A TOHO PRESENTATION
A Film Produced by Toho
Kinya Kitaoji
Yuko Kotegawa
Akira Nakao Toshiya Fujita
Eiji Okada Ryuzo Tanaka
Kyoko Kishida Tomoko Naraoka
Mariko Kaga Shinsuke Ashida
Yoshiko Mita
SPRING BELL
Producer: Hitoshi Ogura
Exhibition Catalog No. 1.
"Political Envoys with Peony Patterns",
Based on the novel by: Masaki Tachihara
Crane-Necked Bottle, Goryeo Dynasty, 12th Century.
Screenwriter: Koji Takada
It's one of the highlights of the Tokyo exhibition, isn't it?
Cinematography: Akira Shiizuka Art Direction: Yukio Higuchi
Recording: Kenichi Benitani Lighting: Takeshi Awakihara
Assistant Director: Kensho Yamashita Editing: Akira Suzuki
- There are no scratches. - Everything's fine, then?
Music: Joe Hisaishi Production Assistant: Takahide Moritomo
- At your disposal. - Clear.
Directed by: Koreyoshi Kurahara
Saho Museum of Art
Pottery Exhibition: Goryeo Dynasty
This one is so gorgeous.
Both in terms of color and shape, it has a very stylish feel.
Doesn't it seem a bit erotic?
From the slender neck, suddenly drawing a bold line to form a circle,
it looks like a woman's torso.
Say.
Don't you think this neck is slightly bent?
You're right, it is bent.
Is it a coincidence? Or was it done on purpose?
It's a coincidence!
I think it was done on purpose.
A certain novelist,
just like you guys, pondered over the neck of this vase.
And, as a beautiful woman in a kimono walked by right in front of him,
he suddenly turned around and looked at it.
The moment he saw that figure,
the mystery of this splendid crane-necked bottle was solved.
I'm sure the ancient potter
created this, keeping the image of his beloved in his heart.
Chairman Miyake is staying at this hotel.
We'll have a talk later at home.
It seems the exhibition is getting quite a good reputation, right?
We received a courteous greeting from the organizer.
Surprisingly, a lot of young people came to see it.
Looks like the Nara museum specializing in East Asian ceramics
has gathered interest.
Our efforts were not in vain.
Here it is.
Let me have a look.
What's your opinion?
It's an excellent piece.
I think it's from the early period.
This loquat color...
is particularly beautiful.
You don't see this often.
I had never seen an heirloom powdered enamel decanter before,
so, at first, I thought it might be a replica.
Is there such a well-made replica like this?
Say.
Narumi.
I haven't shown any appreciation for your efforts from the construction
of the museum until today,
but would you kindly accept that?
No, but this...
I bought it with that intention from the beginning.
It's better to keep it within reach for a drinker.
Is it okay if I accept it, then?
Yes, take it.
Well then, I'll gratefully accept it.
- Daddy, welcome back. - Hello, father.
I'm home!
Mom, father is back!
I heated your bath.
Up to 40 degrees, just like you love!
I see, you're quite observant.
You must be tired, no?
- Welcome back. - Yeah.
- Hiroko. - What?
- Give me a hand here, please. - Okay.
- Shuhei, open the bag. - Okay.
Oh, steamed cake!
It's so yummy!
Here you go again, saying "yummy". Just say it's delicious!
Shut up, you old hag!
Daddy, scold him.
Save one for Grandma, okay?
Sure!
Dear.
Maybe you should take a bath first?
There's still time until dinner.
Narumi, welcome back.
- You always treat us with delicacies. - Not at all.
How is your husband doing?
I heard his blood pressure is a bit high.
He drinks too much.
I think I'll be called again later tonight.
Hope he gets better.
I'm also getting kendo lessons!
Good grief, it's always tough when you come back home.
Your lesson is tomorrow. Shuhei, let's take a bath together.
- I'll join you later. - Okay!
Since when?
Can you tell me since when?
I'll leave your nightclothes here.
I asked how long have you been with him?
There's no point in lying now.
Since autumn last year.
I will...
sleep downstairs tonight.
Have a good night.
The conversation isn't over yet.
That man.
I often see him on TV.
He's a doctor,
but he's marketing himself as a sex counselor.
Of all the men, you chose the most worthless.
That's right, he's a worthless man.
Sophisticated people like you, who only focus on theory,
might judge a doctor who appears on TV,
and writes books about sex as vulgar, right?
But I feel alive now!
Whether I'm vulgar or not,
I wanted a man who would treat me as a woman!
You only think about your job.
No wonder our house is so empty!
No!
No…
If you want to break up,
please let me know right away.
We're not going to break up.
We can't involve our kids in the ugly squabbles of their parents.
I think they will understand if we have a conversation.
And what do we tell them?
“From this day on, dad and mom are strangers to each other."
"Choose which one you like more?"
Is that the language parents should use with young children?
It's something that happens often in society.
Society is wrong.
Then, what do you propose to do?
Let's stay as we are.
That's nonsense...
I can't do this anymore.
What did you do this past year? You kept deceiving me without caring, right?
I had no choice.
Don't you have a better answer?
I won't blame you if you have to leave the home.
Are you going to insist on that?
What else do you want me to say?
You are like a dirty, wet rag.
You are Tae, right?
Master Rokuheita.
Welcome from a faraway place. We've been waiting for you.
Mr. Ishimoto.
Was that your daughter Tae just now?
You're right, it's Tae.
She has become quite an adult.
I think the last time we met, she was definitely in middle school.
Welcome, master Narumi.
Long time no see.
Madam, you haven't changed a bit.
I received an invitation from Mr. Ishimoto to try the potter's wheel after a long time.
I've just taken a break.
I heard that the exhibition in Tokyo was impressive.
- Congratulations. - Thank you very much.
Is Tae on a homecoming visit?
I heard a rumor that she married a guy from a distillery in Matsusaka.
Tae...
has been divorced.
Due to not fitting in with the family's traditions,
her belongings were unilaterally sent back to us.
That's terrible...
Master Rokuheita.
Could you please employ Tae at your museum?
She doesn't need a salary. We will take care of her living expenses.
Tae remembers you very well.
Today, upon hearing that you were coming,
Tae quietly expressed a wish to work under someone like you, master.
Next month, we'll fire up the kiln, so please look forward to it.
Thank you very much.
Director,
their daughter is so beautiful.
Maybe she might come to our museum.
Is that so?
In any case,
only the masterpieces gathered by two men obsessed with the beauty of pottery,
are on display here.
Needless to say,
they are Chairman Toichiro Miyake of Miyake Industries,
and museum Director Narumi Rokuheita.
Here we have two designated national treasures,
and twelve designated important cultural properties.
This celadon vase is a national treasure
fired in Longquan kilns during the Yuan Dynasty.
When it comes to housing just one young woman in an apartment,
in the end, I decided to buy an old condo.
That's quite a significant purchase, isn't it?
Not at all...
It's a tiny space, about 13 tatami mats.
The location is near Saidaiji station, and is called Nishinokyo Mansion.
I myself live in Nishinokyo Mansion, on the eighth floor.
Really?
That's so nice!
If Director Rokuheita is nearby, it would be even more reassuring.
What a relief!
But what does Tae think?
It's a female musician.
It embodies the dancing figure of a celestial maiden living on the moon.
What a lovely figurine.
It's a painted court lady figurine from the Tang dynasty.
She's cute, right?
It is believed that originally a small bird perched on her fingertips.
Oh, Tae.
Thank you very much for today.
Hey, you're probably tired.
No.
Come in.
I'm sorry for intruding.
I'll stay here.
I was astonished by how wonderful the museum is.
Being able to work in such a place
is so overwhelmingly fortunate that it's almost scary.
You don't have to exaggerate.
It's not much different from a regular office job.
What did you bring?
This is the plate that you made.
And this is a miso-marinated Iga beef sent by my mother.
I apologize my modest expression of thanks...
I'm grateful for this!
However, for breakfast, I have a simple meal of bread and coffee,
and for lunch and dinner, I eat out.
Tae, are you going to start cooking for yourself from now on?
Yes.
So...
I'm returning this tasty meat.
We'll enjoy it when you cook it.
And, if you want, you can also use the dish.
Thank you very much.
This will be a nice memory.
By the way, have you sorted things yet?
Yes, my mother came to help me.
Then, tonight we should go out to dinner together.
My favorite restaurant is close by.
But...
would it be appropriate?
Let's celebrate.
Because you're about to embark on a bright, different world from now on.
Sorry for the wait.
Shizuko, long time no see.
Sanae, you're doing great, I'm envious.
There is nothing to envy.
I started learning Kamakura carving because Shizuko recommended it to me.
Oh my, what a commendable undertaking.
It's very interesting.
That somehow doesn't suit you.
That's not true.
Kamakura carving is a magnificent art.
Madam, we are ready to begin.
Shizuko, they have to take your measurements.
Be right back.
Come with me.
Noriko, wait for me, we still have to talk.
She hasn't changed one bit.
She's the same girl from our school days.
Take care of the pricing, please.
I know.
The party we talked about is next Saturday.
Look forward to it.
My husband...
has another woman.
The widow whom he defended in a property inheritance lawsuit.
Is she a young woman?
She's about thirty.
Is she pretty?
Just a plain woman.
Have you met her?
I broke into her house.
I feel like I'm losing my mind.
I'm thinking of killing my husband...
Shizuko...
Calm down, okay?
Maybe I'll cheat on him?
With whom?
Anyone would do.
Listen.
Were you invited by Sanae? To the party?
- I was. - You shouldn't go.
That way of life is not suitable for you. Everything will go wrong.
Noriko, is everything going okay with you?
Take a good look.
The beauty of Toshodai-ji lies
in the symmetry of the main hall itself,
as well as the harmony of the buildings with each other.
I think if it weren't for a blind monk's unwavering faith,
a hall like this wouldn't have been built.
I heard a little about Jianzhen's life.
Really?
"Eternal faith..." What a powerful expression that is.
Let me tell you about my friend.
When he was young,
he was fascinated by Europe and even studied there for a year.
From what I can judge,
he seems to have truly experienced Europe fully.
When he returned to Japan, the first place he visited was Nara.
It was the beginning of winter.
When he stood in front of this lecture hall,
he could clearly see what had fascinated him about Europe.
He once told me that Todai-ji was endlessly beautiful, no matter how you look at it.
From that moment, he started to reorient himself towards the East.
The story about your friend that you told me earlier...
It was really about you, right, master?
- Is everything all right? - Yes.
Tae.
Shall we extend our journey to Muro?
To the sanctuaries for female worship.
There, you can pray to the Buddha...
about how you want to be.
Yes.
Did you make a wish?
No.
I just expressed gratitude for the day today.
What a lovely pagoda.
It is so graceful.
It was built in the very early Heian period.
Among the outdoor five-storied pagodas in Japan, it's the smallest.
The most beautiful view is from here,
but how about going up closer?
Are you sure that's okay, master?
You don't have to force yourself.
I still have unmatched strength in my legs and back.
Shall we see who goes there first?
Very well!
Master!
- 400.000! - 450.000!
- 500! - Someone offered 500.000 yen.
- 550.000! - 600.000!
850.000!
- A million! - A million?
Sold for one million.
With that, today's show has come to an end.
That girl... it's her first time tonight.
Please make sure to send her home by taxi before dawn.
Sure.
That girl had a really happy expression while she was being bargained.
Every woman has the potential to become a prostitute.
Once they become aware of their mortality, they begin contemplating their own value.
Maybe I should put myself up for auction?
That'd be impossible.
Why do you say that?
You're too proud to be a whore.
Doctor.
This person here would enjoy some company.
Would you be willing to assist her?
Will you allow me, your majesty?
Go ahead, don't hesitate.
Isn't it time to reconsider things with that doctor?
I heard he has a hobby of gossiping about women he's been involved with.
I heard about it already.
Don't you find it interesting that he was with a famous singer?
Anyway, it's probably just a made-up story.
He's not that popular, you know.
Please, excuse me.
Mr. Murata.
He's wealthy, owning several rental buildings in Ginza.
On top of that, he's single.
Please, enjoy your time.
Do you mind if I seat near you?
Sanae asked me to keep you company.
Perhaps she was able to read my mind?
I've been looking at you all this time.
How much did you pay Sanae?
How much?
Naturally, it's an appropriate sum for someone like you.
Please, make yourself comfortable.
This is my modest, so to speak, secret castle.
No one has been invited here for many years.
For a refreshing touch,
shall I squeeze some lemon?
No, I prefer a strong drink.
That's more fitting for this room.
This Rococo style,
free-spirited and unrestrained,
suits me better than the opulent Baroque style or the formal classicism.
Someone's novel had the phrase, "like the elegance of bygone Rococo."
It seems you prefer the frivolous and excessively decorated,
both in art and women.
You evoke the splendid curves of the Rococo.
And to think my husband referred to me as a "dirty and wet rag".
Your husband seems to be well-known in the field of Oriental art.
That's right.
He's a brilliant academic.
You endured such insults quite well, it seems.
I had no choice, you know?
Besides, I have my own guilt to bear.
No.
Compared to psychological abuse,
the sin of treason is insignificant.
Return that insult to your husband as it is, word for word.
So, are you on my side?
Of course, since I am your admirer.
Mr. Murata.
Give me another drink.
I was with Katsumori at the hotel during the day today.
So, I guess I'll be sleeping with two men in a day.
I'm quite the whore...
If my husband saw me like this,
I wonder what kind of expression he'd have,
and what words he'd use to criticize me next time?
Hello. This is Ishimoto.
Mother?
They came to apologize from Matsusaka.
Yesterday, his mother, Amano,
and the matchmaker, Ogawa, came to our house.
The esteemed mother bowed her head,
and pleaded for us not to go through with the divorce.
Well, there are plenty of things I'd like to say, too,
but it'd be best for you to return to your original family.
Indeed, you're aware of our family's longstanding tradition.
After three years of marriage with no children,
you can send the daughter-in-law away. Are you familiar with that?
Even though it's been almost three years
since you became our daughter-in-law,
there hasn't been any sign of pregnancy.
I wonder if there is something lacking in your duties as a wife?
Ishimoto, there's a call for you.
It's Amano from Matsusaka.
While I was pushing for Kyuichi's remarriage,
he suddenly mentioned that
if he were to marry another woman, he would want you back.
Well, just to be sure, we got him tested at the hospital,
and they found out that he has a low sperm count,
and can't really conceive a child.
I know we caused you trouble,
and we also apologized to your parents in Shigaraki.
They said we should let bygones be bygones regarding the divorce.
With all due respect,
I started living independently.
I have no intention of returning now.
Tae...
You...
What disrespect!
As a wife, you should bow your head and accept our request.
I'm sure you felt upset and harbored resentment.
Why don't you tell Kyuichi how you feel, then?
You see,
he still loves you even now.
I'll be asking you to please...
forget about me.
If you excuse me now.
Tae!
Wait!
Tae!
Prepare the belly for us, please.
Sure!
What's so funny?
Mr. Imura described you as a man obsessed by beauty,
but it seems you're also obsessed by food.
You can't rely on bad food.
Well, Tae...
Today seems quite promising.
Last time, your limit was five cups in one sitting.
Do you mind if I get drunk?
Not at all. Here.
Tonight, I want to ask you some questions, master.
Your name is Rokuheita, right?
Something like that, yes.
Does that name have a history?
There's a Noh mask called "Heita", representing a robust warrior's spirit.
It might carry the wish of my father for me to become a strong man.
However, contrary to his expectations,
I took a role completely unrelated to the yakuza as an art museum director.
But, thanks to that,
I met a woman in Shigaraki.
Today...
I didn't do anything wrong, right?
You did nothing wrong.
But, you see,
my parents in Shigaraki
still wish for me to return to Matsusaka.
I never dreamed that would happen.
That's just how parents are.
They worry about leaving you all alone, Tae.
Do you mind if I borrow your arm?
Go ahead.
Well then, have a good night.
Could you please come over a bit? I could brew Asamiya tea.
It's better next time. It's already very late.
Tomorrow is our day off at the museum.
I'll call you when I wake up.
Then,
tomorrow without fail,
please grant me some of your time, master.
- Here you go. - Thank you.
Yes?
Who is this?
Uhm...
I work in the art museum, and my name is Ishimoto.
Can you tell me if master Narumi is at home now?
The master left early in the morning for Tokyo.
Does he have urgent business in Tokyo?
Maybe…
I'm simply a temporary housekeeper.
Did you bring these flowers for master?
Yes.
Let me put them in the water, then.
He's probably going to be back tomorrow.
I will be grateful if you do that.
I'm sorry for the disturbance.
Thanks for the help!
Smile, smile!
- Yes, yes! - Cheese!
Let's do it again! One-two...
I'm sorry!
Cheese!
- We're done! - Thank you!
Let's go with them.
Ishimoto, hurry up!
Madam!
Madam, hurry up!
Get inside!
To Tsukiji, cross the Kachidoki Bridge and turn left immediately.
Yes, sir!
What's wrong? You don't seem okay.
Really?
Everything is as it usually is.
For you,
I rented a hotel-style apartment in Tsukiji called Tsukiji Maison.
It's in a discreet location,
so no worries about your husband finding you like last time.
Of course, in this vast Tokyo, such a coincidence is unlikely to happen again.
And then, what about Murata?
It's risky, you know, dealing with that type.
Stop the car, please.
- I'm going home today. - Why so suddenly?
Driver, please stop.
Hey!
Hold on a second!
Hey, wait!
Hey!
Hey, wait a minute, you!
Hey!
Mom, what happened?
I got caught in the pouring rain.
Did you have dinner?
I was treated to a feast at the main house.
- Shuhei, bring a towel! - Okay.
But it's good that you came home early.
Daddy just called.
Right, we're going to Nara for the summer vacation. Here.
Thank you.
Are you coming with us, too?
It's unlikely that I'll go, but I'll think about it.
I'm going to arrange this for father.
Father, good night.
Haven't you gone to bed yet?
We were making a schedule for the trip to Nara.
Good night.
Sleep well.
Daddy,
please be gentle with mom, okay?
...the cobalt color is exceptionally beautiful,
and it is considered one of the few pieces in the world.
What's going on with you two, anyway?
Narumi is sending all his books, tea bowls, and jars to Nara...
What has happened?
He saw me when I was with another man.
Noriko, what do you mean by that?
You couldn't possibly...
I just got unlucky.
For someone who rarely comes back to Tokyo, and twice at that...
Tell me, who is this man? Where did he come from?
Don't ask anymore. There's no point in digging up your daughter's shame.
You fool!
Our marriage was a mistake.
Why are you saying this now?
Narumi married me because our family is wealthy.
A calculated move for him to focus on studies without worrying about living expenses.
Narumi is not that kind of person.
You know that better than anyone.
It's not too late to fix things.
Apologize to Narumi, okay?
Head to Nara right now, and apologize!
I don't intend to apologize.
Do you even understand what you've done?
Hey, you've committed an unthinkable sin.
There are sins on his side, too!
Hey, come here...
Stop the car, please.
Keep the change.
Tae...
Welcome back.
You don't have to.
Have you been waiting for me all this time?
Master,
have you already had dinner?
No.
I was thinking about going somewhere.
If you're not against simple food, I have dinner ready.
I hope it's not an inconvenience for you...
I see.
Okay, let's enjoy your meal. I'll go as soon as I change.
Yes.
Thank you.
Looks like the rainy season is finally starting.
Sitting in a condo like this, you can't hear the sound of the rain.
You're right.
If it were in Shigaraki, you'd probably hear the sound of rain right in front of you.
When it pours there, you first hear the sound of the rain hitting the leaves.
It might be a good idea to return to Shigaraki at least once.
Did something happen?
My mother keeps calling me persistently,
telling me to come back.
She must be lonely.
Regarding the man I broke up with, he seems to have run away,
taking a considerable amount of money.
I happened to meet him,
when I was taking photos with Mr. Oki and the others in Tobihino...
I thought it was a coincidence.
You should be careful.
He is a spoiled boy.
He might be stubbornly holding on, thinking that he was abandoned by you.
Why can't everyone just leave me alone?
I guess it can't be helped.
Do you really think it can't be helped?
It can't be helped.
That's bad...
Even if it's bad, you can't help it.
Today, you are being...
very cold.
I'm sorry.
Probably, it's due to the heavy rain.
Tae, thank you for tonight.
Thanks to you, my fatigue is gone.
Let me walk you to your apartment.
You don't have to do that every time.
I have work tomorrow.
Have a good night.
Good night.
By the way, I completely forgot.
Thanks for the wonderful flowers.
Master!
Master...
Tae...
Is everything all right?
- Good morning. - Good morning.
Aren't you looking this way?
I can't look at you...
Do you always turn your gaze away?
I'm just embarrassed right now...
I'll get the tea ready.
Will you be having your meals here from now on?
I guess that's how it's going to be.
And also...
I'll handle the cleaning and laundry going forward.
Here.
You won't have time for yourself if you do that.
I'll give everything that I have to you, master.
Let's go to Avignon with your kids.
Is this a marriage proposal?
Life in the French province is very nice.
I think that you will definitely fancy it.
Mr. Murata,
you're a very charming gentleman,
but you have no idea how to have fun.
Dr. Katsumori sometimes just checks in at a hotel,
takes care of his business, and leaves right away.
It's annoying to feel like I'm just a tool,
but there's also a certain pleasure in being used like that.
That's how I have fun.
I want that kind of play.
Can you really find freedom that way?
I don't think I will,
but that's fine.
You'll surely face severe repercussions someday,
from your own actions.
Father!
Daddy!
Father!
Daddy!
Father!
Daddy!
- Good evening. - Good evening.
- Take care. - Thank you.
Where are they going?
Ah, it's so beautiful.
Look, father!
- Everyone has a different pattern. - Right.
- Hiroko, Shuhei. - Yes?
- Light them up. - Yes.
- We're leaving! - Have a good day.
We're leaving!
Bye!
- Imura, what's the matter? - Ah, nothing...
It seemed like you were lost in thought.
No, not at all.
I think our museum has gained a certain elegance,
or, shall I say, a distinct character recently.
Maybe I'm biased, though.
No, the Saho Museum is now recognized
as having the world's foremost collection of Ly Dynasty art.
The catalog for the special autumn exhibition is ready.
I see.
Regarding next year's exhibition in Tokyo,
the organizers called us expressing their desire to schedule a meeting.
Given this year's success, they plan to expand next year's event.
I'll let you take care of that.
You mean, me?
You've been my right hand for the past three years,
and I believe you've grasped everything about the Saho Art Museum.
Ah, it's him again!
Ishimoto, do you know that man?
No.
Did something happen?
He's been frequenting a café near the art museum lately.
He sits right next to us when we're having coffee during lunch break.
Ishimoto.
I couldn't say this in front of everyone,
but that man earlier
was asking questions about you and the museum director as well.
Sachiko claimed to have seen the two of you happily strolling together,
and she told him that.
- Good evening. - Good evening.
Welcome home.
Mother...
I spontaneously arrived around 3 o'clock.
Why didn't you call me beforehand?
I thought of calling if I couldn't get in,
but the concierge recognized me, and let me in.
What's wrong? You look pale.
There's no need to be so surprised.
Say,
what brings you here?
I came to see you.
You haven't come back home in a while.
Your father is worried about you.
Mother...
You saw it, right?
What are you talking about?
In my bedroom...
Did you check inside the closet?
No offense, but I saw it.
There's men's nightwear in there, right?
Is it inappropriate to ask who this person is?
It's better not to ask.
Is he someone you can be together with in the future?
I can't tell you that.
Is he the kind of person that would worry your parents?
I just told you I can't talk about it.
Is that so?
Is master Narumi at home already?
I'm going to give him my greetings.
Master is not currently at home.
He mentioned he was going on a business trip...
Is that so?
Master has an unusual life...
Does his wife visit him from time to time?
How am I supposed to know that?
Tae...
Why did you become so strong since coming to Nara?
It's going to be late if you don't go back now.
Is it inconvenient for your mother to stay overnight?
That's right.
That person eats here every night and sleeps here.
I'm leaving.
It feels like various waves have suddenly come crashing in at once.
I made you go through a tough time.
It was me,
who got you involved in all this.
I'm really sorry...
What can you see?
I can't see anything...
Hey, master...
I'm ashamed to admit it,
but it's gradually getting deeper.
Are you getting used to the sensation?
That's right...
Well then,
you're becoming an even better woman.
Master, you're such a mysterious person.
Mysterious?
What's mysterious about me?
In my mind, it's fine to be mysterious...
Wait a moment!
No! No!
What's wrong?
The man I divorced
is waiting in ambush.
Look outside, please.
Don't worry.
There doesn't seem to be any suspicious man around.
Who's there?
It's me.
Noriko.
What's the matter?
I had some business to attend to.
Do you have a guest?
A museum employee.
Will you let me in?
This is my wife.
She came from Tokyo.
Tae Ishimoto, an employee from our museum.
We happen to live in the same building, so she helps me out occasionally.
Nice to meet you.
My name is Ishimoto.
I am very indebted to master Narumi.
It's my pleasure.
Looks like my husband has been causing you various troubles.
Not at all.
I'm sorry I'm of little help.
Master,
I guess it's time for me to leave.
I see.
I'll pick you up at six.
But…
Haven't we agreed to have dinner together?
Yes.
Please, excuse me.
Goodbye.
It's more spacious than I thought.
It's neatly arranged.
Does she do the cleaning and laundry?
Why did you come here for?
I wanted to meet the beautiful lady, whom the children talked about.
It's frustrating, but she seems to be a wonderful person.
You're no strangers, right?
How long have you been with her?
Was she a virgin?
She was in an unhappy marriage, and then got divorced.
I'll tell you this.
Ishimoto is none of your concern.
Just as the men you're involved with are none of mine.
I understood.
I won't talk about her anymore.
Oh, right...
I thought of taking a walk down the Yamatoji line after a long time.
Would you consider letting me stay here for a few days?
That room is empty.
I'll do my things independently. Is that acceptable to you?
Yes, that's fine by me.
Things aren't going well between my wife and me,
but, still, I didn't want to tell you about it.
Will your wife...
be staying here for a while?
I suppose so.
Master.
Please, return to your wife's side...
I'm so sorry.
I decided I'll be returning to Shigaraki tomorrow.
Are you angry?
I feel sorry for your wife.
- You're angry, after all. - That's not it.
I was imprudent.
I hate it when you're like that.
I'm sorry.
Today...
I don't even know what I'm saying myself.
It seems like I drank too much as well.
It's okay to do it over the phone.
Let Imura know that you're taking a 2 or a 3 day break.
Master.
Shall we separate?
What do you want?
You dropped it the other day.
This.
You've changed so much.
You've become such a beauty.
It's time for me to leave now.
You know,
I've left my family's house in Matsusaka and I'm currently living here in Saidaiji.
Hey, I have something I want you to see.
It won't take long, so it's fine.
You're being a nuisance... Hey, you're in the way!
Please, stop.
I'm not the Tae I used to be.
I work and live on my own.
Please, stop disturbing me.
Leave at once!
Do you hate me that much?
I know everything.
You never liked me from the beginning, did you?
You deliberately made it so we would end up divorced.
No! No!
Making me a laughingstock...
You are only mine!
I won't give you up to anyone!
No!
Let me go!
No!
Aren't you a man? Have some shame!
Shut up!
No!
Ishimoto! Ishimoto!
Are you okay?!
Hang in there!
- Are you hurt? - Are you all right?
Welcome back.
I washed your underwear.
You can use it if you want.
How is Miss Ishimoto feeling?
I heard that her ex-husband was the culprit.
It must be hard for him, too...
Are you going to the hospital again?
That's right.
I'm going back to Tokyo.
You're not going to visit the temples anymore?
I'll do that next time.
And you... have you no plans to come back to Tokyo?
I don't.
Give your key to the concierge, please.
Hold on a second!
What is it?
Can you hurry up?
It's about our children. Hiroko will be in junior high next year, right?
I want her to enroll in a affiliated school,
The competition is tough without connections.
You have acquaintances at the university, right?
Another time...
If we don't take action now, we won't make it in time.
There's no need to bring up such a topic at a time like this.
But we won't be able to meet for a while...
I can always call you.
Here, right now...
please, write a letter of recommendation.
I don't have time for that.
Rokuheita...
Is a woman more important to you than your own children?
Rokuheita...
You said you were not divorcing me because of our children.
Take responsibility now!
Are you trying to provoke me?
You're filthy!
You used our kids as leverage to torment me, while doing whatever you wanted!
What scholar? What East Asian art?
The filthy one is you!
You have no right to blame me.
Shut up!
I'm ready to let you go.
This is something I never thought you'd do...
Resignation letter
I know it's sudden,
but I'd like if you listen to me.
Until now,
I've been fortunate to receive generous treatment while freely pursuing my work.
Many unforgettable things have happened,
but I believe my duties have come to an end.
Are you going back to university?
No.
I plan to take it easy for a while, reading books and enjoying my time.
Are you going back to Tokyo?
I will not go.
I see.
That museum is a dream that you and I dedicated our lives to.
This appears to be more than just a change of heart, right?
I'm an unsalvageable being.
That's fine...
Regarding your wife and yourself,
it's not that some rumors haven't reached my ears.
Considering your personality,
you're probably giving that matter more importance than you should.
But, well,
taking some time to cool your head for a while wouldn't be a bad idea.
I will keep this for now.
The successor will likely be Mr. Imura,
but you will remain as an advisor in name only.
We'll continue to pay your salary as before.
I'm afraid I have to refuse.
You don't have to be so formal with me.
Please, forgive me for this.
Are you willing to discard even our connection?
What a beautiful Buddha this is!
Isn't he attractive?
I'd say so...
The eyes look cool and alluring,
but upon closer inspection,
it harbors the melancholy of the late Tenpyo era.
In my youth, I once fell in love with this Buddha statue.
At that time, this Buddha was older than me.
But now, it appears to be much younger.
As I progressively grow older,
I begin to perceive it.
The immutable beauty.
And with it,
the inherent truth of the human world: where there is life, there is death.
For my sake,
you sacrificed everything you had.
From now on, I'll be walking on the edge of a knife.
I will follow you.
And, if I ever leave your side,
I feel like I'll be lost and aimless.
Her husband came home late,
and Chizuko went out into the hallway with a carving knife.
Her husband got scared.
He shouted: “She wants to kill me", and ran away.
He never returned home after that.
That sounds like a comedy.
But she wanted to die at that time.
Her husband filed for divorce,
and it was hard for her.
Apparently, she loved her husband very much.
Women are so stupid.
They think that having children, taking care of the household,
and such will earn a man's love, but they're completely mistaken.
Oh, gee!
Now, we can finally enjoy some good drinks.
You invited Chizuko to this club, didn't you?
She asked to be brought in herself.
Was she put up for auction, too?
She actually asked me for that.
She got a good price,
but, then, the problems started, and she got complaints.
They said she was inexperienced in bed and not interesting at all.
After a while, she approached me again, but I turned her down.
So, this is how you have fun?
Watching their fall is quite entertaining, you know?
You dragged me in like that, too, didn't you?
You completely...
subverted my expectations.
Feeding off various men has only made me more beautiful.
Quite impressive, right?
Just so you know,
I have nothing to do with Chizuko's suicide.
That was a special case.
She was ultimately sick, anyway.
You're so carefree.
Money is the only thing that matters to you...
That's right.
The doctor told me
that when he consulted you, and tried to touch you,
there was no reaction at all.
A typical case of sensory indifference.
Noriko.
Is there something wrong with you?
You're strange today.
Well, well, your clothes are matching.
I guess I've come to the right place.
Say, madam.
I hope you didn't arrange a meeting with Murata here?
Well, a couple of days ago, I ran into him at a club in Ginza.
I greeted him, but he just ignored me.
That ticked me off, so I told him,
"A hick from Tokyo like you has no right trying to charm top-notch women."
Madam,
shouldn't you exclude Murata?
Your chatter alone is worthy of exclusion.
Have I ever slept with you?
So, I'm frigid now? Huh?
Well, that was just my medical intuition.
Beauties are often frigid.
It's surprising how many stunning women turn out to be frigid.
- And since you're a beauty... - Thank you for the compliment.
What's wrong with you?
Excuse me.
Madam!
- Leave her alone. - But...
She's sick, too.
There's no hope for her anymore.
Excuse me.
Something terrible happened to a friend of mine...
Have you been waiting all this time?
That's right.
Have a seat, please.
Mourning clothes will be an eyesore.
Let me get changed.
I don't care.
I'll return to the hotel once I'm done here.
I see.
I'm leaving this with you.
Contributions to: Shuhei Narumi, Hiroko Narumi
It's 15 million, each under the names of Hiroko and Shuhei.
I sold the teacups and bowls I had on hand, as well as all of my savings.
So, that means...
we're divorcing?
There will be no divorce.
But I rented a small house...
to live with that woman.
I can't bring the children to Nara anymore,
and I can't come to this house either.
That's a bit much...
You seem to think that only the wife is broken and the husband isn't,
but I'm not that strong of a man.
Forgive me!
- Please, forgive me! - Stop!
The children will hear you.
No matter what I do, you still won't forgive me?
It is too late.
It's irreversible now.
A husband happened to see his wife with another man at a hotel in Shirokanedai.
Do you remember what happened that night between the husband and wife?
I do remember.
At that time, she should have lied.
When the husband asked, "Since when?"
the wife defiantly responded, "It started last fall."
That was decisive for the husband.
One could say the wife was too honest.
One could say she was clumsy, stubborn, and selfish,
but, on one side,
the husband loved his clumsy wife.
On the night she stood her ground, the husband...
saw the body of his wife, who had been with another man for a year.
At that moment,
a certain determination died within him.
After returning to Nara,
he searched for a way to reconcile with his wife,
but there was no way back.
There was no way for him to communicate with his resolute wife.
I finally understood.
Please, tell me...
just one thing before we part.
When I was younger,
were you...
in love with me...
the way you seem to love that person now?
Please, be honest with me.
I won't be surprised,
no matter what your answer is.
I used to enjoy walking around Nara when I was young.
If you had been with me,
I would have liked to walk through Nara with you.
I wanted to share with you what I saw and felt there when I was young.
As a married couple,
there was nothing in the world more certain than that.
Even now, walking with another woman,
I can't imagine finding that same certainty.
Nevertheless, I will keep walking.
- Congratulations. - Congratulations.
I'm home!
- Are you already back? - Yes.
Such a beautiful powder-coated jug.
Chairman Miyake gave it to me.
I'm looking forward to the day when I can drink saké from it.
That's the drifting heart you often talk about when you drink alcohol.
Today, I want to eat something delicious.
I stopped by Monzen and got a nice flounder.
I'll cook it, and we can arrange it on the plate you made in Shiragaki.
Do you still keep that?
It is my treasure.
They suit each other.
Don't be silly!
This masterpiece from the Ly Dynasty will cry.
You better put that junk away.
This is more precious to me than any masterpiece.
The poem that is carved on the back...
Are you perhaps its author?
"When spring arrives,"
"I'll live in the present moment,"
"Entrusting my heart to the old shrine."
You contemplated living for another year...
Somehow, that sounds too sad.
That was my state of mind at that time.
Things are different now.
While spring is still a little way off,
let's have a grand drinking party tonight,
And then, afterwards...
Please, don't say it...
It will make my head go crazy again.
Tae...
Yes?
I...
might end up killing you.
That's...
fine by me.
Dear!
Tae!
Is something wrong?
The sound of a bell.
Can't you hear it?
I don't hear anything...
Are you hearing it right now?
Indeed...
It's a faint sound.
Perhaps...
this sound emanates from within both of us.
If that's the case, why can you hear it,
but I can't?
Does it make you feel uneasy?
Master Rokuheita.
Don't you dare die before me!
I won't die.
Dear!
Master Rokuheita!
Thought I ran away?
But you weren't replying to me...
Master Rokuheita,
don't take your eyes off me.
Both of us have left the world behind.
There's no place for me to hide, so l won't leave you alone.
This uniform really suits you.
But you're the most beautiful, mom.
All my friends say so.
- You are their number one! - Oh my...
I am flattered...
Are the sakura already blooming in Nara?
They're so pretty, right?
Mrs. Noriko, what are you doing?
What's wrong?
There's a woman standing at the back.
A woman?
It's your wife.
It's so frightening...
Stay here.
Noriko, is it you?
Is that you, Noriko?
What are you doing over there?
Come in.
Can I really come in?
Just come in.
Excuse me for barging in again.
N-no...
Dear,
your Echigo Tsumugi kimono
suits this house perfectly.
It looks great on you.
Madam,
if you haven't had dinner yet,
please eat with us.
Huh? I'm fine without dinner.
I've already had my fill on the Shinkansen.
Dear.
I'm thankful Hiroko successfully finished the affiliated school's entrance ceremony.
Her uniform looked really cute.
I brought you some photos.
Do you still remember?
Our Hiroko born prematurely and said to have no chance of survival,
so you stayed awake for many nights taking care of her.
Can you see how much she's grown?
I'm so sorry.
Tae...
Could you please go back to the apartment?
Is that person your commuting wife?
Noriko, what's wrong with you?
Both of you are happy, and everything is going well.
I feel envious.
But I'm sick.
Because of the pain you've caused me.
Do you still claim you have no responsibility
for leading your own wife into such depravity?
You'd better leave.
This place is my house with Tae.
Dear!
How much longer...
How much longer will you make a fool of me?!
Dear...
Dear!
Give me a towel.
Yes!
And then, get me some whiskey...
- I'll call an ambulance! - No...
There is a hospital very close by.
Everything is fine.
I can walk there, I'll be fine.
Come on, wake up.
Noriko, look at me.
Look at me!
Listen.
What we can do now is make sure
our children never find out about this ugly side of their parents.
Your restraint in not exposing our shortcomings in front of them until now
should be your final act of decency.
Understand?! Huh?
Dear!
The hospital!
Let's go to the hospital together!
I'm sorry, but take care of Noriko.
And also,
hide the knife somewhere.
In the hospital,
I'll say that while I was cutting the fish, I accidentally slipped my hand.
But...
I'll call a car.
No, don't!
What will we do if the neighbors find out about this?
Where's my husband?
He went to the hospital.
His wound...
Is it serious?
I don't know.
But he went there on foot.
I can't go to the hospital, can I?
Miss Ishimoto.
Take care of my husband.
I did something bad to my husband.
Why did I even do such a thing?
I don't understand it myself.
My husband...
I swung a knife at him!
But he didn't run away!
He just looked at me,
and didn't budge an inch!
I made you worry.
Yes.
I was really worried.
The wound was deeper than I thought.
I was warned it could be fatal if it were on my chest or abdomen.
Master.
You were going to die on purpose, weren't you?
For the sake of your wife.
Don't talk nonsense!
Last night,
I heard the bell ringing.
Its sound...
I believe its sound has come from a bell that echoes between you and your wife.
I felt sorry for my wife.
The moment I saw her,
I myself felt utterly helpless.
Please, forgive me...
Tae...
Directed by: Koreyoshi Kurahara
THE END