A Shochiku Film
Early Summer
Screenplay: Kogo Noda Yasujiro Ozu
Producer: Takeshi Yamamoto
Cinematography: Yuharu Atsuta
Sound recording: Yoshisaburo Senoo
Editing: Yoshiyasu Hamamura
Music: Senji Ito
Cast:
Setsuko Hara
Chishu Ryu
Chikage Awashima
Kuniko Miyake
Ichiro Sugai
Chieko Higashiyama
Haruko Sugimura
Kuniko Igawa
Hiroshi Nihonyanagi
Shuji Sano
Toyoko Takahashi
Seiji Miyaguchi
Directed by Yasujiro Ozu
- Grandpa, breakfast. - 'Morning.
- Come on! - I'm coming.
I told him.
Wait. Take this.
Pickles.
Thanks.
Where's Isamu?
Isamu!
Time to eat!
Isamu?
Isamu!
Washed your face?
I did.
You did not! There's food from last night on it.
Isamu, do it quickly.
Done already?
I'm done. If you don't believe me, check my wet towel.
Oh?
Are you sure?
Time to eat!
We couldn't wait.
Post this for me.
Make sure you chew.
You're early.
Got to take care of a patient.
I see.
I'll pick up our guest.
Good on you.
- Right, I'm off. - Take care!
Take care!
You've only got seven minutes.
You too? Where shall we meet?
No, I'm meeting Noriko.
Oh.
Take care.
Thank you!
Isamu, get a move on.
Father, what kind of food does Uncle like?
No need to bother. He likes okara though.
So do I.
Shut up and get going.
You're such a dawdler.
Thank you.
I'm going now.
See you at 5:30.
Take care.
Hurry or you'll be late.
You forgot. Father's manuscript.
Thanks. See you.
Take care.
Minoru? What are you doing?
I'm going now.
- Off you go. - Take care.
Got everything?
I'm going!
'Morning!
'Morning. Where's Koichi?
On the last train.
Some serious patient?
Yes. I didn't get home till 11pm.
- "The Thibaults" is great. - Read much?
Up to volume four.
See? Much better. Nice and neat.
Time for your reward.
Here.
- Do you like me? - Yeah.
There's more if you love me.
- I love you. - Really? Here.
I love you.
- Here. - I love you.
Okay, that's enough.
I hate you.
Hey!
I really hate you.
The Nisshin order came through.
What about Asahi?
Still pending.
Know a good cafe?
Hmm... How about Luna in Nishi Ginza? It's small though.
Luna, huh.
Hey, did you see the boss?
I did. Why?
You did? Good.
Come in.
Hello.
She's come to settle my tab.
- Hello. - Hello.
Busy, Mr. Satake?
Yes, I am.
I'm glad to hear it.
Thanks.
So how did things turn out?
Not well. Mr. Yah started singing again.
"Kanjincho," I'll bet.
Now Mother's heart is worse.
Don't worry. That old crone's immortal.
Say, have you heard? Chako's getting married.
No, I didn't know. To whom?
Maybe you know him? Mr. Tsumura.
Mr. Tsumura?
The Waseda basketballer.
Don't know him. Is it love?
It is. She'd been pining for him for so long.
You're jealous, you two leftovers.
Here. Don't complain if it bounces.
- Thanks. - You're welcome.
I'm popping out.
Where to?
The hotel. If Mr. Robert calls, say I'll be there by 2pm.
- Mind if I ride with you? - It's the wrong way.
I'll ride on from there.
Can you come later?
- Not today. - Really?
- Alright. Bye. - Bye.
- Bye.
"Takigawa Restaurant"
Here you are. Excuse me.
What's this?
- Praying shrimp. - Oh, mantis shrimp?
- More? - No more.
You drink so much.
It tastes so good! Fumiko, have some more.
Just a little.
No, it's a waste. Don't force yourself.
What?
He's like that.
He is. Always.
Like what?
You always do that, Koichi. Make an offer, then retract it.
But she said "No more."
That's etiquette.
What is?
How's the tempura?
Delicious.
You two always bring up etiquette.
You think it means men must be kind to women.
But you're mistaken.
It means consideration for others, regardless of gender.
That's true etiquette.
You know that? I'm impressed.
I thought you didn't.
Rubbish.
Noriko, some rice?
Yes please.
You women began abusing etiquette once the war ended.
You're more impudent now.
No we aren't. We're normal now. Men were impudent for too long.
Attagirl!
No wonder you can't get married.
Not can't, won't. I can do it whenever I want.
Yeah right.
- Don't marry a doctor. - Not on my life!
Seriously? You troublemakers.
You'd better eat before you go.
His train's 9:45pm. There's still time.
When did we last see Uncle?
The year after the war ended. He got lost in Tokyo Station!
I was still in work pants.
He's a sprightly old fellow.
Soft and tasty rice.
That used to hang in your annex in Yamato.
There was the one with the fan design too. The Ike no Taiga.
The Ike no Taiga one.
I sold it.
You did?
This isn't bad either.
Everything costs a fortune now. These are tough times.
Poor you, working on Sunday.
I'll buy something for Uncle.
He can't eat hard food.
Good point.
I'm off.
Take it easy.
Take care!
Noriko?
Take this to Uncle.
Will that be alright?
Uncle, have some tea.
Noriko, how old are you now?
28.
She's 28.
You don't say.
Time she got married.
Don't want to become a bride? Don't want to take a husband?
Don't want a wedding banquet at all?
Here, 570 yen.
Here's your change. No, I insist.
Cooking it would've been a lot cheaper.
But not tastier.
But there'd be more.
I forgot. How much was that coffee in Ginza?
Forget it. My treat.
No way. How much?
Forget it!
Really? You're too kind.
Auntie!
What?
What is it?
What?
Is Grandpa from Yamato deaf?
No he isn't.
But he couldn't hear.
Yes he could.
Dummy!
Say it louder!
Dummy!
Uncle, aren't you tired?
You don't say.
Noriko, how old are you now?
28.
'Bout time you got hitched.
Know any nice bachelors in Yamato?
Someone rich, who'd let me have fun for the rest of my life.
Know anyone like that?
What a lovely day.
- Hello. - Hello.
Out with Granny, Mitsuko? Where are you going?
Just getting some sun.
Daddy's at home?
He's with your brother.
Oh, the conference.
Will he be of any use? I hope he's not bothering Koichi.
Koichi will be bothering Kenkichi more.
What a pretty dress.
You've a guest from Yamato?
I'm with him now.
Oh, is that so?
Isamu, give him another caramel.
He didn't unwrap that one either!
"Kochiyama: The Antihero Disguises Himself as a Monk"
As the saying goes, "The greater the sinner, the greater the saint."
I have been moved to save the girl by the sorrow of her mother.
So, I have plotted in secret, as only I can.
As luck would have it, my shaven head and borrowed robe
have enabled me to disguise myself
as a messenger monk
serving the Imperial Prince.
Stronger than a divine wind, and cloaked in righteousness,
I have boldly stormed this mansion of the lord of Izumo.
He must be pleasantly surprised.
But can he hear it? He's quite deaf.
That's why we got him a seat up the front.
Takako's taking a long time in the bath.
What did she say?
Well...
I came back from Marunouchi, and she was all red-eyed.
She asked me to let her stay tonight.
A lover's tiff.
But they're such a perfect couple.
Too perfect, no doubt.
Oh it's you, Noriko.
What a lovely bath.
- Been here long? - Just got here.
What? What's that look for?
- It was too perfect. - What was?
Your marriage.
You must be joking.
Why did you fight?
It's so silly.
No it isn't.
What happened?
- We have a dog. - Where?
At home. Chibi.
It chewed on her husband's pipe.
He left it out. No wonder it got chewed.
It's a special one. From London.
He blamed me for it, so I fed him carrots everyday.
The dog won't eat them?
Not the dog, my husband.
Shame he's not a horse.
Stupid.
It all came to a head this morning.
That's all it was?
Still, it's infuriating.
You should just let it slide.
You married him.
I did.
Then it's best to let it go, right?
Too true. It's obvious, right?
All husbands are that way. That's why we're not married.
Too true. Right?
Oh be quiet. You're untested.
Untested?
Marriage will teach you.
I'd rather learn in advance! Right?
I'm leaving.
So you should. Right?
Too true. It's obvious, right?
Carrot time, right?
I'm staying.
- Not leaving? - Not leaving.
Good girl. Stay here.
- No way. - You're leaving?
- No way. - Which is it?
Your man's on the phone.
Really? Thank you.
Say Ayako, what do you think?
About what?
What we talked about. Shall we ask Noriko?
What is it?
- It's this. This. - Oh, your heart?
Noriko, she wants your brother to examine her. Can she go?
You, ma'am?
Yes. Whenever I drink, two or three little cups make me ill.
Then don't drink.
I have to. With my customers.
My heart goes all aflutter.
How about moxibustion therapy? Some place beyond Yokohama?
I know, I know.
I'm talking to Noriko.
I'll sort it out. Right, Noriko?
Yes, I'll tell him.
Really? Thank you. I'd be grateful.
Oh, Mr. Satake's here. Upstairs.
By himself?
He just arrived.
I'll go see him.
What for?
I've got time.
Noriko, you're staying?
Are you going?
I'm going. Thanks for everything.
Don't be silly. Sit down.
I can't. He's waiting, at Owaricho.
Who is? Mr. Carrot?
Yes. I'm sorry.
Then go. Chop-chop.
You'll go to Chako's wedding?
You must be joking.
Excuse me.
Oh, you're here. Come in.
After you left, Hill Enterprises called.
Oh. And?
I passed on your message.
Thanks. That's good.
Have a drink.
Thank you.
Ah, that reminds me. I wanted to talk.
Say, Noriko.
What is it?
Fancy getting married?
It's about time.
I know a guy.
He's my senior. A commerce grad. He's been in Calcutta.
Name's Manabe. He's a go-getter.
Maybe not a virgin, but he never married.
I've got his photo.
Let me see... This is him.
Have a look.
This one too.
He's a better golfer than me, and better looking.
- I... - What?
I have to go meet someone.
You're running away?
No, my family's in town to see kabuki.
Oh. Then use my car.
Just to Shimbashi.
Sure.
I must be going.
Hey.
Take these.
Show your parents.
Go on, take them.
Alright... Excuse me.
- Here you are. - Thanks.
Uncle, aren't you sleepy?
Brother-in-law, aren't you tired?
Nah.
Why not rest? You've an early start tomorrow.
Today's play was mighty fine.
You gotta hand it to those young fellers.
Yes indeed. They're the bees knees.
Really? I should go too.
I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Time for bed.
Yes, good idea.
Come visit me in Yamato.
Yes, we will. Once Noriko leaves home.
Yeah. You better.
You too, Shige.
Yamato's swell. It's our Arcadia.
Gotta give these young folk some space.
True. Koichi takes care of everything these days.
We'll come, don't you worry.
Alrighty, off to bed.
Good night.
Fumiko, Mr. Satake mentioned a suitor today.
Oh? Uncle knows someone too.
Really? Wow, I'm suddenly in demand.
What did Mr. Satake say?
Not much. I was in a hurry. May I have this?
Sure.
- Dr. Mamiya, a visitor. - Who?
Mrs. Tamura from Tsukiji.
Oh? Send her through.
How's patient six testing?
Negative so far.
That's odd.
Welcome. I'm Mamiya.
Hello. I'm Ayako's mother.
Please, have a seat.
Thank you.
Your Noriko's a good friend to my Ayako.
Well well... So, heart trouble?
Yes, I was hoping you'd examine me.
I hope I'm up to it.
Of course you are. But you're busy, and I know I'm a nuisance...
No, not at all.
Is that so?
You know sir, Noriko's so lucky. Ayako and I are delighted for her.
For what?
Mr. Satake's suitor.
Oh, you don't say.
He's quite a prospect.
A young executive at Matsukawa Trading, with a fine reputation too.
You don't say.
He's from an old family in Zentsuji in Shikoku.
Their residence is in excellent condition.
You don't say.
Right, let's begin.
This way.
Really? I truly am sorry to be a bother.
Not at all.
I'm home.
Hello dear. You're early.
Noriko's not back?
It's her friend's wedding.
Who?
Chako. You don't know her.
The bath's ready.
Oh.
Your father's using it.
She came today.
From Tsukiji.
Ayako's mother?
She's a handful.
Is it serious?
No, I sent her to otorhinology. It's her nose.
Father? How's the bath?
Great. It's just right.
That's good.
Say, Mr. Satake's suitor sounds promising.
You heard?
Mrs. Tamura told me. He's a company executive.
He looks respectable.
You saw him?
Yes, in photos.
Noriko has photos?
She does.
Isamu, go play somewhere.
What's he like?
He's golfing. You can't see his face.
Go play somewhere!
Sounds promising.
I think so too.
Let's find out more.
I get the feeling that it'll work out.
Go play somewhere, Isamu!
Sounds promising.
I think so too.
6, 7, 8, 9, 90.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 100!
That's 200 times.
20 yen.
Can't I get a little freebie?
Isamu, massage Granny's shoulders. For free.
You'll massage me too, Isamu? Thank you.
Granny, if you give me 20 yen, I'll have 300 yen.
You will?
What are you saving up for?
Tracks, for my train.
But you've got lots already.
I'll make them longer. Right, Isamu?
You will?
Ah, that was a great bath.
It's just right.
Father?
Noriko's got a suitor.
Oh, she does?
He sounds good.
Really? Glad to hear it. It's about time.
- She's 28 after all. - Exactly.
I hope he's good.
He is. I'm going to look into him.
So you should. It won't be easy, but be quick about it.
You think so?
I do!
But it's not nice to say.
Really?
Everyone puts on airs.
But I've never seen Chako look so prim.
Her mouth was all puckered.
Where was your honeymoon?
Shuzenji.
Mine was Atami.
It rained, and we were stuck inside for three days.
We didn't know what to do. It rained the whole time.
Mari, what are you saying?
I'm reporting. Like a documentary.
So the clerk bought us a spinning top.
A spinning top?
You know. With flags painted on it.
We played with it.
Oh really?
He's good at it. Naturally.
Oh really?
Don't. The unmarried can't understand.
Rubbish. We wouldn't spin tops, right?
We're not babies, right?
They don't get it, right? The unmarried, right?
They don't, right?
Those poor dears, right?
Takako! Don't you start. What a nerve.
Why's that?
She's no expert.
I'm leaving.
You don't know real happiness till you're married.
If you're not, be quiet!
Sure, Mrs. Carrot.
Be quiet!
Happiness? It's just a fun gamble. Like the night before a horse race,
getting all excited dreaming of a winning bet the next day.
No! Be quiet!
Be quiet!
You too?
Hang in there!
I'm leaving too.
Leave! You happiness junkies.
Say, why don't we go to Noriko's in Kamakura?
Please do! It's the best season.
How about next Sunday?
How about you, Ayako?
Anytime is fine. I'm unmarried. Right?
Not that again!
I'm home.
Noriko?
- May I lock it? - Please.
I'm home.
Hello.
How was Chako?
She looked charming. It was lovely.
Western dress?
No, kimono.
Fumiko, care for some? Just a little.
What is it?
Oh, shortcake? It looks delicious.
We stopped by Ginza.
They're coming here next Sunday.
Really? I'll have to cook something.
Here, all yours.
And you?
No, I'm fine.
Oh? Alright then.
My friends are so funny.
We always split into pairs. A married pair, and an unmarried pair.
Ayako was feisty today.
Why's that?
They look down on us because we're not married.
Then why not get married?
You're with them?
- Of course. - Oh no!
Maybe I will then.
You should. How about Mr. Satake's suitor?
He sounds wonderful,
based on what Mr. Satake says.
Good grief!
You're still awake?
Hey, she doesn't sound against the idea.
She doesn't.
It's looking good.
Noriko sounds up for it. Try asking her.
It's delicious. Just as I remember.
Really?
- I'll buy more next time. - Please do.
Hey, Noriko's volatile, so ask carefully.
I know. Trust me.
Tell her Father's all for it, but don't lay it on too thick.
I won't, don't worry.
Got it? Do your best.
Excuse me!
Who's there?
Hello there. It's been a while.
Oh, Mrs. Yabe? Please come in.
May I? Alright then.
It's been so long since I last saw you.
Is Fumiko home?
She's out shopping. Please, have a cushion.
I hope this is to your taste.
Direct from Tsuchiura this morning.
Oh my. You're too kind.
No, not at all.
We had a strange visitor to our home this morning.
Oh? Who was it?
You know, it was a first for me.
Parted hair, spectacles, and a black briefcase this big.
I thought he must have been a tax collector.
I was dead wrong.
Who was it?
A private detective. They're common these days.
He came to ask about your Noriko.
Is that so?
So I thought, he must be vetting her on behalf of her suitor's family.
I asked him, "Who's your client?"
He just chuckled and scratched his head. That irked me,
so I told him angrily, "You won't find a nicer girl!"
He was loathsome. He knew so much already.
He even knew your Shoji and my Kenkichi were classmates.
Oh, hello!
Good to see you.
Thanks for tolerating Kenkichi.
So, how've you been?
Fine, thank you.
Kenkichi's doing well. You must be pleased.
No, he does nothing but read books since his wife died.
The year before last.
Yes. Time flies.
What of your Shoji?
Well, I'm sure we won't see him again.
But some men have returned...
No. I've given up hope.
Here you are.
She thinks he's still alive somewhere.
It's not impossible.
Isn't that so, Shige?
She listens to the "Missing Persons Hour" everyday.
Our minds work in mysterious ways. I forget things so easily,
but I remember the good times with Shoji clearly.
No... He's not coming back.
"Kozo Nishiwaki Night Physician"
You were stationed at Zentsuji?
Yes, Zentsuji.
Know a Manabe with Matsukawa Trading?
No, I don't. How come?
It doesn't matter.
Sakaguchi was too.
He was? Sakaguchi?
He might know him. He gets around.
That's a "seki."
And here?
No, here.
So many kids around lately.
Sundays are deafening.
My place is a madhouse today. It's full of them.
I couldn't bear it.
Watch out!
Careful.
Here goes!
Make it go faster.
Here it comes!
A little more!
Make it go faster!
Careful! Watch out!
Is this ready?
Yes, please take it.
Oh my, look at all this!
Here, your lunch.
Get your sandwiches here!
Let's dig into these.
Let's eat!
Don't tread on the tracks!
Take these.
Hey Mom, buy me some tracks.
What about these?
They're all theirs! I've only got eight. Buy me some.
Use your allowance.
It's not enough! I'll make them longer. Right, Isamu?
Please, Mom?
I'll ask Father.
Please ask him. 32-millimeter gauge! Don't forget! Promise?
Rascal.
Shut up!
Buy me some too!
No way.
Hello!
Hi there!
Hello. Mari can't come. She called as I was leaving.
She did?
- Takako's not here? - Not yet.
Oh my, how do you manage?
What a menagerie.
Go away!
- I'm visiting. - Welcome.
Go on up.
How pretty.
For your mother.
Really? Thanks.
The sky's so beautiful here.
Can't see it at our place.
- Your father? - At the museum with Mother.
What did Mari say?
Her man left on business. She's sad she can't come.
Really?
She's so tied down. I would've come.
I'm sure she couldn't.
She could if she wanted to. They have a maid.
It's not so simple when you're married.
Not that we'd know.
Exactly.
Have some of this.
Kamakura's so lovely.
I wish I could live here.
Noriko? A call for you.
- From Oiso. - Oh?
Hello? Takako? What's up?
Really?
Really...
That was Takako. She's gone to Oiso.
Oiso?
Her father's ill.
He is not! He was interviewed in the paper two days ago.
He was?
Silly girl! This was her idea.
Why won't she come?
Looks like we've been dumped.
I guess we're too lippy.
We were so close in school, but now we're growing apart.
It was inevitable. That's life, I guess.
What a shame.
Say, let's go to the beach.
Yes, let's.
But let's eat first.
Yes, let's.
Could you pass that bottle?
You know, it's funny.
This may be our happiest time.
If Noriko gets married, we'll be lonely.
You're right.
I wonder about her suitor.
So do I... We must make sure Noriko marries.
Time flies.
Koichi's married. We have grandchildren.
Noriko's getting married.
This may be our most enjoyable time.
I don't know. Things might get...
even better.
No, we mustn't be greedy.
We've had a lovely Sunday.
Look, dear!
Its little owner must be crying somewhere.
Didn't that happen to Koichi once too?
Hello? Hello? Yes he is.
It's your wife.
Thanks.
Hello? Fumiko? It's me. I won't be home tonight.
Got to watch a patient.
Is Noriko back?
I see.
Her suitor checked out.
I spoke to Sakaguchi. I'll tell you when I get home.
Yes, that's all.
Alright.
Sure, that's fine.
Really? Okay then. Good night.
- An all-nighter? - Yes.
What a cake! It looks delicious.
How much?
900 yen.
900 yen?! This?
That's right.
For this?
That's too much. It cost that much?
That's right.
I've lost my appetite.
Don't be silly. Get a plate.
I regret asking you.
A plate, a plate!
I feel awful now. Why did I ask you for it? I'm a fool.
Noriko, please pay half.
Me? No way.
I'll pay, I'll pay!
- You'd better. - I will.
Plates.
Still, it's too much.
It's the tastiest.
But I could've bought half a pound of wool.
Well, just this once.
Good evening!
Who's there?
Kenkichi.
Hello.
Is Koichi out?
He just called. He's staying overnight.
I see.
- Please, come in. - If I may.
Good evening.
Have a seat.
Thanks for coming.
Not at all. Shukichi and Shige?
They've turned in.
Have some.
I've got great timing. May I really?
Please do.
Celebrating something?
Sorry?
Do you eat this often?
Not so often.
I'd like it often.
If I may.
Please.
This must be pricey.
No, it's cheap. Right?
Cheap, cheap. Easy, easy.
Delicious.
Noriko, you've got good news?
I do?
That's what I heard.
Really? How wonderful. What is it?
Doesn't she, Fumiko?
I suppose so.
I hear you do too.
I do?
Your Mother said so.
It's only in her head.
I think you should remarry. Right, Fumiko?
Yes, for Mitsuko's sake as well. It sounds promising.
No, Mother's getting ahead of herself.
Aren't you eating yours? I'll have it then.
I'll have it!
You will? I guess so.
It really is delicious.
Quick, hide it!
What?
Hello Minoru.
I'm home.
Hi Dad.
Wow!
Mom, look at this! Wow!
Hello dear.
Hey Isamu! Tracks! Dad bought us some tracks!
Yippee! Wow! Wow wow!
Slow down! Don't rush it!
This is great! Yippee!
Huh? This isn't tracks!
It's bread.
Shut your trap!
Dummy!
Where's Mother?
The washroom?
Mother?
Hey, my sash.
Mother, Noriko's suitor checked out.
So I hear. You called last night.
Sakaguchi says he's the second son of a prominent family in Zentsuji.
He's an important figure, and an upright businessman.
He is? Sounds good. How old is he?
He was born in 1910, so that makes him... 42?
42?
Or 40, by the Western standard.
40 you say...
He's that old?
His age is irrelevant.
But he's in his forties.
Indeed.
How old should he be?
Noriko's not young either.
Carry on like that, and she'll never marry.
Only his character matters. We can't be overly choosy.
But I feel sorry for her.
Feel sorry? What for?
Why feel sorry?
You thinking that way would only make it worse for her.
Would it?
It would. Of course it would.
Mother, you're a little greedy.
You always were.
But that's...
But what?
What would Noriko think?
You said you know how she feels.
Still...
Now you don't know?
You said she's keen.
Yes, but...
Idiot! Don't say that now! Don't say such rubbish!
Am I that greedy?
What's wrong?
I've been scolded.
Don't worry.
We're all anxious over this.
Don't take it to heart.
Liar!
Liar! These aren't tracks!
I don't want this!
Stop that at once!
I don't want this!
Stop that at once!
You don't kick food!
You know it's wrong!
Don't you know? Don't you know?
Isamu! Come on!
I'm home.
Going somewhere?
Were you scolded?
Going somewhere?
Don't know.
I'm home.
Did you scold them again?
You're in a bad mood.
It's wrong to scold them when you're angry.
It's not fair.
What isn't?
They'll grow afraid of you.
Stop meddling!
I'm not meddling. You always...
Never mind me! Mind yourself!
Yes sir.
I'm home.
Hello.
He's in a bad mood.
You're a jerk! You're a jerk!
Isamu! Come on!
Where on earth are they?
I wonder where they went.
They must be hungry.
They must be. The poor dears.
Still not back yet?
No. Where could they have gone?
It's been a while.
I'll go look again.
But Father...
No, I'll go.
Good evening!
Mrs. Yabe?
Oh, Noriko?
Are our boys here?
They aren't.
They aren't?
What's going on?
They're still out somewhere.
I wonder where?
What happened?
Go and help her look.
Sure.
- Let's go. - Thank you.
That has a loose strap.
It's alright.
Listen, it's dark already.
Search from Hachiman Shrine to Hase.
Check near the station and the waiting room. The other side too.
It's your turn.
Mine?
But why'd you get so mad?
Better tone it down. Kids are sensitive.
Don't get mad.
Kids are tricky.
Hello? That's right.
Oh, Mrs. Mamiya? Hello.
Yes, he's here.
Me?
- Your wife. - Thanks.
Hello? It's me.
Oh, they did? They came home?
What a relief.
I see. Yes, I'll head home soon.
They came home.
They did? Thank goodness.
They were on a bench at the station, hungry.
Oh? Poor lads.
Little troublemakers.
I'd better go.
Yes, you should.
They take after me more and more.
But only my bad side... more's the pity.
That's boys for you.
Hey, by the way...
What?
About Akita. Could you ask? It's urgent.
Sure.
I'll ask tomorrow.
I'm off.
- You are? - Good night.
Don't forget to ask.
I'm home.
Mitsuko, what a good girl.
Don't go outside, okay?
You're early.
Are you hungry?
I've made fried rice.
- Say, Mother. - Yes?
- We need to talk. - Oh?
Come sit down.
What is it?
I'm going to Akita.
Akita?
On business?
To be the prefectural hospital's head physician.
You will?
Yes. Mr. Mamiya told me about it today.
My thesis would pass, and it'd only be for a few years. How about it?
Do you want to?
I do... but I don't mind going alone.
That won't do.
Then you'll come too?
Will you?
Well...
It is Akita...
Is that so bad? The pay's much better there.
Can't you find a similar position in Tokyo?
No. Only in the provinces.
Mother, it'd be a step up for me.
I know, but...
Plus, Akita has harvest mites, and I could study Rickettsia.
I'd be back in three or four years. That's the agreement.
It's a rare opportunity.
What do you say?
I'll go. Alright?
You go silent when you're in a huff. It's a bad habit.
Yes?
Hello.
Hey. What's up?
I was passing by.
Really? Have a seat.
Where's Noriko?
- Popped out. - Oh.
Mr. Manabe came last night.
He did? What did he say?
Nothing much.
What does Noriko say?
About what?
About Mr. Manabe.
Nothing definite.
Really?
Could you try asking her?
Could I?
But I really don't get her.
Get what?
Is she attractive?
Do you think so?
Well, sometimes yes, sometimes no. She's odd.
Was she always?
She was.
Ever been in love?
I doubt it. In school, she loved Hepburn. Collected her bromides.
Who's Hepburn?
An American actress.
A woman?
- That's right. - She's queer?
Of course not!
Well, it wouldn't surprise me. She's odd.
You should teach her.
Teach her what?
Lots of things.
Such as?
Don't play innocent.
Oh please. Stop teasing me.
You're so rude!
Why thank you.
Hey girl! Tea!
Prefer coffee?
No! I do not.
Noriko's late.
She's gone, to her brother's hospital.
What? You're awful. You could have said so before.
Want to go eat sushi?
Sure.
Got a favorite?
- Fatty tuna. - Fatty tuna?
How about clams?
I like them.
Seaweed rolls?
Stop it!
So you're queer too.
Shoji and I used to come here as students.
You did?
We always sat here.
You did?
By that painting.
Time sure flies.
It sure does.
Shoji and I often fought, but I was very fond of him.
During the Battle of Xuzhou, he sent me a letter with an ear of wheat inside.
I was reading "Wheat and Soldiers."
May I have that letter?
Yes, I wanted you to.
I'd love it.
Oh, he's here.
Waited long?
Not really.
Shall we go?
What'll it be?
I'll eat anything.
You're leaving, so it's his treat.
I'll treat him. But nothing too pricey.
Tightwad!
Pricey doesn't always mean tasty.
Shall we go?
Good evening!
Who's there?
Me.
Oh, Noriko?
Hello.
Come on in.
Sorry to bother you.
Mitsuko's asleep?
You're packing.
I can barely bring myself to do it.
This is a farewell gift from us.
Oh, really? That's kind of you.
Thank you very much.
Where's Kenkichi?
Still out at a farewell party, even though he leaves tomorrow.
When will you leave?
As soon as I tidy up here.
Oh? That's hard work.
You've been so good to me.
First time to Akita?
Yes. My husband worked for the railway, so I've been as far as Utsunomiya.
I see.
You'll be back before you know it.
Kenkichi says that too.
It's true.
Is it?
I wanted Kenkichi to marry, and to live the rest of my life here.
Actually...
Please don't get mad, or tell Kenkichi.
What is it?
Well...
It's self-centered of me,
but I thought it would be wonderful if Kenkichi married a girl like you.
Oh...
I'm sorry. It was just a dream that I kept to myself.
Don't get angry.
Is that the truth?
What?
That you thought that way about me.
I'm sorry. That's why I told you not to get mad.
You'd really welcome a leftover like me?
I wouldn't say no.
Seriously?
Yes.
You're serious?
Yes.
Seriously?! Can I take you seriously?!
I'm so happy! Seriously?
Thank goodness! Thank goodness! Thank you! Thank you!
Lucky I told you! If I'd said nothing, this wouldn't be happening.
Being a blabbermouth paid off for once!
Thank goodness! Now I can stop worrying.
Noriko, fancy a bun? A bean jam bun!
No thank you.
I should really get going.
Why? Stay a little longer. Kenkichi will be home soon.
But I... should go home.
You're sure?
You really were serious?
Seriously? You're sure?
Oh, thank goodness!
Good night.
Yes, good night. Thank you. Thank you!
You're back.
Thanks for yesterday.
Early train?
- The 8:45am for Aomori. - I see.
- Good night. - Good night.
I'm home.
Kenkichi, did you see Noriko?
Did she say anything to you?
No, not really.
Kenkichi, Noriko said she'll come!
She said she'll come!
You see, I opened up to her. It was lucky I did!
And now she'll come!
Where?
To us, of course!
To do what?
You know what! She'll come for you.
To be your wife!
My wife?
That's right. Aren't you delighted? It's so wonderful.
I'm so happy!
Well? Aren't you? I thought you'd be delighted.
Don't cry over it.
Come on, how can I not cry?
You should be glad too. You are, aren't you?
Aren't you?
I'm glad.
Then you should show it more!
Your happiness!
You're a strange one!
Noriko's not back?
I think she came home.
- Listen, Father. - What?
- And Mother too. - What?
Come downstairs.
What is it?
Have a seat.
What is it?
Noriko says she'll marry Kenkichi.
Kenkichi?
Yes. She saw Mrs. Yabe and decided herself.
But isn't Kenkichi leaving tomorrow?
He is.
That's why I went to see her.
But this is important. Have you thought it through?
Kenkichi has a child.
Yes.
We're all worried about your marriage plans.
You must be aware of that.
Why didn't you consult our parents?
Did you even think?
You're acting rashly.
I can't speak for our parents, but I'm against it.
But I...
When I spoke with Mrs. Yabe, it became clear to me.
I suddenly knew it would make me happy.
It seemed right to me.
But won't you regret it later?
I don't think so.
You're sure? You won't rue it later?
I won't.
You won't? You really won't?
I won't.
Darling, aren't you cold?
We should go to bed.
Yes, let's do that.
She's so thoughtless.
Deciding by herself like that.
She thinks she grew up all on her own.
Say, what do you think?
Will it work?
It must. She says it will.
But there's still time...
Time to stop her? Not now her mind's made up.
That's what she's like.
Yes?
A visitor. She's waiting in reception.
Oh?
Thank you for earlier.
I'm glad he got a seat.
Yes, or he would've had to stand all the way to Akita! He's lucky.
Need a favor?
Oh no.
The platform was too crowded then.
What is it?
There were so many people, I couldn't ask you there.
I thought while I shopped.
What about?
About last night.
It was so wonderful, I wonder if I dreamed it.
So, do your parents approve?
Yes.
And your brother?
It's alright.
Really? You're sure?
You are?
Oh, thank goodness.
But... I don't know how Kenkichi feels...
Who, Kenkichi?
He's so excited! He hardly slept last night.
We ended up eating at midnight.
You did?
Thanks to you, I'll live long now.
You've put me at ease.
I'd better be going. Thank goodness!
The exit's this way.
Oh, that way!
Thank goodness!
Fumiko, could you pull that?
It wasn't right for her to decide on her own like that.
It wasn't.
Why choose a man with a child?
Exactly. She might be fine with it,
but we've been no help, and I feel sorry for her.
As for me,
after she graduated from school,
every time people said what a good daughter she was,
I wondered what kind of family she'd marry into.
Know Mrs. Shinoda in Denenchofu?
I do.
Whenever I visited her, I imagined that Noriko
would end up living in a flashy house like hers with a lawn.
I know what you mean.
Wouldn't it have been better for her to choose Mr. Satake's suitor?
I know what you mean.
Young people these days are a mystery to me.
Heading out?
Yes, to buy food for the canary.
It's alright, Fumiko.
Do we need anything else?
Not really.
Take care.
So, has everything been sorted out?
That was quick. When will you go?
He'll visit from Akita soon. Then I'll go.
That's brave of you. I thought you'd never be able to leave Tokyo.
Why?
Well, I imagined you'd have a garden of white flowers,
Chopin playing, and a tiled kitchen with a refrigerator,
stocked full of Coca Cola. That kind of married life.
You did?
I'd go visit you, and you'd be on a porch with a striped awning,
in a white sweater, playing with a Scottish terrier.
You'd say "Hello! How are you?" over the fence.
Surely not.
That's the image I had for you.
Akita's the boonies.
You'll wear work pants?
I will.
Well howdy there, ma'am.
Ain't this some lovely weather we been havin' lately?
Can you say that?
Gotta talk like a local, ya hear?
Hoo boy, ain't that somethin!
You's fresh from Tokyo, but you speak our lingo!
You's smarter than you look!
You betcha. My man's livin' in Akita, so I gotta talk like a local.
You know a lot!
Sasaki spoke like that at school.
So she did!
Say, do you remember?
Before Shoji went to Sumatra, we all went to Jogashima.
Did Kenkichi go too?
Did he? I'm not sure.
Did you love him?
No, I didn't think anything of him then.
Then when?
When? Little by little, I suppose.
Really? I had no idea.
Neither did I.
I never thought I'd marry him.
If so, what changed?
I just did.
Just like that?
But not quite... How can I describe it?
You know when you lose your scissors,
then find they're right in front of you?
Mother loses her glasses while wearing them.
It's like that.
He was so close, I didn't notice him.
So you did love him.
No, that's got nothing to do with it.
I've known him for so long, and I know I can trust him.
So you did love him.
No, that's not it! I feel like he'll give me peace of mind.
Don't you get it?
Silly! That means you love him.
You're wrong.
I'm right! You love him! You've fallen for him, head over heels.
I have?
Yes! Believe me, or I'll slap you.
Don't! You slap hard.
Right!
Mother, grab her!
Why?
Say Ayako, where is it?
What?
You know. That thing. Like this. The yellow one.
I know I left it somewhere...
- Ma'am? It's time. - Yes, I know.
What's she looking for?
I don't know.
She's always that way. She'll be back.
Say, do you think she might be... I'm too worried to get married.
Your husband could live here.
No way. Only a loser would want to do that.
See? She always comes back.
She does?
But I'm happy for you. You found a man you love.
It's not going to be easy though.
We'll have to go without many things, and money will be tight.
I'll be scrubbing pots till I'm filthy.
What about Mr. Satake's suitor?
I declined, this morning.
What did he say?
He joked that I'm postwar but premodern.
He wasn't wrong. He's upstairs now.
Mr. Manabe's with him. Want to peek in on them? Well?
No way!
Why not? It'll be fun. He's handsome.
No thanks.
Come on! Let's go! It'll be fine.
No, no more! I don't need another husband.
Come on! Let's go! I'll have him if you won't!
No! No!
Please, we mustn't!
- Let's not! - Come on!
Was it right for her to decide like that?
She's a troublemaker.
What should we do?
Somehow I feel sorry for her.
Anyway, we must test her resolve again.
I guess you're right.
She's made her decision, but she might not be sure.
I'm back.
Sorry I'm late.
- Hello. - I stopped by Ayako's.
Have you eaten?
I'll have tea on rice. Please sit.
I'll make it.
There are croquettes on the shelf.
Oh? Thank you.
Time to eat.
Say... You're concerned because he has a child, aren't you?
- There's that. - But it's alright.
It's alright.
Even so, Mother says she feels sorry for you.
She cried in the kitchen last night.
You know, I love children.
Still, your parents don't see it that way.
Mitsuko's growing up, and if you have a child...
Don't worry. I've given it a lot of thought. I'll be fine.
It's not so unusual, and I know I can do it.
Even so...
Don't worry. Don't worry, Fumiko. I'm sure I'll be fine.
You are? I hope you will be.
You could say I'm easygoing.
Being poor doesn't bother me like it does others. I'm fine with it.
- So, you're sure? - I am.
If so, I won't worry anymore.
To be honest,
when it comes to men who are still unattached in their forties,
I can't really trust them.
On the contrary, I can trust a man who's a father.
I admire you, Noriko.
Why's that?
I got married without much thought.
Still... Will you all get along alright without me?
Don't worry about it.
Your mother and father just want you to be happy.
Don't worry about it.
But... It's going to make things more difficult for you.
No, not at all. From now on, you're my rival.
How so?
My rival thrifty wife! I won't lose.
Neither will I.
No more shortcake for you.
Of course! It's too pricey.
But if it's a present...
Fumiko! Come down! It feels lovely!
I see. I'm glad you came.
Well, congratulations.
It was a pleasure working with you.
The feeling's mutual.
Why don't we grab a bite with Ayako?
Well, you see, I'd like to, but actually...
I get it.
Next time you're in Tokyo, be sure to stop by.
Thank you.
You'd best treat your husband well.
Manabe'll be disappointed, but that's too bad.
Would you have married me? If I was young and single.
No, huh? I thought as much.
Hey, take one last good look at Tokyo.
It's not such a bad town.
You'll wear it again?
Which is better?
- Take it off. - Okay.
Please look this way.
Isamu, stay still.
Right. Madam, please pull in your chin.
Right, here we go.
Thank you.
Sir? One more please. Just our parents.
Yes, good idea.
Really? Alright.
Really?
You're adorable, you two.
Don't tease us.
When was our last photo?
- Thank you. - Thank you.
You lads ate a lot.
What now, Isamu?
Time to poop.
Thank you!
Now I wish I hadn't sent Kenkichi to Akita.
I'm glad you did. It made me realize how I felt.
Well, it's only for a few years.
Indeed. It'll go quickly.
It's been 16 years now since we moved here.
That's right. In spring, the year Noriko finished elementary school.
Yes, she was just slightly taller than Minoru.
She wore a ribbon up here, and often sang "Rainy Moon."
You were so cute.
They grow up so fast.
What'll you do?
I'll practice here.
You will?
And the hospital?
That's separate. I could work nights.
You could?
Well...
We're saying goodbye for now, but we'll be together again.
I wish we could all go on living together,
but that won't do.
Come back from Yamato and visit us once in a while.
I'm sorry. This is my doing.
No, you're not to blame. This was inevitable.
Noriko, please take care. They say Akita gets very cold.
I will.
Yes. Be sure to look after yourself. Properly.
If you do, we can all meet again.
Hey.
Take a look. A bride's on her way.
What sort of family might she be marrying into?
I wonder how Noriko's doing?
We've all gone our separate ways,
but we've been luckier than most.
We have.
So much has happened,
over the years.
We mustn't be greedy.
We mustn't.
Life has been so good to us.
The End