Original subtitles

TSUNAGU (The Connector)

[Text] 300 people were killed in the attack.

[Text] Multi-tenant Building Fire in Shinjuku. 3 Unidentified Dead..

Not good!

Not good! We'll be late for morning exercise!

Arashi. Stop, stop!

What is it?

This household forgot to turn off the tap.

On cold days this could create dangerous ice on the road.

Misono, hurry up!

Wait for me, Arashi!

Morning!

Morning.

Heard the news?

You mean about the basketball?

Unbelievable!

5, 6, 7, 8..

1, 2, 3...

Misono, are you doing it again?

Ayumi's coat is a designer label - Junya Watanabe!

Rei Kawakubo. I like Rei Kawakubo's range for teenagers...

but Junya isn't bad...

So, Junya Watanabe eh...

[Text]...collision causes death...

What are you sighing about?

I have a lot of things to worry about.

Worry?

Talk to me.

It's fine.

How is it fine?

If there's anything else...

Jun...ya

Mr Tsuchiya. There's to be a group dating today.

Uh?

I'm counting on you.

Well I...

So cool!

I admire Ayumi.

Let's go...

By the way, Arashi...

What?

Can you introduce me to Ayumi?

Uh?

Please, as your classmate...I beg you

But I've never spoken to him.

That doesn't matter. Just help me out here.

Everyone will die someday.

Wherever the dead of this world go...

...is a place invisible to our eyes.

It's a different world.

I'm back.

Welcome home.

Don't. Grandma, let me...

Why?

What? You're not ok with it?

It's nothing.

There's no need!

Well ok then, go ahead...

because when I'm gone, you'll be all alone.

What are you saying?

Grandma, you have to stay healthy.

Really?

Young people...

Here we go again.

Young men need lots of energy to walk in the God-given path.

Don't be envious.

Yes, yes. No envy, no envy, oh...

I'm going back.

Excuse me, Mr Tsuchiya?

May I have your contact number?

Okay.

Really?

Do you have infrared?

Are you Mr Hatada?

I received your message.

You're seeking a connector?

You're the one?

Yes.

The one that resurrects dead people?

More precisely...

I arrange for the dead and the living to meet one another;

that is my job as a connector.

Don't joke with me!

Coming here, I felt stupid to start with.

If you are 'a connector'.

My mother mentioned it from time to time.

How can we meet dead people?

Hey!

What's your game?

Money?

You're going to rob me?

I won't receive any compensation.

I will not rob you.

Please give me the name of the person you wish to see.

Who do you wish to see?

Her name is Hatada Tsuru.

She was my mother. She passed away last year.

Please tell me why you want to see her.

I want to sell some land.

But I don't know where she put the land certificate.

I understand.

Let me explain the rules.

The Connector negotiates with the deceased you wish to see...

...then arranges a meeting for you both.

Only the living person appointed by the connector...

...can meet the deceased, but only once in a lifetime.

And the named deceased also..

...has only the one chance to meet the living.

You will each get only the one chance.

So?

So...

Please consider very carefully who you want to see from the other side.

Didn't I just say I want to meet my mother?

I understand.

Mr Hatada...if the deceased refuses to meet you,

then this one chance will be lost.

I see.

So you'll tell me that my mother refused the meeting...

...then extort money from me, right?

I already said I don't want any money.

Don't try to trick me.

Do your parents know you're doing this sort of thing?

Do they?

After I negotiate with Mrs Hatada Tsuru,

I will contact you again.

It seems there is a person called 'The Connector'...

who can allow us to meet the deceased.

Sounds interesting!

Misono knows about it, eh...

Those kind of people actually exist?

It's just an urban myth.

If they do exist, it would be so cool!

Misono, what do you think?

I think it's Charlie Chaplin.

Chaplin is really Misono's type, eh?

Arashi Misa is really cute, eh?

Really?

- Didn't you just see her?

Oh well.

Nevermind, I'll give Misa to you.

What are you saying?

Misono Natsu is mine.

Huh?

Are you alright?

I lost my balance on my right foot. I'm alright.

Are you okay?

Thank you.

What is it?

Are you...okay?

Nothing, nothing, nothing.

It's alright.

It's alright, it's alright.

Daichi!

Come and give me a hand.

Huh!

Why didn't you tell us?

If we'd known earlier, then everyone...

could have treasured our time together with Grandma.

Be quiet!

Dad, you're a very good advocate...

but I wish I'd known Grandma's true condition sooner.

I'm the eldest son!

Where did your mother and I go wrong with you?

"TSUNAGU"

Hello?

Mrs Hatada Tsuru has been consulted about the meeting.

Eh?

She would like to set a date for the meeting quickly.

Are you saying you've met my mother?

Moonlight and the dead can only meet...

on the 23rd of March as there will be a full moon.

I've got it.

The location is The Bund Hotel, Shinagawa.

6 pm. Is that okay?

Yeah...

...No problem.

Then I'll be going.

Grandma, did you go to the hospital today?

I sprained my ankle a bit...

but a good person helped me.

Grandma, about this...

This writing is not the same. When was it written?

"We do not pass messages from the deceased or insist on the completion of the meetings"

- I don't remember when it was written.

Now pay attention...

If there's something you don't understand, ask.

This is Mrs Hatada Tsuru.

She seems to have asked for a connector's service 20 years ago.

Is that so?

At that time...there was a child with her.

Grandma...?

What is it?

Do you really meet dead people?

Do you doubt me?

No.

Really?

Grandma, when did you start being a connector?

When I was newly married.

My brother passed this ability to me.

Great Uncle Akiyama?

It's been fifty years.

Fifty years!

For me, just married; my brother...

for my safety...

passed the ability to me.

Akiyama and I have always stayed in contact.

So Uncle Akiyama was not just a fortune teller.

Right! Right! Right! Right!

That place cost so much money and...

Akiyama was always out of the house.

Ayumi. At the hotel...

you should arrange the meeting with the client and the deceased very politely.

I understand.

Also, as the one inheriting this ability...

don't imagine yourself seeing the kingdom of the dead.

Wait until you inherit that ability from me.

I can allow you to meet the deceased.

Is there anyone you would like to meet?

I would like to meet...

I would like to meet...

Ah..Almost!

Concentrate!

This one will go in.

I think Mothers and fathers...

...should always be gentle people, right?

Do you want curried rice today?

Walnuts.

Ready to...jump!

Walnuts.

Dad's hands are big

Mummy.

Thank you.

Mum is very good at cooking.

Lunch at home.

- Look.

There were always fried egg rice balls.

I painted the three of us.

That painting won a prize in a contest.

My parents were very happy for me.

But my loving parents...

Mummy...

Suddenly, one day...

they left me behind...

I just want to see my mother and father...

I want to know why they left me behind.

How long are you going to stay here?

This place is good for meditation, eh?

Get married quickly and move out!

I'm not against the idea...

I'm overworked, I shouldn't have said that.

Lack of sleep can make you go blind.

What, blind...?

Is it because...

you still can't forget that pretty little woman?

How can I?

It's been seven years.

Seven years...

If I had a child he would be in elementary school by now.

And in seven years a man might also kill his wife.

What nonsense!

After marriage, if a spouse suddenly disappears..

after seven years, the other party can report it as a legal death.

- Here.

Thanks.

You should think realistically.

You've been fooled by that woman.

Chekov's 'The Cherry Orchard'

Who would like to apply for the role of the protagonist, Ranevskaya?

Yes.

Arashi.

Yes.

Misono.

After the senior graduation,

I want to perform on stage.

Misono. The way you speak...

Rather than Ranevskaya, you're more suited to play Anya

Whether I am or not, I can still participate.

My mother told me...

"Rather than regret doing nothing...

it's better to do it then regret it later".

Why didn't you tell me before?

Because, as your rival it would feel awkward

Rival?

If not, then I'll leave nicely.

The Afterlife...

Does it really exist?

Excuse me,

Are you Mrs Hatada Tsuru?

Yes.

Sorry to trouble you.

It's been a while since I wore a kimono.

Does it look strange?

Oh...er...yes.

I never expected...

that this time, I would be the one who was summoned.

Please.

Thank you.

I heard that you once requested a meeting with a deceased when you still alive.

Yes. About that...really, thank you.

You're welcome.

But,

after my death...

some people still want to see my face.

It seems my life is still valuable to them.

Excuse me.

What is it?

Someone wants to see you.

Are you happy about that?

Of course.

I cannot be happier than that.

Thank you for waiting.

Are you implying...

that my mother will come here?

She's already here.

Already?

Yes

You can't fool me that easily.

I understand

I'm not spending a single penny here...

so the loss will be yours.

You misunderstand me.

I don't charge any fees at all.

No fees at all?

Then where did you get the money for this?

The Connector's job...

it's similar to volunteer work.

Volunteer?

Yes.

Do you enjoy deceiving adults?

Do your parents know?

I don't have any parents.

What?

They died when I was very small.

Sorry.

Mrs Hatada is in Room 901.

I'll wait in the lobby, until you've both finished your meeting.

Afterwards, please meet me here.

You only have this one short night.

I don't know...

what you're scheming...

but I'm no fool!

It can't be true...

Mother?

Stop talking nonsense. Come on in.

It's because you asked; I was called here.

What a silly boy.

I called you not because I missed you.

It's because I don't know where the land certificate is.

Are you really my mother?

This is too incredible.

Come.

Eh?

Come and sit here nicely.

Yasuhiko.

You're still...

You look the same as when you were still alive.

Don't say it like that.

Anyway, you already know...

...where the land certificate is.

So, why do you want to see me?

Mother...

when you were alive, were you aware of your sickness?

I...

...never had the courage to tell you.

Sorry.

So it's about that, eh?

What's about that?

I know that you didn't tell me for my sake.

Though you say silly things and you're so stubborn...

...you always think of others.

But...

if you knew about your condition earlier...

your final days could have been so different.

I've been happy enough.

Hey?

Having beautiful children and grandchildren.

My life was...

...really very happy.

You've been upset, haven't you?

You alone bearing the burden...

...I don't blame you, even a bit.

Because it was something you decided.

I have no regrets...

and neither should you.

Mother...

you look as if you don't believe it.

I'm not embarrassed to tell you.

In fact, I want to talk about it.

About what?

Daichi...was always closest to his grandmother.

After you were gone,

he treated everyone as strangers.

There is something I haven't told you.

Twenty years ago I contacted your late father through a connector.

My father?

I wanted him to see the newborn baby.

I took Daichi to see him.

Your father, he...

was so delighted to see his new grandchild;

so very happy that he cried.

I knew I had made the right decision.

But Daichi...

...he's such a difficult boy now...

I don't understand what's going on in his head.

That doesn't really matter,

Your father and I are still proud of our grandson.

He isn't as strong as you...

but just like you...

he's a good communicator.

He understands the World very well.

Is that so?

He's the same as you; willing to help others.

He inherited our fine Hatada genes.

inherited long ago from...

the excellent First Son of Hatada.

You have to take the time to talk to him.

Think about his growth.

Do not forget that you are also a parent.

Yes.

For calling me back, I thank you.

Send my love to everyone.

Mother...

Here...

Thank you.

It was my mistake.

to wonder if she was really my mother.

It was a good meeting.

Really?

Yes.

Thank you very much.

Oh...I can't take...

No.

If you need anything...

feel free to contact me.

Okay.

Thank you Sir.

I thank you.

Grandma is great

What?

The original connector is the real deal, eh?

Those are silly words.

Do you know Mr Hatada?

He actually said 'Thank you' to me.

Isn't that a good thing?

Mrs Hatada will be able to rest in peace without any regrets

Oh really?

The Connector's work is not that bad

But I always feel...

this work cannot help all the people that seek our help

Why?

Well, the real 'Connector' is Akiyama's family's power...

passed down from generation to generation

Through these lives, we've encountered all sorts of people

I'm digging in

Is that so?

Now you,

Slowly and gradually,

accumulate the necessary experiences to be a connector

Ayumi, there are still many things,

I haven't told you about

Really, still so many...

A person in love,

God in heaven, we're sinful.

Of course.

God in heaven, we're sinful.

I think you're well suited to play Ranevskaya.

You will definitely pass the audition.

No matter how good...

compared to me...

Again...

Really?

She will shine on the stage.

Shine very brightly.

You just need some confidence.

What are you staring at?

Let me ask you,

who is the person you would like to see most right now?

Well...

...my future girlfriend.

Good afternoon.

I really must thank you for last time...

Thank you.

You're welcome.

May I sit next to you?

Please do.

If I eat my snack here...

I might get scolded.

Would you care for some?

That's very kind of you.

Oh...do it quietly.

I think it might rain later.

Err...

Last time you asked if I was okay...

What did you mean?

I just felt you have something on your mind.

Isn't there someone...

...you really want to meet?

Eh?

Don't walk away.

If you can...

...try to forgive me.

Dance with me now.

Gayev.

Please talk to me, Gayev!

Say it quickly!

I bought the cherry orchard.

No!

No...!

No...!

Anya...Kato, you will play her.

Understood!

Protagonist Ranevskaya will be played by...

Misono Natsuko

What?

Prepare supper and make tea with these.

Grandma?

What is it?

How do you meet the deceased?

Why do you ask all of a sudden?

No reason...

I was just curious.

What's that?

This...is a mirror.

The one who has this mirror can be...

a connector.

No! No!...

You mustn't look into it yet.

Connectors...

use this to call upon the deceased.

Only the owner of the mirror...

is able to do so correctly and safely.

While the new connector is being trained,

he creates a contract with this mirror.

By that time, the person with the original contract,

passes on his qualification as a connector.

So, it's like passing a baton between connectors?

Ayumi,

absolutely no one else must ever look into this mirror.

If someone else looks into it,

the one who sees the mirror and the owner of the mirror;

they will both suffer and die.

They will...die?

How would you die?

I don't know about that...

but it must be very painful.

That's...scary.

Ayumi, if you replace me as a connector,

passing this mirror to you will be my final act.

Oh, today I gave your number to someone.

"TSUNAGU"

My Cherry Orchard,

across the dark, gloomy autumn and winter,

you're full of vigour...

filled with happiness.

- Misono...

you don't really get the emotions.

I'm sorry

Again!

Yes.

My Cherry Orchard,

One..two..three...one...two...three

Alright!

Take a 10 minute break.

Yes.

Hey, Arashi...

What is it?

I have...something to say.

I want to...

apologize to you.

That you and I...

are like this now.

Why are you apologizing?

Obviously you're not thinking like that.

Don't take me for a fool!

If it wasn't for Misono...

the lead role would be mine.

No matter how good, she can't be compared to me.

This household forgot to turn off the tap.

On cold days this could create dangerous ice on the road.

Good morning.

It seems to be true.

Good morning.

Arashi...

Misono was in an accident and was taken to hospital.

What?

Can you please let me see Misono?

Misono...

Sorry...

She was hit by a car...

We cannot let you see her.

But...

...when she was...

...talking in the hospital...

"Arashi, why?" was what she said.

Arashi, do you know what she meant?

I don't know!

It's just, there was a slight conflict for an acting part.

Maybe that's it.

Please excuse me.

When life and death are connected,

everything will be destroyed.

The Sun is setting, everyone...

Did you kill Misono?

You murdered her, right?

- Murderer!

You're the worst.

- Murderer! Murderer!

It's all your fault.

Murderer!

- Murderer! Murderer! Murderer!

You were best friends.

Murderer! Murderer!

Murderer! Murderer! Murderer!

Weren't you best friends?

"Arashi, why?" was what she said.

It seems there is a person called "The Connector".

Maybe Misono knows what I've done.

If what Misono and the others said...

If what they said about the connector is true...

Mr Tsuchiya, isn't it?

Yes.

Well,

Is it possible if it's a missing person?

What?

The one I would like to see...

is my missing fianc�e from seven years ago.

What...happened?

Her name is...Hinata Kirari.

She and I met nine years ago.

Are you okay?

Are you hurt?

You're bleeding.

Thank you.

It's better if you lie down.

It hurts.

It hurts.

I don't want to lie down...

I want to stand up.

Sorry.

Are you with her?

Uhh...no.

Will you accompany me?

Yes.

Our meeting was wonderful.

I'm sorry.

It's okay. Are you alright?

Yes.

Ahh...

May I have your name and contact details please?

I would like to thank you properly.

I came from a village,

so I don't know much about Tokyo.

You came to Tokyo alone.

Yes. Therefore I really do thank you.

I don't know anyone here.

How old are you?

Twenty years old.

I wanted to work in Tokyo, that's why I came here.

Ah, I see...

To be able to have dinner here with Mr Tsuchiya makes me happy.

Eh?

Mr Tsuchiya seems like a city guy.

City-guy? Me?

I really like the way you dress.

Thank you.

Afterwards, Kirari insisted on paying for dinner.

This is my treat, to thank you.

Well, let's share it equally.

No...I really want to thank you.

Can you lend me three hundred yen?

After a few enjoyable dates,

Delicious!

This is the first time I've eaten something this delicious.

Seriously?

Kirari came to my house frequently.

Here.

I got my wages from work.

Money is very important.

Here.

Kirari...I fell hopelessly in love with her.

Let's go.

Don't want to.

Don't want to?

Push me.

Ah...it's too big.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Not long after my marriage proposal...

Be careful...

she left, saying she was going travelling with a friend,

but she never came back.

My calls went unanswered.

I was so worried that I contacted her workplace.

The friend that was supposed to go with her answered the phone.

I said that this was a special circumstance,

and asked to check on the address in Kirari's resume.

The address was a fake.

It's..

I might have been fooled by her.

But...

her expression as I proposed marriage...

that wasn't a lie or an act.

She lied to me afterwards.

If she's alive and well, then that's good enough for me.

But if she...

had an accident or got into trouble...

I understand.

This may take some time,

But I accept your request for help.

Please do all you can.

This world and its problems are linked together.

This one really is a challenging task.

The person he wants to meet is a missing person.

Ohh...

Her name is Hinata Kirari.

I see.

But using a connector to find her;

shouldn't she be dead already?

Yes.

Either I find her or I don't,

either way it will be a huge blow for him.

It's not good if you don't eat the konjac.

What is the most powerful ability in this world?

Ah..It is the pleasure of being old and, thinking of working,...

I can choose to rest.

When thinking of saying something,

Stay quiet.

- Stay quiet.

Yes, quite.

By the way, do you know Arashi Miya?

We're in the same class.

She called this evening.

I took the call.

She is looking for a connector.

What?

I want you to be the middleman.

But I...

- This is a valuable opportunity

Fortunately, I was home.

Fortunately I picked up the phone.

Are you sure it happened that way?

Some people call many times and cannot get through.

Only those who are in genuine need of a connector,

have such a fate.

Isn't it unfair?

Mmm...Well, yes, unfair...

Miss Arashi.

What is it?

I am The Connector.

Here

Thank you.

Uhh...

Your coat; it's a Junya Watanabe.

You know it well.

If I had the choice...

I'd still go for the Kawakubo Rei range of designs for teenagers.

Well...

Even through a connector,

there's only one chance for the living and dead to meet, right?

Yes.

Well... if I wanted to meet her...

it's possible she might refuse, right?

Correct. That could happen.

Oh...well...

So...who would you like to meet?

Misono Natsu.

She was in a traffic accident on her way to school.

Did you know?

Yes.

Why do you want to see her?

We were close friends!

If allowed, I would like to see her again.

I'd like to tell her one or two things.

It was all so sudden.

But we're friends, aren't we?

That's right.

For her to die...

at the same age as you is so pitiful.

Yes...it is pitiful.

But although we lost those close to us,

there is no feeling.

Perhaps it's because we're used to it.

But it's too cruel, isn't it?

It's a bit cruel.

But, having said that,

for other people death is slow.

as if they want to avoid it.

My Cherry Orchard.

Across the dark, gloomy autumn and winter.

You're full of vigour filled with happiness.

If my heart and shoulders are removed,

I have forgotten my clean past.

Those lines are interpreted perfectly.

Misono would be very happy.

How so?

If she could see you, she would praise you.

As happily as you should praise yourself.

I don't think so...

If you want,

you can take this and wear it.

But,

I think it would make her very happy.

Thank you.

Actually,

it was me who persuaded her to go for the lead role.

When I was young...

I experienced the same thing:

Regret.

So...

I can't do anything about that now.

Better to do something than to regret it.

She actually couldn't resist it.

So it's my fault...

that you all feel so unhappy.

I am sorry...

I thought Misono...

didn't want me to play the lead.

Not at all.

I...

heard Misono say it before the audition.

"I cannot be compared", she said.

She said it whilst laughing...

and those around her were laughing too.

We weren't that close to begin with.

Both she and I were never that popular.

Selfish and temperamental.

I think Misono would have agreed with you.

You probably mistook her...

for someone else.

She herself claimed...

that she couldn't compare to you.

What?

You must have heard it all wrong.

"TSUNAGU"

Hello?

Miss Misono says...

she will see you.

Eh?

Grand-Uncle.

Is she alright?

A minor seizure. She's sleeping now.

Is that so?

You are old enough now.

Aymui...

I hope you're keeping up the training?

I am.

What are you learning?

The usual stuff being taught at school.

Right, right...

If you're not studying hard...

Ayumi, everyone will be worried.

Everyone?

I will worry, Aiko will worry.

That's everyone...

Grand-Uncle...

How did my parents...really die?

Did my father really...

kill my mother then commit suicide?

That's just a rumour.

The truth is that nobody really knows.

Your parents were good and kind people.

Then why...

were they taken from me?

Ayumi...

What you see with your eyes...

is not necessarily the truth.

The important thing is,

see it with your heart.

See it with my heart?

Use your own heart.

Like this.

To see the truly important things.

Being a connector...

Are things going smoothly?

I don't know whether they're smooth or not.

Aiko prefers...

to learn by experience.

Grandma.

- Ayumi.

Brother.

I received a call saying you're sick.

- I'm sorry for the trouble.

No trouble at all.

Just don't overexert yourself.

Take some rest.

- I'll be fine.

Here.

Misono's already here?

Yes.

You have until dawn for your meeting.

When you've finished, come and see me.

Is it okay if it's just me?

Yes.

Misono...

What must you think of me?

Misono knows that I killed her.

Yet...

Misono...

took the chance offered by the connector,

to see me.

No use regretting.

Better to do it, then regret.

You've lost weight?

Please...

Ayumi being the connector is surprising isn't it?

I didn't expect us to meet this way; it's sort of sad.

But now, being able to talk face-to-face...

...is so exciting!

Is that so?

Hey, Arashi.

You and Ayumi contacted each other and talked...

Did you exchange phone numbers?

Of course.

Yeah...but I didn't tell him anything.

I haven't got his number on me.

Never mind...

Have you talked to Ayumi?

A little bit.

Why?

Hey, Misono.

What is it?

I heard that...

when you were in hospital, you called my name.

"Arashi, why?"

Do you remember?

I don't remember...

Must have been because we'd been arguing,

I've been thinking about the wonderful things you're doing now.

Misono...perhaps she doesn't know what I did.

She's unaware of me trying to kill her.

Why?

Misono, why did you agree to see me?

Aren't we close friends?

That's why.

That's so...

Of course...

My closest friend.

If she learned the unspeakable truth now.

She wouldn't thank me for hurting her.

I'm sorry...

Misono...

I...

I'm sorry...

What's happened?

Arashi?

I'm sorry...

Why?

I'm sorry...

Why?

I'm sorry...

Arashi!

I'm sorry...

I'm sorry...I'm sorry...

I'm sorry!

I'm sorry...

Misono...

Can you please ask...

Ayumi, is there a message?

What message?

From me...

After you ask him...

Tell me next time...

I will.

Then...

we'll meet again.

Don't you still have some time left?

She said that she didn't want me to see her disappear.

Is that so...

Misono wants me to ask,

Ayumi,

please do you have a message for me?

It's just...

when I saw her...

I should have said it.

She said there was no ice on the road.

Eh?

Misono...wanted me to tell you,

after tonight's meeting,

if you asked me about a message,

then that is it.

If you hadn't asked,

I would have forgotten it.

That means...

whatever I'm doing, she's watching.

But she didn't bring that up with me.

She avoided that terrible subject.

She left me a message...

knowing that I couldn't talk about it.

Miss Arashi...

Are you okay?

Miss Arashi...

Let me go!

Miss Arashi!

Please let me go to Misono!

You can't!

It can only happen once!

Please!

I beg you!

Misono gave me the opportunity to reconcile.

I ruined it!

Misono wanted to see...

Who she wanted to see...is not me!

Miss Arashi, are you okay?

Please...

I want to go back to Misono..

and be at her side when she disappears!

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry!

I'm sorry...

I'm sorry...I'm sorry...I'm sorry!

I'm sorry...

I'm sorry...I'm sorry!

I'm sorry!

I'm sorry!

Ayumi?

The one before was my grandmother.

What a surprise!

I never expected to see you after I died.

Me too.

I'm sorry...

I'm sorry...

Sorry.

Don't you want to meet your friend?

How can I!

It's all my fault.

Why am I crying?

I just...

feel very happy.

Well, Miss Arashi wants to meet you.

You've met Arashi?

That's right.

There are some things I'd like to talk to her about.

She said you're close friends. You should meet up.

Is that so?

Ayumi?

What is it?

I...

What will happen after this?

Eh?

Sorry.

No.

I will disappear, right?

Ayumi,

you have to live your life without regrets.

Perhaps...

It's only now that I know that for sure.

To do what you want to do, is best when you're still alive.

It's important to never have any regrets.

It's time for me to send Arashi up to see you.

Ayumi!

What is it?

I...err

Ayumi...

It's...

Your coat is so cool!

I've always thought it was cool, that's why I watched you...

when you walked into school in the morning.

Thank you.

I finally said it.

It feels good.

Your coat...is Junya Watanabe, right?

I...prefer the designer, Rei Kawakubo's range for teenagers.

Ayumi, but looking at you, ...

wearing Junya Watanabe; it really suits you.

I always wanted to tell you that.

Miss Arashi said the same thing.

Because you're close friends.

Arashi...

said that?

So in the end,

after my death,

she said that?

When she came to me...

about seeing you,

that's when she told me.

Ayumi,

I want to ask you a favour.

Can you help me...

with a message?

In the end,

what does it all mean?

After Misono's meeting with Arashi.

I felt very sorry for her.

Can I meet someone,

and later regret it?

Who would have known?

There are secrets you can't tell other people.

Becoming a connector is tiring.

It takes a lot out of me.

A connector has to face someone else's life.

You can't do it half-heartedly.

So many things you haven't told me;

no wonder it's so tiring.

Ah, if you don't want it then don't inherit it.

After the next meeting is over,

decide whether you want to inherit it or not.

Then I can ask the person you wanted to see.

Grandma.

Yes?

Do you want to see Dad?

That's entirely up to you.

Let's go.

Where are we going?

You and I are going to meet a deceased.

Deceased?

Teruko...

Teruko...

Miss Kirari...

Good evening, Miss Kuwamoto Teruko.

Kuwamoto...?

Mr Tsuchiya Koichi wants to meet you.

Have you decided yet?

If I meet him,

My living self will be dead in his heart.

But...

it's better that he forgets me.

Even so,

I want to see him...

In order to allow him,

to move on with his life.

I understand

Grandma, Miss Kirari...

Her real name is Kuwamoto Teruko.

She died in a ferry accident, seven years ago.

So that's it...

How does it feel?

What?

Talking to the dead.

I feel...

it's not like calling the soul of the deceased.

Instead, it's like her remains in this world.

Or a collection of a person's memories.

I also experience that feeling...

using this mirror to call the deceased.

In the end...

is anything in this world real?

I still don't know the answer to that.

But that said, a connector still has a meaning.

In fact, dead people simply have no soul...

but live peacefully in another world.

To be able to meet them is the wish of the living.

Those who are confused,

always hope there is a god or some particular person,

to guide their path in life.

So connectors exist for that purpose?

Isn't that desecration to the dead?

Do the living and dead co-exist?

Therefore our parents could be with us.

Some people believe that; some don't.

That's so

It is...

Because I...

My mother and father.

Grandpa disapproved of their marriage

But they're gone...

both dead now.

Because of that...

They eloped to get married and eventually killed each other.

His father shouldn't be resting in peace.

I heard that Ryosuke was having an affair.

Someone had seen them.

He was in the Hotel Touxing

The rumour about Mum and Dad having affairs is hurtful.

They keep on arguing.

Dad killed Mum...

and then committed suicide

"TSUNAGU"

Hello...

It's Mr Tsuchiya.

Well...

What's the matter?

She wants to see you.

What?

Miss Hinata Kirari

She wants to see you.

Kuwamoto...

Her real name is Miss Kuwamoto Teruko

Seven years ago she was in a ferry accident...

and she died.

Kirari...

Kirari...

She's already dead.

I'm very sorry.

Look. This is the only thing I've got.

Are you looking forward...

to seeing Mr Tsuchiya?

The only thing I can do for him now,

is through you.

To see him again, this one last time.

And...

finally have the chance to say goodbye to Mr Tsuchiya.

I understand.

[-The number you are calling is unavailable-]

Where is he?

This is really troublesome, eh...

What should I do, Grandma?

Even asking me is useless.

He should be somewhere nearby.

We can only wait for him to come.

If he doesn't come today, he'll regret it forever.

Grandma, it doesn't matter.

What?

Regrets don't matter.

I don't want to regret this.

I don't really know,

whether letting the dead and alive to meet is right or wrong.

Even so...

as long as there is a chance,

Not here.

Ayumi?

Miss Arashi...

What's happened?

Just something...

We're having a public performance after the graduation ceremony. Come and see it.

Here, take this.

Miss Arashi...

Your meeting with Miss Misono...

Do you regret it?

No, I don't regret meeting her at all.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Mr Tsuchiya.

Let's go...

She is waiting for you.

Sorry.

I'm scared.

Miss Kirari...

is just as afraid as you are.

You have to see her.

If you don't,

you'll regret it.

But,

Some people, just because...

they cannot convey their thoughts for the dead,

so sad...

it becomes a burden for all their lives.

How painful.

I have seen it.

You don't want to make the same mistake.

But, I...

Anyway, I can't accept that Kirari is dead.

Uncle, you're so stubborn!

This is still some time.

Have you considered her feelings while she waits for you right now?

For her...

for Miss Kirari there is only tonight.

Miss Kirari...

she knows that you waited seven years.

She wants to see you.

Even if you forget all about her afterwards that's fine.

Because she wants you to look ahead.

She...

she's the one in most pain.

Please go to see her.

I'm begging you.

I'm late...I'm sorry.

Mr Tsuchiya.

Kirari...

I told you to be careful.

I am sorry.

I am sorry.

When we met,

I was 18 years old.

I see...

Because I hated being in the Kumamoto countryside,

I ran away to Tokyo.

But here I am lost.

I wanted to find a job quickly.

Are you okay?

That was when I was lucky enough to meet you.

But to lie to you...

I'm really sorry...

It doesn't matter.

I had already decided...

to tell you everything.

Next time I would tell you the truth.

That day,

you were going home to see your parents.

You told me,

when I thought of my parents,

I seemed very happy.

Be careful.

So I thought before I took you home,

I would apologize to my parents for running away.

I wanted to show them the ring you gave me.

To tell them that I'm going to marry the good man, Mr Tsuchiya.

To show off to them.

Such a thing.

I...

wanted to tell you on our first meeting.

Because you saved me,

I didn't want you to distrust you.

If I hadn't met you,

I'm sure I would've ended up on the streets.

So it's all thanks to you...

that I didn't fall that low.

Thank you so much.

It's a shame...

I cannot do anything for you.

I should have, from the very beginning,

accepted everything about you.

Then you wouldn't have lied about your travel plans.

That was...

the happiest moment in my life.

Because I really love you.

It was my mistake to hide my flaws.

It's not like that.

I want you to be happy, okay?

I heard that...

you've waited for me for seven years.

I feel that I'm a very lucky person.

Obviously I didn't want that...

you should be suffering by yourself for so long.

To fall in love with me and all my lies...

I thank you.

So please don't wait for me anymore.

Although I...

really wanted to marry you.

It's because no one else wants me.

Nonsense!

Oww!

Give me that hand.

It's almost time...

Hey,

In the closet that you let me use,

there is a space underneath, did you know?

Inside,

there is an important cookie tin,

filled with my mum's knitted hats and stuff.

All those things;

can you return them to my parents?

My last request...

Of course I will.

But, I am sorry.

What?

I didn't leave anything for you.

I wanted to tell you...

but I didn't want to let you down.

You needn't worry.

Sorry I have nothing to give you.

But, I love you.

I also,

love you.

I really must thank you.

You're welcome.

I'm glad I came.

You were right.

I'm sorry for being so rude.

No.

You were right.

Thank you very much.

It's nothing.

Goodbye.

Excuse me...

Miss Kirari...

please don't forget her.

I won't ever forget her.

In here.

We will always be together.

'Bye.

People will be born...

and people will inevitably die.

Our deceased love ones;

where do they go?

It's right in front of us, yet out of reach.

In a different world.

This world we live in;

whenever we want to do something...

it feels like we're being watched.

To make a choice,

we occasionally wonder,

if you are that person, what will you do?

Ever hoping to avoid their regrets.

So to survive,

I think we...

must have their support...

to be able to continue living.

What...?

Delicious!

This is the first time I've eaten something this delicious.

Seriously?

Really...

Grandma, are you okay?

What do you mean?

You've walked so much.

I still need to do some exercise.

About being the connector...

Yes?

I've decided...

to do it.

Is that right?

Perhaps...

this is my mission in life.

A man's burden is a god's gift.

Old souls will celebrate their final life experience.

Just to go to the true home.

Here.

Ayumi...

there's something I want to tell you.

Is it about Dad?

Dad was actually a connector too, right?

Although I'm only guessing...

Dad was expelled from Grandpa's house...

For safety.

Grandma, you gave your connector's ability to Dad.

The side note in the book was written by Dad.

As the rumours say,

Dad was with a woman in a hotel.

But in fact he was doing a connector's job, right?

Ayumi, you're quite right.

I once had,

transferred my connector's ability to Ryosuke.

It's my fault.

I...

am responsible for...

your parents' death.

When transferring the ability,

I warned him to never...

mention it to your family or anyone else.

I should have allowed Ryosuke,

to tell Kazumi about it openly and honestly.

About the connector's ability...

and give her a good explanation.

Then Kazumi wouldn't have doubted Ryosuke.

Kazumi...

shouldn't have looked at the mirror.

Neither of them would be dead.

I do not know exactly what happened...

but it was obviously painful.

Ayumi, I knew,

someday,

I must confess to you.

Grandma...

I'm sorry, Ayumi.

It's all my fault...

I'm sorry.

Grandma...

Maybe Dad,

had told mum about being a connector.

Even if you prohibited that,

Dad would have confessed to Mum.

But Dad...

didn't want Mum to worry.

But for her to see the mirror and die is a mystery.

After Grandpa passed away,

Dad deeply regretted he hadn't been on good terms with Grandpa.

Seeing Mum and Dad in such difficulties,

I think they got married for their own sake.

So I always wanted to help Dad.

Mum was thinking the same thing.

To help him.

To let Dad see Grandpa again.

Mum always trusted Dad.

Both of them,

were the most kind-hearted people.

Concentrate!

Be sure to score!

To cheer me...

and always support me.

So...

It's not my Grandma's fault.

Perhaps it's just my self-righteousness and selfishness.

But,

even so,

I still hopefully long for,

the story of the deceased to be helpful to the living.

Whatever the truth.

I don't want Grandma to be upset ever again.

No, don't you go!

I beg you to stay here for my salvation.

I beg you, do not go!

Living people,

are obliged to bear each other's dead.

My life,

my youth, my happiness.

Farewell...

Farewell...

Mother!

I...

will go now.

Let the deceased become a benefit for the living's existence.

Because one's lifeforce cannot be stopped, it's not in our power.

About Grandma,

we'll talk.

I'm going out.

I'm going out.

A living person,

always acts recklessly.

Ok...

But by acting recklessly...

Okay...Coming...

Eventually,

they become sad again,

then reckless again.

That's why.

I cannot see my parents.

Why?

I want to save this opportunity to see Grandma in the future.

What a waste!

This is just the beginning of your life.

Although it's still early days,

one day I will transfer my connector's ability to someone.

When that happens, I will let him see Grandma.

But by that time,

I might stumble across Grandpa along the way.

I haven't even stumbled across him yet.

Say no more, okay?

I know...

Ayumi, 7 years old.

This is...?

Your Grandpa kept this very carefully.

Grandpa did?

He was so proud, he showed it off to the neighbours.

He said that is his grandson's.

Is that so?

"Memories of Summer" Children's painting competition winner.

Then let us begin.

Put out your hand.

Understood.

Close your eyes until I say you can open them.

Is your mind clear?

Grandma, so all this time has come to this?

Well, then close your eyes.

Mum! Dad! Come here!

Hey, Ayumi!

That time, when the people I loved disappeared from my life.

In fact, I just cannot see it.

They are still here with me.

Open your eyes, Ayumi.

"What is the most powerful ability in the world?"

"It is the pleasure to be old."

"When I think of working, I can rest."

"When I think of talking, I can stay quiet."

"Only in despair, there is hope."

"Only those who are obedient and calm can cross."

"Young people are full of energy."

"Walk in the path given by God and don't be jealous."

"Wanting to do something for someone else,"

"is better than sincerely accepting kindness from others."

"Until the old can no longer do something for others,"

"always strive to be a good man."

"A man's burden is a god's gift."

"Old souls will celebrate their final life's experience."

"Just to go to the true home."

- Anglocised subtitles by Amyus [2016]-