A Shochiku - Haiyuza coproduction
A SHOCHIKU FILM
Year 7, Kyoho Era (1722) - Spring
Edo - Fukagawa District
BANDIT vs SAMURAI SQUAD
Technical crew
Production: Masayuki SATO Ginichi KISHIMOTO - Shigemi SUGIZAKI
From a novel by Shotaro IKENAMI
Script: Kanao IKEGAMI
Shooting: Tadashi SAKAI - Masao KOSUGI
Artistic director: Yoshinobu NISHIOKA
Music Mitsuaki KANNO
Light: Mitsuo ONISHI
Sound: Wataru ONUMA
Editing: Michio SUWA
Starring
Tatsuya NAKADAI
Somegoro ICHIKAWA
Shima IWASHITA
Keiko MATSUZAKA
Teruhiko AOI
Hiroyuki NAGATO
Joe SHISHIDO
Hideo TAKAMATSU
Isao NATSUYAGI
Mikio NARITA
Junko MIYASHITA
Masatsugu ISHIBASHI
Mitsuko BAISHO
Takashi YAMAGUCHI
Tetsuro TAMBA
Takuzo KAWATANI
Tatsuo UMEMIYA
Shingo YAMASHIRO
Go KATO
Koshiro MATSUMOTO
Narrators: Eitaro OZAWA - Hisashi YOKOMORI
Directed by Hideo GOSHA
With all the sake you're selling,
you would like to make us believe that you're broke?
Go, Omiya!
Anyway, we know where you hid it.
If Kumokiri knew we were double-crossing him,
how would he react?
I think he would look like a kid
who just lost his toy!
Kumokiri, I'm sorry to get ahead of you.
This bastard Omiya had found a very good hiding-place.
Kill all those
who resist!
Damn it...
What a bunch of losers!
We've been reparing this job for 3 years
and they tried to get ahead of us. That's revolting.
Oh no... Kichigoro!
They're coming a bit too late.
They're in the river!
It's Akatsuki's band! Go recover them!
Boss...
everything went fine.
What about Akatsuki's band leader?
He paid the price for his treachery.
Good.
Good job.
Kameya Inn
Since the beginning of the year,
you left Shinshu, you followed
Koshu's road to get here.
Am I right?
Yes.
Where are you going now?
I don't know for sure.
You're travelling without aim?
Yes, but...
What are you doing here since 10 days?
To tell the truth, I have a request to fulfil.
What request?
Your question is embarrassing.
A request, it's highly confidential.
I can't talk about it.
- Why not? - Stop it.
The woman whose name is appearing on this funeral tablet...
was she a member of your family?
Please accept our apologies.
He's probably...
He must have been a samurai.
Should we investigate him?
No, he's beyond any suspicion.
The police unit
called the Special Force against Fires and Bandits
was created under the Tokugawas reign.
It's in charge of fires prevention
and bandits arrest.
It fights against crime in all Japan.
Some provosts and inspectors are part of it.
They're elite samurais.
This Special Force is highly capable
when it comes to criminal investigation,
and bandits arrestation and execution.
During the burglary at Omiya's house,
we recovered three men out of the water.
One of them admitted that he knew Kumokiri's band.
Yes. His name is Rikichi.
Let's use him in exchange of his freedom.
Make him this proposition.
This Kumokiri pulled this job
right under the nose of our unit and the local police.
He certainly is a demon.
A demon?
What a stupid belief!
He's a human being, just like you and me.
There's always an explanation
to a trick.
Mr. Matsuya, stop!
Mr. Matsuya...
Look, the lovers are back.
Hello.
We're back.
Mr. Koshuya, are you here?
Yes. I came as you requested.
We'll talk later. First, a room for Ochiyo.
The one upstairs is ready, as usual.
After you.
It looks like you're getting more attached to her each time you see her.
It's the sixth time I see her. The sixth...
She really is the most exceptional woman I've been introduced to.
I, the biggest kimono wholesaler in Owari,
am crazy about her.
You must be kidding. She isn't a professional.
She's most definitely not a professional.
I noticed a long time ago.
I introduced her to you because we're dealing together.
To be honest, she comes from an aristocratic family.
An aristocratic family?
Tell me more about her.
At first, I wasn't curious about her, but now...
In fact...
Here.
You really deserve your nickname of chameleon.
Your seduction skill is highly perfected.
At least once,
show me how you're doing.
Please.
You're wrong about me.
I don't sleep for fun.
It's part of my job.
I was kidding, I was kidding.
If the boss learned it he would punish you.
She's the widow of a Kyoto's aristocrat
deceased recently.
This man had already been married and Ochiyo was sent away.
Those kinds of things happen,
especially to such a nice woman.
She was alone and without money.
Since she was an old customer, I took her in.
I see. Do you know why I want to know her better?
Tell me.
Because she asked me
to become her benefactor.
That's embarrassing! You're only passing through.
Yes, but...
I can't refuse it
to a woman who loves me so much.
You're not gonna take Owari with you, are you?
Your palanquin has arrived.
Thank you.
I thought about it.
I'm currently single.
Everything is possible if we want to.
We could...
Do you understand?
Are you kidding?
Why would I joke, at my age?
We'll talk again about it later.
I'll take you back.
Did he leave?
I'm asking you if he left.
So?
He left.
Don't go too far with her.
Who do you think you are?
There are limits to everything.
It could be far worse than a sting.
Damn it!
While I'm worrying about you, she's in danger!
Moron! What a way to talk to me...
Wait for me!
Isn't it Roku?
It looks like he's following us.
Let's stop.
Bastard...
Who are you?
Damn it...
Kill him! Go!
I'll get you!
Cover his face!
Ochiyo, our boss forbids us to kill before a new operation.
I'll accuse myself.
Jihei, I'm the one who killed him, ok?
I killed him.
I'm the one who killed him.
You could be severely punished.
At least it would give me the opportunity to see our boss again.
Don't worry unnecessarily.
- You can go. - What about you?
I don't want to go in this small boat anymore.
Roku, let's go.
Are you Kuranosuke Tsuji?
I was impatiently waiting for this day.
Too bad he's not here.
In three months the rite of passage to adulthood of Shojumaru,
Owari's clan future lord, will take place.
Don't forget to tell your boss.
I'll tell him without fail.
I'd very much like to see him again on that occasion.
Mister the bonze!
You're forgetting this.
Thank you.
A traveller shouldn't forget his spare sandals.
Ochiyo, I saw our boss last night.
He wants you to be patient.
He loves you.
I'm sure of it.
You will leave for Owari soon.
He'll probably want to see you before.
Roku,
you're a true man.
A man who understands women,
there's none better.
It's going to rain, Roku.
Ochiyo...
Roku...
Roku... you're so nice.
Be careful! You almost killed me!
Nobody upstairs either!
They're smart.
I was suspecting it.
They got away.
The scumbags! They didn't leave anything!
Those bandits are smarter than us.
Fool! It's not the time to admire them.
The Special Force is fearsome.
If Okada hadn't warned us they would have arrested us.
Bring him some money as a token of our appreciation.
Ok.
But...
what are we gonna do about Roku who killed despite your orders?
I'll think about it.
But first, bring this message to Okada.
We're gonna keep a low profile for a little while.
We're having quite some bad luck lately.
I'll go to the night prayers at Soshi Temple.
Do you really intend to?
We'll see.
Fine. I got it.
And what about Musashiya?
Everything's ready. We're waiting for your orders.
I went there today.
I pretended to be a merchant.
Mr. Koshuya! We were talking about you.
Greetings, Mr. The first assistant.
Oh, so you're back.
How is your business doing?
Not good at all.
I delivered some oil to Kofu castle but they didn't pay me.
What a pity.
I've been working here for a very long time,
but something like that never happened.
I've had enough.
Where is your boss?
He's being massaged by Tominoichi
in the back room.
He must be in good shape for a woman tonight.
Don't cry.
I know how you feel.
But you need money, don't you?
Think about it. Ok?
Omatsu, it must be difficult to be in charge of the maids.
Not at all.
My job is to take care of the boss
The safe is under the altar.
The second key cut too.
A widower can't run such a house by himself.
He should remarry.
And you? Don't you think you should start a family?
Everything's ready.
We'll act during the prayers night.
Omaki! Omaki?
I'm here!
You're early today.
Is it a bad thing?
Omaki...
Stop. Someone is waiting for you.
- Someone? - Here...
Okada, wait until it's dark for the trifle.
You were quick to evacuate the floating inn.
You were looking for us.
We'd better not dawdle.
I'm here to thank you.
I'd like to buy Omaki a tea house.
You're making a nice couple.
But beware the other policemen.
The other policemen?
I don't give a shit.
With the family I come from, I should have been promoted.
But Tobei Yamada was promoted instead of me, being one of the favorites
of our new boss, Shikibu Abe.
They gave me the management of the archives.
It's unfair, isn't it?
Stop.
I'll take my leave now.
We won't see each other for a while.
Wait. What do you mean?
My boss wants to go to the night prayers at Soshi Temple
and I'm going with him.
See you soon.
Omaki...
I'd like to meet
this Kumokiri who never shows himself.
According to the portrait we have of him...
- Listen! - What?
He would be small. Just like you.
- Am I small? - Exactly!
Stop quarrelling!
He's not small.
Rumor says he's beautiful like an actor.
He's looking like me then.
You're not as beautiful as you think you are.
Don't be ridiculous.
Good.
Boss, mission accomplished.
Let's go.
Boss, what's going on?
This man is a blind masseur.
Boss!
Hurry up!
Wait, boss!
What's the matter?
I forgot my mother's comb I keep as a memento.
Forget it. Let's go!
Boss!
If I can't run away in time I'll come up with something.
What are we doing?
No mistake.
We'll wait for you at the hideout.
I'll meet you there.
Delivery for Awa Clan
I have no idea how they knew we were at Soshi Temple
but they really had us.
Tobei, don't lose heart.
I told you that a magic trick is always fixed.
Listen.
There must be an explanation to this trick.
And I'll show it to you.
Okada!
Come!
Fucking samurai dog!
He is the explanation.
Master!
Do you want me to kill him?
We'll see how he survives without his samurai rank.
It's the worst punishment.
Where is his mistress?
Kumokiri's band kidnapped her.
What?
We don't want him anymore! Chase him away!
Get up! Come on!
Move!
Masazo.
Is the carrier of this letter a member of Kumokiri's band?
Yes. He told me his name was Kumagoro.
I wasn't strong enough to stop him.
It doesn't matter.
This Kumokiri...
He's offering to exchange Omaki for the girl we arrested.
However, he's setting his own conditions.
Here they are.
Each one of us will send a man to pick up the hostage.
The exchange will take place
at Ogi public baths,
in Koami district.
At 4pm exactly,
each one of us will send his hostage inside the building.
The women carrying the numbers l-6 and Ha-9
are awaited.
The women carrying the numbers l-6 and Ha-9
are awaited.
What are you doing?
You're awaited outside.
L-6 and Ha-9!
Hurry up! Stop dawdling!
Each one of us will bring a palanquin.
Ours will wait in front of the baths.
Kumokiri's will be on the other side.
It's an agreement between men of honor.
No one else will be allowed to interced.
Roku and Ochiyo are coming!
Hello.
Boss, we're sorry to be late.
I'm happy to see you.
You seem to be well.
She deserves your congratulations.
She's got Matsuya on a string.
Really?
Please, have a sit.
Boss,
since everybody is here...
Yes, let's start.
Denjiro, go on guard outside.
Firstly,
regarding Omatsu...
I close my eyes on everything.
Impossible...
Boss, I'm ready to be punished.
You will make up for it during the next mission.
Do you understand, Omatsu?
But, boss, I...
Omatsu!
Did you get it?
Listen to me.
You can keep drinking.
People say that stealing
is the easiest way to make money.
I agree.
But now,
my head is wanted for 1000 ryos.
Very well.
Even if we sacrifice ourselves, giving up all social life,
the life of a bandit always ends the same way.
He ends being hung and his name is forgotten.
Fortunately,
we were very lucky these past 10 years.
And now, the name of Kumokiri
is famous in the whole country.
We earned enough money
to live decently.
Therefore,
I decided that the Owari job
will be our last operation.
Don't forget it.
And one more time... One more time...
do your best.
Boss...
We're gonna quit?
We won't steal anymore.
Kumokiri's band
will disappear.
Such is my decision.
Even if we don't commit anymore robberies,
people won't believe we're gone.
They'll think that one day,
we'll strike again.
This belief will disturb their sleep.
People who have a lot of power
and those getting rich under their protection...
will always be scared of us,
even a long time after our death.
By breaking up Kumokiri's band,
we'll offer them this little present.
Do you agree?
We all agree.
We gave you our lives.
We'll do anything you want.
You understood me.
I'm grateful for that.
I came alone as you asked me.
What do you want to sell me?
The true identity of Nizaemon Kumokiri.
Interesting.
But I don't want money in exchange.
Sir, who are you?
I don't make deals
without knowing who I'm talking to.
I'm the masseur who was tied at Musahiya's.
Mister the masseur...
what do you have to tell me?
I know Kumokiri's face.
How come?
10 years ago,
I was a samourai from Owari clan.
My name was Sajuro Tomizuka.
Back then,
everything was quiet but suddenly, it changed.
Kuranosuke Tsuji was accused of misappropriation of funds.
"Kuranosuke Tsuji, in charge of finances,
"misappropriated the funds of our clan
"and, to make it worse, denied the facts. Being a samurai,
"his behavior is unforgivable.
"He's sentenced to commit hara-kiri.
"His family name will be struck off.
"All his relatives
"will be severely punished.
"Tsugutomo Owari."
However, Kuranosuke disobeyed this order,
and ran away
with his young brother lori.
Judayu Araki, vassal of our lord,
was sent to look for them.
We tracked them up to Mount Bodai
and we put up a good fight.
Shortly after...
when I regained conciousness,
the two brother had disappeared.
To go back without their heads would mean my death.
So,
I cut off the heads of my companions
to not come back empty-handed.
I wanted to survive.
It was the only way...
to save my skin.
Seven samurais died for those two heads?
Yes, I'm so sorry.
Well. It's not your fault.
Are you the only witness?
Yes, I'm the only one left.
Good job. Bring me those heads.
Sir,
I think I understand what you want.
I promise to grant you your wish.
On one condition.
I know.
No matter what it takes you want...
Nizaemon Kumokiri's head, don't you?
Owari clan sentences register
Edo Castle
Shikibu,
you couldn't stop the robberies at Omiya's and Musashiya's.
Despite shogun advisors reprimands,
you refuse to hand in your resignation.
I admire your guts.
I...
Do you think you can stop him?
Of course I do.
I'm this close to discover
who Nizaemon Kumokiri really is.
And I also found a man able to identify him.
How?
Kumokiri was a samurai from Owari clan.
10 years ago, a person in charge of the finances of the clan
would have misappropriated some funds.
I think
that Kumokiri is linked to this affair.
We'll probably
solve this mistery soon.
You seem so confident
that I'm going to trust you.
But, Shikubu...
You really have a lot of audacity.
He certainly is a great bandit
but if you fail, I'll have to commit hara-kiri.
Forgive me.
It's not what we agreed upon!
I want to see your boss!
We'll send you to Hachijo island!
Please! Don't do that!
Takase.
About the Owari matter, we still don't have
the details of the burglary that Kumokiri will commit.
But it will be the right time to finally arrest him.
Be ready to carry out the most difficult mission you ever had.
I'm ready for anything.
He's an unforgiving villain who's breaking our laws!
Those who break the laws are bandits.
Those make and follow the laws are good citizen.
Is it how you feel?
For example...
I'll give you an example.
Imagine that you're victim of a false accusation,
that your family name is struck off, that you have to commit suicide,
that all your relatives are severely punished
and on top of it,
that you loose the woman you love.
How would you react?
If a man who suffered these hardships defy the laws
to avenge his own,
even if it's your duty,
would you be able to...
stop him?
Very well. Go ahead.
And come back in one piece.
Edo
Owari - Nagoya
I'm happy to see you again.
We're dealing with wholesalers here.
Our business spreads to Kyoto, Osaka and Edo.
We go up to Sendai in the north and Hakata in the south.
Our global income
is 10 times higher than the one of this shop
I'm pleased to meet you.
And here's the retail shop.
Business is very good.
I'm happy to meet you.
I'm pleased to hear that you had a good trip.
Thanks for replacing me.
Tell me...
Gather all the employees so I can make the introductions.
Now.
Here,
it's your suite.
They're so cute!
You can only love them.
She is amazing.
You noticed too, didn't you?
Listen.
This woman is the secret daughter of a Kyoto's aristocrat.
Fate put us together and we got engaged to each other.
We'll soon celebrate our wedding.
From now on,
regard her as my wife and respect her.
I'm asking you. Ok?
And since we're going to get married,
you'll have to learn the business, how to manage the employees
and how to do the accounting.
I'm asking you to help her.
Do you understand?
My name is Ochiyo.
I have no experience but I'm counting on you to teach me.
The die is cast! Odd!
Mister the assistant, do you want some chips?
I know what bad luck is.
Thanks, but it's not a good evening. I'm leaving.
You're vanishing, like "clouds and mist"?
Damn it...
Mr. Matsuya's assistant...
Or should I call you Sanji, of Kumokiri's band?
You're from Akatsuki's band?
I'm Fukuemon, the boss former right-hand man.
We never met in Edo
but I knew you by sight.
I didn't expect to meet you here, in Owari.
We have the same profession. Are you coming with me?
Is that him?
Well done!
I'm lucky!
I'm meeting one of the members of Kumokiri's band!
Here. Have this.
You'll pay your debts at the shop.
And keep the change with you.
It's so hot! I'm dying!
I don't like owing you money but...
I'll pay you back without fail.
You stole our job in Edo
and all my mates have been arrested.
It's not my fault.
Listen, listen... Listen.
In exchange, as soon as you'll know it,
tell me quietly
where Matsuya's safes
and their keys are hidden.
I can't betray my boss!
You must be joking!
It's already done.
Hey, Matsuya's assistant! You're having fun secretly?
I can't...
What firm hands...
I was missing the touch of such firm hands.
Serve me a drink.
She's Chushichi's daughter,
a thief, an old friend.
I met her by chance and we formed a partnership.
If you join us,
you'll be able to do whatever you want with her.
Anyway, we're in the same boat.
Drink... Come on, drink...
They're here! I've got nothing to do with them!
Don't forget! We'll meet at the usual place.
You're going out too much at night lately.
Are you being chased for cheating at gambling?
What happened?
I can't stand it any longer...
The police just did a raid in the pleasures district.
Two men and a woman escaped.
It was you, wasn't it?
I was recognized by Fukuemon from Akatsuki's band.
Fukuemon?
Does he know you're an assistant at Matsuya's?
He probably deduced it was our target.
Kichigoro, what shall we do?
Sorry!
Sorry...
Sanji, you must find
Fukuemon's mistress at all cost.
Ok?
I don't know who she is.
You know her... Her name is Omaki.
Omaki?
What? Is she working for the police?
Stupid! Get rid of her now!
Ok!
Omatsu,
follow him.
Kumagoro, go warn our boss at Uzunoya pass.
We must eliminate Fukuemon, or we're doomed!
Omaki...
I'll kill anyone who touches my wife!
What's happening to you?
Why me?
Die!
I don't wanna die...
You can hit me all you want, I'll never talk!
I want to see your boss!
Don't shout like that! Calm down!
Go on, again! Hit me!
But you're gonna regret it!
He must know something.
I thought he was lying
but it looks like he has some information.
So?
Owari clan is offering us their official messenger.
It takes two days to go to Edo.
Yes, write to your boss if you don't believe me.
Tell him I know the merchant in Owari
that Kumokiri is going to rob!
You'd like to know, wouldn't you?
Move!
Listen, Kumagoro.
Bribe our carriers.
They need to be both in palaquins before Hamamatsu.
You must be smart on this one.
There's only one way to get rid of Yanagi,
the police best fencer.
To kill him in a palanquin.
Kumokiri,
you thought you could trap us?
Move along! Move along!
Mr. Koshuya, I put an end
to our agreement with this money.
What do you mean?
Ochiyo and me
have decided to get married.
She will become my wife.
If she sees you
she might suffer and remember
that our relationship was arranged at the beginning.
Mr. Koshuya,
for the first time despite my old age, I'm deeply in love.
Yes, I'm telling the truth.
I understand.
For Ochiyo's sake
and for your couple happiness,
I'll disappear.
I feel reassured on hearing that.
I thank you
from the bottom of my heart.
Come on,
have a look at her
one last time.
Grilled tofu, surimi, sushi!
Can I see what you have?
Yes.
Don't take any risk.
Sanji has been killed.
No one could come.
Send someone else next time.
- Ochiyo... - I'm listening.
The message?
Denjiro informed the police.
But they don't know where and when we'll strike.
The Special Force arrived from Edo.
Our boss asks you to hurry.
Our boss?
Is he in Owari?
I don't know. I got his message from Kichigoro.
I'll have the information
before the wedding that will take place in 3 days.
- I kept you waiting. - Here you are!
Buy him something.
I don't want anything.
It's not polite.
Young man... This is for you.
But that's way too much.
Take it. Good bye.
Thank you very much.
Lady Ochiyo seems to be ready, Sir.
Ah good...
It's splendid!
You can leave.
You're magnificent!
My employees are right.
You're a real nymph.
This perfume...
This bust...
This body...
You're a real nymph.
I'm the owner of a real nymph.
Me...
I own a real nymph!
Hello, Lady Matsuya.
Hello.
Ochiyo,
where are the safes and the keys?
We just got married.
I can't ask him so soon.
Hurry, yet.
This path isn't very passable. Be careful!
Boss, be cautious.
I'll meet you
after this operation.
What are you praying for?
I'm praying for your health and prosperity.
Don't worry about that.
Tens of thousands...
No, hundreds of thousands of ryos are watching over me.
How so?
You're currently standing
above the Matsuyas huge fortune.
My safes are right here,
under your feet.
There's an empty space beneath Inari's altar.
That's where are my safes.
But then,
where did you put the keys?
Did you find a hiding-place for them too?
The keys
are in a very obvious place.
And,
I change their place very often.
These hiding-places...
no one knows them.
No one will find them.
I'm the only one to know
where I hide my keys.
I'm happy to see you, Nizaemon Kumokiri.
Who are you?
The masseur you tied at Musashiya's.
Also,
10 years ago...
10 years ago?
I couldn't kill you. Because of it, my life...
I became a masseur to escape my pursuers.
But I'm finally having some good luck.
Iori Tsuji!
You won't dare to kill me here.
It's a sanctuary.
There's your old fiancée outside, protected by guards.
I was sure of your reaction.
This time I won. I won.
This time I'm the winner. I won.
Iori, finally we meet again.
Nizaemon Kumokiri...
No, lori, my younger brother,
I have a favor to ask you.
During those 10 years,
sapped by grudge,
I've been waiting for this unexpected opportunity.
This unexpected opportunity?
Yes. Look.
In 10 days,
Shojumaru's rite of passage to adulthood will take place.
They'll get drunk during the banquet.
Lord Tsugutomo Owari will spend the night
in his private palace in Momiji with his wife and his son.
There will be 10 samurais on guard duty at most.
This palace
is located here.
As you know,
in case of emergency, the lord leaves the castle from here.
This pond is deep.
But we can cross it to enter the castle.
Lord Tsugutomo Owari's presence
will be an unexpected opportunity for us.
Heaven is sending us this one time opportunity.
I decided to die there.
I've been dreaming of this moment for 10 years.
And finally it will happen.
Iori, can you help me
die with dignity?
Please... I beg you!
Iori Tsuji died 10 years ago,
in the flames.
The man in front of you
is an elusive bandit like clouds and mist,
who constantly break the laws.
His name is Nizaemon Kumokiri.
During all these years,
this Kumokiri
committed crimes that earned him his reputation.
In order to preserve this life style,
I have to refuse your request.
So you don't regret that you've become a bandit?
Am I regretting it?
It's impossible for me to know such a feeling.
I'm a thief and I stand alone
against the laws made by the samurais to protect themselves.
It's a real pleasure. I'm experiencing unique moments.
Even stronger than those samurais who are nothing but a mere facade.
I've had a lot of fun during those 10 years.
So you're not going to grant
your brother his last request?
Iori!
I'm sorry.
There's no more castles and lords in my life.
Even Oshino that I used to love doesn't exist anymore.
They're only part of my grudges.
Anyway, our visions of life and death
are totally conflicting.
They have nothing in common.
That's all I can tell you.
Is it better to live like you
or to die like me?
I won't dwell on it.
I'm not your elder brother anymore.
And you're not my younger brother anymore.
Even if I have no chance to succeed, I, Kuranosuke,
will act alone.
I'll act alone...
Are you awake?
Mister already left?
Yes, very early for an urgent matter.
Oh really? I'll sleep a little longer.
You can leave now.
What do you think?
Is he your missing assistant?
Yes, no doubt about it.
Maybe it's a love suicide.
No, they must have been murdered for treason.
Could they be with Kumokiri?
This one, maybe he's one of his men.
Others probably infiltrated Matsuya's house.
Maybe it's a matter of gambling debts.
Do you have any idea?
No...
None.
Jihei, can you change this shade?
Good.
Thank you.
Tell the boss
that I'll get the keys before tomorrow night.
Are you sure you can do it?
They're hidden
in a place so obvious that we don't think of it.
We don't think of...
I'll try to find them today.
Ochiyo,
I can't tell the boss if you're not sure.
I never failed!
I'm counting on you.
Yes.
I hope Matsuya doesn't suspect
that we know his secret pasage.
Yes.
It's his 1 st assistant, Sakuzo, who talked to me
about it personally.
I don't know what Mr. Matsuya's fortune
is worth.
Furthermore, I don't know where are the keys and safes.
Only our boss knows it.
Mr. Matsuya's father only showed me
the secret passage.
It's Mr. Matsuya's father who talked to him about it?
This secret passage
goes from here to there.
Tobei.
Good job.
However,
we still don't know where the safes are.
How unfortunate.
No.
An extensive investigation would arise Mr. Matsuya's suspicion.
And in this case, Kumokiri wouldn't do anything.
Our investigation
must be the most discreet possible.
Other members of the band would be at Matsuya's house?
Someone must have worked his way
very close to him.
You left very early this morning.
The police summoned me.
One of our employees, Sankichi, has been murdered.
Sankichi?
Ochiyo, listen.
Tomorrow morning,
let's go to Saya's villa. Ok?
Tonight, all the merchants will be at the castle
for Shojumaru's rite of passage to adulthood.
Why such a hasty departure?
You're the one I love the most in the world.
I don't want anything bad to happen to you.
Let's go to our villa tomorrow.
Please agree.
I don't share your fear
but since you insist...
It's decided. Very well. It's decided.
Yet another of your whims!
You became attached to her, didn't you?
The keys are in a very obvious place.
How are you doing today?
How are you doing?
And I change the place very often.
Kichigoro...
Here's the money.
Boss...
Come on! Let's go!
Ochiyo, well done.
Stop!
Boss, what's going on?
It's weird.
Something isn't normal.
The frogs...
They don't croak anymore.
Boss...
what are we doing?
Keep cool!
What are we doing?
Let's go this way.
Don't panic.
Ok?
Roku, hurry up!
Roku, what are you doing?
Ochiyo!
Boss, the secret pasage!
Go!
Hurry!
Boss, quick!
Boss!
Ochiyo!
Run...
Run!
Roku!
Run!
Run away!
Ochiyo!
Roku!
Ochiyo!
Ochiyo, come!
Boss...
Impossible to get out, boss.
Well. Waken the employees.
Ochiyo, which way to the moat?
Fire! Fire!
Wake up! Fire!
Fire! Wake up!
Here's the door!
Kumagoro, go with Ochiyo.
- Boss! - Go!
Meet at Juzen temple in Kyoto.
Juzen temple, do you get it?
Wait for me there!
Ochiyo!
Ochiyo, go away!
- Boss! - Go now.
Boss!
Go away.
Go away, Ochiyo!
Go away.
Go away!
- Boss... - Ochiyo!
Ochiyo, quick!
Kumagoro, save our boss!
- Save him! - Hurry...
Kumagoro, save our boss!
At last, we'll fight.
I'm back!
I, Okada, will show you how
a samurai dog takes revenge!
Boss, hurry!
I'm not a dog... Not a dog...
I'm a samurai.
Boss!
They're down the ditch!
In all my life...
I never made such a bad trade!
The local police couldn't find
Kumokiri's tracks.
Damn it... We were so close to arrest him.
A strange old man is here.
We don't know his name.
He wants to talk to you about Kumokiri.
"Have been arrested:
"Kichigoro,
"Omatsu, Shichimatsu
"and three other bandits.
"Have been killed:
"Rokunosuke and 16 other bandits.
"Are being pursued:
"Nizaemon Kumokiri, their leader,
"Ochiyo, Kumagoro
"and Jihei."
Is it correct?
Yes, that's right.
We met
in an inn in Edo.
Yes. I remember you.
What do you want?
I am...
I am the one you're looking for, Nizaemon Kumokiri.
Do you claim to be Nizaemon Kumokiri?
Is it true?
Yes. It's the truth!
May Heaven be my witness.
It's the truth.
Listen everybody.
For all those years of good and loyal services,
I, Nizaemon...
thank you...
from the bottom of my heart.
Thank you all.
- Arrest him! - No.
He surrendered on his own. No need.
Nizaemon Kumokiri.
Before the official trial,
there's something I'd like to know.
How are you feeling...
right now?
Well...
I'm a like a bamboo that broke
under the weight of the snow.
Now that's it's broken,
it realizes how light it was without all this snow.
I found no reason to live.
But I finally found
a dignified and not vain
way to die.
After your death,
your name will disappear.
But...
I, Shikibu Abe...
will watch over your grave.
Thank you.
To protect his memory,
I had his personal effects brought from Owari.
He stole close to 100000 ryos
but he was living modestly.
It really shows his personality.
And now, what do you want to ask me?
Here.
Everything is written.
So...
you want to resign?
You guessed it right. I regret it.
Please accept it.
You arrested a great thief
and you will be congratulated soon by the shogun.
Why do you want to resign?
I'd like to know your reason. Tell me.
I have no particular reason.
But, in a way,
I also want to be punished.
Punished?
I'm a human being, just like him.
We must all accept the sanctions.
Behind this affair,
you probably noticed
the corruption of the men in power.
But, Shikibu...
Very well.
You can leave.
Wait!
His personal belongings...
I give them to you.
Starting today,
the name Kumokiri will be struck off the arrests register.
I'm doing it for you.
Excuse us.
Four bandits from Kumokiri's band
have been displayed in town and executed.
That's impossible...
Anyway,
we must go to the meeting.
That's impossible...
Ochiyo!
Do you really think
that our boss has been executed?
Maybe...
The announcement is official.
And they've been displayed in town.
It must be true.
I don't believe it.
Our boss can't die.
He's probably alive.
I'm sure he's alive.
Ochiyo!
I won't go to Kyoto
until I find him.
So you're going back to 0wari?
No! It's suicide!
Ochiyo!
Boss...
Thank you for your help.
Kichigoro,
Shichimatsu,
Omatsu...
they've been executed.
Kichigoro talked to me from afar with his eyes.
He asked me to protect you.
And then...
instead of you...
they executed the bonze I had met for you.
He was closing his eyes.
He was serene
and he was smiling slightly.
So...
they're all dead?
Boss!
I'm here.
Kumagoro...
are you ready to follow me everywhere I go?
I'll go anywhere, as long as I'm with you.
It's raining cats and dogs.
Shojumaru.
Yes.
Now you're adult.
I've got something to tell you.
Someday you'll succeed me at the head of Owari clan. Listen carefully.
Yes.
A few years ago, this Momiji palace
was falling apart.
We had the reputation of a powerful clan
but natural disasters were devastating our land.
Our clan had some serious financial worries.
Only one fool
wasn't aware of these problems.
It was me.
The reign of the 6th Shogun,
lenobu Tokugawa,
only lasted 2 years, because of his illness,
and his successor hadn't been designated yet.
My Lord,
you're a member of one of the three families directly linked to the Shogun.
You have a right to claim
his succession.
I was right
but our finances condition couldn't allow it.
I bribed
the shogun counsellors and the aristocracy
to compete with the Kishu family.
Our debts increased
and our finances condition was disastrous.
The 8th Shogun was chosen in Kishu family?
But I don't regret it.
I'm only sorry for my men.
They tried,
as persons in charge of the finances,
to repay our debts.
They did their best
to save the reputation of the Owari clan.
Thank you for this gratitude!
Your words just erased
10 years of suffering!
Me too!
It's not my case.
Don't you remember me?
That's impossible.
A face that's been giving
you nightmares for 10 years,
you can't forget it.
Who are you?
It's me.
My Lord,
it's a pleasure to see you again.
I used to be in charge of the finances,
Kuranosuke Tsuji!
Kuranosuke Tsuji?
You were free
to choose to become Shogun.
Your men were also free
to manage the finances of the clan.
But those liberties gave birth
to your selfish ambition.
And to solve our debts problem,
you let an innocent man be accused of misappropriation of funds
and had his family executed.
You thought you were protecting the honor of the clan.
How can you justify these acts?
You believed your men
who pretended to be jealous.
And in their only interest,
they crushed one of their own
like a common insect.
All those unforgiving men
are gathered here today!
10 years ago,
Kuranosuke ran away
after the fire of his house
and the murder of his mother, his wife and his child.
So now,
it's my turn to kill you!
Mother!
Iori...
Iori!
Oshino...
Oshino!
Let me through!
Wait!
Oshino...
I can't blame you for marrying another man.
Go!
Let me through!
You're wrong!
This child, he's yours!
He's your son!
I was sure...
you were still alive.
I was waiting for you
to introduce you to your son.
It was my only desire.
It was my only desire...
Iori...
Close the door.
What you just confessed...
no one must learn it.
Otherwise it would be the end of the Owari clan.
Oiku...
No,
Oshino,
you must die.
Die!
Boss!
I found an exit on the back!
Let's hurry!
Oshino...
Boss, hurry!
Hurry up!
Damn it...
Iori!
Oshino, get up!
Oshino, climb!
Iori...
Iori!
Oshino!
Iori!
Boss!
- Leave, quickly! - Boss!
Burn the boat!
Oshino!
Kumagoro!
Year 7, Kyoho era (1722) - Autumn
"To the memory of Nizaemon Kumokiri" Shikibu Abe
THE END