Original subtitles

Downloaded from YTS.MX

Shochiku Films

Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX

Participant in the Arts Festival 33rd Year of Showa Era (1958)

Equinox Flower

Original story by Ton Satomi

Screenplay by Kogo Noda and Yasujiro Ozu

Produced by Shizuo Yamanouchi Cinematography by Yuharu Atsuta

Art Direction by Tatsuo Hamada

Cast:

Shin Saburi as Mr Hirayama

Kinuyo Tanaka as Mrs Hirayama

lneko Arima as Setsuko Hirayama

Yoshiko Kuga as Fumiko Mikami

Keiji Sada as Mr Taniguchi

Teiji Takahashi as Mr Kondo

Miyuki Kuwano as Hisako Hirayama

Chishu Ryu as Mr Mikami

Chieko Naniwa as Mrs Sasaki

Fujiko Yamamoto as Yukiko Sasaki

Directed by Yasujiro Ozu

- Must be an auspicious day - How so?

Lots of newly weds about

Not a lot of pretty brides though

See that one on the 15-minutes-past to Atami?

That chubby one? She was nice, the prettiest one so far

l wonder ifthe weather will hold. There was a storm warning

April showers bring May flowers

Hey, here comes another

lfyou ask me, she's too skinny

Warning: Strong Winds

...we pray that you may be blessed...

l haven't seen Mr Mikami

What happened to Mikami?

l don't think he came

l sent him an invitation, but he didn't show up

Why not?

Now let us hear from a close friend ofthe father ofthe bride...

...Mr Wataru Hirayama, company director of Daiwa Enterprises

ls that me?

Please be seated

Congratulations, Tomoko

The previous speakers have all said wonderful things...

...and there isn't much l can add

These two have been in love for a long time

Every once in a while, l would hear from Tomoko...

...how their relationship was going

lt was always good news

However, l was always surprised...

...by how very different their lives were from my own youth

l remember how plain and unsentimental...

...my own wedding was

My wife is sitting right here...

...and she too could tell you...

...how it was all arranged by our parents

ln that regard, our young couple today is very lucky

l truly envy them

My only advice to them is to try their best to find happiness...

...though they may already know that

l hope people tell me about your ideal marriage one day...

...so l can envy you even more

Thank you

Congratulations

- Thank you - lt was my pleasure

Wakamatsu Restaurant

What year was that?

l think it was in 1942 or 1943. l passed by Kure, returning home

Was Mikami still there?

His shipboard duty was later

He took me to the Officers' Club. His treat

He'd reached his peak then

He still had a few good years in him

Have some more

Hasn't Mikami's daughter reached marriageable age?

Yes, she's a year younger than mine

- The girl l saw you with today? - No, that was my eldest

l see

What about your daughter?

She's at that age

Most of us have had girls

- You have boys, don't you? - Two sons

l heard that ifthe husband is the stronger, then the couple will have girls...

...and ifthe wife is stronger, they'll have boys, right?

The first child is usually a girl

Does that mean the man is stronger early on in the marriage?

- lt's possible - lt's odd in your case, then

- How come? - Because you have two boys

You should ask my wife. l'm not a very passionate man

Rubbish!

Welcome

lt's just like a reunion. Welcome. Welcome

- lt's been a while, hasn't it? - lndeed

Congratulations, Mr Kawai. The wedding went well?

l'm glad the weatherman was wrong about the strong winds

Won't you get a bit lonely, now that your daughter is married?

l'm used to it, second time round

- How many do you have? - How many what? Husbands?

l mean how many children?

Oh, children. l've got three

- l bet they're all boys - That's right. How did you know?

We can just tell. lt's obvious

- No doubt about it - Wouldn't be right otherwise

- What do you mean? - You have the constitution for it

- More sake - Yes, yes. You're up to something...

Welcome home

Welcome back

Where did you go afterwards?

To Wakamatsu

Mrs Kawai must've been lonely, left all by herself

- Where's Setsuko? - Still out

She's not home yet?

lt's getting late

lt was a lovely reception, and the bride was beautiful

Her bridal kimono was so beautiful

- Have you spoken to Setsuko yet? - Yes

What did she say?

She didn't say anything. She just grinned

She should think about it

- l know, but still... - Time is ofthe essence

He's a fine young man. She should make a decision

l suppose so

He's from a good family, too

According to Takanashi...

...his grandfather used to be President ofthe Yokohama Chamber of Commerce

ls that so?

He was very prominent

ls this about Setsuko's marriage?

- There's no need to rush it - What do you mean?

l'm sure my sister has her own thoughts on the subject, just as l do

You do?

l'd hate having an arranged marriage with someone l didn't know

ls that so?

l'd hate it!

That worries me...

You've no need to worry. l can find a husband on my own

ls that right? That's good to know

Well, find a good one, Hisako

No problem. l have plenty of boyfriends

ls that so?

Sister?

l'm home. Shall l lock the door?

Sure. That's all right, isn't it?

Evening

- Welcome home - You're late

- l was out with a friend - On a date?

Don't be silly!

How did the bride look, Mother?

- She looked beautiful - Really?

They smell nice

l bet my sister has one

- One what? - A boyfriend

l don't know. Does she?

l'm not sure, but l reckon so

Well, then, l don't have to worry about her either

You'd worry about us anyway

- Good night - Night

- You'll need your morning suit again tomorrow - What for?

Don't you have the funeral of a colleague?

Oh, a suit and a black tie will do

lt's so confusing, one day a wedding, the next day a funeral

Yes?

Mr Mikami is here

l thought l'd pop in. l'm not bothering you, l hope

No, not at all

Why didn't you come to the wedding yesterday?

l had to excuse myself

- Anything the matter? - No, nothing serious

Not really

- What was the matter? - l just didn't want to go

Why? What happened?

l just wasn't in the mood for a happy wedding

- Why not? - l was thinking of my daughter

We were talking about that yesterday. What happened to your daughter?

Did someone mention her?

lt was just that all ofour daughters were of marriageable age

Fumiko's left home

Why? When?

About two months ago

She's living with a man

Really? l didn't know that

l don't know what to do with her. lt's partly my fault, ofcourse...

How's she supporting herself?

l heard she has a flat in Suginami and she's working in a bar in the Ginza

Have you heard of a place called Luna?

Luna? No, l've never heard of it

l can'tjust go and see her like that

lfyou get a chance, will you check on her?

Ofcourse l will. But what happened?

Yes?

Mrs Sasaki of Kyoto is here to see you

- Sasaki? - Yes

Excuse me

You've got a customer, so l'll get going

You don't have to leave

l'll come again. Thanks

All right

- l'll see you soon - See you again

- Goodbye - Thanks. Bye

My, it's been a long time

- lndeed it has. Have a seat - Thank you

- When did you arrive? - Yukiko and l got here yesterday

l see

lt's been such a long time. How's the family? How's Hisako?

We're all well. Thanks for the bamboo shoots

They weren't very good, l'm so embarrassed

Matsu and l eventually figured out what happened

We divided the guests at our Kyoto inn into two categories

We meant to send you the good quality shoots...

...but by the time we realised our mistake, it was too late, they'd turned into bamboo!

l was just telling Matsu about the terrible mix-up

We would've sent you some good ones, but they'd all become bamboo trees!

- l don't need bamboo trees - Ofcourse, they're no use to anyone

- Why have you come to Tokyo? - Me?

- Yes - Because ofYukiko

What about her?

l'll tell you the whole story. lt's like this...

Yukiko won't take my advice. We're constantly arguing

- What about? - Marriage

l see. Well, congratulations!

No, nothing's set yet

You know that doctor from the Tsukiji market?

- l don't know him - He stays at ours when he comes to Kyoto

l'm guessing you send him the good bamboo shoots

l certainly do. You've never seen him at our inn?

ls he a prospect for marriage?

No, not him. Pay attention!

He's over 60 years old, much too old for Yukiko

- Then who is it? - His assistant who's also a doctor

- That's good - That doctor is young and very kind

When he stayed at our inn, he took such good care of...

- OfYukiko? - No, no! He treated me

- You remember my chronic disease? - What was it again?

- l'm not taking too much ofyour time, am l? - l'm actually rather busy

Really? l do apologise

lt might be my heart

l suddenly feel it tighten up and l have difficulty breathing

l feel l'm dying

This young doctor told me to get a full physical...

...but l'm scared ofwhat they might do to me

l'm even scared ofthe drill at the dentist

l almost faint when l see it approaching

l always end up rushing home

Goodness knows what l'll be like during the healthcare check-ups...

- Hold on - What is it?

l need to go to the toilet

Go ahead

Or maybe l should leave

- Take your time - All right, then

- Serve some tea in the reception room - Yes

- Should l wait? - No, you can go

- ls anybody home? - Yes

Welcome!

l'm Yukiko Sasaki from Kyoto

Just a moment

- Hello. lt's good to see you - Hello

Come in

Thank you

- Where is everyone? - They all go shopping on Sundays

Oh, l see

Come on in

You'll like the other room better

You must be a second-rate customer

Yes, you should give me bad bamboo shoots!

That's right

- There... - Thank you

Miss Tomizawa, bring some tea. And cakes ifyou've got any

Yes, sir

l have a gift for you

Thank you

Did your mother go into hospital?

Yes, she finally decided to go

- Did she make a fuss? - Yes, the night before she was admitted...

...she went on about how she didn't know what to do...

...and how she wanted to cancel the appointment and go home

- She wouldn't listen to anything l said - But you persuaded her?

She was being completely irrational, so l told her...

..."Mother, l'm worried about your health, so do this or l'll leave home"

So she finally listened to me

- That must've been hard - l had to be firm with her

There are good hospitals in Kyoto, too

l know. This is just mother's little set-up

- Set-up? - Yes

- There you go - Thanks!

lt's so different from Kyoto, even the colour ofthe sky

What's this 'set-up'?

She must've told you about my marriage?

Yes, she said something about a young doctor at the hospital

l know exactly what she's thinking

She gets hospitalised, so l visit her everyday...

...and then she sets me up with the doctor!

l can see right through her!

And? What do you think ofthis doctor?

l'm not interested in him at all

Then l feel sorry for your mother

Yes, but this is for her health

l suppose it is. What will you do in the meantime?

l'm going shopping and then heading back to Kyoto

- You're leaving your mother? - Yes

That's a bit cruel!

l need to take drastic measures to stop her...

...from constantly trying to choose my husband. l can't take it anymore!

l see

lt's just constant. Anyway, l don't want to leave Matsu alone at the inn

Do you have someone in your life already?

No, l don't

- You shouldn't rush to get married - That's so true

l mean it. What first looks like gold might turn out to be brass once you're married

Really? Brass, you say?

That's right

You don't need to get married just yet

Why should every girl rush to get married?

Why not be different?

You've no plans for Setsuko to marry?

ln a way, l do

Regardless, a pretty girl like you shouldn't hurry to marry

What time will the others be back?

They didn't say

When they get back, l'll tell Setsuko to visit you tomorrow

Yes, l'd love to see her

lt's such a lovely day

lt's time for your medicine

This tastes awful! What is it?

- There's sulphur in it - Really? What good does that do?

- Do l have to finish it? - Yes

l'd rather not. ls she here yet?

- Your daughter? - Yes

- No, not yet - Where is she? She's late

She's only visited me once this morning

Mother's room is right there

Really?

Have you met this doctor?

Yes, briefly

- What's he like? - l'm not interested in him

lt was mother's idea. So annoying. But what about you?

- What? - Any plans to marry you off?

No, not really. Father's interested, that's all

Really? l wish they'd stop putting us through this

- ls Auntie that persistent? - lt's all she talks about

The other day, a man with a tuxedo and a white scarfwalked past us

Mother asked if l fancied him for a husband So l turned round to look at him...

...and l saw an advert for a nightclub on his back!

l envy you, though, Setsuko

Your parents aren't like my mother. They're so understanding

l wouldn't be so sure ofthat

They're not like my mother at all

She always goes on and on...

...and she never gets to the point

But she has an interesting way oftalking

Yes, too interesting, ifyou ask me!

Setsuko, we should team up

What do you mean?

You help me when my mother's being unreasonable...

...and l'll do the same for you

- Sounds good - l'm relying on you

Promise?

What was that?

lt means, 'Thirteen silver hairpins, three broken spider webs...'

- lt's a spell - l see. ln that case...

Thank you

- Should l wait? - No, you can go

Good day

- Excuse me! - Yes?

l'm so happy to see you again

Welcome. Please come in

May l? l hope l'm not bothering you

Not at all. Do come in

Thank you

- Here... - Thank you

- Welcome, madam - Hello. Sorry for dropping in on you like this

l brought this as a small present

Thank you very much

- lt's for the family, not for you - l know, madam

- Sorry... - Are you busy with something?

l knew we'd talk at length, so l went to the bathroom

Oh, l see

Well, now... ls Hisako at school?

Yes. And Setsuko's now working

They're both lovely girls

Yukiko returned home without me

So you're having some healthcare check-ups, l hear

Oh, let me tell you, it's such an awful place

They sent electricity through wires around my hands and feet...

...and injected me with some kind of blue ink, can you believe?

lt turned my urine blue! lt was horrible, just horrible!

That's not all. l had to drink this disgusting, muddy substance

lt tasted awful

l was supposed to stay three more days, but l couldn't take it

So you didn't finish your treatment?

No, l don't need them prodding and poking me anymore

l couldn't bear it!

And what about your heart?

The old doctor told me it was fine. He said it was just neurosis

l told him l still have pains, but he wouldn't listen to me

- lsn't that outrageous? - l'm glad it was nothing serious

l didn't need to come all the way to Tokyo

- lt's always better to be sure - Yes, l suppose so

And what about the young doctor?

- He's the one l'm talking about! - What do you mean?

He's the one who injected the blue ink. l begged him to stop

He said it was necessary despite my protestations

He was so cruel. l really dislike him

l see. And you were trying to matchmake him...

Well, l'll find another prospect for her. You must help me

l'll do my best

l'm doing all l can...

...but Yukiko just keeps telling me to leave her alone and not bother her

Children are so ungrateful

Our children are the same. lt's the same everywhere

You think? lfwe wait too long, Yukiko will never get married

She'll find someone. She's capable and pretty, too

- You really think so? - l do

You're right. ln fact, l already have another prospect lined up

Who is he?

He's not a doctor, but it's close enough

- What does he do? - He's a pharmacist

He is the second son of an important pharmacist in Osaka

He's a bit old, though. l can't remember if he's 24 or 25 years old

He graduated from Osaka University. Maybe this will be the one

You certainly have a lot ofcandidates!

This one's ideal, l'm telling you

Hold on, l'm just going to the bathroom

Please do

Oh, this way!

Oh, that's right

You're sure l'm not bothering you?

Don't go too far, it's dangerous!

We'll be fine!

The weather is so nice

When was the last time we did this?

The weather's lovely

Maybe l should go for a game

You mean golf?

Please, not today

This may be the last time we can all go out together...

...if Setsuko gets married

You're right

But we can all go out again before she marries

But you're always too busy

Why does she just grin at me without saying anything?

Who? You mean Setsuko?

l was the same at her age

Times have changed, though

Shall l go ahead with what we were talking about?

Yes, l suppose it's all right

l feel good

- l was thinking... - What?

Remember how we used to run to the air-raid shelters...

...when the planes came during the war?

Setsuko had just started primary school

Hisako had just started walking

ln the dark, we used to think we might all die together

l remember

l hated the war...

...but sometimes l miss those days when we were all much closer

Don't you?

No. Those were the years l hated the most

We had nothing to our name, surrounded by arrogant fools

But those were good days for me

We were always together, the four of us

Are you complaining because l've been coming home late?

lt's not that

But we don't even get to have supper as a family anymore

Everyday it gets busier at work

But at least we can lead a more comfortable life

Even so...

What are you saying?

lt's nothing

l had trouble yesterday at Bunker 7. l just couldn't get out

l've also had difficulties there

l went to Hakone with my family yesterday

That sounds very nice

- So how was Hakone? - l spent the whole day with my family

lt must feel good to do that from time to time

lndeed

Yes?

What is it?

- This person is asking to see you - Right...

Very well, bring him in

Yes, sir

Come in

My name is Taniguchi

l'm Hirayama

The Nitto Chemical Company? My daughter works there

Well...

What can l do for you?

Well...

- l wish to marry your daughter - Excuse me?

l'd like your consent

- You...? - Yes

- ls Setsuko aware ofthis? - She is

l should've asked you through an intermediary...

- ...but l don't have a lot oftime - Time?

My company is transferring me...

...and l wanted to get your consent before l go

This is all very sudden

- l apologise - l can't give you an answer right now

l have to discuss this with Setsuko

Let's leave it at that for now

Please give it your consideration

- Oh, hello - Hello

Here's the quote from Hill Enterprises

Just leave it here

You knew nothing about this?

No, she never said anything to me

lt's a problem

l'm home

- What is it? - Come here

Sit down

- What is it? - Do you know a man named Taniguchi?

- Yes - He came by my office today

- Did you know about that? - No

He said he wants to marry you

How do you know him?

- From work - How long have you known him?

Do you intend to marry him?

Answer me

Yes, l wish to marry him

Why didn't you say anything?

Why didn't you consult with me or your mother?

You knew we were making arrangements

Well, l don't approve ofthis fellow

- But l... - What?

Why can't l find happiness on my own?

Setsuko!

l'll find happiness on my own!

- Where are you going? - l'm going out

Setsuko!

Hi. What's up?

Come in

Why did you go see my father without telling me?

- Why didn't you tell me? - l thought it'd be better that way

Why?

l didn't want to cause you any worry

What worry?

l told you before, l would tell my mother and then she'd tell my father

l know, l considered that, too

- The result would've been the same - How so?

Your father and mother could only answer either yes or no

l'd know sooner if l asked them directly

You know l'm being transferred to Hiroshima

l heard

That's why l went to see your father

And what if my father says no?

l've already made up my mind

- Have you? - Do you need to ask?

l'm not leaving you

Well, then, we've got nothing to fear

That's how it should be

Everything's fine now

lt's late, you should go. Let me take you home

Come on

- Good night - Night

- Bye - Thanks

l just came to take her home

- Thank you - Good night

ls she back home?

Setsuko!

Yes?

Sit down

Where've you been?

Don't you think you're being rather careless?

You think you can make such a decision without consulting us first?

Don't you think you're making a mistake?

Answer me

Say something!

- Don't get angry - l'm not talking to you!

What's going on, Setsuko?

l'm trying to spare you an unhappy marriage

l want to protect you from anything that would make you unhappy

Do you really know this Taniguchi fellow?

- l do - And you think he'll make a good husband?

Yes, l do

He's not from a distinguished family as you would have liked...

...but l don't think that's any reason to make me unhappy

Well, l don't agree

That's just the way you see things

Setsuko!

My opinions are different. l see things my own way

What opinions? Explain them to me

Even if l did, l don't think you'd understand

- What's that? - Setsuko!

Mother! You two were lucky from the start

We might not have the chance to have the kind of life father has in mind

But we don't care. lt won't make us unhappy

We will take responsibility for our own lives

And we won't be a burden on either ofyou

Even so, Setsuko...

Enough! l've had enough!

You're still young, Setsuko

A lot can happen in life

You two are in love. That may be enough for now...

...but who knows what the future will bring?

There's a lot that you need to consider

You said that we were lucky...

...but it wasn't always like that for your father and me

We went through some very difficult times

That's why your father is so concerned

Do you understand? Promise me you'll think it over

Enough now!

Anyway, l'm opposed to it

The young make trouble as soon as they leave home

You'll stay home two or three days and think it over!

- l have to go to work - You'll do as l say!

You don't have to go

You should go to bed now

She's such a worry

Even so...

...Taniguchi looks like a good man

And when did you meet him?

Just before, when he brought Setsuko back

And you can judge him after meeting him once? Don't be ridiculous!

Anyway, l won't give my consent

- You called me? - Yes, come here

l didn't take you away from your work?

No

- You were free? - Yes. l mean no...

No, l guess not

- There's something l want to ask you - Yes, sir?

A fellow called Taniguchi came to see me yesterday. How well do you know him?

- He was above me at school - l see

He's two years older than me, and played basketball

l see. And what else?

- ls that all? - We worked in the same office one summer

You did? Where?

- lt was at a warehouse in Hakozaki - l see...

Mr Mikami is here for you

Show him in

- We'll talk later - Yes, sir

- Thanks - Thank you, sir

- Sorry to bother you again - Not at all

l don't want to be a nuisance, but have you had a chance yet?

Have you been to Luna?

l've been a bit preoccupied. l haven't had a chance yet

l see

There's no need to rush, ofcourse. l'm just a little worried

l'll go tonight

You will? l'd appreciate it

Children can be a handful

Maybe it's because we spoil them. But what can we do?

lt's a strange situation...

Welcome

lt's been a while, Mr Kondo. How have you been?

Over here will do fine

Welcome

Welcome. What can l serve you?

One highball

Yes, sir. How about you, Mr Kondo?

The same, right?

Make it two

So you know this place?

Yes. No...

They all seem to know you

Why didn't you say so? We would've found this place in no time

l apologise. l didn't think this was the place you meant

Where else? There can't be that many bars with the same name around here

You're right, sir. l apologise

ls there a Fumiko working here? Her last name is Mikami

We call her Kaoru. She'll be back in a moment

There you go, sir. And one for Mr Kondo

Why so quiet tonight?

- Drink up - Ah, thank you, sir

That Taniguchi, what's he like?

He's two years older than me, and plays basketball

You said that already

Well, he played offence, and he had a good lay-up technique

No. l mean, his personality?

- His character - He's a good man

What do you mean "good"?

l don't know him that well, but he seems like a nice guy

You worked with him. How was he?

He worked at a desk, and l was just the delivery guy

- So you don't know him very well at all - No, l don't

- Why didn't you say that from the start? - Sorry, sir

Oh, Kaoru. She's back

What is it?

- Are you Fumiko? - Yes

Do you remember me? l'm Mr Hirayama, a friend ofyour father

Let's have a seat

lt's been a while since l last saw you

lndeed

- How are you? - Fine

- Did my father tell you l was working here? - Yes. l was curious to see how you were doing

Well...

...l just want to be left alone

No, l'm not here for that

Can we talk somewhere more private?

- What do you want to talk about? - Well, can't we talk somewhere more private?

l can't leave right now

l understand. l'll wait until you finish your shift. ls that okay?

Where's your usual liveliness?

What's up with you?

What is it?

Don't act so familiar. That man's my boss

- Then you can drink all you want - lt's not like that

- Want another one? - Not tonight

Go away. Leave me alone

- Lost your spirit? - Shut up, you idiot!

l'll get you for this

- Welcome! - Welcome!

Thank you

So, do you always wait for him around this time?

Yes. He'll be here soon

We always go home together

He's in a cabaret band, you said?

Yes

He plays piano

He studied at music school

l see. What do you think about your father?

My father?

l feel sorry for him, but he's just so stubborn

- Stubborn? - He's stuck in his ways

- Too much so - Too much so?

He makes no effort to understand. He thinks his way is the only way

Really? ls that what you think?

Yes, it is

Father has to have everything his own way

- l'm sure it's not like that - No, it is

Maybe it's just because he worries about you

Well, he shouldn't worry about me

But he does. What about you? Are you happy?

Me personally?

l'm happy. l don't see myself as unfortunate at all

l see

Welcome!

He's here

- This is... - Pleased to meet you. l'm Naganuma

Hello. How do you do?

lt's getting late. We'll head home

Fine. Thank you for coming

- Bye - Goodbye

Hold on a moment

Here's some spending money

l can't accept this

- lt isn't much - l just can't. l'm sorry

Welcome home

Where were you?

l went to see Mikami's daughter

Oh, Fumiko? How is she?

She's managing somehow, but it's not right...

Did Setsuko stay home today?

Yes. What are we going to do about her?

Leave her alone for a while

Soon she'll realise what she's asking

Are you still up?

Yes, l couldn't sleep

Setsuko!

- Did you...? - What?

Did you sleep with him?

Father, you should have a little more trust in me

He's not that kind of man

Tell her to think it over. Tell her not to go to work

She can even leave herjob

Keep an eye on her and don't let her go out

l will not allow this kind of behaviour...

...or a wedding

You understand?

Nightgown

- Welcome! - Welcome!

Why were you so quiet the other night?

Do you know how nervous l was, you idiot?

You were sweating like a pig

lt's hot in here. This place needs air-conditioning

- Mr Kondo, what would you like? - A highball with water

- Same as last time? - l can't afford a brand like that

My usual brand. Cheap, not that expensive stuff

- Right? - Right, let the boss treat you to the good stuff

Don't talk rubbish! He won't be back here again, no way

Hey, Kaoru...

How does your father know my boss?

They went to school together

What does he do now?

- He works for a printing company - He came to see my boss yesterday

Really? Did you hear anything?

They were talking, but l wasn't in the room for very long

Sorry to keep you waiting

Now, that tastes good!

lt tastes better when l pay for it myself, even if it is the cheap stuff

Eh? How come l get no peanuts?

- You're much livelier tonight - Ofcourse

Last night was an exception. Where are my peanuts? Don't be so stingy

Don't get pompous, or your boss might come back

Don't scare me like that. He won't come back to a dump like this

Give me my peanuts!

- Welcome! - Welcome!

- Welcome and thank you for the other night - Not at all

Welcome

Oh, you're here again?

- You must be a regular - Yes. Well, no....

Your father came to see me yesterday

He asked me to give you this since he doesn't know your address

Your father would like to see you. What do you say?

lt's no use meeting

Really?

Well, just think it over

Goodbye

Bye

You can sit down again now

Unbelievable! How did you know he was coming?

That's ruined the taste of my highball

Give me a match

- Ever been to the Luna Bar? - Yeah, last night

Well, be careful...

...the boss is a patron

- You saw him there? - Yes

Hello?

Miss Sasaki? Put her through

Yukiko? You're back in Tokyo? When did you arrive?

My advice? What about?

l'll come see you on the way home

All right. Bye

You have a visitor, madam

Thank you for coming

- What's going on, then? - Well...

- How's your mother doing? - That's what l want to talk about

- What's the matter? - Well...l can't take any more of it

What's wrong?

Have you had an argument? You can tell me

She's being so unreasonable

That's why l left

Left? l'm not sure what you mean

- l ran away from home - Without telling your mother?

Yes

Well, that's not good, is it?

There you are

What on earth were you arguing about?

Motherjust won't listen to a word l say

About what?

l'll tell you the whole story

Please do

The thing is...

...l've found a man l love

l see. And?

- Mother doesn't approve of him - Why not?

She always wants things to go her way

But this time, l'm not going to give in

l've made a promise to him

What's this man like?

l've known him for quite a while...

...but mother's decided she wants me to marry some pharmacist from Osaka

She says he's from a proper family with a lot of money

She insists l marry him. She just tells me to do as she says

She keeps telling me that Osaka is on the way up

Listen, it's not funny

Mother told Matsu to buy me fried bean curd for tomorrow...

...and she said l should go to Fushimi Shrine to give thanks to lnari the fox god

Did you go?

Why would l? lt's ridiculous

What happened then?

Mother was very angry at me because l rejected such an attractive prospect

She told me l'd receive divine punishment from the fox god

She was absolutely furious, so l left home

- That makes a lot of leftover bean curd - Mother and Matsu are eating it now

l imagine the guests at the inn must be eating it, too!

Really? What a carry-on!

l don't have to do what mother says, do l?

- Not at all - l don't have to listen to her

- Right - lt's my future, isn't it?

That's right

So l guess l can marry the man l love

ls he dependable?

Then you should do it. lt's your responsibility

l know

Forget what your mother's telling you

You really think so? l'm so happy to hear that

lt's not like you to be so confused

l wasn't confused. l've got to make a call

- To whom? - l'm calling your house to tell Setsuko

Why?

Uncle...

That whole story, l made it all up. lt was a trick

- A trick? - Yes, it was all a set-up

l'm going to tell Setsuko that you consent to her marriage

Hey, wait a minute!

Welcome home. l didn't hear you come in

lt's all turned out well, really well

l don't know what l would've done...

...if Setsuko had done the same as Mikami's daughter. l'm so relieved

You're a very good father. Thank you

- What? - Setsuko is so happy to have your consent

- To what? - To marry Taniguchi

l haven't yet given my consent

But she just got a call from Yukiko

That was her own doing

But...

- l had no say in the matter - l see...

lfthat's how you feel, it's good enough

What you mean, "good enough"?

- l mean about Setsuko - l refuse to take responsibility for that

She and Taniguchi will take responsibility. She told you that

- l can't take their word for it - But...

But what? How long have you been conspiring with Taniguchi?

Conspiring, you say?

You have been conspiring! Did you really meet Taniguchi only once?

No, he came over after l met him that night

What? Why didn't you say anything?

Because you've been in a foul mood and Setsuko asked me not to let him meet you

Meeting him once or twice isn't enough. And what about Takanashi?

You'll have to decline his offer

No, l won't do it

You're the one consenting, so you decline. l won't be held responsible for this

Fine, l'll do it

Then do it. l wash my hands ofthis whole affair

l don't approve, so l won't be present at the wedding either

You have to be there, at least at the wedding

No! l won't go!

l see. Then l won't go either

You can go. You gave your consent

- l won't go - Do as you wish!

l'm sure the two ofthem will manage fine

How do you mean?

How do you expect me to know?

This just goes to prove how irresponsible you're being

You make all kinds of irresponsible statements

Don't make promises you can't keep. lt's wrong

And what about you?

What? What are you saying?

Enough

- Tell me! - Enough's enough

lfyou have something to say, say it!

You always have to have your way in everything

Like what?

As usual, you're being completely inconsistent regarding Setsuko

- lnconsistent? - Yes

You said you wouldn't mind Setsuko having a boyfriend...

...but now that she has one, you disapprove. Don't you think that's strange?

No, l don't. That's parental love. You call it being inconsistent?

Yes, l call it inconsistent!

lfyou really loved her, you would take responsibility

Doing otherwise would be inconsistent

Then everybody's inconsistent, apart from the gods!

The world is full of inconsistencies

And all these inconsistencies are what make up life

And what about you? You're inconsistent, too!

l'm home

- l'm back - Where's your sister?

- Did Setsuko go out? - Yes

- Where to? - She's helping Taniguchi pack for Hiroshima

How did you know he was leaving?

l thought you'd given your consent when Setsuko called

l said she wasn't allowed to go out

Hisako went with her

- But l left early to come home - Why?

l felt like l was in the way

They're not being lovey-dovey or anything, but they're clearly in love

Taniguchi is such a nice man. He's like a big brother

They'll be fine, Father. You shouldn't worry

The train leaves tomorrow at 6:30pm. l'll be there with my sister

Stop that noise!

Turn it off!

- When did you get here? - A while ago. l've been waiting

- You've been here since yesterday? - Yes

- How's the game? - Well...not so good

l see

Your wife came by last night. She told me about your girl's wedding

Congratulations

- My wife came to see you? - She asked me to be the intermediary

- For whom? - For your daughter, at the wedding

Oh, l see

- l was told you didn't approve - Right

- So you're not coming to the wedding? - Right

You don't have to. l'll take care of it

lt's hard to see your girl you've brought up leave home

- That's not it - l heard. But this is the way it's got to be

l'll take good care of it, all right?

l'm still not coming

Then don't. Don't force yourselfto be there

- Then it's settled - Right

So that's everything taken care of

Oh, yes, we're planning a school reunion. What do you think?

- About what? - About having a school reunion

Some people are coming to join us at Gamagori

Will you come along?

- Sure - lt's been a long time

l guess l'll go play a quick game. Want to join me?

l'm going to take a breather. l'm tired

All right

See you

- A beer - Yes, sir

Hello?

Hello? Futaba Beauty Parlour? This is the Hirayama residence

Hirayama

Yes, that's right. Can you get there an hour early tomorrow?

That's right. The ceremony starts at 2:00pm sharp

Okay? We're relying on you

l called the beauty parlour. They'll be there on time

Thank you. Come have some celebratory food with us

Thank you, madam

- Father's late. Where is he? - He's probably busy at work

But l told him this morning to come home early...

...tomorrow is Setsuko's wedding

lt's okay, sister

l don't understand why he won't eat with us tonight

Your father has his concerns, and he's dealing with them his way

He's hired a private investigator to check up on Taniguchi

l saw his report

Aren't you going to eat that?

l wasn't able to do much for you...

...but tell me ifyou need anything and l'll send it to you later

l already have enough, Mother. You don't need to send anything

Our new place is going to be fairly small

No matter how small, there's no place like home

You probably have a lot to take care of. You can go upstairs ifyou want

Our visit to Hakone was our last outing as a family

l'd hoped we'd have more

We could've had more iffather had wanted to

Hisako!

lt's okay, Setsuko. You can get Mr Taniguchi to take you places

lsn't Miyajima close to where you'll live?

Maybe

l'd love to go, too

You should visit us during the summer

Really? l'd love that

- Really, l'll come - Setsuko, you should go now

Night

Listen, Mother, l heard Setsuko crying last night

l woke up in the night...

...and when l asked her why she was crying, she just turned offthe light

l see

lt's father's fault. Why does he dislike Taniguchi?

There aren't many kind men like him around

Father's too old-fashioned!

Welcome home

Welcome home. We've already had supper

What's this?

You're coming to the wedding tomorrow?

l don't have much of a choice. All our friends are coming especially

l see

Setsuko, your father said he'll be there tomorrow

He's coming to your wedding!

l'm so happy!

l knew he would

Everything's fine now. l'm so happy

There's no need to cry

You have a big day ahead ofyou, so clean up and go to bed

l'm so happy

- Mother? - What is it?

l'm so sorry

l'm sorry l caused you all this trouble

lt's fine. All l want is for you to be happy

Get yourselfsorted out

Hisako, go and help your sister

Setsuko is really happy

We really need you there tomorrow

Do you want some celebratory food?

Do you?

- You're so carefree - How so?

l never thought she would defy me

lt's not defiance

Well...for some reason, l'm not convinced

Something's not right

Getting married is a big event in her life...

...but she took that decision without discussing it with us first and that troubles me

We're just concerned for her, that's all

- The mahjong table has been set up for you - Oh, very good. Shall we play?

Bring some beer to the next room

Let's play, then, shall we? Come on

So this is what happened...

...l was the intermediary because his wife asked me

But Hirayama isn't too keen on the groom

- Why? - Well...

lt's hard to find someone suitable for one's daughter

We spend so much time raising them, only to give them away

How many children do you have, Sugai?

None?

Sugai has loads of kids. Six, isn't it?

Seven?

l bet they're all girls

- Thought so - No question about it

- So...? - Forget about it

The thing is, you keep seeing them as children...

...then suddenly they're all grown up

That's right

That's the way it has to be

Mikami, sing us that song for old times' sake?

- Which one? - The one you sang when we went to Kure

- Oh, not that - Which one?

- The one based on a poem - l'd like to hear that

- Go on, Mikami - Go on

- Come on! - All right, then

lt's kind ofold-fashioned, though

This is based on the death poem by the patriot Masatsura Kusunoki

My father's noble precepts...

...are engraved on my heart

l will faithfully follow my emperor's edict

lt's pretty long, so carry on drinking while you're listening

Ten years ofremaining patient...

...and now at last our time has come...

...to strike a powerful blow forthe emperor's cause and ourstruggle

To fight and die as men, we swear an oath

United as one...

...we 143 companions ofwar...

...are determined to fight until we reach victory

l know that l shall not be returning...

...so, among the names ofthose who have died by the catalpa bow...

...l inscribe my own

With the tips ofour arrows we engrave ourstory...

...as the blades ofour swords shine resplendent in the evening glow

Against the approaching enemy...

...let us walk with the same resolute steps...

...and deal the final blow to theirgeneral

That's enough. l'm stopping there

lsn't there more?

- You should go on ifthere's more - Go on

l think that's enough for now

- Go on - That's enough

- lt's inspiring stuffthough - l agree

Passing amid the verdant hills of Sakurai...

...now darkened by the evening gloom...

...he tethers his steed beneath a sheltering tree...

...and reflects on the fates and tides oftime

Are they tears that dampen his armour sleeve...

...or are they drops offalling dew?

So you met up with your daughter?

She's coming round to the house soon

They seem to be managing, so that's good

lt's difficult raising children, isn't it?

Eventually, all parents have to let go...

...and that's never easy

That's true

We must be getting old...

...talking about our children at a school reunion

True

But we carry the dreams ofour youth with us forever

- l'm home! - Welcome back

- Mr Hirayama ofTokyo is here - Really? Where is he?

ln the back room

Hello!

Welcome back

Welcome to our home

Thank you for coming to Setsuko's wedding

lt was my pleasure. Please accept my congratulations

What brings you to Kyoto?

Well, after my school reunion in Gamagori, l went on to Osaka

Oh, l see. Have you taken care of all your affairs?

Yukiko, what was it again?

When Setsuko and her husband stopped at our inn...

- What? - What was the food they liked?

- The pickled rape blossoms - Yes, they really liked them

He says, "These taste nice," and she says, "You're right"

He says, "You like it?" and she says, "Ooh, l do!"

They're perfect for each other. Aren't they, Yukiko?

And they stayed in this very room

Well, thank you for looking after them

- They were no trouble at all - They only stayed one night

l invited them to stay longer...

...but theyjust visited some ofthe sights and left

Really?

Mr Taniguchi seems such a kind fellow

l hope Yukiko can find such a nice husband. Right, Yukiko?

Absolutely! l would love to find a man like him

What's not to like about him?

Well, l've nothing against him personally

- Excuse me, madam... - What? You need me? Excuse me

Have some more, Uncle

l apologise for what l did the other day

- Sorry? - Don't be angry. Please forgive me

Oh, you mean the set-up?

Yes. l'd make a fine actress, don't you think?

Very convincing. l fell for it hook, line and sinker!

- Did you make it all up? - l'm sorry?

You haven't found a man that you want to marry?

No, l haven't, unfortunately. l can't seem to find anyone

- Why not? - l just don't have time

Your mother wants you to get married

That's what she always says. lt's got to be a habit

l doubt that

lt's true. She just likes saying it

Honestly, though, she doesn't want me to leave

l don't believe that for a second

She keeps picking candidates and then finds all kinds of problems with them

She's like a child playing with building blocks

ls that what you think?

lt makes it difficult for me

lt's time you started thinking seriously about it

l can't get married and abandon my mother, l'd worry too much

lf l leave, she'll spend all her days fighting with Matsu...

...and she'll ruin this place

Matsu has the patience of a saint!

Why couldn't someone marry into your family?

No man would last long with my mother around

You shouldn't worry so much about your mother

Parents devote themselves to their children...

...and their children's happiness is all that matters

You think?

Ofcourse. You shouldn't keep yourself from marrying because ofyour mother

- But that's odd - Why?

Didn't you once tell me not to get married?

- Did l? - You said something about gold and brass

Oh, yes, l did say that

What you have to do is turn the brass into gold

Get married, will you? lt's time

Your advice has completely changed. l'm confused

Should l or should l not get married?

lt'd be better ifyou did

This isn't a set-up?

No, l'm not as good an actor as you are

Think about it, anyway. lfyou find a good man, marry him

lfyou find happiness, so will your mother

- l'll think about it - Think it over carefully

Always busy!

- Have guests arrived? - lt's the man from the tax office

Yukiko, would you deal with it for me?

Remember that handsome man with the nice neckties?

He's asked us to bring our family seal

ls he your newest candidate?

l would like that

Enough ofthat, Mother. Do you know what Setsuko said?

What?

She said you didn't look happy at the wedding

She said you didn't even smile once

That's what troubled her most

Really? She told you that?

Oh, l do feel so sorry for Setsuko

You should smile in her company. lt's not that difficult!

Why don't you try it now?

What?

Yukiko, what do you think of him leaving for Hiroshima this instant?

That's a great idea, Mother. Best idea you've had in ages!

You should go and visit, Uncle

Hiroshima?

Yes. Then she'll stop worrying

Excellent! lt's decided, then

l can'tjust leave my business

This is more important than work

Call Tokyo before he backs out

l will!

Hey, wait a minute! Hey!

- You're so full ofgood ideas, Mother - Sharp as a tack!

- You are! - Hey, Yukiko!

- Take him to the phone - Right away!

Tokyo 45-3136, please

This is Gion 27-84

Hello?

Hello, Auntie!

How are you? lt's Yukiko

Uncle is going to Hiroshima to visit Setsuko

Yes. Yes, that's right

l'll put him on

Quick, Uncle. Auntie's on the line

Here

Hello? lt's me

That's right, l'm thinking about it

So you're really going to Hiroshima?

l'm so happy. Setsuko will be overjoyed

Well, l haven't made up my mind yet

l don't think it's necessary for me to go. lt's a long way

Why are you laughing? What's so funny?

That's typical ofyou!

l know how l am. Anyway, you should go

Don't worry

l'm so happy. So happy

Setsuko will be so pleased. l'm glad, too

Listen, this isn't about making you happy. You see...

l know

l'm so happy

Send her my love. Goodbye

Excuse me

Send a telegram for me

'Arriving at Hiroshima 14:18. Stop. Father'

All right?

- l'll have it sent from Osaka - Please do

The End