"This film was screened at the Arts Festival in 1 960" "Late Autumn" "Original story by Ton Satomi" "Screenplay by Kogo Noda  Yasujiro Ozu" "Cinematography by Yuharu Atsuta Art Direction by Tatsuo Hamada" "Starring:" "Setsuko Hara, Yoko Tsukasa" "Mariko Okada, Keiji Sada" "Miyuki Kuwano, Shinichiro Mikami, Shin Saburi" "Chishu Ryu, Nobuo Nakamura, Kuniko Miyake, Sadako Sawamura" "Directed by Yasujiro Ozu" "Oh, really?" "Sounds delicious" "What does?" "He knows a good place that does steak." "Where is it?" "You know the Honmoku-tei in Ueno?" "It's right next door" "It's run by an old couple" "really?" "I'd Iike to try it I usually go to that pork restaurant behind the Matsuzakaya" "You, too, right?" "I've been going there ever since it was just a stall" "That was when we were students." "Always hungry, but no money" "We'd pool our money, then go there together." "Miwa used to come, too" "really?" "You were friends with him when you were that young?" "Yeah." "We also shared the same dormitory at school" "Did you really?" "Mr Miwa was very kind to me" "He was an excellent manager, always very calm" " This is his seventh memorial" " Time flies" " How many years has it been for you?" " What do you mean?" " Since you lost your wife" " Four, almost five years" "Hey, the tea stalk's sticking up" "Very auspicious." "Maybe something good's going to happen lt could mean that your dead wife is coming back to get you" "Oh, stop it!" "I'm not ready to go yet" " uncle's rather late - l wonder what could've happened" "Oh, here he comes" "Sorry I'm so late" "I'm Shuzo Miwa's brother." "Thank you all for coming here today" "Being from the countryside, I got lost on my way here" "Good to see you, Mr Hirayama, Mr Taguchi lt's been a long time." "Did you just arrive in Tokyo today?" "No, I had other business to attend to, so I arrived yesterday" "Thanks for taking care of my son last time" "Not at all" "What was that?" "My son went skating at Lake Haruna last winter with his friends" "They stayed at his inn" "Thank you for the present you sent" "Not at alI." "Did you Iike them?" "I pickled those spring vegetables myself" "It was nothing special just a small token of my appreciation" "It was a wonderful gift" "Oh, those wild vegetables we had?" "They were delicious" "It's interesting, as we get older we seem to enjoy such things more and more" "You're right" "Things like seaweed with carrots mushrooms, dried radish and bean curd" "Don't forget steak and pork cutlets" "Is everyone present?" "please, Iet us begin" "please come through to the main hall" "After you" " You're late - l got held up" " We've just started" " Then I got here too early" "That sutra recital today was long lt went on" "You can't complain, you got here late!" "Sorry for putting you through that" "Mr Taguchi told me that shorter prayers were better... . ..so I asked the priest to keep it short." "Didn't I?" "The monk was eager to please" "You must've paid him well" "Not at alI. I wasn't that generous!" "At least it was cooler today." "The day of the funeral was so hot" "It was really hot." "I was wearing a thick morning coat" "How old were you, Ayako?" "I was 1 8" " So now you're.. .?" " Twenty-four" "Good age to get married, right?" "Yes." "Do tell us if you know someone who'd be suitable for her" "That won't be hard at all." "Ayako is very beautiful" "What kind of men do you like?" "Don't be shy" "Tell us" "How about someone like me, for example?" "Very nice" " And how about me?" " Very nice, too" "You've confused me." "They're totally different types" "And me?" "You, too" " She only said 'you, too'." "You're out - l'm out?" "You shouldn't have bothered asking!" "It was a bad idea to ask her" "Seriously, joking aside, I might know someone suitable" " Yes, please - ls that true?" "Yes." "Ayako, are you really interested in getting married?" "You should get married soon" "How old were you when you married Miwa?" "I was 20" "See, Ayako?" "You should marry soon" "Right. I think so, too" "I know a nice fellow, Ayako I think he's about 29" "He graduated from the University of Tokyo and works for the Obayashi Group" "He's an interesting chap" "Sounds too good for us" "No, I think he'd be perfect" "Then please introduce us" "Ayako, it's time to go" "Please excuse us" "Already?" "It's still early" "I'm sorry, but..." "Sorry for troubling you today, and thank you for all your kindness" "I hope we haven't offended you with our bluntness" "Far from it." "You kept us entertained." "I hope to see you all again soon" " See you soon" " Goodbye" "Please excuse us" "Goodbye, both of you." "Ayako, you know what you're doing, right?" "Yes" "She's so beautiful" "I really enjoy talking to girls her age" "The girl's certainly pretty, but..." " You mean her mother, don't you?" " Hmm." "She hasn't changed a bit" " She's a beauty" " You think so?" " But her daughter's charming" " Of course she is" "But Akiko is over 40 and still..." "If I had to choose, I'd pick the mother" "She's lovely" "lovely..." "lovely" " You really think so?" " Absolutely" "A man who marries someone so beautiful is destined to die young" "Miwa used up his luck too fast" "She's developed a new kind of charm recently" "Yes." "You think so, too?" "You can just see it, it's obvious" "And you're usually so slow to notice such things I see it, too, just not as clearly as you" "What's making you all so cheerful?" " Do you have enough sake ?" " Yes, we're fine" "I'd say your husband must be in good health" "Yes, thank you" " l don't doubt it" " Of course" "He'Il have a Iong life" "You never know what'Il turn out to be a blessing in disguise, right?" " What are you talking about?" " Nothing" "A long time ago, when we were all at university there was a chemist's shop on the third block in Hongo lt's a fruit shop now, but there used to be a beautiful girl working there" "This one fancied her and bought medicine there all the time" "That's rich coming from you" "Who bought all those decongestants when he didn't even have a cold?" "And he bought antibiotics" "Yeah, I remember the packaging" "The woman who was just here with us was that girl" "That lady?" "I thought they were sisters, not mother and daughter" "She's very beautiful." "So what happened after that?" " Oh, well.. ." " lt ended badly" "It's painful to tell" " You remember a man named Miwa?" " No I think he came here once or twice ln short, Miwa stole the girl away from us" "Goodness me!" "You should've bought love potions instead of flu medicine!" " You're right" " We weren't so wise back then" "We were innocents compared to the youth of today" "really?" "Do you have enough sake, Professor Hirayama?" "Fine, thanks" "would you bring me some soda water?" "Of course." "Just a moment" "A man who marries a woman like that will live an awfully long time" "What was that?" "Nothing." "We were just talking." "Soda water?" "Right away" "A man who marries a woman like that could still die young, though" " Have you seen the size of her?" " Good for wrestling?" "The head scissors?" "He wouldn't stand a chance" "He'd be totally crushed" "Some more?" " Welcome home" " Evening" "You're home early" " l thought you'd be home late tonight" " Why's that?" "Weren't you with Mr Mamiya and Mr Hirayama?" "Yes" "And Akiko came, too, with Ayako" "really?" " What's this?" " lt's Yoko's" " She's back?" " Yes." "She just arrived" "Is her husband away on business?" "They had another fight" "Living with a mother-in-law isn't easy for a young couple" "Did she quarrel with his mother?" "No, she gets on well with her." "But still, it's stressful lt's better for a young couple to live by themselves" "I've often thought so myself" "What shall we do with her?" "She means to stay for a while this time." "She brought a bigger bag" " Do you think they'll sort it out?" " They have to just like we did I suppose so." "A husband and wife eventually get past that stage" "Yes, they both do." "Yoko needs to make an effort" "Right." "You can't be too ambitious in a relationship" "True." "You can't set your hopes too high" " would you like a snack?" " No, I've eaten enough" "welcome home, Dad" " What's up?" " lt's happened again" "'Happened again'?" "You're always fighting" "What was it this time?" "It's hard to explain. lt's the result of weeks of discontent" "What do you mean, 'discontent'?" "You chose to marry him" " Yes, that's why I'm upset" " About what?" "Daddy, don't try to intervene." "I'm teaching him a lesson" "You need to learn a lesson, too." "You're simply too impatient" "Enough!" "Dad, have a bath." "I'll heat up the water for you" "She's hopeless" "Oh, yes, you know that chap..." "What's his name?" "Who?" "The man who works at the Obayashi Group." "Your friend's brother" "You mean Shigeru Inoue?" "That's the one" "His father owns a music box factory in Kamisuwa, right?" "Yes." "What about him?" "He'd be a perfect husband for Ayako" " No." "He's already engaged" " He's getting married?" "Yes. I'm thinking of what to get them as a wedding present" "That's too bad." "I said I'd help her out" "Why?" "I thought he'd be good for her." "What a shame" "Do we know any others?" " What about Ikeda?" " No way." "Too arrogant" "No good?" "Do we know anyone else?" "You should be worrying about your own daughter, not someone else's" "But Ayako's so beautiful" " l don't want her marrying some idiot - l see" "She really is a nice girl." "Very wholesome" "Does she look like Akiko when she was young?" "It's hard to compare" "They're very different." "Mamiya says he prefers Akiko" " How about you?" " Me?" "Who do you prefer?" "Akiko, I bet. I know all about it" " About what?" " The third block in Hongo" "You were always going there to buy cold medicine, weren't you?" "That wasn't me, that was Mamiya!" " So what did you buy?" " l bought antibiotics and other stuff" "Don't lie." "You bought cold medicine." "I remember it well" " Who told you that?" " You did" "I told you?" "When?" "Not long after Yoko was born." "You were drunk ls that right?" "I was being honest, I suppose" "Yes, more honest than you are now" "Mum, I'm hungry." "is there anything to eat?" "Dad, the bathwater's boiling" " Okay." "Did you turn off the gas?" " lt's still on" "You have to turn it off!" "If it's not one thing, it's another!" " Do you have anything to eat?" " You're all hopeless!" "Go on in" "Nice to see you again" "Thank you very much for the other day. .." "...for taking the time to come to the memorial service" "Not at all." "Please sit down" " l just came to thank you" " My pleasure." "Have a seat" "I stopped to see Mr Hirayama and Mr Taguchi on my way I see" "So did Taguchi say anything about matchmaking Ayako?" "He said the young man had already decided on someone" " He's getting married?" " Yes" "That's typical of Taguchi." "He's always doing things like that" "Miwa always complained about him because he was never punctual" "Although I was the one who came late to the memorial service!" "Miwa would have been glad to see you all there" "Have you had lunch?" "Not really, but..." "Shall we go out for lunch?" "Not that I know any great places..." " But I have to be back by 2:00" " Back where?" "I'm helping out at my friend's dressmaking school these days" "With French embroidery" " Are you teaching?" " Yes, though not very well" "It must be a challenge" "Let's have lunch together." "I'll drive you to the school after" "Shall we go?" "I'm leaving now." "Get the car" " Have another glass" " No, thank you" "You sure?" "Did you notice the man who greeted me at the lift as we were leaving?" "No, sorry. I'm not very observant" "He's a bit shorter than I am." "He had a fringe over his face" "I really didn't notice him" "well, he doesn't really stand out or anything" "He's a good man and an efficient worker" "When we were talking about a husband for Ayako  I thought of him immediately" "But Taguchi was so quick to offer help and he sounded so confident" "Mr Taguchi is such a funny man" "He's so funny that everything else becomes funny when he gets involved" "He's such a character, isn't he?" "I can't remember where this man graduated from" "He's been with us for four or five years" "He may not look the athletic type but he's captain of our basketball team" "How do you like the sound of him?" "He sounds very nice" "would you like to meet him?" "Or maybe you'd like to see his photo and background information first?" "Yes, that would be better" "Sorry to keep you waiting" "Thank you" " l'll send them to you" " Please do" " Could you get me a photo of Ayako?" " Sure" "Have you always smoked a pipe?" "I smoke both cigarettes and pipes" "My husband was fond of pipes, too." "We still have two or three at home" "You can have them if you Iike" "That would be nice." "I'd like that very much" "I don't know if they're any good, but some of them he bought in England" "They must be good quality." "He was very particular about things like that" " Then I'll bring you one next time" " Thank you" " Please, help yourself" " Thank you" "Coming!" "Here you are, Dad" " l think he'd be perfect" " Who?" "Mr Goto." "He's a fine man" " You think so?" " Absolutely lf it were me, I'd say yes straight away" "Where did he graduate from?" "Waseda University." "He studied economics" "The azure sky..." " Where's he from?" " Fushimi." "His family runs a brewery" "Can't you quieten down?" " Go to your room" " Why?" "Just do it" "Dai, too!" "Upstairs, now!" "Waseda, Waseda, Waseda University.!" "I think Mr Goto's the best candidate we know" "I think so, too." "I'Il invite him over" "Ask him for a photo and background information" "I will I wonder what Akiko will do once Ayako is married." "She'll be alone" "She'll be fine." "She has to be ls Akiko as beautiful as ever?" "Yes, very beautiful" "But I like Ayako better." "She's so innocent" "really?" "Taguchi said he prefers Akiko" "I think you do, too" " Who?" " Akiko" "No way." "That's not me, that's Taguchi" "He's liked her ever since he was a young man" "really?" "And you haven't?" "Not really" "Oh?" "Which medicines did you buy?" " What?" " Which medicine?" " Whose?" " Yours" "Was it cold compresses or decongestants?" "Who told you this nonsense?" "Taguchi's wife?" "Now I know why you never catch colds" "You took too much medicine back then" "I'm home" "Welcome back, Mum." "Have you had supper?" "Mrs Sakai treated me to supper" " l've been waiting for you" " Really?" "I bought some sweets on the way home" " Do you want some now?" " l'll try some later" "I'm exhausted." "I've been all over town today" "Oh, Mr Taguchi's matchmaking failed" "really?" "Why?" " The young man already has a fiancée" " He's always doing stuff like that" "True enough." "But now there's another candidate" "Another one?" "I'm so popular all of a sudden" " Who's arranging it this time?" " Mr Mamiya." "He sounds nice" " They work at the same company - l see" "He'll send us a photo and some background information" "I'm going to boil some water" "Mr Mamiya thinks very highly of this young man" "He wanted to mention him the other day when we met" "He says he wants a photo of you" " You know, Mum..." " What?" " Could you decline the offers?" " Why?" "It'll be harder to say no once we have his picture" "Don't give him my photo, either" " Do you want some tea?" " Sure" "Listen, is there somebody you Iike?" "Not at all!" "Then why won't you consider this man?" "So many people are concerned about your well-being" "You should be grateful" "I know that, but I'm fine with things the way they are" "But..." "really, I don't want to get married yet" "'Don't want to'?" "Just sit down and listen to me" "What is it?" " Tell me the truth" " What?" "You really don't have anybody else in mind?" "I'd tell you if I did. I wouldn't hide something like that from you" "Okay..." "I feel fine as I am for the time being" " Make sure you decline his offer" " Are you sure?" "Of course, I'm sure" "Let's live together, just the two of us" "The water's boiled" "But once I falI in love with someone, I'll probably change my mind" "Wait a moment" "Like this, okay?" "That's all for today lf you have any questions, feel free to ask me anytime" " ls your class over?" " Yes" "Do you have a minute?" "Please come in and take a seat" " Have you spoken to her?" " Not yet" " Do it, then" " You should do it yourself" "You think so?" "Okay" "Here, Akiko..." " What do you think of him?" " Who is he?" "What do you think of him for your daughter?" "But isn't his nose crooked?" "That's just the photo." "It's the lighting" " Well.. ." " What is it?" "Thank you, but Ayako says she doesn't want to get married yet" " But..." " He's not suitable, anyway" "But he's from a good family" "The man's more important than the family!" " We discussed this last night" " Shame to pass him up" "It's no shame at all." "He's got no chance of succeeding, right?" "That's not the point, really" "Just the other day, Ayako declined a match arranged by Miwa's friend" " Why?" " She doesn't want to marry yet" "Really?" "Maybe you can't let her go, either" "Not at all" "But you need to give her away soon lf she waits, she'lI end up with someone who's not right" "We can't all be as lucky as I was" " Yes?" " There's a call for Mrs Miwa" " A call?" "Transfer it to here" " Yes" " Thank you" " There you go" "hello?" "is this Ayako?" "Yes, it's me" "Yes, I can come" "What time?" "Okay, no problem" "Then I'Il meet you at the corner" "I'Il leave early and stop by Uncle Mamiya's on the way" "Okay." "Bye" "I heard Ishii couldn't get the time off" "He'd even bought the maps and everything" " Why?" " His boss is really mean" " So there'll only be seven of us" " Right I want to shop for hiking boots." "Come with me after work" "Not today. I have an appointment" "A date, huh?" "What's going on?" "No, with my mum" "How boring." "Poor you" "please go in" "hello." "Nice to see you" "hello." "I've brought you the pipe" "The pipe?" "Oh, yes." "Thanks a lot" "Yes?" "What is it?" "Here." "Yes, this looks right" "Show me that earlier file" "Yes, sir" " Wait a minute" " Yes?" "This is the young lady who turned you down" "really?" "Ayako, this is the man you declined" "My name's Goto." "Please excuse me" " You're so mean" " Why?" "You shouldn't have said that" "I was only telling the truth" " But.. ." " But what?" "Will you reconsider?" "No way" "Here's the pipe" "hold on, Ayako" " l heard you work at Toko Trading" " Yes" "Say hello to Sugiyama in Accounting." "We went to school together" "I will" "Excuse me" "Here you go" " l'm so full" " You still have some beer left I shouldn't let it go to waste." "I'll drink it" "That's it" "Here you go!" "You know, once you get married we won't be able to go out like this" "Yes, we can." "I'm not getting married" "eventually you will, though" "Until then, we should go out together once a month or so and eat at nice restaurants" "That was delicious" "Even once every other month would be fine" "Yes, or once every three months" " l'll pay for it today" " No, I'll pay" "You'll be short of funds for your trip." "You bought so many things" "Don't worry." "I watch how I spend my money" "It's a great idea... . ..to go on a farewell hiking trip before your friend gets married" "We never thought of doing such things when I was young" "They're both into climbing, that's why we thought of it" "Wasn't it Yuriko's idea?" "Be careful not to fall, like in the film we just saw" "Don't worry, I won't." "It's a safe place" "well, that's good" "You still have some shopping to do, so shall we go?" "You wanted needles for the sewing machine" " And another thing." "Your favourite" " What?" "Oh, salted roe" " Could you bring the bill, please?" " Okay!" " Mum, I'll pay" " No." "You can pay next time" " You must be tired, Mum" " A little." "But I had a lovely time" " Oh, I forgot" " What?" "The soup mix." "Hopefully someone else will think of it" "well, don't we have some here?" "Only three sachets left" "You're just like your father" "What?" "You have to prepare everything perfectly when you go travelling" "Your father was just like that" "He couldn't do without his pumice stone at the hot springs" "To rub his heels with?" "I remember that I'd like to go to the hot springs with you, Mum" "Remember that time we went to Shuzen Temple?" "We saw all those carp in the pond at the inn" "And I threw buttered peanuts to them and they ate them all up" "Then we found the carp next morning floating belly-up I was shocked when I saw them, but dad thought it was hilarious" "That was the last trip we took with your father" "The budding maple leaves were so beautiful" "Know what?" "We should save some money and take a trip" "Where to?" "We could travel around on a tourist pass" " We could visit uncle at lkaho, too" " Good idea." "Let's do it" "We won't be able to do that after you get married" "Mum, why are you so eager to marry me off?" "It has to happen eventually" "No, I'm not going to get married." "I'm staying as I am" "But when I do find someone I really care for, what do you think?" "About what?" " Won't you get lonely?" " l will, but I'll have to bear it" "I'Il be just fine" "I'm sure my mother bore it, too" "That's how it is with mothers and daughters" "Mum, shall we go to bed soon?" "Okay." "We need to get up early" "I've had a lovely time today" " Three of a kind" " A three?" " Here you go." "Reach!" " That was quick" " You want this?" " Yes" " Then I'll give you this" " Okay, I'll take it" "Reach with a bonus makes three in a row" "Can't you be a bit nicer to the bridegroom-to-be?" "Don't worry." "I gave you a gift just recently, didn't I?" "Why did you have to come and play?" "She's making your husband-to-be cry" "really?" "Don't be too hard on him" "Hey, you sound like a wife already" "What's the character for 'fresh'?" "Fresh?" "If it's about your bridegroom, surely you mean 'gloomy'" "'Fresh' is written... I wrote it out in letters" "Miwa, I heard you turned down Goto" " What?" " Goto who works at Sanwa Trading i saw him in Shinjuku last night." "He told me you turned him down I didn't. lt's not how it sounds" "He's a good man." "Don't reject him" "I didn't!" "I didn't reject him" "What are you talking about?" "You just keep your mind on your own husband" "Why would you reject such a good man?" "Shall I reintroduce you to him?" "No, thanks I will." "You can count on me" "It's time" "Today feels like a lucky day." "The train will probably be full of young couples I wonder how Shigeko's doing right now" "Are they sitting face-to-face or shoulder-to-shoulder?" "Whichever they like." "It's none of our business" "There it is!" "She said she'd wave flowers at us from the window" "Maybe she forgot" "How could she?" "She mentioned it so many times" "Maybe she was feeling shy" "Besides, they could've invited us to the reception today" "They should have" "Maybe they just forgot about us" "We joined the company together, we've always been good friends" "We'll all go our separate ways eventually" "That's what I hate about marriage." "is it the same for men?" "I don't know lf friendship is just a temporary filler until we get married.. ." "...what's the point of all this?" "You're right" "It's stupid!" "Sorry to keep you waiting" "It looks like we'Il have a fine Sunday tomorrow" " I hope so." "Bye" " Thank you very much" "Welcome" "Welcome" " Welcome" " A water and a cup of coffee" "What a coincidence, seeing you here" " Where did you go, Ayako?" " To the cinema" "The cinema?" "Have a seat" " But..." " Her, too" " But..." " Are you off some place else?" "No, I'm going home now" "Please excuse me." "Goodnight" "Ayako, don't you want to go with him?" "No, I'm fine" " Then please sit down" " All right" "Here you are, sir" " would you like to order something?" " No, thanks. I'm full" "What's going on?" " What do you mean?" " With Goto I met him for the first time today." "Somebody else introduced us" "I introduced you first. lt was me" " But.. ." " But what?" "A friend of Mr Goto's, Sugiyama, works at my company" " That's why Sugiyama.. ." " Forget about Sugiyama" "What do you think?" " About what?" " About Goto" " l met him the first time this evening" " You already said so" "Stop teasing me" "I'm not teasing you, I'm serious" "Don't you think he's a nice fellow?" "Do you like him?" "Do you?" " l don't know" " You don't know?" "Really?" "I've no idea" "No idea, huh?" "well, that's a problem" "Supposing he's a nice young man and supposing that you like him, it's as simple as that" " What's simple?" " Marriage" " No way!" " What do you mean?" "Suppose l fell in love with somebody there might be a number of reasons for not being able to get married" "really?" "What reasons?" "You mean financial reasons?" " That's one" " What are the others?" "Like in my case, the girl might be living alone with her mother" "That's not an issue" "You'll never get married if you insist on staying with your mother" "I don't need to get married" "That's not right." "Women should, you know" "Listen, uncle, romance and marriage are separate for me" "Oh?" "What do you mean?" "well, how shall I explain?" "You mean you could put up with your husband's affairs?" " No, I'm not silly like that" " Oh, sorry" "Of course, if you could combine romance and marriage.. ." "...that would be ideal" "But I don't think you're unlucky if you don't have both" "You can still enjoy life I think that's the case for most couples" "You think so?" "Wouldn't you feel sad?" "No, I wouldn't." "I belong to a different generation" "You're right" "I'm happy living with my mother" "I'm very fortunate." "I'd rather keep living this way" "You love your mother so much" "You think so?" "We often bicker, though" "That proves you love her" "A mother and a daughter wouldn't fight unless they were very close" " You think so?" " Yes, I think so" "She really is a good mother and you're a good daughter, too" "Young people these days really are something" "You get some strange ones, of course" " l think what she says makes sense" " What?" "Separating romance and marriage lt's because the world is getting more difficult to live in" "And what do you think?" "Do you think Ayako likes that fellow?" "I think so, as far as I've seen" "She tried to make excuses, though" "That was a bit suspicious" " Who's this Sugiyama she mentioned?" " He's out of the picture now" "So the issue here is her concern for her mother" "Yes" " That's easy to deal with" " How?" " We'll get the mother to marry first" " Remarry?" "Yes!" "Then the daughter will marry." "That's both of them sorted out!" " You think that would work?" " Depends on how we persuade them" "Sounds like a brilliant idea" "If it worked out, it would be ideal lt will work." "Akiko is so pretty." "Who wouldn't marry her?" "Then why don't you ask Akiko if she's interested in remarrying?" " Do I have to do it?" " Of course, it's your idea" "It's right that you do it" "Give it a try. ..will you?" " Okay. I'll try" " Good" "But I don't have anyone lined up for her" "How about Hirayama?" "Me?" "Yeah, that could work" "That's not funny!" "There's no way I could do it" "She's the widow of a good friend" "Don't be so uptight" "No way" "No way, it would be immoral" "There's nothing immoral about it." "You're a widower and she's a widow I can't be so detached about it." "I couldn't do such a thing" "well, so much for that idea!" " But go ahead and ask her anyway - l will, then" "Don't you dare mention my name, you hear me?" "What a pity" "You've been a widower for years and what do you have to show for it?" "I totally agree." "I wish I were in his place" "Yeah, I wish I were in his place" "I really do" " Welcome home, sir" " Evening" " Hi, Dad" " You're home?" " Have you had supper, sir?" " Yes, thanks" "How about you?" "I've eaten already." "I couldn't wait for you all night I see" "What were the scores?" "Did you guess right?" "Not too bad" "What's the matter with you?" " What?" " You seem a bit down" " Has something happened?" " No, nothing" " l have to ask you something" " What?" "I've declined, but my friends are trying to play matchmaker" " For me?" " No, for me" "For you?" "Who's the woman?" "Aside from who she might be, what do you think?" "That depends on who you're marrying." "Do I know her?" "Tell me who it is" "Don't hide it from me" " l'm not hiding it" " Then who is it?" "Tell me" "You know Mrs Miwa, don't you?" "Oh, her?" "She's great." "I'd be fine with her" "So you approve?" "Of course!" "And you declined?" " Sort of" " That's a stupid thing to do!" " Really?" " Yes!" " So you'd accept?" " Of course" "Listen, Dad, I always hoped you'd get remarried" "Why?" "I'm going to get married someday and if you're still alone, you'll end up living with us" "You'd be in the way." "It's not fair on my wife idiot!" "And you wouldn't like it, either" "So you'd better marry Mrs Miwa" " lt's a great chance" " Chance?" "But is she really willing?" "I don't know yet" "What?" "You don't know?" "You need to be more confident" " So you like the idea?" " Yes, I do." "Absolutely I see..." "Dad, you look much happier now" "Please enter" "What is it?" "Today's such a beautiful day" "Well...it's been like this for a few days" "Yes, it's lovely" "There was an earthquake last night, though" "really?" "I didn't feel it" "There was." "Only a small one, though" "So what is it?" "What's the matter?" " What we discussed the other night..." " What's that?" "You know, when we were at the golf course" "About employing students?" "No, at the clubhouse" " What was it?" " About Miwa's wife" "Did you think of a suitable man?" "well..." "I've given it some thought" " And?" " Well..." "Remember what you suggested?" "My son likes the idea" "What did I say?" "You remember!" "No, I don't at alI" "Stop pretending I'm serious." "Do you think Taguchi has already asked her?" "No idea..." "But you didn't seem at all interested then" "Yes, I know, I know but life can be inconvenient in a lot of ways for a widower 'lnconvenient'?" "You have a maid" "I know that, but I just thought..." "There's an itch that your maid can't scratch?" "Sort of" "And you've suddenly developed such an itch" "Sort of" "I don't know about your itches, but what do you want me to do?" "Well, I'd Iike you to talk to her...about me I think you should leave that to Taguchi" "No, that man talks too much" " l want you to do it instead" " Me?" "Yes." "Would you do it for me?" "Well..." "Will you get me Mr Taguchi at Nitto Electric?" " Do you think Taguchi can handle it?" " No problem." "That's what we agreed" "But when he gets involved, things tend to..." "fall apart?" "hello?" "What?" "He's away?" " He's not there - l see" " l'lI talk to him" " As soon as you can" "Are you that itchy?" "I'm no good at this, no matter how old I am" " Where are you going?" " To the toilet" "Welcome!" "Welcome" "So...where's Hirayama?" "He's not here yet" " Did you talk to her?" " Yeah" " How did it go?" " Well  I got a bit sidetracked" "Could I have a glass of whisky with water?" "I'Il have another, too" "So what's the story?" "She has absolutely no intention of getting remarried" "She talked about her late husband from start to finish" "Did you mention Ayako and Goto?" " Yes, I did" " What did she say?" "She just smiled and said, 'Oh, really?" "'" "And what about Hirayama?" "I couldn't mention his name lt was like I'd gone there to hear her talk about Miwa I was touched by what she told me, too" " So you didn't mention Hirayama?" " Nothing" "Here you are, sirs" "But Hirayama's serious" "She's too good for Hirayama" "She's as lovely as ever I wish you'd been there to see her moved to tears" "Oh, really?" "She was like a beautiful flower in the rain" "And she peeled an apple for me with her gorgeous white hands" "And you ate it?" "I did indeed. lt was delicious" "And she gave this" " What did you go there for?" " What are you getting at?" "What about Hirayama?" "There's nothing I can do." "Forget about him" " But he's in a hurry" " He can hurry all he wants!" "Tell him to just put some ointment on that itch of his" "I guess we'd better forget about him" "Yeah, forget him" "Welcome!" "That's him." "He's here" " Hey" " Hi" "Sorry I'm late" "Hey, want a drink?" " Anything's fine" " All right" "Have these as well" "Taguchi, did you see her?" "Yeah, I did" " Did you talk to her?" " Yeah, I did" " How did it go?" " Well you need to be patient" "You need to be patient" "really?" " l feel sorry for Mr Hirayama - l know" "They're having fun at his expense" "They're so bad, those two" "Your husband's a bit better" "Mine asked me the other day, 'lf I died, would you get remarried?" "'" "And I said, 'No, I've had enough.' Then he said, 'l would' I asked him, 'To whom?" "' He said, 'To Akiko, of course'" " really?" "Mine's probably the same" " Pretty women have that advantage" "That's so true." "Makes me jealous" "Akiko can't just suddenly decide to get remarried" "She won't say yes right away." "I wouldn't, either" "Me, neither." "Even if I were interested" " Right." "They're so tactless - l agree" " l'll see you later, Mum" " On a date, Michiko?" "Yes, good guess." "Until late tonight" " See you later" " Bye" "What's to be done with young people nowadays?" "Mine's a headache, too" "Things were simpler in our day" "All we wanted was to go to the theatre" "Yes, Mon Paris or When Lilac Blooms" "Nowadays, they listen to rockabilly and that Presley" "No wonder things like dyed flowers are in fashion" "How true" " Good afternoon" " Hello" "We're talking about matchmaking Mrs Miwa's daughter" "You should take care of Ayako's marriage first I don't think you have to worry about Akiko's remarriage" "Well, your husband came up with that idea ls that so?" "He said it was your idea" "No, it was Taguchi" " Whose is it, I wonder?" " Definitely Taguchi's I heard you saw Akiko in tears and thought she was stunningly beautiful" "He said that?" "He's terrible." "It's the other way round" "I bet he also said I ate the apple" " Yes - l heard it was delicious" "Don't be silly!" "Anyway, we'll take care of Ayako first, if you think that's better" "Of course we do" "We do indeed" "I'd better leave you two to chat" "Welcome!" "Is Mr Mamiya here?" "Yes, he's waiting for you" "Ayako, I'm here" "Please come in" "I'm sorry I'm late" " You found it all right?" " Yes" "Sit down" "Make yourself comfortable" "We don't have much time, so I'll get straight down to business lt's about your marriage." "What do you think of Goto?" " ln what way?" " Do you like him or not?" "Tell me" " l don't dislike him" " So you like him" "He said he likes you, too" "So just go ahead and marry him, will you?" " But, Uncle..." " What?" "I haven't decided yet if I'll ever get married" "That's what you said last time" "So I can't give you an answer right now" "But if you like him, why not get married?" "But what would my mother do if I got married?" " Ah, your mother..." " Yes" "We've thought of her happiness, too." "We won't let her down" "What do you mean?" "For instance, what do you think about your mother getting remarried?" "Remarried?" "is that what she's considering?" "Well, sort of" "What do you think?" "Sorry to keep you waiting" "What's wrong?" "You look like you're deep in thought" "Is it definite, then?" " What?" "Your mother's remarriage?" " Who is he?" " The man?" " Yes" "Since you and your mother have known him for years  I thought Hirayama might be suitable" "Mr Hirayama?" "What do you think of him?" "Are you not keen?" "well, it's not definite yet" "What do you think?" "welcome home." "Are you hungry?" "We've not got much for supper I meant to shop on my way home, but I was late, as well" "What's wrong?" "What's happened?" "What's the matter?" "What's up with you?" "I saw somebody today who I haven't seen in years lt was on the train" "I wonder if you remember her" "She often came round to sell rice in the years after the war" "She looked so elegant I hardly recognised her" "Mum?" "Yes?" "Have you been hiding something from me?" "Such as?" "uncle Mamiya told me the whole thing today" "What about?" "Mum, are you planning to get remarried?" "Remarried?" "Don't hide it from me any more!" "Hide what?" " l know" " What do you know?" "What is this?" "I'm completely lost" "Don't deny it!" "What about dad?" "Didn't you think of him?" "Wasn't Mr Hirayama a friend of dad's?" " What about Mr Hirayama?" " You're still denying it?" "Why would you hide it from me?" " What do you mean?" " Enough's enough!" "I never thought you'd do this." "I hate all this secrecy" "What are you talking about, Ayako?" "It's sordid!" "I hate it!" "Ayako, where are you going?" "Where are you going?" "Leave me alone!" "I don't like what you're doing!" "Here you go" " Cuttlefish, please" " And you, miss?" " l'd like some more of this" " Coming up!" "Welcome!" "Oh, welcome" " l came to see Yuriko" " Yes, she's in" "Yuriko!" "Miss Miwa is here!" "Coming!" "please go on up" "Nice to see you." "Come on up." "My room's a mess, though" "Please" "Here you go!" "would you like some more clams?" "I'll have some" "You do like your clams, don't you?" "Clams are delicious" "They're poisonous, though, if you're not careful" " How about some octopus?" " l've already had some octopus" "I want some clams, the softest part" " And some red shellfish" " Yes, sir!" "So what did you say to her?" "I hate it all the more because he's my father's friend. lt's not right" " That's why you stormed out?" " Yes, because I think it's sordid" "So that's what you think" "I still remember my dad so well" "Why is my mother behaving like she's forgotten him?" "I just can't bear this" "Listen, I can understand but aren't you being a bit selfish?" "Why?" "Look at it from your mother's perspective" " What do you mean?" " Well, she's a woman, too, like you" " What are you saying?" " You have a boyfriend" "Why shouldn't your mother have one?" "Isn't that selfish of you?" "If it were me, I'd just stay quiet" "So you'd be fine with it if you were me?" "Of course." "I'd let my mother live her own life" " You'd feel differently in my place" " That's not true lt was fine when my father got remarried lt didn't mean I'd forgotten my late mother" "Even now, when I close my eyes, I can see my mother's face" "My father's a bit sloppy, but that's all right, he has his own life" "But I don't think that" "But you have no choice" "You can't expect things to be perfect in this world" "You're acting like a baby" " Yuriko, here you are" " Thanks" "Want something to eat?" "Come on over here" "I'm going home" "Home?" "I thought you were staying over tonight" " l'm going home" " Eat something before you go" "I've had enough" "You're really going home?" "Go home, then." "What a baby!" "Go on!" "Where were you?" "I've been worried about you, running off like that" "Where have you been?" "What are you so upset about?" "There's been a misunderstanding" "What did Mr Mamiya tell you?" "What do you think I'm hiding from you?" "I have no need to hide anything" "You're the one who's hiding something" " What are you talking about?" " l'm talking about Mr Goto" "You said nothing to me about him, a man that you like I've been waiting for you to tell me about him" "I've heard he's a really nice man and I've been really happy for you" "Why didn't you tell me?" " Morning" " Morning" "See you" "Morning" " Good morning" " Good morning" "Did you make up with your mum when you got home?" "Are you still upset?" "Fine, stay upset." "Stay like that forever" "Thank you!" "Here you go" " Welcome!" " Welcome!" "That's not good, quarrelling with your mother" "I lost my mother when I was quite young" "Sometimes I think back and wish I hadn't argued with her" "Suddenly I remember and regret what I did" "I'm from Fushimi" "We have these traditional dolls made of clay" "They used to be on a shelf in the kitchen..." "Are you okay?" "One day, when I was nine years old I got angry about some stupid little thing and I broke all those dolls" "I still remember the shocked look on my mother's face" "I had no good reason" "I'd got home hungry and found that supper wasn't ready yet" "She died that autumn" " Really?" " So it's best not to quarrel" "Never quarrel" "You're right" "Yes?" "Who is it?" "Good evening" "Oh, hello" " ls Ayako home?" " Not yet" "But do come in" "Please have a seat" "Do you know where Ayako is?" " l don't know - l sort of know..." "I heard what happened last night" "So she was at your house last night?" "Yes." "And I heard that you're getting remarried" "What's going on with you girls?" "So I told her she was being childish getting upset about it" "You have your reasons for making your choices" " l suppose I do" " Ayako isn't being fair" "She's just blaming you without really thinking about it I had a long talk with her, but she refused to talk to me today" " Really?" " That's why I came over" "The truth is that I think she's overstepped the mark" "Why's that?" "If I were Ayako, I'd rather you got remarried" "really?" "Why?" "No offence, but I'd feel less burdened if you were married" "You may be right" "Of course." "Everyone thinks so" "Ayako's the only one who doesn't see it." "She's so silly" "I'd be a burden to her, wouldn't I?" "No, of course not" "well, maybe just a little burden." "Sorry." "Will you be lonely?" "There's nothing I can do about that" "As long as she's happy, I'lI be happy" "You're really amazing." "I'm glad we've had this chat" "And I'm glad you've decided because otherwise Ayako would never get married" " You think so?" " Definitely." "She's said so" "Has she?" "If you decide to get married, Ayako will quickly follow suit" "She's so stubborn" "She certainly is I wonder what she's upset about." "It's perfect, isn't it?" "What is?" "Mr Hirayama." "He's a college professor" "And he was a friend of your husband's, so he'll understand everything" "But, Yuriko, you've misunderstood" "No, I haven't." "It'Il be fine" "What's fine?" "I think you've got mixed up I know nothing about a match with Mr Hirayama" "Don't deny it." "There's no need to be shy!" "Honestly, I know nothing about it" "Believe me" "really?" "How's that possible?" "So you know nothing about the match?" "That's right." "I've heard nothing about it" "That's terrible." "Why is everyone talking about it?" "You didn't know?" "That's right" "really?" "That's so ridiculous!" "Welcome back." "Where have you been?" "You're not still upset?" "I came to see how you were doing lt's none of your business." "Go home" "Okay, I'll go" "Yuriko, you can stay here tonight" "No, Mum, I won't sleep in the same house as her" " Ayako!" " No is no." "She has to go" "I'm leaving now!" "Excuse me." "Goodnight" "You're really leaving?" "I'm sorry" "Don't care!" " Bye" " Bye" "Sorry lt's okay." "She's just being stubborn" "Yes?" "Mr Hirayama is here to see you" "What's up?" "An odd situation seems to have arisen" " What do you mean?" " A strange girl came to see me" " What?" " Anyway, I need you to meet her" " Who?" " She's waiting for you in reception" " Taguchi's with her, too" " Who are you talking about?" " Hi" " Hi" "What's the matter?" "Well..." "That's her." "She's a friend of Ayako's" "My name is Yuriko Sasaki" "My name's Mamiya." "Please have a seat" "Please" "I have one question for you." "Why are you spreading false stories?" "What do you mean?" "I'm talking about Mrs Miwa's remarriage" " Oh, I see" " No, you don't see!" "You told Ayako something that Mrs Miwa knew nothing about!" "Why would you disrupt a perfectly happy family?" "Ayako has suffered a great deal because of you" "Why would you disturb their peace like that?" "I want to know." "Please explain yourselves" "Can't you tell me?" "What's so funny about upsetting them?" "We don't find it funny at alI" "Then why?" "Your name is Yuriko, right?" "Please have a seat" "I'm fine standing" "But..." " Sit down, please" " No!" "Thank goodness you have a reception room here" "This is exactly what she did to me at the university" " By the way, Yuri-chan..." " Use my full name" "Oh..." "I do apologise" "I can explain how it happened" "I'm not asking you!" "Right..." "But what do you think about the idea of Mrs Miwa remarrying?" " Good idea?" " Yes, it's a good idea" "But that's beside the point" "actually, it isn't." "That's how Ayako is" "She'll never get married unless her mother remarries first" "Why didn't you say so in the first place?" "Mrs Miwa knows nothing about him, does she?" "Hey, she said the same thing to me earlier" "What's going on?" "Didn't you mention my name to Mrs Miwa?" "Just stay quiet for now" " But..." " Hold your tongue" "We seem to have made a procedural mistake" "For Ayako to be happily married, her mother must remarry" " You understand that?" " Yes." "But then why did you.. .?" "I'm sorry for the mistake we made." "Please forgive us" "I apologise to you, too" " Please sit down" " Please" "Now the question is whether Mrs Miwa is willing to be remarried I asked her about that" " ls she?" " Yes" "well, that's good news" "We'd like you to help us" "We'lI take care of the mother first, and then Ayako" " What do you think?" " That's fine with me" "That makes sense to me" "You've perked up again!" "Has it already been decided that he's to be her husband?" "Well nothing's definite yet" "Do you object?" "I have no objection" " l think he's fine" " Fine?" " Charming" " Charming?" " So, Hirayama, we should celebrate" " No, no" "'No, no'?" "You owe us a big meal I do?" "Fine, fine" " Where are you going?" " To the toilet" "Many thanks!" "Welcome!" "That's quite a way." "It's good sushi at your place, is it?" "Yes, it is." "Let's have some hot sake" "These humble little places often have surprisingly good food" "Sorry about the 'humbleness'" " Aren't the master and his wife in?" " They've just stepped out" "And their daughter?" "Well, she's..." "Their daughter's very pretty." "I wish you could meet her" "Yuri-chan, are you okay?" "Can you make it home from here?" "Of course I can make it home." "I'm more concerned about you" " What would you like?" " Where's my sake ?" "Just a moment" "And what would you two like to eat?" " What do you recommend?" " Everything's good" "Make an assortment, will you?" "We can't eat much, you know" "Yes, we can." "The sushi here is really excellent" "Serve us plenty" "Hirayama, I'Il try to help you persuade Mrs Miwa" " But can you truly love her?" " Yes, I can" "Always and forever?" "Yes, I can" "He looks so happy, doesn't he?" "He's very lucky" "Here you are, your hot sake" "I'm really happy for you, Hirayama" "Thank you so much." "I'm so grateful to my friends" "It's not guaranteed yet, you know" " Don't say that" " Here you go" "But honestly, can you really love my auntie forever?" "Yes, I can" "Always and forever?" "Yes, I can" "You're a sweet man." "Leave it to me, all right?" "You're such a lucky fellow" "Welcome, everyone" "Oh, you're back" " You're late today" " Yeah" "They seem to know you very well" " Do you come here often?" " Yeah, every day" "Every day?" " Did you take the day off work?" " l left work at noon" " Mr Sugiyama called for you" " What did he say?" "He said he'd talk to you tomorrow" "I get it." "You live here" "Yes, that was my mother" "And I'm the daughter of the house" "You're terrible!" "You can eat as much as you like, as long as you pay the bill" "Of course I'll pay the bill" "Serve us everything you can, and sake, too" "We're no match for the young ladies nowadays" "They're way ahead of us" " Tuna belly, please" " And some clams for me" "But do you really promise me?" "Yes, I promise. I will love her" "Not that!" "I'm talking about paying the bill" "Oh, I will, I will." "I'll be glad to" "Red shellfish for me" "I see." "That's why Miwa's taking a vacation" " They're travelling all over together - l'm glad they made up" "Ayako was upset at first, but she managed to get over it" "Seeing them, I wished I had my real mother back" "You've got a wonderful stepmother" "She's nice, but it's not the same thing I'm trying to be a good daughter to her" "really?" "Can't you tell?" "I must be acting well" " Here you go" " Thanks!" "I wonder where Ayako is today?" "I'm so envious of her" "Shall we go hiking again for the farewell party?" " We can invite Goto, too" " Let's do it lt's a beautiful time of year for hill-walking" " We shouldn't be in the office" " You're right" "The lanterns twinkle in the wan light of dusk" "And the path winds its way up to the old mountain hut" "Staring longingly out of the window, I reminisce about us" "And songs of old are carried on the wind..." "Ayako, aren't you sleepy?" "No, not yet lt's unfortunate it's so crowded and noisy" "But there are students on school trips wherever we go" "The hotel in Nikko was packed with them." "Wasn't it?" "They kept taking our slippers and entering our room by mistake" "Did they?" "It can't have been very restful for you" "But we still had a lovely time" "well, that's good" "Excuse me?" "Sir, the teachers from the school group want to talk to you" "Okay, I'll be right along" "I'm so glad that Ayako's found a good bridegroom. .." "...and that you've decided to get remarried" "I was concerned about you more so than I was about Ayako" "Thank you for thinking of us" "I'm just happy for you" "Sleep well" " Goodnight" " Goodnight" "Night" "Shall we go to sleep now?" "Ayako, come over here" "It's quieter now" "Maybe the school kids have gone to bed" "School trips were always so much fun but I never liked the Iast night I was always so sad that the trip was about to end" "Did you ever feel that way, too?" "What's the matter?" "Mum?" "Ayako... . ..remember when you said it was sordid for me to get remarried?" "please forget about that" "I'm sorry for what I said" "To tell you the truth, I feel the same way" "I've decided not to get remarried" "But, Mum..." "I'm still happy with your father I'll continue to live with his memories" "That's all I want I really have no desire to start all over again" "But, Mum... I'll be fine" "Don't worry about me any more." "Please marry Mr Goto" "Nothing could give me greater pleasure.. ." "...than seeing you happily married to someone you love" "Just forget all about me" "I won't feel lonely at alI" "But how can I leave you all alone in that apartment?" "I'll be fine" "What kind of prospects will you have if you stay with me?" "You're young and blooming." "You have a bright future" "There's so much happiness waiting for you" "Please get married to Mr Goto" "I'Il be absolutely fine on my own" "please do as I say" "And please don't think I'm lying just to convince you to get married" "Listen to me.. ." "You do understand, don't you?" "I've really enjoyed this trip" "Do you remember when we lived here during the war?" "Your dad would come home every Sunday" "Although we were penniless he'd always find something to bring back for you" "He was a good father" "This will be our last trip together" "I want you to be happy" "You have so much ahead of you and so do I" "I'll always remember eating sweet beans with you here ...the leaves of crimson and ochre" "How varied the colours" "They scatter downwards to the water's surface" "Forming a flowing, richly hued brocade..." "Wedding Reception for the Goto and Miwa Families" "I'm ready" "Could the bridegroom please turn this way a little?" "Ready?" "Hold." "One more shot" "Could you bring more sake to that room?" "It went well today." "We had good weather and everything" "It went really well lt was a rocky road, but we had fun" "We certainly did." "Let's toast to Ayako" "And also to Miwa and Akiko" " Cheers" " Cheers" "It wasn't much fun for me, though" "Just remember that we achieved our goal" "Ayako is now happily married I'm glad about that, but I feel a bit used" "At least you all got pipes" "What, this?" "But you had a good time, dreaming pleasant dreams" "Dreaming in vain" "We tend to make things complicated in life" "Maybe life's simpler than we think" "Speak for yourself!" "That daughter from the sushi restaurant?" "She's a one!" "She was lots of fun lt's refreshing to see a girl like that." "Sentimental girls are too much" "Overly practical isn't good, either, though" "My daughter's almost that age." "It's hell for parents!" "I wonder what Akiko will do, though, all on her own" "Are you still holding out hope?" "No, I've given up" "So your itches are gone now?" "No, the itches still remain" "But we had a good time together" "We'lI have to think of something else to bring us together" "What about your daughter?" "Isn't she of marriageable age?" "No, not yet." "And I won't need any help from you two" "Some more?" " There's whisky, too" " This is fine" "It was all good fun" "Mrs Miwa?" "Are you still up?" "Yuri-chan?" "I just wanted to check you were all right" "We all went to the Ginza after the reception" "For you" "Thank you" "Ayako looked so beautiful today with her hair up in the traditional style" "You think so?" "She said she didn't like it" "It was perfect" "Can I pop in to see you from time to time?" "Of course." "Do come and see me." "I mean it" "I'm glad that you look happy" "Yes, I am. I'm very happy today, thanks to you all" " And Ayako's happy" " She really is" "She's blessed to have you as a mother" "I have to go now" "well, thank you so much for coming to see me" " Goodnight" " Goodnight" " Bye" " Bye" "The End"