Investigation requested:
Discover the whereabouts of Nimuro Hiroshi. Male, aged 43.
Hiroshi Nimuro was the previous head of the sales department of a car factory.
Filer of the request: the wife of the disappeared.
Nimuro Hiroshi, of unknown whereabouts for the last six months.
I am ready to present any material that might help in the investigation.
I request that all information presented be kept absolutely confidential.
You won't talk with anyone about this topic nor will you use this information for your own advantage.
Year 49 of the Showa era (1943). Name of the person lodging request: Nimuro Hariu.
Request: Find my husband.
- Would you like milk? - Do you have any matches?
- You have some. - I hadn't noticed.
- �Would you like a light? - A bit later.
Nice watch. Where did you get it?
- From Switzerland. - When do you get off?
At 8:30.
And afterwards?
Go home.
Wait.
I want to ask you something.
We're not permitted to chat with clients.
Then... could you put on a bit of music?
I've got my own music. Listen. Do you like it?
Wait... So we'll have dinner later?
That's 100 yen.
Are you the detective from the agency? What a coincidence!
- Coincidence? - I'm the brother-in-law of Nimuro. I hired you.
If you're not following me, then yes, it is a coincidence.
I like your beard. I envy people like you.
I didn't know that Hariu Nimuro had a brother.
You said it, and I think it would be better if you were careful.
- Let's go to that cafe. - Why?
- You've played the fool long enough. - I repeat, we've met by chance.
And what were you doing here?
Going past. They say Nimuro made good money out of used cars.
I thought that maybe he used matchboxes to indicate meeting places.
Besides, the parking is free.
- You don't say? - Let's leave it. But tell me...
... what do you think of my sister? Do you like her?
What are you trying to say? What are you insinuating?
Speaking clearly, do you like her as a woman?
I'm doing this because I'm paid. It's my job and I don't know how to do anything else.
- And what about the diary? - Diary?
I gave it to my sister so she'd pass it on to you. But I don't think it contained anything interesting.
I'll have a look at it.
Be more careful!
Beer again?
I always forget to buy tea.
- I've been to that cafe. - So what?
I'll go back there again at night.
With my car. I know,
Is there anything you haven't told me?
I met your brother. We had a nice chat.
- My brother? - Why didn't you tell me about him?
Really? Don't be afraid if he's a bit strange, but that doesn't really mattter.
I'll decide what matters and what not.
- We haven't heard from him. - How is that possible?
We don't know where he's been.
What's the matter with you? Have all the members of your family disappeared?
I don't know. He is secretive. Maybe you'd prefer a Coke?
I'll get it.
I hope you understand that 30 000 yen is a lot of money.
I can't return the deposit if you give up my services.
Of course.
Well then, why don't you help by telling me everything you know?
- But I... - Even your brother has been more helpful.
- He told me that he'd given you his brother's diary. - Diary?
Don't you know anything about your husband?
He worked at a car factory, he had a license to sell used cars.
- I know that... - And why don't you tell me anything?
- He had a lot. - A lot of what?
Licences! He had nine!
Two for driving trucks, radio engineer...
Electrician, licence to handle explosives...
Cinema projectionist, lifeguard. That's seven
I've forgotten the other two.
I don't remember them.
He had very skilful hands. He was a strange man...
And besides, he has disappeared.
He'd say that licences are the backbone of human life.
Who'd have guessed?
You don't look too worried.
I'm scared. We don't know anything about what's happened to him. I'm scared alright.
I see that you like to drink.
I wasn't like that before.
Well then, drink if you enjoy it.
Indeed.
What do you want? Who are you?
- I think everything's becoming clear to me now. - What are you saying?
You bought a Swiss watch for that girl. No one else could have.
I don't know what you're talking about.
- Does name 'Nimuro' sound familiar to you? - Nimuro? The driver Nimuro?
- Driver? - No.
- I don't know the name. - Yes, obviously.
Six months? That was a long time ago.
This person wants to talk with you about Nimuro.
- I'd like to know what happened that morning. - Okay, but I don't know what to tell you...
We agreed to meet so that he could hand over some documents...
But he didn't come, did he?
- No. I waited half an hour. - What were the documents about?
We don't know anything about those documents. Nor you either, right?
Then they weren't vital to the business.
So it would seem.
Look, I'm not a cop and I'm not interested in your business.
I understand.
I'm not interested in the affairs of the factory.
We really don't know anything, right?
It's strange.
His disappearance isn't due to some unimportant papers.
I'll tell you something else.
He was an honorable and resposible man.
He was promoted. Was he happy about that?
So you have no clues? What is clear is that if his wife has hired a detective...
... then he really must have disappeared.
Can you show me on the map where you were going to meet?
With pleasure.
It'll start in a moment.
I wanted to talk to you The fact is... that I didn't tell you the truth.
- Seriously? - Actually, I lied.
- So? - It has to do with those documents.
The day before he went missing, I heard the boss asking him to stamp those papers.
He was talking with Maidzo Yukishi, head of Toriyo branch.
- Toriyo? - Yes. Near Takatori and Oppo.
I don't know the place.
But, is it certain that he has disappeared?
- Of course not. - Really?
Forget about it. It's not important.
Pardon me, I don't know how to tell you this, it's so awkward for me...
Nimuro was into erotic photographs.
- Did others photograph him? - No, he made the photos himself.
- He did it regularly - Maybe he fell in love with some girl.
If you like, I could show you some of his photos.
They're fairly normal. Nothing out of this world.
- Have you been drinking? - You don't believe me.
Another day we'll enjoy ourselves looking at the photos and having a drink.
- Where's Toriyo? - Close to here.
- Do you know where the city administration is? - That's in Sumiya.
Sumiya?
Straight ahead, then turn left. Second building to the left and you're there.
- Always left? - Yes.
- Thanks - No problem
Where's your boss? I have some business with him.
He's busy right now.
Then I'll wait for him.
He hasn't come out of his office for an hour.
- Thanks - I'd like to ask you...
Careful! West wind.
And you have a licence to work with flammable materials...
Have you ever seen a gas bottle explode on account of a cigarette?
No, never.
Have you heard surname 'Nimuro'? He worked at the sales department.
Not familiar at all...
But somebody came when we changed companies.
- When was that? - In July or August.
Have a quick look. Is that him?
Look.
Who else could I ask?
The boss' daughter. But right now she's crying because of this idiot.
She deserves it! I hope she learns her lesson!
Hello!
- Cold, isn't it.. - Hello!
What a coincidence!
- When coincidences get repeated... - ... they become regularities
Sit down.
- What are you doing here? - And you?
I'm doing my job.
Looks like you're doing it well.
Thanks.
Hey, Odio, serve him tea.
What about the diary?
Ah yes! I've been busy. It's a real bitch. You'll have it tomorrow.
Tell me... do I make you suspicious?
You want me to think so.
That's how it is. Because of those bastards I've become a blackmailer.
Blackmail?
Darling! Odio!
Your father knew I was coming. Remind him.
You don't talk much.
Perhaps there's something you don't understand.
Of course, blackmail is bad... but to give in to it is not good either.
Give them an inch and they'll take a yard.
What do you want from me?
Have you forgotten already? You signed the contract.
- Excuse me, could you move your car? - Of course, of course. It's time to go.
Me, too. Could you give me a lift?
Odio, don't forget to give my regards to your father.
- Going by bus is a pain. - Are you going far?
If you drive me all the way, I'll buy you a drink.
I don't need invitations from swindlers.
I pay you 30 000 a week. That adds up to 120 000 a month.
I have to help my sister, don't I?
But you only contracted me for a week.
Then we'll have to prolong the contract.
Excuse me for yesterday. I'll do everything that's needed to help.
I have nothing in the world. You can be certain of that.
Welcome to our shack.
- Well then, would you like a drink? - No, I'll just have soup.
- Just one. - I have to drive.
As you wish. Close the window, otherwise our guest might catch cold.
- I'm not going to stay long. - There's no need to.
- Have a good one. - Alright.
We were waiting for you.
- Are you a relative? - No, just an acquaintance.
- Good evening. - What kind of face is that?
- There are only 3 girls. - It's because of the flu.
- The flu? There as strong as horses. - Well, now they're weak.
- Too much of a coincidence, eh? - What is?
Everything.
- Can I have some sake? - Me too. Give us sake.
- Can I leave the car here? - Of course. You can stay if you like.
- They are good people. - Supposedly.
- Is something the matter? - Haven't you heard?
I don't want those guys around here. There's only three of us.
- And? - Nothing. I don't carefor it, right beside my shack!
Is there anything to fear?
Tomorrow is pay day for the gang.
- Tomorrow everyone will give over part of their wages. - And?
See them all there gathered around?
- I don't like it. - Someone gets something out of it though.
Who?
Maidzo, head of city administration. Haven't you heard of him?
No idea.
Do you have a moment?
Come here!
What's up?
- Something bad is going to happen. - You should blackmail less.
It'd be better if we left.
I'm drunk.
Stop making a racket! Animals!
Let's go!
Have you been drinking?
- I came on business. - Okay.
- I've met up with your brother again. - Where?
What's the meaning of all this? Enough!
Tell me everything!
I want to know it all, down to the last detail.
But that's impossible!
- Why? - Because he has disappeared!
I remember the noise he'd make when he brushed his teeth.
How his lips moved when he smiled.
It's as if I'd dreamed it.
But he lived in this house, didn't he?
- You haven't dreamed me up, have you? - That's true.
- Do you have any of his LPs? - Listen.
- Are they all like that? - Yes, of different cars.
- Should I leave it on? - Better not.
He loved cars very much.
In the morning he'd say that he'd rather wash a car than take a shower.
- That last morning...did he leave by car? - No, he had already sold it.
Sold? When?
Let's see...
More or less a year ago.
To who? Who bought it?
No one strange, an honest guy. They even returned a newspaper to him...
and a waistcoat that he forgot, with the matches that I gave him...
It was a sports paper. Wait, I'll show it to you.
- It's all greasy. - He always kept it in the trunk.
That's the newspaper.
4th of June
But... this is...
Yes, the address of that cafe.
Why didn't you tell me?
I already gave you the matchbox.
Would you like a beer?
More alcohol, great...
Excuse me... how much did he earn?
About 60.000 yen.
- Then why did he work as a taxidriver? - Why do you say that?
Why have you put that on?
Why did he have to go?
Why did he deceive me? Why?
Tell me! Why?!
I have seen what you're doing, but I won't say anything. Follow me, please.
- I'll take you. Where are you going? - It's not up to me, is it?
- That's right. - Can I get in?
You probably didn't understand me right.
And this? He was happy you returned it.
I don't know what you're talking about.
- Can I see the documention relating to your car? - What for?
- Nice watch. - It's Swiss, very good.
Crummy joint. I hope you're paying her well.
There's a lot to do in the mornings.
- Isn't it morning now? - I forbid you to talk to him!
Then I'll call the man who sold the car.
You're crazy!
My brother is dead...
He was killed. Murdered...
Why was he killed...?
What am I going to do now...?
I have to identify his body. Can you come with me?
Alright. I'll be there soon.
You've got me confused with someone else. I bought my car new.
That's right. It's the truth.
Put on some music.
It's me. Put me through to the boss.
Boss? It's me. I wasn't able to call earlier. They've killed the client's brother.
No, I doubt it had anything to do with the disappearance of her husband.
I have an alibi, it has nothing to do with me.
That depends on the police.
I'll drop by the office and tell you everything.
It might help.
That's not necessary.
Have you forgotten what happens when detectives get mixed up in police work?
I understand
I'm sorry. It was simply bad lack.
What should I do, then?
You're a sharp fellow. You'll think of something.
They say they have a lot of business in the morning, but I don't believe it.
Earlier on, there was.
What do you mean, 'earlier'? Take it.
Just what I said, 'earlier'.
Shit! Why did he have to go and disappear?
- Are you alright? - What's it to do with you?
- The sky is really blue! - Really blue!
I've lived here for three months. I like her.
Yes, she likes you too.
- Are you going to stay? - Why? Can't I?
- You're different to how I imagined. - Don't worry, I'll go soon.
You're here too?
Escuse me, would you like something to drink?
Brew tea, please.
It's been a while since I saw you last.
I was sacked.
Could I have a cigarette?
I just came by, you know...
What will you do now?
Who knows. I don't have any clues.
Have you got something in your eye?
No. I haven't slept enough.
Are you in some kind of trouble?
My troubles shouldn't concern you.
But they always do.
Seriously?
Do we need a reason to be together?
Okay, let's not talk of it.
You know, I have a strange case. A man disappeared.
But for some reason his relatives don't want to help me investigate.
They are more interested in the cause of his disappearance.
It's like nobody cares where he is now.
Well, I understand them in part.
I see.
Tell me, why did you leave home?
Perhaps...because there was no room for me anymore.
Some excuse.
You're coming in backwards? Have you no manners?
You see? Nothing spilled!
I need to make a call;
- I didn't picture him like that. - Of course, we hoped for him to be different.
Good afternoon. Could I speak with Tashiro?
I've been having migraines lately.
Tashiro? Do you remember me?
Yesterday. So what about our deal?
Okay then. Where you said.
What time? It's one o'clock now. At five? Great.
Don't forget what we talked about. Yes, yes. The photos.
It would be nice to talk to the model, too.
Thanks.
So, you see what sort of things I have to do?
But you said you were fired.
I like to finish what I've started.
It's time to go.
- It's interesting, isn't it? - Of course it is. That's what life is like.
Maybe I'll come another day and stay longer.
- Maybe... for good. - Here?
Can't I?
I'll get your room ready.
- It's pretty, isn't it? - Black suits you.
You look tense... Are you waiting for someone?
No.
- You look like a minor. - Who are you?
A friend of your late boss.
I represent the company that says prayers in his honour.
And after that?
All clients are where they're supposed to be. There'll be no problems.
I see...
Is everything always so well organised?
I didn't say that.
Do I attract you?
Be truthful.
- After a fashion. - Liar. You'd like to fuck me.
That's not my thing.
All our clients are powerful people, businessmen, actors...
Did your boss mention a girl from the club?
If you don't know, don't ask. I don't like this curiosity of yours.
Now I find myself completely alone.
Do you have a photo album?
Thanks.
- That's the late mother of my husband. - She was very old.
Something smells strange!
Like a dead body.
It's my kimono! I'll go and change.
- Is the one under the car here your husband? - Yes. I took the photo.
- Good evidence. - Evidence?
To tell the truth, I suspected your brother. It's a pity he's dead; he would have liked it.
Why do you think that? I don't understand.
- I do. - Why?
Look, he allowed you to photograph them because your husband's face can't be seen.
Do you think he'd have let you photograph them together?
You notice everything.
So, the detective I hired suspects that I did it with my own hands.
I'm not a detective anymore. I was sacked three hours ago.
Why?
Doesn't matter. There are still those three days left you contracted me for.
Just three days?
I don't think you can afford my services.
I have my husband's savings. I'll find a job if necessary.
As for your husband, you can be sure that his brother's death will appear in the press.
In the press?
Your husband could reappear.
Why?
Have you already discounted that possibility?
Of course not! Why think that?
I got the impression that your brother knew something.
He was a bit angry with him on account of his disappearance.
My brother didn't like women, but I was his sister...
So I had to help him.
He loved me, and I loved him.
I loved my brother very much.
I've probably never loved anyone that much.
- More than your husband? - How can you make such a comparison?
But your husband made you a woman. Isn't that so?
My brother always helped my husband.
He got his last promotion thanks to him.
It was my brother who got it for him.
Do you know a guy called Maedo in Toriyo?
No.
Maybe your husband didn't approve of your brother's help.
We had plans. We agreed to have a baby when he became head of department.
- What's that sound? - I don't know.
Okay, let's think about something else.
You know, this is interesting. Consider that every passer-by is thinking about their future.
The most important thing is not to give up.
- Did you bring the photos? - Do you want to see them here?
- Does it matter? - As you like.
Here. They're in colour.
They're terrific.
Fabulous, aren't they?
- Why did he photograph them all from behind? - He must have liked it more that way.
- Always with the same model? - Look at this. Seems like a ponytail.
Is he drunk?
- Who? - That guy.
Maybe he's sick, or has a weak heart.
- Perhaps he needs help. - So, why is he just sitting there?
There he goes.
There are weird people around.
You must be good friends if he let you have these photos.
He was a bit strange, but a good guy.
Have you kept them in your house all this time?
Not exactly. He has a safe. He left them there.
A safe? With a key?
- Yes, exactly. - Then how did you open it?
I have a friend who works there. He made me a duplicate.
So you opened it?
I told you, a friend helped me. He got me a copy of the key.
So you took the photos without permission.
Don't put it like that.
Is there any proof that these photos belong to Nimuro?
How can you think that?!
It's perfectly reasonable.
- You're suggesting that I'm protecting my boss. - I don't think you'd have the balls.
- If you don't believe me, then I might as well leave. - I don't trust you.
I respect my boss deeply.
To flee like that takes a lot of courage.
If you respect him so much, why didn't you flee along with him.
You think I'm hiding him? That he's hidden away at my house?
If you don't believe me, give me back the photos.
I didn't say that.
Anyway, it doesn't matter whether I believe you or not.
I admire him. It's a brave thing to do what he's done.
Whatever you say.
Are you upset because you don't have any clues?
Forget it. You might do something stupid.
- Where are we going? - To the place where that model works.
Do you need some company? Let me come along with you!
Order for me, please.
A whisky for me.
- What would you like to drink? - The same as you.
This is a bit embarrassing.
- Tashiro, it been ages! - Come here, have a drink.
- It's included in the price. - No problem.
Beer? Or would you prefer something stronger?
Check the time barman. I won't have a beer. Whisky on the rocks.
I see. The guy who recommended you was quite right.
- Recommended? - Nimuro, head of the department.
- Nimuro? - Yes, this... someone from our company.
What do I care! Come on. Cheers!
- Tell me, who took those photos?
I don't know what you're talking about. I don't let anyone take photos.
Poses that not even a husband would see as normal.
Don't say such things.
Soon I'll be getting married too.
I want there to be a big party.
I'll call all my friends and have it in a hotel with an open bar.
Then the photos will be worth a lot more.
I don't know what photos you mean. What are you going on about?
Should we show her?
- Why do you think it's me? - We think it's your hair.
Are you kidding? Look how easy it comes off.
Some me prefer me with long hair. See what I mean?
Okay, I suppose, then yes.
That's for me to decide. Don't think you have anything to teach me.
Then congratulations on your upcoming wedding.
Thanks, and if you want to take photos, you'd better hurry up.
I'd forgotten. I've got to go. How much do I owe?
You'll have to pay as for hour.
It's 3.650 yen.
I'm guessing you're not married.
Your buttons are sewn with different-coloured threads.
If you've got time, you can have her.
Wait!
I want to show you something.
Maybe now you'd like to come with me.
You won't regret it.
What's the matter?
Didn't you like her? She had nice legs.
Sorry. I have a weak character. I don't like it at all.
I know it's stupid to do such things, but but I can't help it.
Don't think I'm a pervert. Maybe you still don't trust me.
Don't overlook the possibility that it's his wife who appears in those photos.
Do you know her? I suppose so. I think it's time to tell you everything.
Everything about this is so terrible that I'm scared to talk about it.
I don't even know where to start.
It's all so unpleasant. Understand, the thing is...
Stop spitting in my ear!
I saw... I saw how Nimuro...
- I saw him. That's the truth. - Where?
He didn't look too worried about having left home.
His face was shining. He walked with confidence.
- Did you recognise him by his walk? - Sure. You can't mistake him for anybody.
- So you're sure it was him. - Without a doubt.
- Did he notice you? - No, I followed from a distance.
So, you're telling you recognised him by his walk and how he looked from behind?
I don't know why, but I don't believe it.
I see you think I'm lying.
I'm fed up with all this. Maybe I should just get out somewhere.
I recognised him by clothes, by the colour of his clothes, to be more exact.
The colour?
Sometimes I get frightened in a crowded train.
There are people all around me who I don't know at all.
I asked you about the colour of his clothes.
Specifically... The jacket he always used to wear.
Always? So it wasn't new?
That's enough lies!
The thing is... I have the coat you're talking about.
Go home, sleep, and try to come up with some better lies.
You'll regret it! I really saw him!
Who is it?
No doubt I've caught you sleeping.
Ah, so it's you! What do you want?
I thought I should call.
What have you got to tell me? I hope it isn't more lies.
I don't lie.
The sky is changing colour.
Fresh milk will be brought soon. The dogs will start barking.
It's almost morning. Birds will start singing.
I get it. Goodbye.
No! Listen!
These will be my last words. Afterwards, I'll kill myself.
Kill yourself?
I'm fed up with everything. I can't go on anymore.
Can't you hear the footsteps of the guy who brings the morning paper?
Do you think I'll make it into the evening papers?
Couldn't you call me again in couple of hours?
You're an idiot! A complete moron! You'll regret it!
I lied. Not just to you, but to everyone!
Where are you calling from?
Have I got your attention?
Not really.
No?
I'm going to hang up.
Wait! It won't take long.
I'll be dead soon.
And you won't hear my last cry.
it's not for those with weak nerves.
Light a cigarette if you want. I'll wait.
I'm already smoking.
Then I'll start...
I don't have much time left, do you hear? I'm up upon my suitcase.
I'm taking the noose and putting it around my neck.
Have you written a note?
No. They are hard to write.
Do you want to tell me something about Nimuro?
No. Why should I? He has disappeared. It's not my problem.
Damn it! Why did he have to disappear?
I'm going to do it too.
The rope is around my neck... The same fate awaits me.
He disappeared and left nothing behind.
But you'll leave a cold, stinking corpse.
You swine! How can you say that when I'm about to die? I've had enough!
Are you ready? Prepared?
Yes. A table for three? What time? Fine. Thank you for your reservation.
32, 35 and 39.
Here.
Excuse me, coming through.
Excuse me, I wanted to ask you about a certain Nimuro.
Have you seen him before?
I don't think so.
You don't give up.
- I read about you in the paper. - Then you should know.
- So what's the problem...? - You can't talk about this!
- I really want you to accept me. - How much do you want?
How much?... Oh, I see. How much are you offering?
What a fright.
What's there to be scared of?
- What happened to you? - Can I wash up?
You need to clean up those cuts.
That's just blood from nose, nothing serious. It will wash off.
What happened to you?
Sometimes... the job is hard.
And Tashiro... he has committed suicide.
Suicide?
They're all doing what they want. A bunch of total egotists.
- Why? - What - why?
Why did you become a private detective?
Probably because it's furthest thing from a normal job.
What did you do before that?
I was an ordinary salaryman.
- So you really have to go? - Yes.
No, you shouldn't move!
What are you doing?
I'm looking at the windows. Mine and those of the other people.
When it's getting dark and they are lit up, it means there is someone still there.
Did I sleep all day?
Five minutes have now passed.
What's the time?
Our contract expired five minutes ago.
Contract?
Nothing. Forget it.
Would you like a drink?
I overslept.
Careful!
Coffee.
One coffee.
It's me.
What's up? Is everything alright?
- How do you feel? - Not that great.
- You've got to come back. - Come back? Where?
- It's clear where. - You think so?
Where are you calling from?
I don't know. I see a hill and a big, white building.
- Help me, please! Save me! - I'll come soon. Wait for me. Wait.
I forgot your name.
But it doesn't matter.
I'll make one up myself.
One that I'll never forget.
Okay?