Shochiku Films
Participant in the Arts Festival 33rd Year of Showa Era (1958)
Equinox Flower
Original story by Ton Satomi
Screenplay by Kogo Noda and Yasujiro Ozu
Produced by Shizuo Yamanouchi Cinematography by Yuharu Atsuta
Art Direction by Tatsuo Hamada
Cast:
Shin Saburi as Mr Hirayama
Kinuyo Tanaka as Mrs Hirayama
lneko Arima as Setsuko Hirayama
Yoshiko Kuga as Fumiko Mikami
Keiji Sada as Mr Taniguchi
Teiji Takahashi as Mr Kondo
Miyuki Kuwano as Hisako Hirayama
Chishu Ryu as Mr Mikami
Chieko Naniwa as Mrs Sasaki
Fujiko Yamamoto as Yukiko Sasaki
Directed by Yasujiro Ozu
- Must be an auspicious day - How so?
Lots of newly weds about
Not a lot of pretty brides though
See that one on the 15-minutes-past to Atami?
That chubby one? She was nice, the prettiest one so far
l wonder ifthe weather will hold. There was a storm warning
April showers bring May flowers
Hey, here comes another
lfyou ask me, she's too skinny
Warning: Strong Winds
...we pray that you may be blessed...
l haven't seen Mr Mikami
What happened to Mikami?
l don't think he came
l sent him an invitation, but he didn't show up
Why not?
Now let us hear from a close friend ofthe father ofthe bride...
...Mr Wataru Hirayama, company director of Daiwa Enterprises
ls that me?
Please be seated
Congratulations, Tomoko
The previous speakers have all said wonderful things...
...and there isn't much l can add
These two have been in love for a long time
Every once in a while, l would hear from Tomoko...
...how their relationship was going
lt was always good news
However, l was always surprised...
...by how very different their lives were from my own youth
l remember how plain and unsentimental...
...my own wedding was
My wife is sitting right here...
...and she too could tell you...
...how it was all arranged by our parents
ln that regard, our young couple today is very lucky
l truly envy them
My only advice to them is to try their best to find happiness...
...though they may already know that
l hope people tell me about your ideal marriage one day...
...so l can envy you even more
Thank you
Congratulations
- Thank you - lt was my pleasure
Wakamatsu Restaurant
What year was that?
l think it was in 1942 or 1943. l passed by Kure, returning home
Was Mikami still there?
His shipboard duty was later
He took me to the Officers' Club. His treat
He'd reached his peak then
He still had a few good years in him
Have some more
Hasn't Mikami's daughter reached marriageable age?
Yes, she's a year younger than mine
- The girl l saw you with today? - No, that was my eldest
l see
What about your daughter?
She's at that age
Most of us have had girls
- You have boys, don't you? - Two sons
l heard that ifthe husband is the stronger, then the couple will have girls...
...and ifthe wife is stronger, they'll have boys, right?
The first child is usually a girl
Does that mean the man is stronger early on in the marriage?
- lt's possible - lt's odd in your case, then
- How come? - Because you have two boys
You should ask my wife. l'm not a very passionate man
Rubbish!
Welcome
lt's just like a reunion. Welcome. Welcome
- lt's been a while, hasn't it? - lndeed
Congratulations, Mr Kawai. The wedding went well?
l'm glad the weatherman was wrong about the strong winds
Won't you get a bit lonely, now that your daughter is married?
l'm used to it, second time round
- How many do you have? - How many what? Husbands?
l mean how many children?
Oh, children. l've got three
- l bet they're all boys - That's right. How did you know?
We can just tell. lt's obvious
- No doubt about it - Wouldn't be right otherwise
- What do you mean? - You have the constitution for it
- More sake - Yes, yes. You're up to something...
Welcome home
Welcome back
Where did you go afterwards?
To Wakamatsu
Mrs Kawai must've been lonely, left all by herself
- Where's Setsuko? - Still out
She's not home yet?
lt's getting late
lt was a lovely reception, and the bride was beautiful
Her bridal kimono was so beautiful
- Have you spoken to Setsuko yet? - Yes
What did she say?
She didn't say anything. She just grinned
She should think about it
- l know, but still... - Time is ofthe essence
He's a fine young man. She should make a decision
l suppose so
He's from a good family, too
According to Takanashi...
...his grandfather used to be President ofthe Yokohama Chamber of Commerce
ls that so?
He was very prominent
ls this about Setsuko's marriage?
- There's no need to rush it - What do you mean?
l'm sure my sister has her own thoughts on the subject, just as l do
You do?
l'd hate having an arranged marriage with someone l didn't know
ls that so?
l'd hate it!
That worries me...
You've no need to worry. l can find a husband on my own
ls that right? That's good to know
Well, find a good one, Hisako
No problem. l have plenty of boyfriends
ls that so?
Sister?
l'm home. Shall l lock the door?
Sure. That's all right, isn't it?
Evening
- Welcome home - You're late
- l was out with a friend - On a date?
Don't be silly!
How did the bride look, Mother?
- She looked beautiful - Really?
They smell nice
l bet my sister has one
- One what? - A boyfriend
l don't know. Does she?
l'm not sure, but l reckon so
Well, then, l don't have to worry about her either
You'd worry about us anyway
- Good night - Night
- You'll need your morning suit again tomorrow - What for?
Don't you have the funeral of a colleague?
Oh, a suit and a black tie will do
lt's so confusing, one day a wedding, the next day a funeral
Yes?
Mr Mikami is here
l thought l'd pop in. l'm not bothering you, l hope
No, not at all
Why didn't you come to the wedding yesterday?
l had to excuse myself
- Anything the matter? - No, nothing serious
Not really
- What was the matter? - l just didn't want to go
Why? What happened?
l just wasn't in the mood for a happy wedding
- Why not? - l was thinking of my daughter
We were talking about that yesterday. What happened to your daughter?
Did someone mention her?
lt was just that all ofour daughters were of marriageable age
Fumiko's left home
Why? When?
About two months ago
She's living with a man
Really? l didn't know that
l don't know what to do with her. lt's partly my fault, ofcourse...
How's she supporting herself?
l heard she has a flat in Suginami and she's working in a bar in the Ginza
Have you heard of a place called Luna?
Luna? No, l've never heard of it
l can'tjust go and see her like that
lfyou get a chance, will you check on her?
Ofcourse l will. But what happened?
Yes?
Mrs Sasaki of Kyoto is here to see you
- Sasaki? - Yes
Excuse me
You've got a customer, so l'll get going
You don't have to leave
l'll come again. Thanks
All right
- l'll see you soon - See you again
- Goodbye - Thanks. Bye
My, it's been a long time
- lndeed it has. Have a seat - Thank you
- When did you arrive? - Yukiko and l got here yesterday
l see
lt's been such a long time. How's the family? How's Hisako?
We're all well. Thanks for the bamboo shoots
They weren't very good, l'm so embarrassed
Matsu and l eventually figured out what happened
We divided the guests at our Kyoto inn into two categories
We meant to send you the good quality shoots...
...but by the time we realised our mistake, it was too late, they'd turned into bamboo!
l was just telling Matsu about the terrible mix-up
We would've sent you some good ones, but they'd all become bamboo trees!
- l don't need bamboo trees - Ofcourse, they're no use to anyone
- Why have you come to Tokyo? - Me?
- Yes - Because ofYukiko
What about her?
l'll tell you the whole story. lt's like this...
Yukiko won't take my advice. We're constantly arguing
- What about? - Marriage
l see. Well, congratulations!
No, nothing's set yet
You know that doctor from the Tsukiji market?
- l don't know him - He stays at ours when he comes to Kyoto
l'm guessing you send him the good bamboo shoots
l certainly do. You've never seen him at our inn?
ls he a prospect for marriage?
No, not him. Pay attention!
He's over 60 years old, much too old for Yukiko
- Then who is it? - His assistant who's also a doctor
- That's good - That doctor is young and very kind
When he stayed at our inn, he took such good care of...
- OfYukiko? - No, no! He treated me
- You remember my chronic disease? - What was it again?
- l'm not taking too much ofyour time, am l? - l'm actually rather busy
Really? l do apologise
lt might be my heart
l suddenly feel it tighten up and l have difficulty breathing
l feel l'm dying
This young doctor told me to get a full physical...
...but l'm scared ofwhat they might do to me
l'm even scared ofthe drill at the dentist
l almost faint when l see it approaching
l always end up rushing home
Goodness knows what l'll be like during the healthcare check-ups...
- Hold on - What is it?
l need to go to the toilet
Go ahead
Or maybe l should leave
- Take your time - All right, then
- Serve some tea in the reception room - Yes
- Should l wait? - No, you can go
- ls anybody home? - Yes
Welcome!
l'm Yukiko Sasaki from Kyoto
Just a moment
- Hello. lt's good to see you - Hello
Come in
Thank you
- Where is everyone? - They all go shopping on Sundays
Oh, l see
Come on in
You'll like the other room better
You must be a second-rate customer
Yes, you should give me bad bamboo shoots!
That's right
- There... - Thank you
Miss Tomizawa, bring some tea. And cakes ifyou've got any
Yes, sir
l have a gift for you
Thank you
Did your mother go into hospital?
Yes, she finally decided to go
- Did she make a fuss? - Yes, the night before she was admitted...
...she went on about how she didn't know what to do...
...and how she wanted to cancel the appointment and go home
- She wouldn't listen to anything l said - But you persuaded her?
She was being completely irrational, so l told her...
..."Mother, l'm worried about your health, so do this or l'll leave home"
So she finally listened to me
- That must've been hard - l had to be firm with her
There are good hospitals in Kyoto, too
l know. This is just mother's little set-up
- Set-up? - Yes
- There you go - Thanks!
lt's so different from Kyoto, even the colour ofthe sky
What's this 'set-up'?
She must've told you about my marriage?
Yes, she said something about a young doctor at the hospital
l know exactly what she's thinking
She gets hospitalised, so l visit her everyday...
...and then she sets me up with the doctor!
l can see right through her!
And? What do you think ofthis doctor?
l'm not interested in him at all
Then l feel sorry for your mother
Yes, but this is for her health
l suppose it is. What will you do in the meantime?
l'm going shopping and then heading back to Kyoto
- You're leaving your mother? - Yes
That's a bit cruel!
l need to take drastic measures to stop her...
...from constantly trying to choose my husband. l can't take it anymore!
l see
lt's just constant. Anyway, l don't want to leave Matsu alone at the inn
Do you have someone in your life already?
No, l don't
- You shouldn't rush to get married - That's so true
l mean it. What first looks like gold might turn out to be brass once you're married
Really? Brass, you say?
That's right
You don't need to get married just yet
Why should every girl rush to get married?
Why not be different?
You've no plans for Setsuko to marry?
ln a way, l do
Regardless, a pretty girl like you shouldn't hurry to marry
What time will the others be back?
They didn't say
When they get back, l'll tell Setsuko to visit you tomorrow
Yes, l'd love to see her
lt's such a lovely day
lt's time for your medicine
This tastes awful! What is it?
- There's sulphur in it - Really? What good does that do?
- Do l have to finish it? - Yes
l'd rather not. ls she here yet?
- Your daughter? - Yes
- No, not yet - Where is she? She's late
She's only visited me once this morning
Mother's room is right there
Really?
Have you met this doctor?
Yes, briefly
- What's he like? - l'm not interested in him
lt was mother's idea. So annoying. But what about you?
- What? - Any plans to marry you off?
No, not really. Father's interested, that's all
Really? l wish they'd stop putting us through this
- ls Auntie that persistent? - lt's all she talks about
The other day, a man with a tuxedo and a white scarfwalked past us
Mother asked if l fancied him for a husband So l turned round to look at him...
...and l saw an advert for a nightclub on his back!
l envy you, though, Setsuko
Your parents aren't like my mother. They're so understanding
l wouldn't be so sure ofthat
They're not like my mother at all
She always goes on and on...
...and she never gets to the point
But she has an interesting way oftalking
Yes, too interesting, ifyou ask me!
Setsuko, we should team up
What do you mean?
You help me when my mother's being unreasonable...
...and l'll do the same for you
- Sounds good - l'm relying on you
Promise?
What was that?
lt means, 'Thirteen silver hairpins, three broken spider webs...'
- lt's a spell - l see. ln that case...
Thank you
- Should l wait? - No, you can go
Good day
- Excuse me! - Yes?
l'm so happy to see you again
Welcome. Please come in
May l? l hope l'm not bothering you
Not at all. Do come in
Thank you
- Here... - Thank you
- Welcome, madam - Hello. Sorry for dropping in on you like this
l brought this as a small present
Thank you very much
- lt's for the family, not for you - l know, madam
- Sorry... - Are you busy with something?
l knew we'd talk at length, so l went to the bathroom
Oh, l see
Well, now... ls Hisako at school?
Yes. And Setsuko's now working
They're both lovely girls
Yukiko returned home without me
So you're having some healthcare check-ups, l hear
Oh, let me tell you, it's such an awful place
They sent electricity through wires around my hands and feet...
...and injected me with some kind of blue ink, can you believe?
lt turned my urine blue! lt was horrible, just horrible!
That's not all. l had to drink this disgusting, muddy substance
lt tasted awful
l was supposed to stay three more days, but l couldn't take it
So you didn't finish your treatment?
No, l don't need them prodding and poking me anymore
l couldn't bear it!
And what about your heart?
The old doctor told me it was fine. He said it was just neurosis
l told him l still have pains, but he wouldn't listen to me
- lsn't that outrageous? - l'm glad it was nothing serious
l didn't need to come all the way to Tokyo
- lt's always better to be sure - Yes, l suppose so
And what about the young doctor?
- He's the one l'm talking about! - What do you mean?
He's the one who injected the blue ink. l begged him to stop
He said it was necessary despite my protestations
He was so cruel. l really dislike him
l see. And you were trying to matchmake him...
Well, l'll find another prospect for her. You must help me
l'll do my best
l'm doing all l can...
...but Yukiko just keeps telling me to leave her alone and not bother her
Children are so ungrateful
Our children are the same. lt's the same everywhere
You think? lfwe wait too long, Yukiko will never get married
She'll find someone. She's capable and pretty, too
- You really think so? - l do
You're right. ln fact, l already have another prospect lined up
Who is he?
He's not a doctor, but it's close enough
- What does he do? - He's a pharmacist
He is the second son of an important pharmacist in Osaka
He's a bit old, though. l can't remember if he's 24 or 25 years old
He graduated from Osaka University. Maybe this will be the one
You certainly have a lot ofcandidates!
This one's ideal, l'm telling you
Hold on, l'm just going to the bathroom
Please do
Oh, this way!
Oh, that's right
You're sure l'm not bothering you?
Don't go too far, it's dangerous!
We'll be fine!
The weather is so nice
When was the last time we did this?
The weather's lovely
Maybe l should go for a game
You mean golf?
Please, not today
This may be the last time we can all go out together...
...if Setsuko gets married
You're right
But we can all go out again before she marries
But you're always too busy
Why does she just grin at me without saying anything?
Who? You mean Setsuko?
l was the same at her age
Times have changed, though
Shall l go ahead with what we were talking about?
Yes, l suppose it's all right
l feel good
- l was thinking... - What?
Remember how we used to run to the air-raid shelters...
...when the planes came during the war?
Setsuko had just started primary school
Hisako had just started walking
ln the dark, we used to think we might all die together
l remember
l hated the war...
...but sometimes l miss those days when we were all much closer
Don't you?
No. Those were the years l hated the most
We had nothing to our name, surrounded by arrogant fools
But those were good days for me
We were always together, the four of us
Are you complaining because l've been coming home late?
lt's not that
But we don't even get to have supper as a family anymore
Everyday it gets busier at work
But at least we can lead a more comfortable life
Even so...
What are you saying?
lt's nothing
l had trouble yesterday at Bunker 7. l just couldn't get out
l've also had difficulties there
l went to Hakone with my family yesterday
That sounds very nice
- So how was Hakone? - l spent the whole day with my family
lt must feel good to do that from time to time
lndeed
Yes?
What is it?
- This person is asking to see you - Right...
Very well, bring him in
Yes, sir
Come in
My name is Taniguchi
l'm Hirayama
The Nitto Chemical Company? My daughter works there
Well...
What can l do for you?
Well...
- l wish to marry your daughter - Excuse me?
l'd like your consent
- You...? - Yes
- ls Setsuko aware ofthis? - She is
l should've asked you through an intermediary...
- ...but l don't have a lot oftime - Time?
My company is transferring me...
...and l wanted to get your consent before l go
This is all very sudden
- l apologise - l can't give you an answer right now
l have to discuss this with Setsuko
Let's leave it at that for now
Please give it your consideration
- Oh, hello - Hello
Here's the quote from Hill Enterprises
Just leave it here
You knew nothing about this?
No, she never said anything to me
lt's a problem
l'm home
- What is it? - Come here
Sit down
- What is it? - Do you know a man named Taniguchi?
- Yes - He came by my office today
- Did you know about that? - No
He said he wants to marry you
How do you know him?
- From work - How long have you known him?
Do you intend to marry him?
Answer me
Yes, l wish to marry him
Why didn't you say anything?
Why didn't you consult with me or your mother?
You knew we were making arrangements
Well, l don't approve ofthis fellow
- But l... - What?
Why can't l find happiness on my own?
Setsuko!
l'll find happiness on my own!
- Where are you going? - l'm going out
Setsuko!
Hi. What's up?
Come in
Why did you go see my father without telling me?
- Why didn't you tell me? - l thought it'd be better that way
Why?
l didn't want to cause you any worry
What worry?
l told you before, l would tell my mother and then she'd tell my father
l know, l considered that, too
- The result would've been the same - How so?
Your father and mother could only answer either yes or no
l'd know sooner if l asked them directly
You know l'm being transferred to Hiroshima
l heard
That's why l went to see your father
And what if my father says no?
l've already made up my mind
- Have you? - Do you need to ask?
l'm not leaving you
Well, then, we've got nothing to fear
That's how it should be
Everything's fine now
lt's late, you should go. Let me take you home
Come on
- Good night - Night
- Bye - Thanks
l just came to take her home
- Thank you - Good night
ls she back home?
Setsuko!
Yes?
Sit down
Where've you been?
Don't you think you're being rather careless?
You think you can make such a decision without consulting us first?
Don't you think you're making a mistake?
Answer me
Say something!
- Don't get angry - l'm not talking to you!
What's going on, Setsuko?
l'm trying to spare you an unhappy marriage
l want to protect you from anything that would make you unhappy
Do you really know this Taniguchi fellow?
- l do - And you think he'll make a good husband?
Yes, l do
He's not from a distinguished family as you would have liked...
...but l don't think that's any reason to make me unhappy
Well, l don't agree
That's just the way you see things
Setsuko!
My opinions are different. l see things my own way
What opinions? Explain them to me
Even if l did, l don't think you'd understand
- What's that? - Setsuko!
Mother! You two were lucky from the start
We might not have the chance to have the kind of life father has in mind
But we don't care. lt won't make us unhappy
We will take responsibility for our own lives
And we won't be a burden on either ofyou
Even so, Setsuko...
Enough! l've had enough!
You're still young, Setsuko
A lot can happen in life
You two are in love. That may be enough for now...
...but who knows what the future will bring?
There's a lot that you need to consider
You said that we were lucky...
...but it wasn't always like that for your father and me
We went through some very difficult times
That's why your father is so concerned
Do you understand? Promise me you'll think it over
Enough now!
Anyway, l'm opposed to it
The young make trouble as soon as they leave home
You'll stay home two or three days and think it over!
- l have to go to work - You'll do as l say!
You don't have to go
You should go to bed now
She's such a worry
Even so...
...Taniguchi looks like a good man
And when did you meet him?
Just before, when he brought Setsuko back
And you can judge him after meeting him once? Don't be ridiculous!
Anyway, l won't give my consent
- You called me? - Yes, come here
l didn't take you away from your work?
No
- You were free? - Yes. l mean no...
No, l guess not
- There's something l want to ask you - Yes, sir?
A fellow called Taniguchi came to see me yesterday. How well do you know him?
- He was above me at school - l see
He's two years older than me, and played basketball
l see. And what else?
- ls that all? - We worked in the same office one summer
You did? Where?
- lt was at a warehouse in Hakozaki - l see...
Mr Mikami is here for you
Show him in
- We'll talk later - Yes, sir
- Thanks - Thank you, sir
- Sorry to bother you again - Not at all
l don't want to be a nuisance, but have you had a chance yet?
Have you been to Luna?
l've been a bit preoccupied. l haven't had a chance yet
l see
There's no need to rush, ofcourse. l'm just a little worried
l'll go tonight
You will? l'd appreciate it
Children can be a handful
Maybe it's because we spoil them. But what can we do?
lt's a strange situation...
Welcome
lt's been a while, Mr Kondo. How have you been?
Over here will do fine
Welcome
Welcome. What can l serve you?
One highball
Yes, sir. How about you, Mr Kondo?
The same, right?
Make it two
So you know this place?
Yes. No...
They all seem to know you
Why didn't you say so? We would've found this place in no time
l apologise. l didn't think this was the place you meant
Where else? There can't be that many bars with the same name around here
You're right, sir. l apologise
ls there a Fumiko working here? Her last name is Mikami
We call her Kaoru. She'll be back in a moment
There you go, sir. And one for Mr Kondo
Why so quiet tonight?
- Drink up - Ah, thank you, sir
That Taniguchi, what's he like?
He's two years older than me, and plays basketball
You said that already
Well, he played offence, and he had a good lay-up technique
No. l mean, his personality?
- His character - He's a good man
What do you mean "good"?
l don't know him that well, but he seems like a nice guy
You worked with him. How was he?
He worked at a desk, and l was just the delivery guy
- So you don't know him very well at all - No, l don't
- Why didn't you say that from the start? - Sorry, sir
Oh, Kaoru. She's back
What is it?
- Are you Fumiko? - Yes
Do you remember me? l'm Mr Hirayama, a friend ofyour father
Let's have a seat
lt's been a while since l last saw you
lndeed
- How are you? - Fine
- Did my father tell you l was working here? - Yes. l was curious to see how you were doing
Well...
...l just want to be left alone
No, l'm not here for that
Can we talk somewhere more private?
- What do you want to talk about? - Well, can't we talk somewhere more private?
l can't leave right now
l understand. l'll wait until you finish your shift. ls that okay?
Where's your usual liveliness?
What's up with you?
What is it?
Don't act so familiar. That man's my boss
- Then you can drink all you want - lt's not like that
- Want another one? - Not tonight
Go away. Leave me alone
- Lost your spirit? - Shut up, you idiot!
l'll get you for this
- Welcome! - Welcome!
Thank you
So, do you always wait for him around this time?
Yes. He'll be here soon
We always go home together
He's in a cabaret band, you said?
Yes
He plays piano
He studied at music school
l see. What do you think about your father?
My father?
l feel sorry for him, but he's just so stubborn
- Stubborn? - He's stuck in his ways
- Too much so - Too much so?
He makes no effort to understand. He thinks his way is the only way
Really? ls that what you think?
Yes, it is
Father has to have everything his own way
- l'm sure it's not like that - No, it is
Maybe it's just because he worries about you
Well, he shouldn't worry about me
But he does. What about you? Are you happy?
Me personally?
l'm happy. l don't see myself as unfortunate at all
l see
Welcome!
He's here
- This is... - Pleased to meet you. l'm Naganuma
Hello. How do you do?
lt's getting late. We'll head home
Fine. Thank you for coming
- Bye - Goodbye
Hold on a moment
Here's some spending money
l can't accept this
- lt isn't much - l just can't. l'm sorry
Welcome home
Where were you?
l went to see Mikami's daughter
Oh, Fumiko? How is she?
She's managing somehow, but it's not right...
Did Setsuko stay home today?
Yes. What are we going to do about her?
Leave her alone for a while
Soon she'll realise what she's asking
Are you still up?
Yes, l couldn't sleep
Setsuko!
- Did you...? - What?
Did you sleep with him?
Father, you should have a little more trust in me
He's not that kind of man
Tell her to think it over. Tell her not to go to work
She can even leave herjob
Keep an eye on her and don't let her go out
l will not allow this kind of behaviour...
...or a wedding
You understand?
Nightgown
- Welcome! - Welcome!
Why were you so quiet the other night?
Do you know how nervous l was, you idiot?
You were sweating like a pig
lt's hot in here. This place needs air-conditioning
- Mr Kondo, what would you like? - A highball with water
- Same as last time? - l can't afford a brand like that
My usual brand. Cheap, not that expensive stuff
- Right? - Right, let the boss treat you to the good stuff
Don't talk rubbish! He won't be back here again, no way
Hey, Kaoru...
How does your father know my boss?
They went to school together
What does he do now?
- He works for a printing company - He came to see my boss yesterday
Really? Did you hear anything?
They were talking, but l wasn't in the room for very long
Sorry to keep you waiting
Now, that tastes good!
lt tastes better when l pay for it myself, even if it is the cheap stuff
Eh? How come l get no peanuts?
- You're much livelier tonight - Ofcourse
Last night was an exception. Where are my peanuts? Don't be so stingy
Don't get pompous, or your boss might come back
Don't scare me like that. He won't come back to a dump like this
Give me my peanuts!
- Welcome! - Welcome!
- Welcome and thank you for the other night - Not at all
Welcome
Oh, you're here again?
- You must be a regular - Yes. Well, no....
Your father came to see me yesterday
He asked me to give you this since he doesn't know your address
Your father would like to see you. What do you say?
lt's no use meeting
Really?
Well, just think it over
Goodbye
Bye
You can sit down again now
Unbelievable! How did you know he was coming?
That's ruined the taste of my highball
Give me a match
- Ever been to the Luna Bar? - Yeah, last night
Well, be careful...
...the boss is a patron
- You saw him there? - Yes
Hello?
Miss Sasaki? Put her through
Yukiko? You're back in Tokyo? When did you arrive?
My advice? What about?
l'll come see you on the way home
All right. Bye
You have a visitor, madam
Thank you for coming
- What's going on, then? - Well...
- How's your mother doing? - That's what l want to talk about
- What's the matter? - Well...l can't take any more of it
What's wrong?
Have you had an argument? You can tell me
She's being so unreasonable
That's why l left
Left? l'm not sure what you mean
- l ran away from home - Without telling your mother?
Yes
Well, that's not good, is it?
There you are
What on earth were you arguing about?
Motherjust won't listen to a word l say
About what?
l'll tell you the whole story
Please do
The thing is...
...l've found a man l love
l see. And?
- Mother doesn't approve of him - Why not?
She always wants things to go her way
But this time, l'm not going to give in
l've made a promise to him
What's this man like?
l've known him for quite a while...
...but mother's decided she wants me to marry some pharmacist from Osaka
She says he's from a proper family with a lot of money
She insists l marry him. She just tells me to do as she says
She keeps telling me that Osaka is on the way up
Listen, it's not funny
Mother told Matsu to buy me fried bean curd for tomorrow...
...and she said l should go to Fushimi Shrine to give thanks to lnari the fox god
Did you go?
Why would l? lt's ridiculous
What happened then?
Mother was very angry at me because l rejected such an attractive prospect
She told me l'd receive divine punishment from the fox god
She was absolutely furious, so l left home
- That makes a lot of leftover bean curd - Mother and Matsu are eating it now
l imagine the guests at the inn must be eating it, too!
Really? What a carry-on!
l don't have to do what mother says, do l?
- Not at all - l don't have to listen to her
- Right - lt's my future, isn't it?
That's right
So l guess l can marry the man l love
ls he dependable?
Then you should do it. lt's your responsibility
l know
Forget what your mother's telling you
You really think so? l'm so happy to hear that
lt's not like you to be so confused
l wasn't confused. l've got to make a call
- To whom? - l'm calling your house to tell Setsuko
Why?
Uncle...
That whole story, l made it all up. lt was a trick
- A trick? - Yes, it was all a set-up
l'm going to tell Setsuko that you consent to her marriage
Hey, wait a minute!
Welcome home. l didn't hear you come in
lt's all turned out well, really well
l don't know what l would've done...
...if Setsuko had done the same as Mikami's daughter. l'm so relieved
You're a very good father. Thank you
- What? - Setsuko is so happy to have your consent
- To what? - To marry Taniguchi
l haven't yet given my consent
But she just got a call from Yukiko
That was her own doing
But...
- l had no say in the matter - l see...
lfthat's how you feel, it's good enough
What you mean, "good enough"?
- l mean about Setsuko - l refuse to take responsibility for that
She and Taniguchi will take responsibility. She told you that
- l can't take their word for it - But...
But what? How long have you been conspiring with Taniguchi?
Conspiring, you say?
You have been conspiring! Did you really meet Taniguchi only once?
No, he came over after l met him that night
What? Why didn't you say anything?
Because you've been in a foul mood and Setsuko asked me not to let him meet you
Meeting him once or twice isn't enough. And what about Takanashi?
You'll have to decline his offer
No, l won't do it
You're the one consenting, so you decline. l won't be held responsible for this
Fine, l'll do it
Then do it. l wash my hands ofthis whole affair
l don't approve, so l won't be present at the wedding either
You have to be there, at least at the wedding
No! l won't go!
l see. Then l won't go either
You can go. You gave your consent
- l won't go - Do as you wish!
l'm sure the two ofthem will manage fine
How do you mean?
How do you expect me to know?
This just goes to prove how irresponsible you're being
You make all kinds of irresponsible statements
Don't make promises you can't keep. lt's wrong
And what about you?
What? What are you saying?
Enough
- Tell me! - Enough's enough
lfyou have something to say, say it!
You always have to have your way in everything
Like what?
As usual, you're being completely inconsistent regarding Setsuko
- lnconsistent? - Yes
You said you wouldn't mind Setsuko having a boyfriend...
...but now that she has one, you disapprove. Don't you think that's strange?
No, l don't. That's parental love. You call it being inconsistent?
Yes, l call it inconsistent!
lfyou really loved her, you would take responsibility
Doing otherwise would be inconsistent
Then everybody's inconsistent, apart from the gods!
The world is full of inconsistencies
And all these inconsistencies are what make up life
And what about you? You're inconsistent, too!
l'm home
- l'm back - Where's your sister?
- Did Setsuko go out? - Yes
- Where to? - She's helping Taniguchi pack for Hiroshima
How did you know he was leaving?
l thought you'd given your consent when Setsuko called
l said she wasn't allowed to go out
Hisako went with her
- But l left early to come home - Why?
l felt like l was in the way
They're not being lovey-dovey or anything, but they're clearly in love
Taniguchi is such a nice man. He's like a big brother
They'll be fine, Father. You shouldn't worry
The train leaves tomorrow at 6:30pm. l'll be there with my sister
Stop that noise!
Turn it off!
- When did you get here? - A while ago. l've been waiting
- You've been here since yesterday? - Yes
- How's the game? - Well...not so good
l see
Your wife came by last night. She told me about your girl's wedding
Congratulations
- My wife came to see you? - She asked me to be the intermediary
- For whom? - For your daughter, at the wedding
Oh, l see
- l was told you didn't approve - Right
- So you're not coming to the wedding? - Right
You don't have to. l'll take care of it
lt's hard to see your girl you've brought up leave home
- That's not it - l heard. But this is the way it's got to be
l'll take good care of it, all right?
l'm still not coming
Then don't. Don't force yourselfto be there
- Then it's settled - Right
So that's everything taken care of
Oh, yes, we're planning a school reunion. What do you think?
- About what? - About having a school reunion
Some people are coming to join us at Gamagori
Will you come along?
- Sure - lt's been a long time
l guess l'll go play a quick game. Want to join me?
l'm going to take a breather. l'm tired
All right
See you
- A beer - Yes, sir
Hello?
Hello? Futaba Beauty Parlour? This is the Hirayama residence
Hirayama
Yes, that's right. Can you get there an hour early tomorrow?
That's right. The ceremony starts at 2:00pm sharp
Okay? We're relying on you
l called the beauty parlour. They'll be there on time
Thank you. Come have some celebratory food with us
Thank you, madam
- Father's late. Where is he? - He's probably busy at work
But l told him this morning to come home early...
...tomorrow is Setsuko's wedding
lt's okay, sister
l don't understand why he won't eat with us tonight
Your father has his concerns, and he's dealing with them his way
He's hired a private investigator to check up on Taniguchi
l saw his report
Aren't you going to eat that?
l wasn't able to do much for you...
...but tell me ifyou need anything and l'll send it to you later
l already have enough, Mother. You don't need to send anything
Our new place is going to be fairly small
No matter how small, there's no place like home
You probably have a lot to take care of. You can go upstairs ifyou want
Our visit to Hakone was our last outing as a family
l'd hoped we'd have more
We could've had more iffather had wanted to
Hisako!
lt's okay, Setsuko. You can get Mr Taniguchi to take you places
lsn't Miyajima close to where you'll live?
Maybe
l'd love to go, too
You should visit us during the summer
Really? l'd love that
- Really, l'll come - Setsuko, you should go now
Night
Listen, Mother, l heard Setsuko crying last night
l woke up in the night...
...and when l asked her why she was crying, she just turned offthe light
l see
lt's father's fault. Why does he dislike Taniguchi?
There aren't many kind men like him around
Father's too old-fashioned!
Welcome home
Welcome home. We've already had supper
What's this?
You're coming to the wedding tomorrow?
l don't have much of a choice. All our friends are coming especially
l see
Setsuko, your father said he'll be there tomorrow
He's coming to your wedding!
l'm so happy!
l knew he would
Everything's fine now. l'm so happy
There's no need to cry
You have a big day ahead ofyou, so clean up and go to bed
l'm so happy
- Mother? - What is it?
l'm so sorry
l'm sorry l caused you all this trouble
lt's fine. All l want is for you to be happy
Get yourselfsorted out
Hisako, go and help your sister
Setsuko is really happy
We really need you there tomorrow
Do you want some celebratory food?
Do you?
- You're so carefree - How so?
l never thought she would defy me
lt's not defiance
Well...for some reason, l'm not convinced
Something's not right
Getting married is a big event in her life...
...but she took that decision without discussing it with us first and that troubles me
We're just concerned for her, that's all
- The mahjong table has been set up for you - Oh, very good. Shall we play?
Bring some beer to the next room
Let's play, then, shall we? Come on
So this is what happened...
...l was the intermediary because his wife asked me
But Hirayama isn't too keen on the groom
- Why? - Well...
lt's hard to find someone suitable for one's daughter
We spend so much time raising them, only to give them away
How many children do you have, Sugai?
None?
Sugai has loads of kids. Six, isn't it?
Seven?
l bet they're all girls
- Thought so - No question about it
- So...? - Forget about it
The thing is, you keep seeing them as children...
...then suddenly they're all grown up
That's right
That's the way it has to be
Mikami, sing us that song for old times' sake?
- Which one? - The one you sang when we went to Kure
- Oh, not that - Which one?
- The one based on a poem - l'd like to hear that
- Go on, Mikami - Go on
- Come on! - All right, then
lt's kind ofold-fashioned, though
This is based on the death poem by the patriot Masatsura Kusunoki
My father's noble precepts...
...are engraved on my heart
l will faithfully follow my emperor's edict
lt's pretty long, so carry on drinking while you're listening
Ten years ofremaining patient...
...and now at last our time has come...
...to strike a powerful blow forthe emperor's cause and ourstruggle
To fight and die as men, we swear an oath
United as one...
...we 143 companions ofwar...
...are determined to fight until we reach victory
l know that l shall not be returning...
...so, among the names ofthose who have died by the catalpa bow...
...l inscribe my own
With the tips ofour arrows we engrave ourstory...
...as the blades ofour swords shine resplendent in the evening glow
Against the approaching enemy...
...let us walk with the same resolute steps...
...and deal the final blow to theirgeneral
That's enough. l'm stopping there
lsn't there more?
- You should go on ifthere's more - Go on
l think that's enough for now
- Go on - That's enough
- lt's inspiring stuffthough - l agree
Passing amid the verdant hills of Sakurai...
...now darkened by the evening gloom...
...he tethers his steed beneath a sheltering tree...
...and reflects on the fates and tides oftime
Are they tears that dampen his armour sleeve...
...or are they drops offalling dew?
So you met up with your daughter?
She's coming round to the house soon
They seem to be managing, so that's good
lt's difficult raising children, isn't it?
Eventually, all parents have to let go...
...and that's never easy
That's true
We must be getting old...
...talking about our children at a school reunion
True
But we carry the dreams ofour youth with us forever
- l'm home! - Welcome back
- Mr Hirayama ofTokyo is here - Really? Where is he?
ln the back room
Hello!
Welcome back
Welcome to our home
Thank you for coming to Setsuko's wedding
lt was my pleasure. Please accept my congratulations
What brings you to Kyoto?
Well, after my school reunion in Gamagori, l went on to Osaka
Oh, l see. Have you taken care of all your affairs?
Yukiko, what was it again?
When Setsuko and her husband stopped at our inn...
- What? - What was the food they liked?
- The pickled rape blossoms - Yes, they really liked them
He says, "These taste nice," and she says, "You're right"
He says, "You like it?" and she says, "Ooh, l do!"
They're perfect for each other. Aren't they, Yukiko?
And they stayed in this very room
Well, thank you for looking after them
- They were no trouble at all - They only stayed one night
l invited them to stay longer...
...but theyjust visited some ofthe sights and left
Really?
Mr Taniguchi seems such a kind fellow
l hope Yukiko can find such a nice husband. Right, Yukiko?
Absolutely! l would love to find a man like him
What's not to like about him?
Well, l've nothing against him personally
- Excuse me, madam... - What? You need me? Excuse me
Have some more, Uncle
l apologise for what l did the other day
- Sorry? - Don't be angry. Please forgive me
Oh, you mean the set-up?
Yes. l'd make a fine actress, don't you think?
Very convincing. l fell for it hook, line and sinker!
- Did you make it all up? - l'm sorry?
You haven't found a man that you want to marry?
No, l haven't, unfortunately. l can't seem to find anyone
- Why not? - l just don't have time
Your mother wants you to get married
That's what she always says. lt's got to be a habit
l doubt that
lt's true. She just likes saying it
Honestly, though, she doesn't want me to leave
l don't believe that for a second
She keeps picking candidates and then finds all kinds of problems with them
She's like a child playing with building blocks
ls that what you think?
lt makes it difficult for me
lt's time you started thinking seriously about it
l can't get married and abandon my mother, l'd worry too much
lf l leave, she'll spend all her days fighting with Matsu...
...and she'll ruin this place
Matsu has the patience of a saint!
Why couldn't someone marry into your family?
No man would last long with my mother around
You shouldn't worry so much about your mother
Parents devote themselves to their children...
...and their children's happiness is all that matters
You think?
Ofcourse. You shouldn't keep yourself from marrying because ofyour mother
- But that's odd - Why?
Didn't you once tell me not to get married?
- Did l? - You said something about gold and brass
Oh, yes, l did say that
What you have to do is turn the brass into gold
Get married, will you? lt's time
Your advice has completely changed. l'm confused
Should l or should l not get married?
lt'd be better ifyou did
This isn't a set-up?
No, l'm not as good an actor as you are
Think about it, anyway. lfyou find a good man, marry him
lfyou find happiness, so will your mother
- l'll think about it - Think it over carefully
Always busy!
- Have guests arrived? - lt's the man from the tax office
Yukiko, would you deal with it for me?
Remember that handsome man with the nice neckties?
He's asked us to bring our family seal
ls he your newest candidate?
l would like that
Enough ofthat, Mother. Do you know what Setsuko said?
What?
She said you didn't look happy at the wedding
She said you didn't even smile once
That's what troubled her most
Really? She told you that?
Oh, l do feel so sorry for Setsuko
You should smile in her company. lt's not that difficult!
Why don't you try it now?
What?
Yukiko, what do you think of him leaving for Hiroshima this instant?
That's a great idea, Mother. Best idea you've had in ages!
You should go and visit, Uncle
Hiroshima?
Yes. Then she'll stop worrying
Excellent! lt's decided, then
l can'tjust leave my business
This is more important than work
Call Tokyo before he backs out
l will!
Hey, wait a minute! Hey!
- You're so full ofgood ideas, Mother - Sharp as a tack!
- You are! - Hey, Yukiko!
- Take him to the phone - Right away!
Tokyo 45-3136, please
This is Gion 27-84
Hello?
Hello, Auntie!
How are you? lt's Yukiko
Uncle is going to Hiroshima to visit Setsuko
Yes. Yes, that's right
l'll put him on
Quick, Uncle. Auntie's on the line
Here
Hello? lt's me
That's right, l'm thinking about it
So you're really going to Hiroshima?
l'm so happy. Setsuko will be overjoyed
Well, l haven't made up my mind yet
l don't think it's necessary for me to go. lt's a long way
Why are you laughing? What's so funny?
That's typical ofyou!
l know how l am. Anyway, you should go
Don't worry
l'm so happy. So happy
Setsuko will be so pleased. l'm glad, too
Listen, this isn't about making you happy. You see...
l know
l'm so happy
Send her my love. Goodbye
Excuse me
Send a telegram for me
'Arriving at Hiroshima 14:18. Stop. Father'
All right?
- l'll have it sent from Osaka - Please do
The End