"An Entry of the 1960 Arts Festival" "Toho presents" "A Tokyo Film Production" "TWILIGHT STORY" "Produced by Ichiro Sato" "Based on the Novel by Kafu Nagai" "Script by Toshio Yasumi" "Photography by Masao Tamai Music by lkuma Dan" "Edited by Hiroichi lvvashita" "Starring" "Fujiko Yamamoto as Oyuki" "Hiroshi Akutagavva as Junpei Taneda with Michiyo Aratama, Nobuko Otovva, Keiko Avvaji" "Directed by Shiro Toyoda" "1936" "Once again," "I crossed the river Sumida. .." "And walked east." "In recent years, the town of Teramaohi._... has completely changed." "So, that in the midst of the rows of shops, there are narrow alleys... inhabited by prostitutes." "In the bustling Tamanoi area... there are 5 zones." "The girls in Zone 1 are the most outgoing, but girls in Zones 2 and 3 are gentler." "The rate, in either case, is 2 or 3 yen." " Welcome." " Welcome." " Looks like a shower." " Yes, the weather is unstable." "How's your novel going'?" "Any ideas?" "No." "Must be hard doing research." "But, I know you rather like it around here." "Sorry to be rude but..." "at your age... getting it every night..." "Damn!" "It's starting to rain." "Let's stay out of the rain!" "Sir!" "Go to my place." "It's Just around the corner." "Hurry!" " You go ahead." " Hurry!" " Come on!" " It's fine." "I'll follow you." "Hurry!" "You'll get wet." "I'm wearing western clothes." "They can get wet." "This way" "Honey!" "Hurry!" "You're soaked!" "No." "This way" "This is your place?" " Come in." "I'll wipe you dry" " That's OK." " I said I'd dry you." " That's OK." "I'd like to thank you." "What sort of thanks?" "Well..." "Well!" "Just come in!" "No..." "Come in." " No..." " Come in, come in!" "Oh you!" "Come on in." "There's nobody here." " You live alone?" " So timid for a man!" "No..." " Are you the proprietor?" " No." "He lives elsewhere." "There's a theatre in Tamanoi." "He lives there." "I'll dry your clothes." " Any valuables inside?" " No." "The proprietor collects the money every evening." "Honey sit down." " It's pretty wet." "Your cigarettes." " Thanks." "Do you use well water or tap water'?" " Why'?" " Well water spreads diseases." "It's probably my age..." "You aren't old at all!" "Tap water." "It's over there." "Want to wash your face?" "No thanks." "I'm not going to the bathhouse!" "Are you in a hurry'?" "I'll wash my face and put some makeup on." "Here." "It's not the thunder." "It's the lightning that scares me." "Your heart is weak." "Yes!" "Here." "I forgot!" "I left the upstairs windows open!" "Just a second." "That feels horrible." " Welcome back." " Bad luck today" "Hey where's that guy'?" "He said he was getting some cigarettes." "But, he already had some." "I was on my way back from the bathhouse." "Hovv odd." "He hasn't paid..." "Has he stolen anything?" " May I borrow a candle?" " Sure." " My dress has gotten dirty" " Wow!" " That's very modern." " Yes, I earn more with this!" "Thanks!" "If I call you husband..." "Indeed..." "There are said to be 1,500 or 1,600 women." "But, there are always 100 of them in the hospital." " Health checks'?" " Yes, every week." "Many came from the northeast, or nearby provinces." "They can repay the 1,000 yen bond in 3 years or so." "Some work for other reasons." "The owners make a massive profit." "Some have built real palaces." "Fukuro and Ganmo." "Tofus!" "There are all kinds of women here." "Mariko at Block 17 Number 18... she's a slut." "She scares the young clients away" "And then, the one at 57..." "Honey what's her name?" "Chieko." "She's a crybaby" " It's Fukuro!" " Oops." "Taeko at 54... she has two mirrors in her room." "It's for peeping toms." "Peepers!" "2 yen each time." "If you pay 5 yen for the hour, you can bathe with her." "I see." "It's back." "Oh!" "Oyuki!" " There awe hashes!" " What'?" " Loaches." " Are you kidding'?" "We're OK in here, even with this much rain." "Loaches!" "Look!" "Oh." "You left without a word." "Come in." "What a tease you are." "May I?" "Don't ask." "Just come in." "I was going to dry that for you." "Novv, it's almost dry" "What about the other girl?" " Also in business." " Oh." "Come on in." "You keep the place very tidy" "Have you only just noticed?" "Here you are." "Don't sit there." "You're a bore!" " Here!" " OK." "It's really tidy in here." "I'm impressed." "Even the brazier is clean." "I always clean thoroughly every morning." "I'm a prostitute, but I'm good at keeping house." "I see." "Oh, sweet potatoes!" "See, you can't laugh at me!" " Have some." " No thanks." "Honey" "Have you been drinking?" "Yes... and what of it'?" "Nothing." "Face that way" "I'll have a quick meal." "You cook for yourself?" "No, it's from the boss's house." "Don't watch!" "I'm a bit embarrassed." "She called you Ki-chan, didn't she'?" "Yes, my name is Oyuki." "Oyuki'?" "Ki of Oyuki." "I'll refill the teapot." "Thanks." "The water isn't hot enough." "Hey)'" "It's really nice to talk while eating." "It's not very pleasant eating on your own." " Here you are." " Oh!" "You're very kind." "Are you single?" "Well, yes." "Poor you." "You can tell'?" "I'll find you a nice woman." " Offering please." " Offering." " Offering." " Oh!" "The basic fee is 5O sen'?" "That is the rule." "Let's say an hour." "You know all the details." "I should have known!" "I asked the guy at the restaurant." "That's funny" "And... in exchange..." "You're drunk!" "Silly!" "Honey!" ""Bit!" "Honey!" " What is it'?" " Oh'?" "What's the matter?" "Ofusa is always falling in love and bringing them in." "Is that OK in a place like this?" "Now you see her differently?" "It can't be helped." "That's the way she is." " What about you'?" " Me'?" "Stick around and you'll see." "Hey handsome!" "So what?" "It's not free!" "It's free up to here!" "Who knows what I might catch?" "You asshole!" "Pauper!" "No one would have you!" "I knew it." "Have you been here long'?" "Just over a year." "But you didn't start here, did you'?" "Were you a geisha?" "Maybe." "V\/here'?" "Not Tokyo." "Very far from here." "Manchuria'?" "Utsunomiya." "All my kimonos are from those days." " Here'?" " That's enough about that." "Stupid!" "Look carefully before entering!" "Such a kid." "Sorry" "It feels old-fashioned here but that's good." " Going home'?" " Yes." "All the way from Utsunomiya." "Did you need money'?" "Of course!" "You must have been shocked at first." "It's different from being a geisha." "Not really I knew what to expect." "It costs money to be a geisha." "You'll never get out of debt." "You'll earn more as a prostitute." "Hey... honey" "You only came by chance." "Correct?" "I knew it." "You need a drink before coming in." "Why did you really come'?" "I have troubles." " Me too." "We're just normal people." " Exactly!" "Hey you!" "Where are you from'?" "Your name." "What's your name?" "You must be new around here." "A cop." "I told him you're from the headquarters!" " Is that OK'?" " Of course." "The night before the Emperor appears in public, the cops would come to red light areas to lookfor assassins!" " It gave me a fright." " Hey... come again soon." "Please do." "I'm here during the day too." " What's the name of this place?" " I'll give you a card." ""Yukiko"" "Go home and stop pissing me off!" " What'?" " Get out!" "Lousy bitch!" "I won't forget this." "Tamae, he's a cop." "He pushed his way in, saying it was a spot check." "He tried to convince me... to give him a freebie." "Awful!" "But at least it shows hovv attractive your body is." "Well... you embarrass me." "My body!" "Right?" "You shouldn't get so angry" "I've just come from Gyotoku to tell you this." "But, Uncle." "Mum's illness has got worse, but why is it always me who worries about the money?" "The uncle in Gyotoku is Mother's older brother!" "Well, Oyuki..." "Due to Mother's illness," "I have to work here." "I know... thanks to you, she was admitted to the hospital that time." "Look." "I'm doing everything I can." "But what happened to the money from last time?" "I can't ask that." "I'm just your dad's younger brother." "They're just my in-laws." "But, they do look after your mother." "I've had enough!" "Every time Mom goes into hospital," "I fall a bit lower." "It's horrible." "It's horrible!" "I've had enough!" "Well, then." "I'll go to Gyotoku and tell them that." "Oyuki?" "Yes?" "Your train fare." "Come on." "I'm no stranger!" "Just a few coins." "I see." "Thank you, then." "Sorry" " So you won't do it'?" " That's right." "Here's the monthly payment from the Takumas." "Your seal here." "Thanks." "Here you are." "Correct." "I can't help out at the memorial service next month." "That will make things difficult." "After all that, why would the Master vvant me to do it'?" "Actually he heard that you're... overzealous regarding religion, recently" "He's worried that things have gone wrong between you two." "With religion, I can forget all unpleasant things." "Perhaps any couple becomes like this after 10 years." "Anything wrong with Junpei'?" "He always looks angry when I visit your mansion." " I hate seeing that face." " That's odd." "He knew all about you before marrying you." "When you were working there as a maid, the fling with Master... and having baby Minoru..." "Oh..." "Minoru'?" "He's asleep." "Yes, he knew." "The Takumas supported Junpei through college." "He owed them a favour, I guess he couldn't say no." "But, you get such a large sum every month until Minoru graduates from college." "He should be very grateful." "Mr. Endo, that's not why we got married." "We love each other." "At least I think so." "Probably..." "But..." "But what?" "No!" "It's hard for an outsider to understand." "Maybe so..." "I'm just a butler." "I come here on their orders." "Thanks for your trouble." "Well..." "But, the Master is also the Chairman of Teito University" "You probably don't vvant Junpei... to be a middle school teacher forever." "You won't help Junpei at all by offending the Master." "In this world, it takes more than talent to get ahead." "Right?" "Welcome home." "What's his problem'?" "Honey Mr. Endo brought..." "Why such a face?" "You're like that when you see that money these days." "It's for Minoru's education." "I know." "As always, deposit it." "Please write a thank you note to Mr. Takuma." "You write it." "Honey!" "We need this money!" "For Minoru's education." "To see a doctor if we get sick." "You can't even buy your research books on your salary!" "True." "But I don't remember buying you or Minoru." "What do you mean by that?" "Minoru is so cute." "I think of him as my own child." " But..." " But what?" "I can't help it." "Takuma is always in the background." "I hate myself so much these days." "Where's my sash?" "The sash!" "Over there." "You vvant supper?" "No." "Where were you today?" "None of your business." "So it's none of your business if I go somewhere?" "I was playing Go at Yamai's house." "OK then." "Let's drop it." "Do you... suspect me of something?" "I trust you." " You've also changed." " Hovv?" "You're not gentle anymore." "If you think I've been playing around, just say so." "I'm so sorry!" "Everything displeases you." "Mitsuko." "Let's stop now, or we'll have an argument." " Mitsuko." " Stop that!" "You'll wake Minoru." "I'm not a tool!" "You men!" "You always vvant it!" "Instead of playing Go, use this money to study!" "What's the use of studying now?" "Takuma may recommend you to a technical school, at least." "I didn't ask for that." "So, you don't vvant that?" "I don't vvant his favors." "So proud." "I hate that sort of thing." "Hovv can you get ahead without a patron?" "I feel sorry for kids these days." "But, we have also lost hope for a promising future." "Yes." "No change at all." ""Once upon a time..."" "I repeat over and over:" ""Thermal expansion is when a body..."" "The pay is low." "They're increasing the time for military training'?" "Our time is being out." "No more night school teaching on the side." "But, I have no other skills." "Me too." "Teaching middle school is hard enough for me." "Hovv about coming round to play Go'?" "Well..." "You've got something... more fun to do'?" "I need to grade the test papers." "The moon is in the mirror, reflecting your beautiful looks." "Ifs like that every night." "I'm feeling that way." "Don't forget me." "Forget me not." "Otokichi!" "A visitor from Gyotoku" "What's up'?" "Hello!" "What brings you here'?" "Well..." "This time, it's the tooth root..." "no, periostitis... in the bone." "Never heard of that." "In the mouth, this bone." "It rots and poisons the head." "But, there's no cure." "That's what they said." " Sorry to hear that." " No, thanks." "Oyuki has done all she can do." "It's her mother, so she'll do what she can." "But, think about her." "You're her uncle." "I know I am, but..." "But, right now, only Oyuki can..." "There's a limit to what Oyuki's body can do." "Even an engine gets worn out!" "So, you'll tell Oyuki... to ignore her own mother'?" "When has she ever neglected her mother?" "She hasn't." "For whom did she degrade herself?" "You say that but... well..." "There's nothing else vve can do." "I've already done enough." "Go and talk to her yourself." " Otokichi!" " Goodbye." "I'm busy" "The moon is in the mirror, reflecting your beautiful looks." "Ifs like that every night." "I'm feeling..." "Honey?" "Honey?" "Honey?" "No!" "Don't stare me like that!" "You shocked me." "I thought I was being murdered." "When did you come'?" "No..." "What's this?" "It's work." "It's important." " No!" " Come on." "Give it back." "I won't!" "I won't!" "I won't." "Idiot!" "Sorry!" "What are you doing'?" "It's you, boss." "I know!" "Know what?" "The job of Oyuki's regular." "Who cares'?" "You both need to work harder." "It's getting slower during the day" "That's all?" "Well... it's... books with pictures of men and women in bed." "Pornography?" "Yes." "He writes them." "He's here doing "research"!" " Really?" " Button me up!" "But, he should have chosen you." "He brought a lot of paper with words on them, and he's a bit gloomy" "I see." "And, Oyuki's so kind to him." "All the girls here are like that." "They're very attracted to... men clown on their luck." "They love those men." "Or, as they say "Misery loves company"" "You're different." "You're neither bright or gloomy" "You like offering yourself to men." "Yes." "I'm an idiot." "You're very perceptive." "Hey!" "Work harder!" "Come in, Sir!" "Come in, Daddy!" "Come in..." "I'm all fresh today Sir!" "Honey" "You're really single." "This button was missing the other day too." "There are rumors about me, right'?" "I can't spend too much here." "It'd be suspicious." "I don't care." "We have thieves and murderers coming here!" "I'm not one of them." "Stop wandering around." "Sit still, or I'll make you wait longer!" "Sit clown here." "OK." " It's done." " Thank you." "Face that way" "I" "I'll work very hard... to quickly pay off my debts." "But, I don't know where I'll go." " Hey!" "" What'?" "Yes." "Hey!" "Sunsets are sad." "It's OK." "You can go." "Stop that!" "Sorry!" " Where's Mom'?" " Memorial service." " Memorial service?" " Yes." "OK." "Thanks for staying behind." "When Mom goes to the mansion in Azabu, she always brings me something nice!" "Azabu?" "Whose house is that?" " What'?" " Tell me." "Minoru, I'm going to the bathhouse." "The bathhouse?" "The bathhouse?" " Memorial service?" " I went to ask a favor." " For what?" " Don't you vvant a technical-school job'?" "No." "Honey!" "You still think..." "If you don't trust me, if you hate me, refuse the money as well!" " Good morning." " Good morning." "The moon is in the mirror, reflecting your beautiful look." "Hey!" "Hi there, Oyuki." "Here's the fine!" "For me'?" "It feels weird." "Fire drill at 3:00 today" "Bring your bucket and gather at the main street." "Bucket team drill, even for us!" "If vve get bombed we're done for." "The houses are like matchboxes!" "What a hassle." "Is that Omachi playing the Nagoya harp?" "Yes." "She's had no customers since yesterday" "She isn't healthy" "She sulks when she's doing it." "It's no fun for customers." "I hear she isn't doing well here." "I helped her pay her rent... out of my earnings!" "That's tough on you." "No matter how much we earn, the rent doesn't go clown!" "I enjoy doing it." "Do you'?" "But I wonder... has she ever had a real taste of a man?" "Fool!" "The days are illusions, the nights are dreams." "My heart longs only for you." "My blood boils for you." "With all these feelings, I'm here..." "I see." "The flowers aren't free." "Now you've read it." "What do you think?" "This Gyotoku uncle of yours..." ""I know we've asked a lot from you,"" ""but, your mother has gotten worse."" "It means "send us money"?" "I think so." "No!" "Not here!" "Sorry" "Never mind." "I guess so." "Your body is no longer yours." "Right." "I would send the money" "The reason you're here, is to cure your mum'?" "Yes." "So, cure her completely" "If you turn your back on her now, coming here would have been for nothing." " I guess you're right." " See!" "Do what you can for your mom." "Then, find a good man and quit this." "You've got a good man, haven't you'?" "No!" "Yes!" "Send the money and get it over with." " Yes!" " Get it over with." "You can quit this." "Not me." " Why'?" " My body won't let me!" "One man isn't enough!" "Fool!" " For this!" " I don't know what you mean!" "Bye, then." "I'll do it." "I'll ask my uncle in the shipyard to send the money" " Good." " Thanks, Tamae." "You forgot something." "Who's found the good man?" "We still don't have a reply from Oyuki." "There's nothing vve can do." "We're sending her mom away" "She's so sick, she can't live on her own!" "Off vve go." "Minomatsu?" "Leaving a sick person on her own." "Minomatsu?" "Minomatsu?" "Excuse me..." "What the hell?" "Oyuki's mom'?" "What's up'?" "I'm Otokichi." "Oyuki's mom'?" "Oyuki's mom!" "Are you in pain'?" "I came in." "Did they leave you alone?" "Oyuki's mom..." "According to the association rules, girls can sit in the windows after 4 o'clock." "But, loudspeakers, radios, and playing shamisen are forbidden." "If you wander deep into the alleys, it feels sad and lonely, like the outskirts of town." "Not a run down bit of our modem Japan, but the girls' old hairstyles in dim light," "the buzz of mosquitoes, the dirty sewers, remind you of sentiments. .." "Of a long gone era." "But, for those who want to hide away... for whatever reason, there is no better place than here." "Please come in." "The mosquitoes are terrible everywhere this year." "This year is very hot." "This area was originally wetland." "Strange..." "Oyuki!" "So crowded in there!" "Where's Oyuki'?" "She's just gone out." "She'll be back soon." "Out'?" "Some customers fancy a change." "They ask the girls to go to Mukojima." "If they're not careful, they may be used by peeping Toms." "It pays well though!" "The girls are happy to go." "Oyuki too." "She needs money for her mom." "I feel sorry for her." "Come on." "It's already 7." "Honey!" "Honey!" "Are you going?" "Yes." "Today I..." "I have to go and find them." "Will you come back when it's done'?" "Yes." "Will you stay for the night'?" "Yes." "I still have money" "I'm not used to having this money" "You're kidding!" "I'm not." "Then show me." "I won't fall for that!" "So, what would you rather do with the money'?" "Spend it all, you moron." "It's my first brothel sleep-over!" "Hey!" " Hey!" " Wow!" "It's real!" "Thief!" "You have to pay for tonight!" "Don't be a miser." "Give it back!" "Here's something nice in exchange!" "OK." "Bring me some tea before I go." "Not sake?" "Idiot." "I can't be drunk when I meet her." "I'll drink when I get back." "OK." "I've used quite a bit." "Oyuki, I'm sorry" "Forgive me." "Despite all that, despite all that," "I've brought tea." "Here." "Oyuki didn't bring the money" "There's no reason she can't get that money from doing such work." "Right, she's already degraded herself... as a Woman." "Where have you been?" "It's so hot." "It is." " Uncle!" " Oh!" "Thanks for coming." "Lucky I wasn't out for long." "Come inside." "Oyuki." "Let's talk here." "Don't talk at your place." "So many mosquitoes here!" "Let's talk here." "So you went to Gyotoku?" "Because you asked me to." "But, I was really busy" "I finally went yesterday" "Really?" "Thanks for going." "Don't mention it." " Have you out yourself?" " It's nothing." " It's all red." " Bedbugs." "Thanks." "So, hovv was it'?" "Oyuki," "They were happy that I brought the money" " Really?" " Yes." "They thought you'd refuse." "They were grateful that you cared for your mom." "They were grateful?" "That's... right." "They didn't know hovv to thank you." "Now I can... really feel relieved, Uncle." "But, hovv was she'?" "Well, they said... it's not yet life-threatening." "I must go visit her soon." "But, you must be... busy You're popular." "Oh, Uncle!" "Thanks." "Goodbye." "Goodbye..." "Let go of me!" "Come on, miser!" " I'm home." " Hi." "Hey you!" "YOU!" "You, with the glasses, you look nice!" "Hey!" "Hey!" "How was W'?" "Hmm'?" "Yes, it was..." " Did you fall for it'?" " Boss, are you still here'?" "I told you already" "Just a passing guy I told him I charge extra to do it outside." "He readily pays 15 yen for the hour." "I should have known!" " I bought you some cakes." " Thanks." "Where did you go'?" "Mukojima?" "Yes." "The usual place?" "That's for peepers." "That's why I told you to be careful." "I can't help it." "They probably took photos too." "I hope the money is real." "Show me." "It's real." "Oh!" "Honey" "He's been waiting for you." "Hey" "Thank you." "Come in, Sir!" "Oh." "She's pretty good on that Nagoya harp." "It's Omachi." "She's bedridden and has time to practice." "I see." "Sorry" "It's OK." "You need the money for your mom." " The boss told you'?" " Yes." " I hate it." " Don't think about it." "You aren't angry with me'?" "Silly!" "I'm glad." "Looks like a shower." "Honey" "I haven't been to the hairdresser for two months." " You remember it that well?" " Well, you!" "From behind, you looked just like someone I know." "What a shock!" "I see." "I look like someone." "Who do I look like?" " Your dead husband?" " Fool!" "When I was young, I thought I'd die if vve couldn't be together." "Everybody feels that way when you're so in love." "You too'?" "No." "You'd never feel that way?" "Ouch!" "Do I look so heartless?" "You can't judge people by their appearance!" "Perhaps." "Oh..." "Sorry" "You can't wait, can you?" "Let me do it." "Don't worry about that..." "It's hot." "Turn the light off." "The other day you said, there is more honesty and... genuine feelings here than in posh society" " Yes." " Is that really so'?" "I think so." " That's why you came." " Yes." "Honey" "My mom isn't very sick." "When I finish repaying the debt," "will you marry me'?" "I'm not the right person..." "You mean you aren't good enough'?" "I don't have the means to support you." "If I was a dirty-book writer," "I'd have more money" "Oh you." "I was only joking." "So, everyone thinks I do such vvork?" "I don't know about them, but I knew from the beginning that you didn't." "So, what do you think I am'?" "I don't really know." "But, I think you're reliable." "You look better in Japanese clothes!" "" Do I?" "' No!" "Hey!" "OK'?" "Oyuki!" "Hey!" "Oyuki!" "Oyuki!" "It's OK." "Really?" "Will you wait'?" "Yes." "Really?" "Silly!" "Honey" "Honey!" "I can't believe that Mr. Taneda... has been going to Tamanoi so often." "We were playing Go and he suddenly blurted it out." "He must be unhappy" "Look!" "He was playing so badly!" "Oh yes." "But, he married Michiko because they were in love." "That makes it worse, seeing her face every day" "He said, sometimes he saw... her face on the Takuma money package." "What'?" "He said she was chanting all the time, there's no place for him." "He said he's isolated." "He cried on me." "That's pretty serious." "I think that's why he goes to that kind of place." "But, of all places!" "On the contrary He said in Tamanoi, you can talk about... love and emotions." "It's the place to feel at ease." "Honey!" "Don't be silly!" "I don't mean for me!" "No..." "Mr. Taneda vvill end up broke." "Yes, eventually" "He'll end up quitting his job." "He'd vvant the severance pay" "Oh no!" "Is he so obsessed?" "Are you going to stand by and do nothing'?" "No." "I know I have to do something." "Honey" "This is no time for Go, right'?" "Hey you!" "Come in." "Oh." "Honey!" "Look hovv full of blood it was." "You shocked me." "I must." "The mosquitoes vvill be here until the year's end." "Last year, they were around until November." "Hang on a minute." "You go on up." "I'll bring you something nice." "OK." "Give me one shaved-ice." "Here you are." "It's cooler in here." "Is it OK'?" "This heat just goes on and on." "You like shaved ice, right'?" "My treat." " You remember'?" " Of course." "I'm sincere." "So, stop sneaking off to the other girls!" "You think I've been doing that?" "That's what men usually do." "You made me choke on my ice." " Be nice while I'm eating!" " I will." "What about you'?" "I've got a toothache." "See hovv swollen it is'?" "Probably a cavity" "But you're here, so it's better now." "This place looks empty today" "Ofusa is in the hospital." "Honey" "I was worried about you." "It was in the newspaper." " It said "arrested"." " Who was'?" "Underground publishers!" " Communists?" " Dirty books." "So, you did think so!" "No, not really But..." "You never told me anything about you." "So I'm worried." "Don't worry I'd never do anything that stupid." "Silly you always make a joke of it." "Now that I see you," "I realize that I was so lonely when you didn't come." "I guess you were busy working." "Not in this heat." " Do you vvant to get changed?" " Yes, yes." "It's no hurry" "Give me a taste." " Are you sure'?" " Yes." "See'?" "It's no good." "You must see a dentist." "No, I don't vvant to." "If you leave it, it'll get worse." " I won't!" " No!" "I don't vvant to!" "I don't vvant to!" "I don't vvant to!" "It's no big deal." " No!" " Just have it looked at." "You must!" " Will you wait'?" " Yes." " Liar!" " I'm not lying." "I'll stay here in the mosquito net." "Just lies!" "I won't forgive you if you go home!" "Ouch!" "Stop that." "Don't be so cruel!" "Your body is your career..." "Ouch!" "Are you OK'?" "Look." "You've got to go." "You'll really wait'?" "I won't be long." "I'll be back quickly" " Oyuki'?" " It's Ofusa." " Oyuki!" " Please wait for me." "Yes?" "Oyuki, I must stay in the hospital." "What'?" "You must stay there'?" "They said so after the inspection." "I refused, and went to the boss, then I received a letter ordering me to go." "Ofusa!" "Ofusa!" " Ofusa, it's me!" " She's not here." "Ne'?" "Yes, she is." "You liar!" "I can't today Go away" "Why?" " I'm booked." " Booked'?" "By The!" "You're pushy you horny bastard." "When I say no, it means no!" "You're not the only girl!" "Exactly Go away!" "Oh..." "Damn you!" "Damn you!" "Where has he gone'?" "Ofusa." "He's one of your regulars?" "Yes." "I gave him money" "Because I love him." "It's tough." "No, thanks." "I'll walk you there." " No thanks." " Let me." " Oyuki." "Look after yourself." " I will." "I'll visit you in the hospital." "I'll come every day" " Go on, then." " Thank you." "See you later." "Wait for me." "Between the passersby... and the women inside, there is a thread that binds them together in harmony." "There is no hostility in it." "I wonder where it comes from." "While the women sit in the windows, they hide their shame... of doing this dirty work, deep beneath their hearts." "The passersby..." "The moment they enter the area, they remove their masks, along with their pretension and arrogance." "Sir." "Yes?" "It's hot." "Yes, it is." "If the women are able to get out of this misery... with the help of the men, and thinking that they aren't so shameful after all, they become lazy people that can't be saved." "The moment they aren't pushed around, they become uncontrollable." "We're more lady-like than you know!" "Look, Oyuki." "That's us!" "They make fun of us." "Oden, please." "Lend me a bowl." "Showing the girls this aspect of themselves... that they aren't aware of, no matter which method you use, is very cruel to them." "I hear that the military... are buying up girls from around here." "They're sending them to the troops in China." "They're treating the women like goods." "During the body check..." "It's off again?" "The mosquito coils are so bad these days." "And then'?" "Oh yes, during the body check, the young officials of the Ministry of Health were giggling... and peeping from outside." "But, the girls could say nothing." "I feel sorry for them." "Sorry I'm late." "Oh, hi boss." " I went with Ofusa." " I see." "Everyone is getting sick these days... and they said this tooth had to be extracted." " Here." " I can't see it anyway" "If I leave it alone," "I'll get blood..." " Blood poisoning?" " Yes, blood poisoning." "Blood poisoning can be fatal." "Really?" "Yes, you must be careful." "Really?" "Will I be OK?" "They're just scaring you." "It'll be gone in the morning." "Well, if you aren't eating..." "You brought it already!" "OK." "Enjoy your meal." " Hey " What'?" "Come downstairs." "Come on!" "Oyuki!" "Not here again?" " Closing already?" " It's early but yes." "What is it'?" " Let's have supper." " OK." " I'm a bit hungry" " Are you'?" "It's noisy outside, let's eat over there." "I'll carry this, you bring the mosquito coil." "The tea also." " This one?" " Yes." "What a joke." "It's only good for pigs!" "Hey)'" "There's no Nagoya harp tonight." "Omachi coughed up blood and died." "You haven't come for a while." "I see." "What a pity" "We all die sometime." "Yes but..." "While we're still alive, vve must... am I right'?" " You sit here." " OK." "I know you like Oden, so I bought some." " From Nonki'?" " Yes." "Speaking of Nonki..." " It's up for sale." " Oh'?" "If it isn't expensive I might buy it." "Here you are." "I've done all I can for Mom." "I can make some decent money now." "The Oden restaurant is good." "This is delicious." "Yes, it is." "Honey..." " can you help me'?" " What'?" "It's the money I've got a bit, but..." "Honey" "You aren't interested?" "You aren't eating?" "My tooth hurts." "What should I do'?" "But, you'll be with me, right'?" "Eat it with tea." " Shallot?" " Yes." "And some seaweed." "Seaweed." "Honey" "Doing this, we're like newlyweds." "It's nice to eat like this." "I bought some tomatoes too." "Hey)'" "Honey" "Let's go shopping tomorrow." "Yes, OK." "Great!" "The body check should be over by 11." "I can be back before 4." "What do you vvant to buy'?" "This and that." "I need a lined kimono." "Yes, vve keep saying hovv hot it is, it'll be autumn soon." "How much is that kimono?" "Is it for work'?" "Yes." "It'll be 30 yen or so." "30 yen..." "I'll go get it." "Let's buy one." " Honey really?" " Does it feel weird?" "Fool!" "Will you stay for the night'?" " Well I..." " No!" "Please stay Please." "Come on." "Quick." "It'll be the first time..." "Honey!" "Uncle." "He said he'd help buy the store." "Really?" "That's great." "And..." "I'm not sure yet, but I think we'll live together." "With him'?" "We've talked about it." "I guess so." "It's getting better and better." "It's because you're so sweet at heart." " It'll make all the suffering worth it." " Yes." "You've done well." "I'm going to Gyotoku to tell them." " You're going today?" " Yes." "I haven't heard from them, so I think Mom's getting better." "I can see her happily now." "Oyuki..." "What is it'?" "No..." "What's the matter?" "What is it'?" "It's not easy to go there." "That's OK!" "I'll go by bus." "Bye." "He urged me, again and again... not to tell you about it." "It bothers me to betray a close friend." "But, he's handed in his resignation." "This may be a shock to you." "But, that's why I asked you to come." "Sorry for your troubles..." "Never mind that." "Things have come to this, just tell her the reason!" "Mr. Yamai." "I knew... he had that kind of woman." "I found this... hidden in a drawer." "Oh!" "It's disgraceful!" "Leave us alone." "I see." "She's Yukiko." "Rather than jealousy" "I feel miserably defeated." "I understand." "When I think about the way things have been, this isn't surprising." "Do you have any idea why?" "Sorry to pry... but in a relationship..." "Hovv embarrassing." "Mr. Yamai." "Are all men..." "Yes, men are usually like this." "I see." "So when your husband comes home... you need to..." "Mr. Yamai." "I'll defeat her." "A married couple is a team." " A team?" " Yes." "Being on a team for a long time, strengthens it." "People call that affection." "Anyway I believe that vvill help me." "Definitely" " You can't?" " Hurry!" "Strange." "I'm sure I put it in here." "What are you looking for'?" "Hmm'?" "Hmm." "A business card'?" "Whose'?" "Where have you been?" "It's Sunday I thought you'd sleep in." "I'm not asking about that." "Where were you'?" "I went to see Mr. Yamai." "Mr. Yamai'?" "Where's Minoru'?" "Playing outside." "Oh." " Honey" " What'?" "Don't use your severance pay Take this to your woman in Tamanoi." "What'?" "You..." " What are you talking about?" " Take it." "It's better to use this money" "To the world, you bought me and Minoru with this money" "Mitsuko, what's wrong with you'?" "No..." "I didn't intend to be bought." "You didn't vvant to buy me either?" "So, please remember." "There must be something." "Something brought us together as a couple." "Yes'?" "I'll give up my ceremonies." "And look after you, like I used to." "So, I vvant to ask you." "You suddenly..." " I think you must have misunderstood." " Honey!" "Tell me." "I vvant to know." "What's different between me and this woman that you bought'?" "What does she do for you'?" "This woman..." "Stop it." "Have I been recently lacking in some way?" "Something you recall?" "Yes?" "What is it'?" "Tell me." " I vvant to know!" " Fool." "Honey!" "Why do you go to someone like that?" "What is it about me you don't like?" " Mitsuko." " No!" "Don't come close to me." "Just tell me." "Tell me." "Mitsuko." "Yes?" "How'?" "Me and her." "Hovv different?" "Now's the time." "Careful." " Thank you." " Thank you." "Uncle!" "Uncle!" "It's Oyuki." "What the hell are you doing here now?" "She's dead!" "You didn't send the money and abandon her!" "You said you prostituted yourself for her." "That was a big lie!" "We begged you!" "Yes." "The resignation is put on hold at the headmaste's." "Did you talk with him?" " The headmaster?" " Yes!" "Mr. Yamai went with me." "That's great." "Please, sit down." "It's tough losing a job these days." "You must hold on to something." "Right!" "Where is he'?" "I think he'll be back anytime." "Well, there was lots of stuff going on." "Thank you so much." "You said... a couple is a team." "Maybe that's the wrong phrase." ""Accumulation" perhaps." "Things built up over a long period." "I just tried to remind him of that thing..." " Was "it" successful?" " Yes!" "Hovv?" "Hovv did you do it'?" "Hovv embarrassing!" "Eh'?" "That's what I came to ask about!" "Simply" "I remembered something that I'd long forgotten." "I made him remember it." "You know..." "Oh!" "Oh that!" "So, I think I'm alright." "Finally we're a couple again!" "I have great confidence as a wife!" "Drink!" "It's really not easy to be a couple." "Right!" "That's why..." "I feel so relieved." "So..." " you'll bring me the money soon?" " Yes." "I'm glad." "There's a new girl here." "Yes, she's called Teruko." "And an old lady to do the cooking." "I see." "It's suddenly livened up." "I was here on my own for a while." "Suddenly it feels so crowded and noisy" "Thanks for the lined kimono." "Is it good'?" "Yes." "It'll be ready tomorrow." "I bought a sash too." " I'll show you." " That's OK." "But, I feel that I owe you." "I didn't notice the time." "Shall I ring the reminder bell'?" "No, his time is up." "Just tell me." "I'll ring the bell." "The bell rings..." "Mom." "Hovv come there's no interest?" "It isn't pocket money" " "if it's rejected just do anything..."" " Hey you with the beard!" ""If it's rejected just do anything." This is out of despair." "I've tried my best." "Hey there!" "I remember you from somewhere." "No business today?" " Come in!" " You're a granny!" " Come in, let's talk." " Yuck!" "Granny!" "It's not me!" "This looks rather nice." "But, you're really iovv today What's happened?" " I'm cold." " Cold?" " Have you caught a cold?" " No." "I had this really vigorous customer." "I was so exhausting." " And..." " What is it'?" "Your tooth again?" "No." "Drink up!" "It's not good for a toothache!" " Honey" " Yes'?" "You aren't drunk at all." "Right." "Don't be silly Hey!" "What'?" "Hey)'" " Honey" " What'?" "Are you going somewhere far away?" "Why?" "You don't have to hide it." "You're drunk." "I told you not to drink." "I know." "That's what people say..." "when they vvant to stop coming." "Why say so'?" "You're a fool." "You aren't drunk at all!" "You drank all this." "You vvant to say something, but you can't." "Loan tell." "What's wrong with you today?" "You drank enough!" "I know." "Sorry I said these stupid things." "I can't believe in anyone anymore." "It's sad." "It's so sad." "But... you're different." "You're different?" "The granny is new here." "Don't get upset." "This place has changed too." "Everything has changed." " Hey" " Let's have another bottle." " I'll get granny to buy it." " That's enough." "I vvant to drink, even if I'm alone." "You're hot." "You're running a fever." "Your face..." "I'm seeing double..." "Your face is all..." "I can see dozens..." " Is she drunk?" " What happened?" "She's so hot!" "Help!" "Somebody help!" "Doctor." "Get a doctor!" "Hurry!" "Mom!" "I'm cold." "Oyuki!" "Oyuki!" "Oyuki!" "Oyuki!" "So hot!" " Why did you leave her like that?" " Get her to the hospital." "OK steady Get her up." "Get out of the way!" "We'll look after our own." "Go away!" "There's nothing to see!" " Suicide?" " We're taking her to the hospital." " Out of the way!" " Double suicide?" " Fool!" "Out of the way" "What the hell happened?" "It's you dirty bastards vvho made her ill." "Honey'?" "It's blackout time." "Pull clown the blinds." "Honey?" "Here you are!" "Honey" "I know you stopped your nightly excursions." "But, now you're like an empty shell." "If you like, you can go out." "V\/here'?" "Her place." " You don't know about it." " About what?" "She's in hospital." "Why don't you go visit her'?" "Why not?" "Why not?" "It's better not to go, than to go halfheartedly" "She'll be happier that way" "Why honey'?" "Why?" "Honey!" "I must tell you the truth." "Sit down." "Mitsuko." "She... she... she wanted to be my wife." "Did she... really..." "But I... don't have the energy to give her a happy family" "Nor the confidence." "In the end," "I ended up playing with her feelings." "Of course!" "Hovv could such a woman have a normal family?" "Interpret that as you wish." "Honey!" "But..." "I vvant to apologize to her." "And to you." "Pull clown your blinds!" "Pull clown your blinds!" "It's dark." "It's dark!" "What happened?" "It's a blackout drill." "Am I going to die'?" "I vvant light." "I vvant light." "Be patient." "The war has expanded." "Enemy planes may come." "It's to make us invisible to enemy planes." "Do you understand?" "It's dark." "It's dark." "Please be patient." "Uncle." "Are you still here'?" "You can go." "I know... everything." "Oyuki." "It was just a whim." "That money..." "It's my fault I tempted you with it." "Oyuki!" "Don't sound so sad." "I feel miserable." "But... poor mother." "It's you that should be pitied!" "Uncle." "Is there still shaved ice'?" "You vvant it'?" "No, not me." "He loved it." "He didn't visit you'?" "He won't." "Come to think about it," "I don't even know his name, where he lives, his job." "I've never asked him." "You may still end up together." "He has someone." "I've figure that was so." "I'm pretty sure he has a wife." "You didn't ask him?" "He spoke as if he was single." "But... all men are like that." " Uncle?" " Yes'?" "There are... women vvho can be wives," "and those vvho can't, no matter what." "I don't know why" "Oyuki'?" "Oyuki'?" "Are you tired'?" "Yes." "Oyuki!" "Hans on, Oyuki!" "If you die like that, it'd be too cruel!" "It doesn't matter any more." "If I do recover," "I'll work again..." "I'll work really hard..." "There's light showing!" "Be careful!" "I heard that Oyuki... has blood poisoning and is in critical condition." "Today, no lights are permitted in this maze." "But there's nobody around." "From the pink glow leaking from the windows, only the girls' heads are visible." "In this sad and lonely place, seeing this makes one even sadder." "I wonder what makes it so." "People say they come here to shed their isolation." "But, where can we abandon our fates?" "No matter how much you grieve, the sadness isn't enough." "We heard that the kind Ofusa, and that cheerful Tamae... were both sent to Manchuria... to do what they have been doing." "I remember!" "heard this just a few months rater." "But, the sights of the Tamanoi area... have never touched my heart... so much as they did tonight." "THE END"