Tokuma Shoten, Nippon Television, Hakuhodo & Studio Ghibli present
WHISPER OF THE HEART
TAKAHASHI Issei
TACHIBANA Takashi
MUROI Shigeru
TSUYUGUCHI Shigeru
Translation by Project Daicon Lyrics by Sibling Studios...
- Good evening. - Sure is hot, huh?
I'm back.
Thanks.
Another plastic bag? It's just a carton of milk.
But they just give it to you.
You don't have to take it.
Oh, I'd like some, please.
And you, Father? Some wheat tea?
Sure. I'll have some.
Be right there.
Thanks. Can I use it?
I'm printing right now.
Maybe we should buy a portable word processor after all.
This smoke stinks.
You should have gone to Kashirazaki, too, Shizuku.
It's okay, I can't keep up with Sis.
Oh yeah, I've gotta go to work tomorrow.
You need a lunch?
Don't worry, I'll eat out.
Our library's finally changing to a bar code system.
So things are really busy.
Then you are changing it.
I liked the card catalogs better.
Yeah, I do too.
Hey, something's wrong with this composition.
What? Where?
Did you leave out a line, maybe?
Oh, darn! You're right!
Oh, I have to borrow this again,
or the professor will really make a fuss.
Amasawa Seiji
This name...
Shizuku, books are fine, but you should go to sleep.
Okay. Good night.
I knew it.
I thought I remembered seeing this name...
And here, too.
Amasawa Seiji
This guy's amazing.
He borrowed all of them before I did.
Amasawa Seiji...
What kind of person is he?
I wonder if he's cool or not?
Amasawa Seiji
Shizuku, will you get up?
I'm going out now!
Oh, geez. You just slept that way?
Get the rice ready!
Have a good day.
What?! It's that late?!
I have to meet Yuuko!
My wallet!
What? Did you forget it again?
Yeah!
That's strange.
Is it next to the phone?
Here it is!
You're the one who put it there.
Oh, I'm gonna be late!
Remember to lock up!
What a ditz.
Boy, are they flying low!
Something great's gonna happen today!
Wow, it's hot.
Yoo-hoo! How's it goin'?
C'mon, let's do it!
Hey, Shizuku!
Hey! Go for it!
Miss Kousaka, are you in?
Oh, it's you, Tsukishima. What's up?
Can I please ask a favor?
What kind? I hope it's nothing strange.
Can you open the library, please?
The library?
Can't you wait until they open normally?
But I've already read all my books.
And the county library's closed today.
I've decided to read twenty books during vacation.
Twenty books?
But you're supposed to be studying for your exams.
C'mon, hurry it up.
Let's see... Got it!
Hurry and bring it over!
C'mon, c'mon.
Get out your reading card and your library card.
Here you go.
Hey, look at this.
No one's ever checked this out.
This is a rare book.
They don't have it at the county library.
Donated
Amasawa...
Teach!
Any idea what this "Amasawa" person is like?
Geez, now I messed up.
Probably the donor of the book.
I wouldn't know about something that old.
Try asking our veteran teachers.
Shizuku!
Oh, geez! So this is where you are!
After you said you'd be at the entrance at eleven!
You made me wait in the sun for fifteen minutes!
Now I'll get even more freckles!
I... I'm sorry.
Hey, hey! Not so loud.
You worry too much about your freckles, Harada.
Teach, this is a serious problem for me!
Oh, right! Right!
C'mon, you two. Out, out!
That way, that way!
I did what I could, but it's not that great.
Think I should have kept it in English?
Over the green hills, white clouds drift so slow.
Near to the road that goes up to the city.
Inside the old room, by the small window.
The old dog waits for him to come back soon.
Country Road, take me home, too.
On this distant road, whose end I can't see.
West Virginia, Mountain Mamma.
To my home town, I long to see.
This isn't bad.
It sucks! Too conventional.
You think so?
I did this one, too.
Concrete road, wherever you go.
Forests give rise to valleys far away.
Western Tokyo,
on Mount Tama.
My home lies on Concrete Road.
What is this?
So, what'd you want to talk about?
You don't need any poems translated, right?
No...
Shizuku, is there anyone you like?
Huh?
I just wish it was a mutual attraction.
It's exam time, and we could work together and cheer each other up.
So there's someone you like, Yuuko?
You already got a love letter?!
Not so loud!
When? How is he? Is he cute?
He's from a different class...
And he's kind of cute...
Why don't you go out with him?
You can stop if you don't like him.
Yeah, but...
So there's someone else you like?!
There's no use hiding it!
C'mon! Might as well 'fess up!
Umm... it's Su... Su...
TSUKISHIMA!
Can you get my bag for me?!
Sugimura!
Yeah! That blue sports bag over there!
Aww, c'mon, Tsukishima!
Just throw it here!
Oh, shut up!
You don't even play that well!
That's mean! I won three games as a regular!
Yuuko?
So Sugimura's the one that you like, huh?
What should I do? He might have found out.
I was so...
Oh, don't worry. He's too stupid to know.
What'll you do about the love letters you got?
Well...
I have to think a little longer.
I see.
You're lucky.
They don't keep telling you to "Study, study!" at your house.
It's kind of rough when they don't do that, too.
I don't know.
- Oops. Oh, no! - What's the matter?
I forgot my book!
I have to go back!
Want a ride back?
Nope!
You'll be late for your cram session!
- I'll call you later. - Sure!
T... that book is...
Oh. Is this yours?
Here you go... Tsukishima Shizuku.
How'd you know my name?
Gee, I wonder how?
My library card.
You know, you should drop that "Concrete Road" thing.
YOU READ IT!
That jerk! That jerk! That jerk!
THAT JERK!
You should drop that Concrete Road thing...
Yeah, right!
I'm back!
Sis, you were due back today?
I'm beat.
I was lucky to find someone driving this way and got a ride.
Where's Mom?
She's still at her summer class.
And Dad's at work.
Shizuku, you should clean up a little.
Did you make supper yet?
I was just going to...
What is this?! Shizuku, this place is a mess!
I'll go do it now.
Didn't we decide to help Mom because she's so busy?
Put away the laundry when you're done with the rice.
And I'll make dinner after I shower.
Grandma says to come on over when you're in high school.
Doing better with your studies?
If you slack off just cause Mom and Dad don't push you...
...you'll really pay for it.
I know!
And she tried to give me some of her soy sauce.
That's so like Grandma.
Shizuku, will you get up already?
And do your own vacuuming.
I'm cleaning bedsheets, so bring yours!
And put out the futons!
Where's Mom?
She's already gone.
Hurry and clean up, then take this lunch to Dad.
What?!
What's your problem?
You're going to the library, right?
Or should I go instead?
If so, then you clean the bathtub, the toilet, and the front entrance.
And start doing some real chores.
Then put away the futons, go shopping, and make dinner.
I'll be going!
Shizuku!
Take this to the mailbox!
What?
The mailbox!
Don't you dare look!
Don't forget to take off the clip!
Your boyfriend?
Dummy.
Hey, Kitty Cat. On your own?
Where are you going?
Something neat outside?
Hey! Answer me, will you?
I'm getting off here. How 'bout you?
See ya, Kitty Cat.
Oh, a kitty!
Suginomiya Station
He's heading towards the library!
Darn, this would've made such a great story.
There he is!
Authorized Personnel Only
What a steep hill!
Just how far does this go?
Kitty Cat.
I wonder if he lives around here?
Where're you going, Kitty Cat?
Do you live around here?
I had no idea there was a place like this up here.
What a mean cat.
His walks include teasing the dog.
I wonder if he's teasing me, too?
I had no idea there were stores like this here.
What a wonderful figurine.
Are you the cat I saw earlier?
Oh, welcome!
I, umm...
No, stay right there, stay right there.
Feel free to look around.
The Baron's bored, too.
Is "Baron" the name of this figurine?
Yup.
He's Baron Vunbert von Jiekingen.
Great name, don't you think?
Oh, thanks.
Thanks. I'm fine now.
Magnificent clock, isn't it?
It was found in a castle. It was very badly rusted.
Take a look.
How pretty.
What is it?
You'll find out when it's done.
It's really well made.
Are those dwarves?
You sure know a lot.
I see, so you know about dwarves, young lady?
Now take a look at the numbers.
Let's see if this works.
An elf!
Can you see alright?
Step up here.
Sure.
A princess?
That's right.
These two fell in love?
Yup, but they live in different worlds.
He's the king of the dwarves.
When the clock strikes twelve,
she must return past the flock to her world.
Even so, he will always appear at that time and wait for the princess.
The artisan who made this clock
probably had an unrequited love.
So that's why the two seemed sort of sad.
Is this clock running fast?
Uh, maybe by five minutes.
Oh, no!
I gotta get to the library!
Goodbye!
Can I come visit again, sir?
Sure!
If you're going to the library, you should go left!
I'm right above the library!
I've found a cool place!
This store's like right out of a story!
This is great!
Tsukishima!
Tsukishima Shizuku!
This is yours, right?
Kinda forgetful, aren't you?
Thank you. But how...?
Gee, I wonder how?
The cat!
Is... is that cat yours?
You sure eat a pretty big lunch!
WRONG!
Concrete road, wherever you go...
YOU'RE WRONG! HEY!
Oh, you're here already?
What's with the scary face?
It's kinda hard to explain.
Huh?
Something wonderful happened, like finding a cave of treasures.
Then one insensitive remark made it all collapse.
Sounds complicated.
Here to borrow books again today?
Yeah, I still have to read seven more books.
You just never change.
What about lunch?
I'll just eat out.
Oh, really.
Well, thanks.
June 16th...
Amazing...
That Amasawa guy's read this book, too.
What kind of person is he?
No, it couldn't be you!
Shizuku, hurry up!
Oh, we'll be late!
Umbrella. The umbrella.
A new semester, and it just keeps raining.
Stop complaining.
You're studying because you want to, right?
Yes, ma'am.
Make sure you study well!
Just leave it to me.
Shizuku!
Hey!
Hurry up or you'll be late.
I hate all these tests.
We've got so many every day.
Did you answer "them?"
No.
He didn't write any more?
No.
Maybe I should just turn him down.
Maybe.
Yeah, maybe that's for the best.
Sugimura!
You'll barely make it!
I know that!
Time's up! Hand in your tests.
Regular schedule this afternoon.
Shizuku, let's go see Miss Kousaka.
Sure. Can we go to the teacher's lounge first?
Okay.
Hey, Tsukishima. Check this out.
What is it?
I was guessing, but I aced it!
Oh, such a lucky guy.
I peeked during break and saw I got a perfect score.
Guess you're not just a stupid baseball player.
You know, Yuuko's good at guessing, too.
Maybe you should study together?
With Harada?
Sugimura, Sugimura!
What's up?
Did you see this?
Let's go, Shizuku.
Stop trying to get us together!
Was it obvious?
I was never good at guessing!
Sorry!
Excuse us.
The donor of a book?
And you think I would know?
Sorry to bother you during lunch.
It's this imprint here.
Let's see...
Oh, that's Amasawa!
I've read this, too. Great book, isn't it?
Yes, definitely.
So exactly what kind of person is this Amasawa?
It was a few years ago. He was the head of the PTA.
The PTA's...
Um, do you know his first name?
First name? Let's see...
Mr. Kimura...
...remember what Amasawa's name was?
You know, at Amasawa Hospital?
Amasawa?
I'm pretty sure it was Kouichi. Amasawa Kouichi.
Amasawa Kouichi...
Tsukishima...
...one of Amasawa's children is in the same grade as you.
Didn't you know that?
Wha...?!
I, uh...
Thank you very much!
Sorry to bother you.
Sorry about that.
Shizuku, where're you going!?
What a surprise!
I'm the one who should be surprised!
I think you owe me an explanation for this.
Oh, sorry.
Which way are you going, Shizuku?
What nerve!
Acting like he didn't even see me!
Who was that, Shizuku?
Where're you going?
That guy's a jerk!
But I won't run from him, either!
Oh, how cute!
I had to walk and carry Shizuku's lunch for her!
Tsukishima noticed boys, huh?
Hey, Teach, I think spring has finally arrived for Shizuku, too!
I told you that isn't it!
You actually met the Prince of Books, then, right?
Is he handsome?
Look, I just wondered what kind of person he is.
Hey, Yuuko.
You know the guy's name, right? So tell us.
Yuuko!
Well, it was just a brief mention.
I think it started with "Ma" something, or Masagi whatever?
Ama...
Well, Shizuku?
Who knows?
That's just like Tsukishima to leave without hearing the whole story.
She wants to know but she doesn't want to know, right?
The hopeful heart suffers so... Isn't it great?
Well, it's romantic, anyway.
Fine, just go on and tease me like that.
And after I wrote the verses for Country Road and all.
- You finished? - Let's see! Let's see!
O Great Shizuku! Mistress of verse!
We promise to behave, so please show us!
Very well.
Actually, I'm not too confident.
I'm still not too sure what "country home" means.
So I just had to go with what I felt on that.
You outdid yourself.
Country road. It'll take me...
back to my home town.
I can feel it now, if I just keep to...
...this far-off way, country road.
It's great, Shizuku.
I like it.
It's not too hard to sing?
I think we can manage.
It'd be wasted if we gave it to the underclassmen.
We should sing this at the thank you party, too.
What? The thank you party?
Impulsive, aren't you?
This part's good.
Living here all on my own.
Owning no possessions, I made my way out of town.
I must put my loneliness away...
...and protect myself, and I'll learn to be strong...
All of you, school bell's ringing.
Yes, ma'am!
The sky's clear! It's clear!
Shizuku!
You wanna go to the choir?
We'll show them this song.
It's okay, I have to go to the library.
Huh? We've got tests tomorrow, you know.
I'll study at the library.
You really like it there!
See ya!
Bye-bye!
Harada...
Listen, I'm sorry, but can I talk to you?
Uh-huh.
I guess they're closed.
Have the flowers been watered?
The Baron's gone!
I wonder if he was sold?
World Emporium; Nishi Shiro, Prop.
Atelier Chikyuu-ya Nishi Shirou
Nishi Shirou...
I wonder if he's named Nishi, too?
Shizuku!
You've got a call from Yuuko!
You'll ruin your ears, Shizuku.
Yuuko?
What? I can't hear you.
Right. I'll be right there.
Right.
Okay, bye.
- Where're you going? - Not too far.
What's wrong, Yuuko?
Shizuku...
What's wrong?
What's with that look?
What should I do, Shizuku?
Sugimura's friend asked him to get an answer from me.
Oh, boy...
Why do you have to be the go-between?!
Hey!
He's just kinda stupid.
And besides, Sugimura probably doesn't know how you really feel.
I'll apologize to Sugimura.
But I can't go to school looking like this.
I'm skipping school tomorrow.
The test, too?
Yes.
I see.
Idiot.
What the hell?
I think I did pretty well.
Shizuku, library again today?
I'm going to Yuuko's place to see her.
Oh, say hi to her for us.
- Okay. Bye-bye! - Bye-bye!
Tsukishima!
Hold up!
Look, it's about Harada...
...and then she suddenly started to cry.
So, did I say something wrong or what?
Sugimura...
...didn't Yuuko ask you why you did that?
Yeah. Like I said, my friend on the team asked me...
Wrong!
She meant she really didn't want you to do that.
You understand what that means?
I don't!
Spell it out for me!
Geez, you really are stupid!
It means Yuuko's in love with you!
Huh?!
But, then...
Man, that's a problem.
A problem...!
Poor Yuuko's the one with the problem!
She stayed home because of the shock!
B...but, I...
I'm in love with you!
Eh?
O...oh, no. You shouldn't joke around like that!
I'm not joking!
I've been in love with you for a long time!
You can't! I mean...
I... well... but...
Do you hate me?
Are you going out with someone?
I'm not going out with anybody...
B...but...
I'm sorry!
Wait!
Tsukishima, you have to tell me!
We've always been friends, so I do like you, Sugimura.
But when you mean in that way...
I'm sorry. I can't say this right...
You mean we're just friends?
Even after this?
I see.
Dummy!
The only stupid one was yourself!
Just a minute, Tsukishima. You got a package.
Oh, thanks so much again.
You're so nice, always giving us stuff.
Oh, don't worry, we can't eat it all anyway.
Oh, you're home?
Shizuku?
Yoo-hoo.
Did you get locked out, too?
Is this house your home?
Are you hungry?
Well, you're not cute, either.
Just like me.
Why did I have to change?
I used to be such a nice and honest kid before.
Even when I'm reading a book, I don't feel the excitement I used to.
Now it's like someone whispering in my heart,
saying that I can't go on like this.
I'm not cute at all.
Hey, it's Tsukishima.
I'm surprised Moon lets you pet him.
Hey, Moon, aren't you here to visit?
Is the cat's name Moon?
Yeah. Doesn't he look like a full moon?
That's why I call him Moon.
You mean Moon isn't your cat?
You can't tell cats what to do.
I think he's called "Egg" at another house.
He probably has other names.
So he's a stray, then.
That's right!
Moon commutes by taking the train.
The train?
That's right. He was riding the train by himself.
I followed him and came here.
And then here's this wonderful store.
It's like a fairy tale inside the store.
I said some bad things about him.
I told him he wasn't cute,
and that he was just like me.
Moon is like you? You don't look alike at all!
T...that cat must be at least half ghost.
- Uh... - And you...
Is the store owner okay?
I was wondering, since the store's been closed for a while.
Oh, he's just fine.
This store's kind of strange;
it's closed more often than not.
Oh, that's good to know.
I peeked through the window, but I couldn't see the Baron.
I thought he was sold.
Oh, the cat figurine?
Wanna see? Come on.
Close the door.
It's like we're floating up here.
Are you scared of heights?
No, I like high places.
It's beautiful...
The view is nicest around this time.
Over here.
That's good.
Sit over there.
The clock's gone!
Oh, the one that was there?
It was delivered today.
Come over here.
Did it get sold?
It was only here for repairs.
I see. I wanted to see it again.
It took three years.
It was finished the day you left your lunch here.
Oh, that lunch...
Yeah, I know it wasn't yours.
Now come here and take a look at the cat's eye.
Hurry up. The light's starting to fade.
"Engels Zimmer."
That's German for "Angel's Room."
The artisan accidentally scratched it when he was sewing up the clothes.
It's so pretty.
The Baron won't be sold. It's Grandpa's treasure.
His treasure?
It seems to hold some sort of fond memories for him.
Only he won't say what.
Look at it for as long as you want. I'll be downstairs.
The light switch is over there.
Turn it on if you want.
Strange.
It's as if I've always known you.
I kept wanting to see you every once in a while.
You seem so very sad today.
Oh, are you done?
Yeah, thanks.
Uh, are you making a violin?
Y...yeah.
Can I see?
Sure.
It'll look like this.
Did you make this all by hand?
Of course.
I can't believe it!
They perfected the violin's design three hundred years ago.
The quality of its sound is determined by the skill of the maker.
Did you make all those, too?
'Course not!
We hold violin making classes here.
But you made one of them, didn't you?
Yeah.
Which one is it?
That one.
Wow! This one?
It's amazing that you could make this.
It's like magic.
Geez, you sure know how to embarrass a guy.
What's wrong with that?
It's only what I think.
Anybody can make something like that.
I'm still not very good.
So, can you play the violin?
Sort of.
Will you play for me? Just a little bit?
Oh, c'mon!
Please! Please!
Pretty please!
Fine, but you have to sing!
What? F...forget it! I can't sing!
That's perfect, then.
Sing. I'm sure you know this song.
♪ No one is with me. ♪
♪ Going fearlessly. ♪
♪ That's the way I live in the dream I saw. ♪
♪ I must put my loneliness away... ♪
♪ ...and protect myself and I'll learn to be strong... ♪
♪ Country road, it'll take me... ♪
♪ ...back to my home town. ♪
♪ I can feel it now, if I just keep to... ♪
♪ ...this far-off way, country road. ♪
♪ It won't matter how lonely the times get. ♪
♪ You'll never see me cry, I'll keep my tears at bay. ♪
♪ I know I must take heart, ♪
♪ and that hurrying is all I can do. ♪
♪ Only that way, can I forget. ♪
♪ Country road, it may take me... ♪
♪ ...back to my home town, but even so. ♪
♪ Steeling my heart, ♪
♪ I will not go now, ♪
♪ not while I'm free... country road. ♪
♪ Country road, come tomorrow... ♪
♪ ...I'll feel just like always. ♪
♪ I want to go home, but I can't go home. ♪
♪ So it's goodbye... ♪
♪ ...country road. ♪
That was great!
I'm Tsukishima Shizuku.
Thank you so much for last time.
I was hoping to see you again, young lady.
These two are my musician friends.
Nice vocals.
So you're the lucky girl who was here
when the clock was finished.
That's a cute friend you have there, Seiji.
Huh? Seiji?!
Does that mean your name is Amasawa Seiji?
Yeah.
Oh, didn't I tell you my name?
No, you didn't!
But the sign outside says Nishi!
That's my grandfather's name.
My name's Amasawa.
This is terrible! What a shock!
My world's collapsing!
It's like the sky is falling!
What're you babbling about?
It doesn't matter what my name is, does it?
Yes, it does!
You're the one who didn't give your full name!
Well, it's your fault for not asking!
I never had a chance to ask you!
Oh,
I was so sure Amasawa Seiji was...
What?
I thought you'd be a nice, quiet guy!
Well, look at you! You read too much!
Yeah? Well, you read a lot yourself!
That sure was fun. Everybody was so nice.
You should visit again. Grandpa and the others would love it.
Maybe only to listen. Singing's too tough for me.
But you're really good with the violin.
Is that what you want to do?
There're tons of people like me out there.
And besides, I want to make violins.
Really?
But you play it so well...
There's a violin crafting school in Cremona, Italy.
I want to go there after junior high.
You're not going to high school?
My family's against it.
So I'm not sure yet what I'll do.
Grandpa is the only one supporting me on this.
It's great that you already know what you want to do.
Me, I still don't know what I want to do.
I'm just living life day by day.
Well, I haven't decided if I'll go yet.
I argue with my parents every day.
Even if I can go,
I won't know if I have any talent for it
without trying first.
You sure you don't need a ride?
Yeah. It's just over there.
See you.
Oh, Tsukishima.
What is it?
You know, you have a talent for lyrics.
And you sang pretty well earlier.
I like your Concrete Road a lot, too.
What? After you told me I should drop it?
Did I really say that?
Yes, you did!
Really?
Thanks for today.
Goodbye!
Shizuku, turn off the lamp. You left it on last night.
Hey, Sis. When did you decide on your career?
What?
Your career!
So you're applying at Sugino Miya?
That's not what I said.
Well, that's what you go to college for.
Good night.
I can't believe Mom didn't wake me up just because she had the day off!
Good morning.
You should run faster.
You can go ahead.
First period, self study. Do pages 32-33.
I'm saved...
Shizuku. Shizuku.
What a face!
Say, you got over it pretty fast.
Were you out walking with a guy from another class last night?
What?!
Who's been saying that?!
Just a rumor.
They say you looked like a couple.
That's not how it was.
Harada,
I should've refused to do my friend's favor.
I'm sorry.
No. I should be the one to apologize.
It's okay.
Hey, did you watch Sasuke last night?
It was great! I was so moved!
This formula will be on the midterm!
So remember it well!
What?! Oh, man!
That's all!
Excuse me, is Tsukishima here?
Oh, Amasawa. What's up?
Tsukishima's in this class, right?
Tsukishima? Yeah, she's here.
Hey, Tsukishima! Someone ta see you!
It's a guy!
See? There she is.
Seiji!
Tsukishima, got a minute?
Y...yes!
Whoa! Tsukishima's got a boyfriend!
Boyfriend! Boyfriend!
You're wrong!
That's not it at all!
Well? What is it?
I've decided to go to Italy.
Huh?
Let's go this way.
Where're we going?
The roof!
Look at that.
How could you call me with so many people around?
Sorry.
I just wanted you to be the first to know.
It...it's not like I care if people get the wrong idea...
My dad finally gave in.
But under certain conditions.
Huh? What?
Grandpa's friend introduced me to someone there...
...and I'll be his apprentice for 2 months.
Apprentice?
He's a very strict person,
and he'll see if I have the necessary talent.
And he said that if I do this, I'll know whether I can handle it.
If I can't do it, I have to go back to school.
Actually, I don't really like it.
It's almost like they want me to fail.
But it's a chance for me to go.
When...? When will you be leaving?
I have to get my passport.
My dad and I will be talking to the school today.
So you're leaving soon.
That's great!
You've got your wish!
Yeah.
Anyway, I'll just have to do my best.
- Um... - You...
The rain's stopped.
You're right.
Wow, look at that!
Maybe we'll see a rainbow.
Yeah.
I wonder what kind of place Cremona is.
Hopefully it's a nice town.
Yeah.
They say it's an old city.
And there are lots of people there who are violin makers.
That's so great.
You're already starting to fulfill your life's ambition.
I feel like such an idiot.
Thinking, "Wouldn't it be great to go to high school with Seiji?"
But it's depressing to think how far behind you I am.
They're here.
You know, I noticed you
from the library cards a long time ago.
I bet you never noticed how many times I passed by you at the library.
I even sat right next to you once.
What?
I had to read lots of books
just so my name was on the card before yours.
I...
When I go to Italy,
I'll sing your song and work really hard.
I...I will...
Don't push, you idiot!
HEY!
Watch it! Tsukishima's pissed!
I'm scared!
Here she comes!
Here.
Oh, thanks.
May I be excused?
Shizuku, is that all you're going to eat?
I'm supposed to meet Yuuko.
If you're going near the train station, buy some milk.
What?
You're the one who drank it all, Shizuku!
She's been so lazy lately.
Sorry! Were you waiting long?
It's okay.
I'm so confused right now.
Oh, Shizuku. Nice to see you.
Good evening.
Welcome home.
Excuse us.
I'll make some tea. Come get it when it's ready.
Okay!
I've been arguing with Father,
so I'm not speaking to him.
Guys are so cool, though.
He said that he's coming back in two months,
but if he graduates...
...he's going right back for ten years.
That's almost like being apart forever!
But isn't there like a bond between the two of you?
I think it's great!
But he's so much better than me.
Even though we read the same books, that's all I did.
He already knows what he wants to do.
You really think so?
That's right.
Wasn't Kinu in his class that first year?
She said that he's kinda hard to get along with...
...but he's handsome and he's good at school.
So what if he is?
You don't have to say it so bluntly.
Now I'm all depressed.
But why?
You like him, so what's wrong?
And he said he likes you, didn't he?
But I just can't believe it.
Well, I don't get it.
If it was me, I'd write letters every day...
...and expect letters every day to keep our spirits up.
How can I tell someone who's better than me to do his best?
I don't know.
Listening to you, I don't know what you're looking for in a boyfriend.
Or are you thinking that you can't find love until you've found a career?
You have your talents too, Shizuku.
The underclassmen were all ecstatic over your translation of Country Road.
Unlike me, you can say what you feel.
"There're tons of people like me out there."
Huh?
That's what he said.
He said that he was going to test his ability.
So I have to try too.
I've decided.
I'm going to write a story.
I know what I want to write.
If he's going to try, then I'll try too.
But midterms are almost here.
No problem.
Thanks, Yuuko.
I feel more confident now.
You're going home?
Yep.
Thanks, I have to go.
Say hi to your mom for us.
Sure.
You do your best, too, Yuuko.
Right.
I'm sure Sugimura will notice your good points too.
Goodbye.
Gee, that was pretty easy.
I'll just have to give it a try, too.
Moon!
Muta! Muta!
Mom, Muta's gone again!
Muta!
So it's Muta, huh?
"Whisper of the heart" Listen to the forest sounds. They come from the faraway stars. The memory of the winds. The clouds...
Oh, so the Baron's your main character?
Can I use him, please?
Seiji told me that you really treasure this figurine.
And that's why you're...?
Of course, go ahead.
But on one condition.
Yes?
I want to be the first person to read your story.
W...well, uh...
What do you think?
Do I really have to show it to you?
Besides, I still don't know if I can really write.
Well, that's just like us artisans.
You can't expect perfection when you're just starting.
Oh yes.
I have something nice I want you to see.
Here we go.
Take a look.
This kind of rock is called mica-slate.
Take a look inside that crack.
Right. Like that.
It's beautiful!
That's called beryl.
It contains pieces of raw emeralds.
Emerald... the precious jewel?
That's right.
Both you and Seiji are like that rock.
Like a natural, still unpolished stone.
I happen to like things like that.
But making violins and writing stories are different.
You have to find the raw jewel inside and spend the time to polish and refine it.
It's time-consuming work.
Can you see the big raw jewel inside that rock?
Yes.
The truth is that if you polish and refine it,
you'll find that it won't look very good.
The smaller ones deep inside are more pure.
In fact, there may be even better jewels
inside where you can't see them.
Oh, I'm sorry.
When you get old, you start rambling. That's not good.
I'm scared to find out whether there's anything this pretty inside myself.
But I still want to write.
If I write it, then you'll definitely be the first to read it.
Thank you. I'm looking forward to it.
A jewel...
Maybe a vein of lapis lazuli...
Come! I will be your escort!
Let us go and find the deposit of lapis lazuli!
You have nothing to fear.
Space is distorted on the days of the New Moon.
That which is far will seem large.
And what is near will seem small. But it only appears that way.
Now fly! We'll catch an ascending wind!
We must hurry!
The planetoids are gathering!
Excellent! We're riding the wind!
At this rate, we shall soon pass that tower.
Are we that high up?
Hardly.
Once we're closer, it will not seem so at all.
"Now go without fear."
"When the winds distort in the afternoon,
even the stars will be in reach!"
Huh?
It's unusual to see
Shizuku look for something besides storybooks.
This person's making a violin in prison.
Seiji!
I thought you'd left already!
From what Grandpa said, I thought you might be here.
I'm glad I found you.
I'm leaving tomorrow.
Tomorrow?
It's okay. I'll wait here until you're done.
Sorry I can't walk you home.
It's okay, I'm really happy you came to see me.
I can't see you off,
but I'll wait for you to come back.
Sure. It's only two months.
I'm sorry for complaining all the time.
I'll be doing my best, too.
Well, I'm off, then.
Have a safe trip!
My fiancee Louise and I
are from a town in a far-away foreign land.
And in that town, magic is still alive.
The craftsmen with magic in their blood
made many things in their shops.
The one who created us
was a poor apprentice in a figurine shop.
Nevertheless, Louise and I were very happy.
He created us to express his unrequited love.
However...
Shizuku.
Shizuku!
What's wrong?
Tsukishima!
I...I don't know.
I wasn't listening.
Pay attention! This is important!
I'm sorry.
Harada, you read it instead.
Yes, sir.
What!? You were up 'til four again!?
Don't worry.
I wasn't sleepy at all.
But, Shizuku, you've been blanking out a lot lately.
Like earlier.
I was just thinking.
There's so much to write, I don't know how to organize it.
I've lost my appetite.
Oh, you're here, Shizuku.
Look at this, you didn't even turn on the lights.
And I wish you would've put away the laundry.
Shizuku!
Come here for a second, Shizuku.
Where's Shizuku? Is she home?
Said she didn't want any.
Oh, I've been expecting you.
Sorry to trouble you.
This way, please.
Is the Career Counseling Room open?
Yeah.
This way.
I'm back.
Welcome home.
You're back early today, Shiho.
I'm exhausted.
Want some coffee?
That sounds great.
Mother, I want to ask you something.
What is it?
I've been thinking of moving out.
I've already found a place.
But won't that cost a lot?
It's okay. I've saved up some money from work.
I found a position at the cram school
so it'll be okay.
I see.
I've relied on you to do a lot of the housework, you know.
Good luck, then.
I'll tell your father.
Really?! That's great!
It'll be kinda tough until spring,
but if I graduate, I'll be going to work, too.
When I do, I can help you out.
Sure. I'd appreciate it.
I'm sorry to do it during such a bad time.
Oh, thanks.
I appreciate your helping with my data.
Shizuku will have more room and she'll be able to concentrate on studying.
She's been acting strange lately.
So you think so too?
I was called to her school today.
Look at this.
What is it?
I can't believe this!
She must've gone down a hundred places!
What is she so obsessed with, sitting at her desk there?
Oh, good evening.
Welcome back.
Oh, excuse me.
Just what kind of high school are you planning to attend with those scores?!
Fine! I won't go to high school then!
You're not going...?!
Don't think life is going to be that easy!
What will you do with only a junior high education?!
I'll decide for myself what I want to do!
Don't you talk back to me!
You're refusing to face reality!
Don't you know that your rank after second semester goes on your record?
Oh, and is studying all that great?!
Now that you're in college, all you're doing are part-time jobs, Sis!
I'm doing what I'm supposed to do!
You're the one who's running away from what you're supposed to do!
Can't you see that?!
I'm not running away!
I just have something more important to do!
What's this important thing? Come on and show me!
Shiho, Shizuku, stop arguing.
But, Father! Shizuku won't listen to me!
Well, both of you come here. Let me hear your reasons.
Shizuku, you should change out of those clothes.
Hurry up.
I see.
Shizuku, is what Shiho says true?
It's not like I don't care about my tests!
But you just said you weren't going to attend high school.
That's because you said I can't get into any high school!
Shiho, I want to talk to Shizuku alone.
Will you please wait outside?
Yes.
Where's your mother?
At the Tanaka's.
I'm home.
Welcome back, Mother.
Is your Father back?
Yeah.
Will you come in here, too, dear?
Shiho has been telling me about Shizuku.
Yes, dear.
All right, Shizuku.
Is what you're doing now
more important than your studies?
Will you tell us what it is you're doing?
I'll tell you when it's time.
Shizuku, is this something you have to do now?
But there's no time!
I only have three more weeks to do it!
I've decided to test myself during this time!
I have to do it!
Test yourself on what?
What are you testing?
We won't know if you don't tell us.
You can't even tell your father or your mother?
Dear.
Oh, sorry. Habit.
I've noticed that you're putting a lot of effort into something at the library.
I can respect that.
Should we let Shizuku do what she wants, dear?
It's not as if there's only one way to live your life.
Well, I've had times like this in my life, too.
All right, Shizuku.
You'll have to do as you believe.
But
it'll be very tough to find your own way.
If anything happens, you'll have no one to blame.
And please be present when we're eating dinner.
That's right. You're part of the family too, you know.
Yes.
Go call Shiho in here.
- I'll make some tea. - Fine.
Shizuku.
Father just said "Oh well",
but I think he really wanted you to study more.
I know that!
I could see it written on his face!
I'm going to be moving out this coming Sunday.
You'll have the room to yourself.
You're moving out, Sis?
Yup. Take care of yourself.
Hurry!
Hurry! Hurry!
Only one of them is real!
Which one? Which one's the real one?
Hurry!
Louise, you've come for me.
I'm already an old man.
Shizuku!
Please, come in.
Oh, I must've fallen asleep.
Please excuse me, but...
...I've brought you my manuscript.
Does that mean you're finished?
As I promised.
Please be the first one to read this.
This is pretty long!
WHISPER OF THE HEART The Story As Told by the Baron by Tsukishima Shizuku
Um, will you read it right now?
I'll wait however long it takes.
But, after putting so much work into this,
I wanted to take time to read it carefully.
If you don't like it, just stop reading it!
I mean, if this isn't a bother.
I, um...
I'm so nervous right now.
I understand. I'll read it right away.
Come, let's sit by the fire.
It'll be cold today.
Now no one will bother us.
Um, is it okay if I wait downstairs?
Hm?
I'll be fine. I'm not cold at all.
I don't mind, but...
So there you are.
Shizuku, I've finished reading it.
Thank you. It was great!
That's not true! That's not true!
Tell me the truth, please!
I couldn't even organize the story!
The second half is all messed up! I realize it myself!
That's true. It's a bit rough, unpolished, and incomplete.
Just like Seiji's violins!
You've shown me the very first jewel you've crafted.
I know you tried hard. You did great.
There's no reason to hurry.
Take your time and polish it up.
Come on, it's cold out here. Let's go in.
I...
I found out after I wrote the whole thing!
Just wanting to write isn't enough!
I need to study more!
But...
Seiji is going so much faster than I am!
I forced myself to write it, but I was so scared!
I was so scared!
You really like Seiji, don't you?
How does it taste?
It tastes great.
I had ramen with Seiji, too.
The first time he made a violin.
That was a jumbo serving too.
Ah, thank you.
Well, how far did we get before?
You were a transfer student in Germany
and you found the Baron at a cafe.
Right, right.
It's sort of melancholy,
but I was attracted by his expression.
I pleaded with the owner to sell him to me.
But he wouldn't do it.
He said, "This feline Baron has a companion."
"You can't separate two lovers like that."
The Baron is awaiting the return of his Baroness,
who was sent out for repairs.
But that's just like my story.
That's right! What a coincidence, huh?
It was almost the day I had to go home,
so I thought I had to give up.
But then, my girlfriend spoke up.
She said that when the Baron's companion returned...
...she would make sure that the two figurines stayed together.
The proprietor finally gave in.
I only took the Baron with me when I moved and left the other behind.
I told my girlfriend to hold onto the figurine for me
until I came back for her.
I told her that the two figurines would meet...
...when the two of us meet again.
But the war started right after that.
And I couldn't keep my promise.
When I finally went back to that town, I searched all over.
But in the end I couldn't find either her or the Baron's love.
She was very important to you, wasn't she?
The Baron was really just a sad part of my past...
...but you've brought him alive in a story of hope.
Oh, that's right.
Now, hold out your hands.
I...
This stone is more appropriate for you.
I'm giving it to you.
Please work hard and and create your own story.
I will.
Thank you very much.
Goodbye!
I'm back.
Welcome home.
Where's Father?
Taking a bath.
What time do you think it is right now?
I'm sorry I've worried you.
As of now, I'm going back to being a regular student.
You don't have to worry anymore.
So you're done testing yourself?
For now, at least.
Have you eaten? There's curry.
No, thanks.
Just for now, huh?
I'm coming in, Shizuku. Go take your bath.
Sleeping like a soldier.
Well, then...
It can't be!
W...wait a minute!
It's a miracle! I got to see you!
This isn't a dream, right?
My flight was a day early.
Get on!
Oh, wait.
You'll be cold like that.
C'mon, get on.
I'll go get my coat.
There isn't time! Just get on.
Hold on tight now.
I really wanted to see you, Shizuku.
I don't know how long I thought, "Shizuku!"
And then, you really did poke your head out!
We're really amazing!
I wanted to see you, too.
It still feels like a dream!
How was Cremona?
It's very different from what I'd heard,
but I'll still do it.
Wow, it's getting really light.
Should I get off?
It's okay.
I decided...
...I wanted to take this hill...
...with you on the bike!
That's not fair at all!
I don't want to be just a piece of luggage!
I want to be doing something, too!
All right! Please help.
Just a little farther.
Shizuku!
Hurry and get on!
'Kay.
We're in time!
- Need a hand? - I'm fine.
This way.
Incredible!
The morning mist looks almost like the ocean!
This is my own secret place.
It's almost time.
This is what I wanted you to see.
Grandpa told me what you've been doing.
I didn't do anything to help you.
I was only thinking of myself.
No.
I was doing it because of you!
I'm glad I got to challenge myself.
I learned a little more about myself.
I'm going to study harder.
I've decided that I'm going to high school, too.
Shizuku, listen...
I, uh... of course I don't mean right now, but...
Will you marry me?!
I know I'll become a master violin maker!
And then, we can...
Yes.
You mean it?!
I'm so glad! I've been hoping for the same thing!
Really! Alright!
Hold it. The wind's pretty cold.
Shizuku, I love you!
Voices:
Shizuku: HONNA Yoko Seiji: TAKAHASHI Issei
Shizuku's father: TACHIBANA Takashi Shizuku's mother: MUROI Shigeru
Baron: TSUYUGUCHI Shigeru
"World Emporium" Proprietor: KOBAYASHI Keiju
Chief Executive Producer TOKUMA Yasuyoshi
Executive Producers UJIIE Seiichiro & SHOJI Takashi
Based on the Comic by HIIRAGI Aoi (Published by Shueisha)
Screenplay & Storyboard by MIYAZAKI Hayao
Producer SUZUKI Toshio
Original Music by NOMI Yuji
Theme Song "Take Me Home, Country Roads"
Original Lyrics and Music by Bill DANOFF, Taffy NIVERT
and John DENVER
English Translation by Ian MACDOUGALL
English subtitles by Aura & Nippon Cine Arts
Produced by Tokuma Shoten
Nippon Television Network
Hakuhodo
and Studio Ghibli
General Producer MIYAZAKI Hayao
Directed by KONDO Yoshifumi