I'm serious. Marry me. Aren't you serious about me?
- Hold on. - Why? I got divorced for you.
Enough. We're too old to talk about marriage. Don't you see?
Hey...
What are you doing? Stop.
I said, stop!
Stop...
Stop!
Calm down. Let's talk.
- Calm down so we can talk. - I won't forgive you!
On April 13, 2014, the defendant entered room #1207...
...at the Saint Mullein Hotel in Yonezaki...
...with Mitsuko Hamada, age 38, with the intent to kill her.
Subsequently, he took a steak knife...
...and stabbed her left chest, causing death by massive bleeding.
Charged offense and penal code: Murder, Article 199.
Defendant Kuniaki Shimazu, you have a right to remain silent.
You do not have to answer anything you do not want to,..
...but anything you say will be used as evidence.
Does the defendant wish to say anything in relation to the charges?
I did not kill her. I'm being wrongfully accused.
Does the defense counsel having anything to say to that?
My client pleads not guilty.
THE LAST WITNESS
DAY BEFORE HEARING
That took forever!
No smoking.
We don't know our way around so let's look up the place first.
Anyway, why don't we have breakfast first?
Eat and sleep, that's all you do. I couldn't sleep thanks to your snoring. ATTORNEY: SADATO SAKATA
Oh, stop. I don't snore. ATTORNEY: CHIHIRO KOSAKA
Oh, that looks delicious!
Are you Mr. Sakata?
- Yes, I am. - Please get in.
Wait! Mr. Sakata!
He's giving us a grand welcome.
Still, you don't have to take the case...
...just because he sent you a huge deposit.
The trial starts tomorrow. We don't have time to prepare.
Kosaka, eat or talk. Pick one.
I prefer a full stomach over style.
Good to meet you. We're...
I was expecting you to come yesterday.
It's only two hours from Tokyo on bullet train.
- You contacted us only yesterday. - After getting that big of a deposit...
I figured you'd rush over here.
I did a search on you. DEFENDANT: KUNIAKI SHIMAZU
My last attorney was all talk, but I hear you're skilled.
What's your preferred outcome?
- What? - He's talking about penal infliction.
For a case like this, you're looking at about 10 years.
- If you wish to plead extenuating circumstances. - I'm innocent.
- Innocent? - I didn't kill that woman.
I won't forgive you!
She was the one trying to kill me.
Cut it out.
The next day, I found out she was killed.
I didn't understand what happened, and here I am now.
What was your relationship with the victim?
She was a student in my ceramics class.
- Ceramics class? - I teach as a hobby.
Did you stay at a hotel with your student often?
Listen.
I own a number of companies.
There isn't a single person in this town that doesn't know me.
I went to that hotel because that woman invited me.
I have a wife and children.
She tricked me.
- Yet, she's the one who's dead. - Well, it wasn't me that killed her.
What do I gain by killing her?
I wouldn't throw away everything...
...I worked hard for for a pathetic woman like her.
If you can get me acquitted, I'll pay double of what I already paid you.
I don't care what kind of position you have.
I'll take your case on one condition.
Condition?
Don't ever lie to me.
Are you serious about taking this case?
I told you before. I take a case based on one thing.
Whether it's interesting or not.
Well, if we can get the rest of the payment from him,..
...we can pay off the office's backed up rent...
...and I'll finally get paid too.
Still, he's obviously a murderer. How will you get him acquitted?
Trials aren't about winning or losing. Shimazu promised he wouldn't lie.
I'll have to take his word for it.
YONEZAKI PROSECUTORS OFFICE
Kuniaki Shimazu has a new attorney.
Someone you know well.
It's Sakata.
You mean Sadato Sakata? PROSECUTING ATTORNEY: MAO SHOJI
Yeah. l didn't know he was in Tokyo. CHIEF PROSECUTING: YOSHITAKA TSUTSUI
Didn't you start the same year as him?
Yes.
Whoever the attorney may be, Shimazu is guilty. Please rest assured.
I know more than anyone how excellent you are. I'm not worried.
Only, it bothers me that Shimazu is pleading not guilty...
...when he knows there's evidence to prove otherwise.
I'm guessing Sakata is...
Don't take him lightly.
I know how good he is.
It's this way.
Sorry. He's always like this.
He wants to see where the surveillance cameras are.
Which room did the incident take place in?
It's this one.
- Mr. Sakata! It's this room. - He's weird.
Is it true the prosecuting attorney is a former colleague of yours?
Yeah.
Mao Shoji. She's a formidable opponent.
You're right.
I never knew you were a prosecutor in Yonezaki. Why didn't you tell me?
- Is there a reason you didn't say? - Stop questioning me.
I can't concentrate.
Sorry.
If Shimazu didn't kill her, the culprit is someone else.
- The curtains are open. - Curtains?
A river.
YONEZAKI COURTHOUSE
Long time no see.
- Go easy on me. - Likewise.
I take it there's no need for introductions? PRETRIAL PROCEEDINGS
I'm sure Mr. Sakata is glad to spare... PRETRIAL PROCEEDINGS
...the time since the hearing is tomorrow.
As you know, there will be 3 hearings...
...and the verdict will be given on the 4th day.
- Is that understood? - Yes.
For verification, the defense side will not have a witness?
The previous attorney didn't call any witnesses?
You agreed to take this case without knowing?
My client contacted me yesterday. I agreed to take on the case...
2 hours ago.
Is there any possibility of self defense?
What did you say? JUDGE: KOICHIRO IWASE
Could Kuniaki Shimazu have acted out of self-defense?
If it was self-defense, he wouldn't have had to flee the scene.
- He never once made that assertion. - I'm talking about possibility.
The trial is founded upon facts. Speculations are unnecessary.
I believe the truth lies within what is seemingly unnecessary.
You haven't changed.
Why...?
Why did you quit being a prosecutor?
Why do you continue?
AKIRA MIYAKE
- I'll get that. - Thanks.
I heard he was an excellent prosecutor.
- Do you know why he quit? - No one knows.
Even if they do, no one wants to talk about it.
This is the place our client made reservations for us.
- Are you sure about this? - Shimazu is paying.
Oh. Don't get the wrong idea. We're in separate rooms.
The weapon was a steak knife...
Looks delicious!
I see. So you're here for President Shimazu's trial?
- Isn't the hearing tomorrow? - Yes. How do you know?
He's famous around here.
Shimazu Holdings has a hand in various industries like construction...
...transportation, real estate and I restaurant business.
There are countless affiliate companies too.
We were doing business with them too.
Please have your meal before it gets cold.
He's only interested in red sausages.
Feel free to call me if you need anything.
Thank you.
Thank you for the meal.
I used to get scolded for not being able to decide what to eat,..
...but who can blame me with so many dishes.
Only if we had just as many material to prove Shimazu's innocence.
I made my choice. Huh?
Hey...
Hey!
That would be the normal reaction.
Yes.
But she was killed with a single stab to the heart.
FIRST HEARING
PROSECUTION WITNESS: HIROSHI TAZAWA
You work for Saint Mullein Hotel? PROSECUTION WITNESS: HIROSHI TAZAWA
Yes.
I work at the front desk.
Did the defendant and victim check in together on the day of the incident?
No. The man checked in alone.
- What time was it? - It was 8:00pm.
The defendant used a false name to make a reservation and check in?
Yes.
Your room is #1207.
Where was the victim at that time?
The woman did not appear until 30 min later.
The man made reservations under a false name,..
...and waited alone in the room.
What do you think it suggests about their relationship?
Objection. It's a leading question.
It's not a leading question.
It's necessary to make clear what sort of relationship...
...the defendant and victim shared.
Objection overruled.
In your opinion, what was their relationship?
The kind of relationship where they needed to avoid being seen.
Mr. Tazawa, you were the first to find the victim.
Please tell me what you saw.
It was past the check out time so I called the room twice.
No one answered, so I used a spare key to check on her.
Miss?
- No one else was in the room? - That's right.
Does that mean the guest who was with the victim left beforehand?
I saw him leave the hotel around 11:00pm.
This is the victim's autopsy report.
From looking at the stage of digestion...
...from the food in the stomach and lividity...
...the estimated time of death is between 10:00pm-12:00am.
From looking at the hotel surveillance cameras, the defendant,..
...the victim, and a hotel staff...
...who delivered room service were the only people...
...who went to room #1207 on that night.
From this we conclude that the only one present...
...during the estimated time of death is the defendant.
Objection. She's assuming facts not in evidence.
Objection sustained.
Refrain from stating your personal opinions.
I have no further questions.
Go ahead.
You said you used a spare key...
...to get into the room where you found the victim.
Were the curtains in the room open?
- The curtains? - Yes.
Were they open or were they closed?
Miss?
They were open.
I have nothing further.
Where did you pick up the defendant?
In front of Saint Mullein Hotel.
Do you remember the time?
Yes. It was a little past 11:00pm. TAXI DRIVER: MASASHI IGARASHI
I remember because he was the first customer...
...after I changed my rate to the midnight rate.
How was he acting?
He looked pale and seemed flustered.
- Take me to Kofuji. - You dropped your money.
Just go! I said, just go!
He was flustered and he yelled at you when he got in?
Yes, he blew up.
You've been a taxi driver for years...
...and have dealt with various types of customers.
In your opinion, what was your impression of him?
Obviously, he's done something bad.
I think he was trying to get out of the place as soon as possible.
Objection. The witness is stating his subjective view and is speculating.
- Objection sustained. - That would be all.
- Any questions from the defense? - None.
How can you remain silent and get me acquitted!?
Mr. Shimazu.
You need to calm down.
I feel bad saying this, but...
...I think Mitsuko is at fault for what happened.
Why do you think so?
I saw how Mitsuko was these past few months. PROSECUTING WITNESS: KEIKO TABATA
Mitsuko and Dr. Takase, her husband,..
...moved next door to me 6 years ago.
They were a very quiet couple.
The way Mitsuko wore her hair...
...and the way she dressed started changing around last year.
Even her personality changed too.
From around then, the couple started arguing a lot.
- That's Mitsuko. - No way.
Mom! They're at it again.
They're so loud, I can't study.
- What are you thinking!? - It's none of your business!
- Who is he!? - You don't know him!
What do you think is the reason the victim's style and personality changed?
It has to be an... affair.
Mitsuko is to be pitied too, because she lost her child.
Do you think the loss of her child made her emotionally unstable?
I don't know, but I think...
...she was lonely because it was just her and her husband.
Mitsuko filed for divorce afterwards.
The defendant has a wife and children as well as position and fame.
It's possible he killed the victim after she insisted on marriage.
- Objection. That's a speculation. - That would be all.
- Your Honor. - Go ahead.
Nowhere in the evidence material does it mention...
...the victim losing her child.
- How would I know? - When did her child pass away?
Was it right after birth or was the child grown? What was the cause?
I heard a rumor. It happened before Mitsuko moved next door to me.
- So it was more than 6 years ago? - Objection.
- The question is irrelevant. - Wait a minute.
Objection sustained.
Would you like to change the question and continue?
No, Your Honor.
- Thank you for your work. - Do you take me for a joke?
No.
Then what were all those pointless questions?
- I find it hard to believe you're serious. - It's my style.
Here's some advice.
You better come up with another strategy if you want a reduced sentence.
She's pleasant, isn't she?
But she's right, you know.
What do the curtains have to do with the case?
Can you find out about the child?
- Child? - Mitsuko's child who died.
- I'll go talk to her ex-husband. - Objection.
Huh?
What's the point in finding out about a child who died years ago?
- We don't know, that's why... - ...we're finding out.
Only then can we see the truth that lies beneath.
Exactly.
Fine.
CLOSED 9/17-9/22
Hello?
Her ex-husband, Takase, isn't home and his clinic is closed too.
- What about you? - I know how Mitsuko's child died.
- It was a car accident. - Car accident?
I'm near the scene. A lady from a nearby pub remembered it well.
He was hit by a car on his way home from cram school.
His name was Suguru Takase. He was in the 4th grade.
When did the accident happen?
A year before they moved, so 7 years ago.
7 years ago... On what month?
August. There was heavy rain that night due to a hurricane.
August, 7 years ago...
Oh, hi.
She seems to be feeling well today. She's been knitting since morning.
Is that so?
Yoko. Mao is here.
I'm almost finished.
I'm knitting socks for Mao, since it'll get cold soon.
You're very good.
Mao will turn two soon.
She's such a good girl. She's the apple of my eye.
Excuse me.
Why...?
He killed someone. Why won't he be charged?
It's just too unfair.
How am I supposed to explain it to Mao...?
This is too brutal...
I'll make him pay for his crime...
CHILD IGNORES RED LIGHT, DIES IN CRASH
You're looking up the accident from 7 years ago?
Please wait.
I'm Kosuge, the Assistant Superintendent.
Who was in charge of the case back then?
It's been 7 years.
The officer who was assigned has retired.
Others who were involved have transferred, so I can't answer.
- There's not even one person here? - That's right.
We found out in the investigation that the child ignored the light.
The driver didn't face criminal charges.
I don't know what you're searching for, but you won't find anything new.
Can you tell me the name of the officer in charge who retired?
We apologize. We can't do that.
You mean the police are hiding something about the accident?
Most likely. Did you find anything?
I talked to a mother who was good friends with Mitsuko.
Some said the light was green when Suguru was crossing.
Mitsuko blamed herself for not picking him up at cram school.
The friend lent me this photo. It was taken a week before the accident.
This is Suguru.
She seems like a totally different person from the testimonies in court.
She seems like a good mother.
Her friend said Mitsuko moved 6 years ago to forget about the accident.
Her ex-husband and Suguru's father, Mr. Takase,..
...did his best to be there for Mitsuko after the accident.
Suguru would be in high school if he were alive.
7 years seems short, but maybe it's a long time.
I wonder...
7 years ago...
...that's then Shimazu was appointed head of the Public Safety Commission.
Public Safety Commission?
But he resigned in Sep. of the same year, a month after the accident.
Men like Shimazu love fame and position.
It's odd that he would resign without completing a full term.
You think Shimazu was involved in the accident?
I don't know, but Shimazu reacted when he heard Takase's name.
Mitsuko and Dr. Takase, her husband, were a quiet couple.
But...
Shimazu didn't realize who Mitsuko was because...
...she changed her name back to her maiden name, Hamada.
I'm going to go see Shimazu.
What the heck was that today at the hearing?
The prosecuting attorney completely took the stage.
I did a search on Mitsuko's son.
What's that have to do with my trial?
I didn't pay you to do that!
- The boy died in a car accident. - Are you listening to me!?
Suguru Takase was in 4th grade when he died.
The accident happened in August, 7 years ago.
7 years ago...
That's when you were appointed head...
...of the Public Safety Commission, and resigned.
Why did you resign?
Listen. Your job is to get me a not guilty verdict.
Don't stick your nose in matters that aren't your business.
Were you the one who caused the accident?
If so, it makes sense why the police tried to hide it.
As the head of the Commission, you applied pressure on the police.
The accident has nothing to do with me.
I can't fight for you in court if you don't tell me the truth!
You promised me. You said you won't lie to me.
I had a green light.
The bike came out of nowhere. I couldn't hit the brake in time.
You didn't know Mitsuko was the boy's mother?
I would never see her alone if I did. She used her maiden name.
Don't tell me she got close to me knowing that I'm...
I don't know if she knew or if it was a coincidence.
But if she knew that you were the man who killed her son...
...the accident is definitely connected to this current case.
Excuse me.
- I'd like to sign up for classes. - Please come in.
The child was at fault.
Perhaps Mitsuko didn't think so.
Please tell me the name of the police officer who dealt with the accident.
Who was the officer?
It was a guy called Maruyama.
He's working at a bicycle parking lot now.
One more thing.
Tell me about the curtains at the hotel when you left.
You're asking about that again?
They were closed! I closed them myself!
You never know who might be watching.
The man from the hotel said...
They were open.
The person who killed her opened the curtains after I left?
That's it.
Find him! Prove my innocence!
I will. As long as you don't lie to me.
- Good work today. - Thank you.
Good evening.
Are you Mr. Maruyama who was formerly with Yonezaki Police?
Who are you? HIDEO MARUYAMA
I'm Kuniaki Shimazu's attorney.
Saint Mullein Hotel isn't far from here.
I don't know anything about the incident.
No, I'm here to ask about Suguru Takase's accident.
I have nothing to tell you.
Mr. Shimazu says Suguru was at fault.
I said I have nothing to tell you.
- Is that really true? - The boy caused the accident.
Shimazu admitted to the accident from 7 years ago?
Yeah, but the boy was at fault.
That wouldn't matter to a mother who lost her child.
Mitsuko approached Shimazu knowing that...
...he was involved in the accident.
Are you saying she took him to the hotel to kill him?
I see... I guess it wouldn't have to be at a hotel.
Right, but the murder took place in a hotel.
Hotel... with the man who caused her son's death...
That's normally out of the question.
Mr. Takase must've been devastated when he found out.
The man who caused his son to die was...
Could it be...?
Your room is #1207.
Mr. Takase went to the hotel when he found out...
...the man Mitsuko was seeing was Shimazu.
After Shimazu left the hotel, Mr. Takase entered room #1207...
...and they got into an argument.
It's possible.
If so, these might be Mr. Takase's doing too.
Do we have to look at that before dinner?
Shimazu was wearing this robe in the hotel room.
- It's strange. - What's strange?
The blood.
The blood would normally splatter like this.
Our dinner...!
But the blood on the robe is like this.
- Strange, right? - How would I know...?
Mr. Takase became angry, killed Mitsuko,..
...and made it look like Shimazu did it.
Shimazu's fingerprints were on the knife.
Mr. Takase is a doctor so he knew how to aim right at the heart.
That's right.
Can you check the hotel cameras after tomorrow's hearing?
The police checked the footage, but the investigation...
...was done with a preconceived notion that Shimazu's the killer.
They could've missed something.
I'll need overtime pay.
Do what you like.
You'll need something to verify what Mr. Takase looks like.
He'll be at the hearing as a witness for the prosecution.
I'll take a photo of him.
I didn't know you were still in Yonezaki.
I moved all over.
And when I returned, it was no smoking throughout the entire prosecutor's office.
So I quit.
You still remember my favorite sake?
I haven't gone senile yet.
Shoji is a tough cookie.
I bet you're having a hard time with her.
It doesn't matter who the opponent is.
My job is to get a fair sentence for the committed crime.
You haven't changed.
Please stop! 12 YEARS AGO
Please stop!
I beg you! Please!
- Please, please! - What are you doing, Kanda?
Can I help you?
I'm going to go see the chief public prosecutor.
Be prepared.
ATTORNEY TADASHI YAMAJI
Kanda was transferred to Iwamaki district. YAMAJI LAW OFFICE
What happened?
It's not about what happened, it's about what he did.
CHIEF PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE
What business do you have with the chief prosecutor?
Did you know that Kanda sexually assaulted an intern?
The woman dropped the suit.
- Kanda is remorseful. - She was forced to drop it.
The mistake off one man will destroy the trustworthiness...
...of the entire organization.
We must maintain our dignity.
Is that why the truth is covered up?
I won't have that. If no one will indict Kanda, I will.
Each prosecutor has the right to indict as a single government entity.
You're right. But the reality is that our superiors have absolute authority.
If they say something's white when it's actually black, well it's white.
That's absurd.
Kanda's an exceptional prosecutor, but he should still pay for his crime.
He did.
He has no chance of climbing the ladder of success.
No! Punishment of a crime must not be substituted.
What's the point if he's not charged for his crime?
If not, what happens to the victim?
Where can she direct her anger and humiliation?
Sakata.
Justice isn't only revealing the truth.
You think that's being stern?
So what is justice to you, huh?
To me, justice is to judge the offense fairly.
Can you make Shimazu win by the justice you believe in so strongly?
Be prepared.
Keep the change. I'll come for another drink.
If I remember you.
Thanks for the sake.
SECOND HEARING
Like the victim, you took ceramics classes taught by the defendant.
PROSECUTING WITNESS: YOSHIKO MIYAMOTO Like the victim, you took ceramics classes taught by the defendant.
- Is that correct? - Yes.
I took Tues/Thurs classes like Mitsuko.
- How did Mitsuko appear to you? - She seemed to be enjoying it.
She seemed close with the teacher too.
- What do you mean by close? - I... saw them.
- What do you think? - Let's see.
Not bad.
Are you sure their legs didn't touch by accident?
No, I saw other things too.
Obviously, it wasn't a normal student/teacher relationship.
Mitsuko didn't deny it either.
- Return to your seat. - Yes, Your Honor.
She didn't deny it?
I asked her because I was interested.
- So what's the truth? - About what?
About Mr. Shimazu.
Everyone's wondering if you two are seeing each other.
So you noticed?
From what I checked, there are 20 ceramics classes here in Yonezaki.
The classes all vary in size.
So of all the classes offered, why did you choose the defendant's?
I joined the class because my friend invited me.
I see.
Earlier, you said Mitsuko...
...came to the class alone and was not invited by anyone to join.
Of all the classes offered, why do you think...
...Mitsuko chose the defendant's class?
I don't know...
If you hadn't been invited by a friend, would you have chosen his class?
I doubt that.
There are other classes with lower lesson fees and better teachers.
I probably wouldn't have joined his class if my friend hadn't invited me.
That's odd. Then why did Mitsuko choose the defendant's class?
Objection. The questions are irrelevant to the case at hand.
- Objection sustained. - I have no further questions.
Sounds like Mitsuko joined because it was Shimazu's class.
This is a robe from the hotel which has the victim's blood on it.
PROF. OF FORENSIC MED: SATOSHI NISHIWAKI This is a robe from the hotel which has the victim's blood on it.
Prof. Nishiwaki conducted Mitsuko's autopsy.
What is your opinion regarding this photo?
The blood/DNA belongs to the victim.
Only the defendant's DNA was found on the robe,..
...which means the defendant had it one that night.
This is the knife that was used for the murder.
What's your opinion on this?
There's no mistake. This is the weapon used.
The knife matched the victim's stab wound.
Only the defendant and the victim's fingerprints were on it.
I'd like to ask you about the bloodstains.
Objection. He's asking the obvious to prolong the hearing.
This is an important question.
It reveals the fact that the defendant can't be the killer.
Objection overruled.
- What is this fact? - It's the bloodstains.
The report says the bloodstains are speckled,..
...which means the blood dripped onto the robe.
Yes.
That's odd.
Mitsuko was killed with a single stab to the heart with a sharp steak knife.
When the knife was pulled out...
Wouldn't the blood splash onto the robe instead?
That's true, but it's unclear...
...whether the bloodstains are from when the weapon was pulled out.
Also, depending on the victim's blood pressure,..
...the blood might drip instead of splash.
The victim had terminal cancer.
- Terminal cancer? - It was verified during the autopsy.
- It was stage 4 thymic carcinoma. - Hold on. That wasn't in the report.
I didn't think it was related to the case, so I thought it unnecessary.
Any other questions?
No. That's all.
We'll take a 15 min recess.
He froze. His strategy failed.
No, he's taken an interest on the fact that the victim had cancer.
I didn't know about it either.
But why would that affect the trial?
I don't know,..
...but he's always believed that the truth lies...
...within seemingly irrelevant facts.
What are you going to do? Takase will take the stand next.
Any tactics?
- Do you think he knew? - Huh?
Did Takase know about her stage 4 cancer?
We will resume the hearing.
Please call in prosecuting witness, Koji Takase.
Please swear in the witness.
I, Koji Takase, swear that the evidence that I shall give, shall be the truth...
...the whole truth and nothing but the truth, so help me God.
VICTIM'S EX-HUSBAND: KOJI TAKASE ...the whole truth and nothing but the truth, so help me God.
Please tell me about your divorce with Mitsuko.
Mitsuko started acting differently around the summer of last year.
Her style of clothes started to change, and her hair and make up changed too.
At first I thought she was just doing it for a change.
But she started coming home late,..
...and I sensed it hat there was another man in the picture.
I confronted her and she said...
...there was someone she was in love with.
She said she couldn't stay in a marriage with me and asked for a divorce.
We were together for many years, so I tried to change her mind.
It was useless.
I wanted her to be happy, so I agreed to the divorce.
She said there was someone else she loved.
Did you know she was talking about the defendant?
No, but I had my suspicions after seeing her happily go to ceramics class.
Mitsuko was deceived by this man.
Although we were divorced, I can't stand that...
...he portrays her as if she initiated the relationship with him.
He deceived her and played her.
In the end, he even killed her.
I didn't kill her! That's bogus!
Order!
I know she must be mortified.
She can't speak out even if she wants to.
I'm sure she's exasperated.
I ask for severe punishment on behalf of Mitsuko.
- Your Honor. - Go ahead.
- You run a clinic in the city. - Yes.
Where did you work before opening your clinic?
I was an internist at Tonichi Medical University.
How many years since you opened your clinic?
6 years.
That's a year after you lost your son in an accident.
Yes.
You are an experienced internist.
When did you learn about Mitsuko's cancer?
I didn't know about her cancer.
Is that true?
Yes.
Mitsuko had stage 4 thymic cancer. There must've been symptoms.
I find it odd that you, a doctor, didn't notice.
When Mitsuko started having her affair,..
...we ate and slept in separate rooms.
There were many days when I didn't see her.
If I had known, I would've given her medical advice...
...and I wouldn't have divorced her.
If the cancer started progressing rapidly after the divorce,..
...there's no way could've notice.
Let me change the question.
I want to ask you about the accident 7 years ago.
You suddenly lost your son, Suguru, who was 10 years old.
What are your feelings on that?
My son caused the accident.
He ignored a red light.
It was an unfortunate accident. That's how I feel about it.
Are you saying you don't resent the driver?
Objection. Your questions don't make sense.
Objection sustained. Make your questions relevant.
Nothing more.
It's been 7 years.
I want to forget about the accident.
Is your comment relevant to the case?
No. I'm sorry.
The counsel on each side will give a closing argument at tomorrow's hearing.
Court is adjourned.
Were you able to find something in the unnecessaries?
The truth is clear.
All the evidence points to Shimazu.
Shimazu says he's innocent.
He doesn't want to let go of his position and wealth.
Why are you so sure he's lying?
Regardless of what kind of man he is,..
...someone has to side with him for the trial to be fair.
Fair? What's so fair?
There are some who deserve punishment but don't get it.
The reality is that some go without punishment...
...when they've taken someone's life.
Instead, they are given leniency...
...and a path to social rehabilitation.
Those who've lost their loved ones...
...must suffer for the rest of their lives.
I despise criminals regardless of what type of person they are.
That's the role of the prosecutor who sides with the victims.
Hello?
This hotel takes their security seriously.
They have a gazillion cameras...
Which means Takase could very likely be in the footage.
I just haven't found anything yet.
I'll see if anyone spotted Takase near the hotel.
Call me if you find anything.
- Have you seen this man? - No.
Thank you.
Can I ask some questions?
Excuse me.
The hearing will conclude tomorrow. Please expect a positive report.
Today's witness, Koji Takase... isn't he the victim's ex-husband?
Yes.
I think Sakata thinks Takase is the true culprit.
I considered the scenario of Takase killing Mitsuko in a jealous rage.
He didn't have an alibi, I but none of the evidence pointed to him.
After an interrogation, I concluded that he's innocent.
I'm not questioning your judgement.
Criminals are people.
It's our duty to focus on the person.
- Don't lose this case. - I won't.
Yes, I remember the murder incident at the hotel.
I was working the late shift that night,
and it happened i right around the time I was leaving.
- I was shocked. - Where were you headed?
Near the hotel, which is why I was so shocked to hear about it.
Did you see this man by any chance?
I don't think so.
Besides, this isn't Tokyo. There aren't very many people out so late.
- You're from Tokyo aren't you? - Well, yes.
I thought so. You remind me of my daughter's husband.
Bonfire.
Huh?
There was someone by the river. I could see a bonfire.
Which river?
The Kazama River which runs near the hotel.
I think it was a man. He was probably night fishing.
Thank you.
I was just about to call you.
I couldn't find Takase in any of the surveillance footage.
Mr. Sakata?
So that's it...
My assumption was wrong.
What?
- We need to find a witness. - What do you mean?
Check the cameras around the river and bridge.
OK.
Coming.
I said I have nothing to tell you.
Hey!
Stop bothering me! Leave!
Shimazu's case is connected to the accident from 7 years ago.
If we can't figure out the truth behind Suguru's death,..
...it'll be an unfair trial.
Please tell me the truth.
What you know is the truth. It's done with.
It's not done.
Shimazu's case is the result of an unresolved crime.
It was the police who committed the original crime.
Enough already!
Even if he didn't do it, Shimazu deserves to be punished.
As you say, those who have committed crimes must be convicted.
But they need to be convicted for the right crimes.
It's not my I business.
Mr. Maruyama.
We all make mistakes.
The first time around, you can say it was a mistake.
But not the second time around.
You make the same mistake twice, and it becomes your way of life.
Please tell the truth at court tomorrow.
I'll be waiting for you.
The final hearing for the murder case which occurred...
FINAL HEARING ...at the Saint Mullein Hotel will be held today.
You want to call a witness?
All the witnesses have already been called to the stand.
I know, but there's a witness who is deeply involved in this case.
You mean you want to call a new witness?
Yes. The witness has important knowledge about...
...the motive of this case.
I can't approve it.
Without his testimony the case cannot be judged fairly.
I ask that you make a wise decision.
Please accept my request.
What do you say?
I'll leave the decision to the judges.
It's me. My request was approved. Where's Mr. Maruyama?
He isn't home! I'll I head to his work now.
Do that.
We will proceed with the closing arguments, but before that...
...there was a request by the defense to call a witness which I approved.
I'm sorry, Your Honor. The witness is running late.
Will the prosecution open the argument first?
I understand.
CLOSING ARGUMENT (PROSECUTION) What was the last thing Mitsuko saw?
It was the sight of the man she loved, stabbing her.
I can't imagine how mortified she must've felt in that moment.
However, the defendant...
...has continually denied the charges against him...
...regardless that there is evidence that proves...
...beyond a reasonable doubt that he committed the crime.
The sight of him desperately trying to escape...
...from the crime he committed is proof that...
...there isn't the slightest sense of remorse in him.
Although this may be his first offense,..
...he has a heavy responsibility for the crime...
...and deserves a harsh penalty.
For that reason,..
...the prosecution recommends a sentence of 15 years in prison.
Thank you.
Is the defense ready?
What would you like to do?
The witness I called is...
Maruyama?
What's going on...?
I found him at the scene of the accident.
He was letting Suguru know.
Mr. Maruyama.
Is there anyone here that you know?
DEFENSE WITNESS: HIDEO MARUYAMA Yes, there is. It's this man here.
You know the defendant. When do you know him from?
7 years ago.
How did you meet him?
Through an incident that took place back then.
A 4th grade boy was hit by a car and died.
Objection. That's another case.
You'll see it's relevant to this case...
...if you'll let me ask this next question.
Objection overruled.
Tell me the name of the boy who died in the car accident.
His name was Suguru Takase.
He's the son of the victim, Mitsuko Hamada,..
...whose married name was Mitsuko Takase.
Yes.
The car accident that killed Suguru occurred on Aug 3,..
...7 years ago.
A car and a bicycle collided.
Back then, Mr. Maruyama worked for the Yonezaki Police...
...and was assigned to this case, correct?
Yes.
According to police records,..
...Suguru's running a red light caused the accident.
Is that what happened?
No.
Then was the driver of the car at fault?
He should have been.
What do you mean?
Does that mean the driver was actually at fault,..
...but the blame was pinned on Suguru?
That's right.
- Did the driver face charges? - No, he did not.
Tell me the name of the driver.
His name is Kuniaki Shimazu.
The driver had ignored a red light, which was the cause of the collision.
He wasn't paying attention.
Hello? It's me, Shimazu.
I'm in trouble... Do something!
Idiot! Just make something up!
The truth was distorted and Suguru's ignoring a red light...
...was blamed when in fact, the driver was liable.
Why was that done?
Because Kuniaki Shimazu was...
...the head of the Public Safety Commission back then.
I received a call from Shimazu right after the accident.
He ordered me to take care of the matter immediately.
I couldn't disobey.
That's a bunch of crap!
I'm kicking you out if you raise your voice again.
Shimazu, along with the police, pinned everything on Suguru.
Yes.
How did Suguru's parents feel about Suguru being the cause of the accident?
Mr. Takase came to the station many times and asked us to reinvestigate.
I understand how you feel, but your son ignored the light. That's the truth.
He wouldn't ignore a red light.
He was always careful. He would've paid attention to the light even in the rain!
He must've been rushing home because of the rain.
We did a thorough investigation, and gave you the facts.
There's nothing more we can do.
Suguru was killed! What do you mean there's nothing more you can do!?
As I've said before, the driver wasn't at fault.
He's not liable for your son's death.
Is it because the driver is the head of the Public Safety Commission?
Isn't that why you people are hiding the facts!?
Tell me the truth!
- Wait! - Hey!
You'd better not. What'll happen to your wife if you get arrested?
She'll be all alone. Are you OK with that?
And the police continued to hide the truth.
Back then, I was caring for my mother with dementia and my wife who was ill.
Disobeying Shimazu meant disobeying my superiors.
That's how much power Shimazu had.
I couldn't say the truth... I was scared to.
What made you tell us now?
Suguru Takase was killed by Shimazu.
Now that Shimazu is facing murder charges, I thought he deserved it.
But Mr. Sakata told me that when you make...
...the same mistake twice, it becomes your way of life.
I felt ashamed of myself.
I had pride in my job as a police officer.
That accident was the one indelible stain.
It is a mistake I tried to hide and forget, but I couldn't.
If I don't tell the truth now, my entire life will become a lie.
As an officer, I was held at a higher standard,..
...but I did such a detestable thing.
That's why...
That's why I deserve to be judged.
Your Honor, as intriguing as the testimony may be,..
...it is still irrelevant to the case at hand.
No, it's not.
Why did Mitsuko have to die?
The motive of her killer lies hidden in...
...the tragedy of the accident 7 years ago.
What do you mean?
There is one last witness who will reveal the answer to us.
I'd like to make a request to call the last witness...
...to the stand as a part of the closing argument.
Are you saying the witness will disclose the truth?
That's right.
And who is the witness?
Koji Takase.
The defendant has continually denied the charges against him...
CLOSING ARGUMENT (DEFENSE) The defendant has continually denied the charges against him...
CLOSING ARGUMENT (DEFENSE) ...regardless of the countless evidence that proves otherwise.
Normally, a defendant would argue...
...that he acted in self-defense or heat-of-passion...
...to get a reduced sentence.
However, that wasn't the case for Mr. Shimazu.
After much thought, I concluded the reason is...
...because he really is innocent of the murder.
I believe this case is a revenge.
The Takases' divorce was fabricated.
The arguments concerning a love affair were a strategy...
...to spread rumors in the neighborhood.
- It's none of your business! - Who is he!?
You don't know him!
Mitsuko attending ceramics class and making it look like...
...she met the defendant there was a plan too.
Mitsuko called the defendant to the hotel,..
...and they got their revenge just as they had planned.
Revenge? Mitsuko was the one who was killed.
Taking the life of the adversary isn't the only form of revenge.
The revenge was to have Mr. Shimazu charged.
You're saying we planned it?
I killed Mitsuko and made it look like Shimazu did it?
Is there evidence to prove that I killed Mitsuko?
According to the prosecution records, you don't have an alibi.
Did you check the surveillance footage from the hotel?
Was I in it?
The only ones who went inside room #1207 were Mitsuko and Shimazu...
...and the hotel staff who delivered room service.
That's a fact that was proven in this trial.
Where were you on the night of the incident?
I was at home alone.
Mr. Sakata, is this the truth you talked about?
All these absurd assumptions?
Have you ever been to room #1207 at Saint Mullein Hotel...
...which was the scene of the crime?
There's a large window in the room,..
...and you get a great view of the Kazama River.
I'm not here to make small talk with you.
- As I've said, I didn't kill... - I know.
You didn't kill Mitsuko.
The person who killed Mitsuko is...
...Mitsuko herself.
When Mitsuko was discovered, the curtains in the room were open.
I couldn't help but think it odd.
The defendant stated he closed the curtains.
It's natural since he feared being seen with Mitsuko in a hotel room.
Wouldn't the same be true for Mitsuko?
Yet, she opened the curtains.
Or rather, she couldn't help but open them.
What did she see from that window before she died?
And what were you watching from the bank of Kazama River?
This is surveillance footage from near the river.
It was taken on the night of the murder at 11:02pm.
Here's a close-up.
This is you, isn't it?
We verified with Tonichi Medical University.
You stated that you were unaware of Mitsuko's cancer.
The doctor who diagnosed Mitsuko testified...
...that he had you break the news to her.
Am I going to die?
You won't.
I'll definitely cure you.
Mitsuko?
No... why me? I don't want to die!
No!
Mitsuko...
You and Mitsuko knew the accident wasn't caused by Suguru.
However, there was nothing to prove it.
Not until Suguru's death anniversary last year...
...when you came across information...
...that the defendant was liable for the accident.
I spoke to one of the boys in this photo this morning.
He said you and Mitsuko never got over Suguru's death.
Seeing the two of you compelled him to speak the truth...
...about what he saw that night.
ONE YEAR AGO SUGURU'S 7TH DEATH ANNIVERSARY
The light was green?
Suguru crossed the crosswalk on a green light?
That's right. I was on my way home from the same cram school.
I told my parents about it...
...but they told me...
...to keep quiet since the police said he ignored the light.
They said I'd only cause you more grief if it turns out that I saw wrong.
So...
You're sure? The light was really green?
Yes. Suguru didn't ignore a red light.
Thank you for telling us.
I'm going to kill Shimazu.
The police aren't going to do anything for us.
That's why I'm going to get revenge for Suguru.
Don't be ridiculous.
What am I supposed to say to him if I die without doing anything?
Please! Let me get revenge for Suguru!
You're not thinking straight!
If you do that, you'll be the same as Shimazu.
I...
I'll kill myself.
And that's how the plan was set in motion.
Mitsuko attended ceramics class and came to know the defendant.
Meanwhile, she was preparing to take her own life...
...with the help of you, a doctor.
The heart is protected by the ribs.
To stab the heart with this knife...
...you need to aim here.
You'll need to do it in a single stab.
Mitsuko...
Mitsuko!
Mitsuko...
- Let's stop this... - No.
Please! Please stop!
Please understand.
To me, to live isn't how long I have breath in my lungs.
It's how I die.
Thank you for allowing my selfishness.
DAY OF INCIDENT
Look at me.
I want you to watch me...
Please.
I'm happy...
What are you doing?
Put it down. Stop.
I won't forgive you!
I'm through with you.
Goodbye...
And that was you and Mitsuko's revenge.
Isn't that right, Mr. Takase?
Please answer me.
I don't know what you're talking about.
That would be all.
Defendant, please come forward.
JUDGEMENT
We've reached a verdict.
We find the defendant not guilty.
Reasons for judgement...
The prosecution lacks enough evidence...
...to prove the defendant is guilty and...
...has failed to prove their case beyond reasonable doubt.
For that reason, Kuniaki Shimazu is not guilty.
As a final word, I'd like to say that this case is not yet over.
It has only reached a new phase.
The defendant must remember that and not forget.
That concludes the trial.
Court is adjourned.
What are you thinking?
- Don't you hear me? - Mr. Sakata kept his promise.
You got a "not guilty" verdict. Congratulations.
I'm talking about the accident.
It's over and done with.
Nope. The accident will be reinvestigated.
You will be tried for the crime you committed.
A reinvestigation?
I'll make sure you won't ever be able...
...to work as an attorney again.
- Do you understand! - Calm down!
Mark my words!
Call Mr. Sakata anytime you need an attorney.
To judge the offense fairly.
That's Mr. Sakata's mantra.
I think it also means to receive deserved solace.
Mr. Takase, you deserve to find I solace.
As do Mitsuko and of course, Suguru.
Kosaka.
Congratulations.
Thanks.
Tell me one thing.
Did you have proof that Mr. Maruyama...
...covered up the truth of the accident?
No.
You took your chances,..
...and I lost to an attorney who relies solely on chance.
The true nature of a trial is to get the truth out.
It's not for the benefit of prosecutors and attorneys.
You're right.
You're absolutely right.
Criminals are people.
The focus should be on the person, not the law.
What's so funny?
I know someone else who said the same thing.
I'll see you again in court.