while the Guru ate at a steak house.

But last night...

The Guru himself gave me
the Red -Thread Initiation.

And he said,

"You and I are now tied together,
by a red thread."

Eiji's right on time.

So long.

Take care.

Good morning.

- Has she come out?
- Not yet.

Good morning.

Good morning.

Red?

Red, to give me courage.

It stands out a bit, but
she'll be safe in the van.

Give me some aspirin.

- Stomach?
- Nerves.

You? Stage fright?

If I mess up, all your work
will be wasted.

I really feel the pressure.

- Here.
- Thanks.

- Gas tank full?
- Yes.

- Tires okay?
- Yes.

You guys will go up a level.

The Guru is praying
to the Sheba f or you.

We're only doing what we must.

You know what to do
if you're caught.

Don't talk. Not even your name.

Just ask to see your lawyer.

What will you do, Chief?

Just turn myself in.

It's my job to keep the police

from going after our people.

Remember last year,

while the Guru was eating
at the steak house...

- We kept watch...
- In the snow.

Wasn't it freezing?

Can joke about it now.

Here they come.

Can you hear me?

Loud and clear.

See you in the next life.

Peter Piper Picked a Peck of...

Marutai B, departed home 8:03.

How is it over there?

The gallery's packed.

They've got about 200
followers here.

And the media?

150? That many?

Wow. That's a lot.

When you get here,

go straight into the basement.

Straight to the basement. Right.

I, Biwako Isono, on October 22, 1995,
at about 6:30 PM...

at the car park of Arcadia Flat,
2-14-8 Shirakawacho...

got off my car, a Fiat Barchetta,
license plate 55 S 3403...

Or was it 4303? Um, 3043?

Which was it?

3403.

3403...

- Wait!
- It's 3403.

No, those motorcycles.
They've been following us.

Fans maybe?

Make a left turn.

Turn right.

Turn left.

That's them! Turn the siren on!

Faster.

Don't stop! Keep going!

Shit. A police bike's after us.

Let's take him out.

Right.

You two, pull over.

The courthouse. Don't stop.
Go straight in.

Hold it!

Get in back and stay down.

Nakamura!

Honey!

Tachibana!

Honey!

I'll do my duty. Hand in there.

A comment please.

Let's go over there.

Your big day today.

Are you scared?

My moment of glory.

Is the camera rolling?

Yes.

This is my moment of glory.
I am not going to say I'm afraid.

I'd never say 'afraid'.

I witnessed a murder.

I've never felt
such responsibility.

To be honest, it was hard to bear.

But I will accept my duty.

I'm only doing what's right.

Life's been good, letting
me do my thing.

I'll repay by doing what's right.

If this be my fate...

I shall gladly accept it as such.

Something's burning!

Are you all right?

That was close.

It's time to go.

Hear that?
Not a single original line.

Even a little Cleopatra
thrown in there.

- Know what?
- What?

She's not my type.

Good luck, Biwako.

Good luck.

Superintendent, sir...

What did you think of the movie?

This is fiction.
Nothing to make a big fuss over.

But I do want to say this.

A subject in protective custody
has never been attacked before.

Not once.

I want you people to make that
absolutely clear.

Marutai S, departing
movie theater. Over.

This work is fiction.
...so on and so forth...

Subtitles by: Mariko Yokoyama
Miho Kato, Peter Lyon