The Wandering Princess (1960) - full transcript
A DAIEI PRODUCTION
December 1957, Mt. Amagi.
The Wandering Princess
Directed by:
Kinuyo Tanaka
Ryuko's not back yet?
Not yet, m'lady.
My call confirmed that the princess
had already departed, ma'am.
What's keeping her?
She knows it's Kabuki tonight.
Kazuko, is it ready?
Yes.
Something about Ryuko?
Mother, did you tell Ryuko
about tonight?
Not I.
But have you mentioned the
betrothal?
Her suitor is very eager.
It's his invitation so
we should attend.
You must hear her feelings
on the matter.
-It's extremely important.
-Yes.
M'lady.
The General is here to see you.
General Asabuki?
Ryuko? Ryuko?
Here, Grandmother.
Hello. I did knock.
-The most wonderful thing, Mater!
-Yes dear?
I had a premonition.
So I rushed to Professor Kinoshita's.
He wants me to do oils!
He's accepted me as a pupil.
It's marvelous!
It surely is.
A perfect premonition.
I bought a gown.
All the artists wear them.
I couldn't wait to get mine.
What on earth is that?
But it does suit you.
He's absolutely the best artist.
Such a wonderful gentleman.
Don't forget, it was
my introduction.
And you're wonderful too!
Thank you, dear.
I shall be an artist.
And I'll exhibit in the spring.
And win!
It's wonderful to have dreams
when you're young.
I'll have them for my whole life!
Mother's always on about marriage.
It's too soon.
Your parents don't agree.
And you, mater?
Whatever makes you happy.
You are wonderful.
Oh, look at the time!
Hurry, lest you be late.
Mother!
Sorry I kept you.
Dear, something serious has arisen.
We must talk.
The General visited earlier.
For what purpose?
An issue of importance.
In the matter of the betrothal of our Ryuko to
the brother of the Emperor of Manchuria.
Lt. General Furuya journeyed from Army
HQ in Manchuria to set the schedule.
-Whose betrothal?
-Ryuko's.
To whom?
The younger brother of
the Manchurian Emperor.
Our Ryuko?!
They're far too arrogant.
It's ridiculous!
But we'd better agree to a meeting.
The military is very powerful.
We're not cowed by the military.
My granddaughter's not
to be bandied about.
Mother, I daresay it's
cause to celebrate.
That a Japanese be wed to
the Manchurian throne,
is a matter of joy to
both empires, isn't it?
General Asabuki was the military
governor of Manchuria,
and the army in Manchuria
are pushing the marriage.
They've become
extremely powerful,
and have influence over
the entire military.
Heaven forbid they're so dominant.
But the recent coup attempt
confirms it.
I'd refuse to meet him.
Pray, who's in command
of the military?
I'll go see the
Minister of the Army!
Mother.
The Minister's not in charge.
-Then whom?
-The army.
No individual?
Exactly.
That's where the power is.
We're bloodline to
Emperor Meiji,
how could it come to this?
I wish I were a commoner.
Am I to be cast off,
and you sent away to
marry a Manchurian,
under military orders?
Couldn't wait, eh?
-Be seated.
-Yes.
I usually travel by airplane.
I'm not used to cramped Japanese trains.
You should see the size of
them in Manchuria!
Exactly.
I planned to meet you
in Kyoto,
but I had urgent orders.
I see.
You gained an assent from
the Hosokawa girl?
As expected, they refused.
That's insolence!
No, it's natural.
The Emperor himself prefers his brother
marries into the Ch'ing dynasty.
That's why it's essential that the army
take a leading role in making sure,
that we form a bond between
the two countries.
What's wrong with
General Aki's daughter?
I've no wish to further inflame
the power stuggle in the ranks.
Think of the consequences
of a military girl.
It must be a girl
from the court.
Time is of the essence.
And it's my decision.
The military can purge
you anytime.
Military? Define military!
Is it you fascist
upstarts who are,
trying to force my hand?
You're simply impatient
with my centrist views.
I want what's best for
Prince Futetsu.
From among all the photographs,
he himself chose Princess Ryuko.
And you running off to
Hosokawa in Kyoto,
was an extremely stupid,
impudent move.
My duties are to oversee the
Manchurian royal family,
and this is one of my tasks.
Allow me.
His Imperial Highness,
Prince Futetsu.
General and Mrs. Asabuki,
who need no introduction,
serving as go-betweens.
I am Lieutenant General Furuya.
Today's meeting ranks as a state secret,
hence the suddenness of it all.
To avoid any counter reaction,
I must ask you to keep it secret.
Her grandmother.
We're honored, your Majesty.
The princess Ryuko.
The thing is...
I'd heard and dismissed reports of your opulence
until I slipped on the marble in your entrance!
It did no damage, but knocked
me down a peg or two!
Money as such means
nothing to me,
but the truly wealthy
live like this, eh?
The princess dables in
painting and calligraphy.
The Prince left Manchuria,
and graduated from our
Military Academy.
He's currently training
as an officer in Chiba,
so he's fluent in Japanese.
He tells a good joke, too.
I'd like to say that,
the Prince is agreeable
to the match,
and we await the
Princess' response.
In my own opinion, Ryuko should,
have the perogative of
making the decision.
Please.
He seems like a fine young man.
He's as gentle as a spring breeze.
Not much of a talker but gentlemanly
enough to put us to shame.
I've asked around his classmates,
and he enjoys a good reputation.
I thought so too, when I met him.
He graduated in the top of his
class, so he's intelligent, too.
And very fair to the lower ranks.
No matter he's not Japanese.
I really think you couldn't make a
better match, Ryuko.
You needn't stand on ceremony.
You're free to reject the proposal.
Ryuko, forget all about
the politics,
and ask yourself if you want
to become his bride.
I bow to your wishes.
Manchurian Prince Futetsu
engaged to Princess Ryuko
Army announces royal
wedding on April 3rd
Congratulations.
Her Majesty awaits.
Please.
Ryuko Sugawara, Ma'am.
I'm honored, Your Majesty.
May your good health
continue, Majesty.
Enter.
Approach.
Be seated.
Congratulations.
You are beautiful.
Not often do we see
such youthful dress.
Hence the stipulation
of our invitation.
The hair is not too heavy?
No.
Your family is well, we hope?
Yes.
They enjoy your blessings.
How long has it been?
The Marquis brought you,
when you were but a little girl.
You ran through the palace,
fell down and wept bitterly.
We picked you up but
alas, you still cried.
It was your father, wasn't it?
When I heard of you going to
Manchuria, I was so pleased.
Faithfully serving their Emperor,
is a form of service to
our Emperor.
Let not homesickness
afflict you.
Show them the virtue of
Japanese maidens.
As you say, Your Majesty,
I shall strive to do my best.
I received this as a gift from,
the late Emperor Meiji's mother.
It's fitting that it
should pass to you.
When you're lonely in
distant Manchuria,
remember us and gain
strength from it.
Approach.
These seed of styrax obassia,
I gathered them myself.
Plant them in your new land.
A gift from the Emperor.
I have the honor of conveying it.
It is beautiful.
A magnificent dress.
It's Chinese, isn't it?
By custom, a Chinese bride
wears red the first year.
Wedding Invitation
The Emperor gives congratulatory
speech at Royal Wedding
Beautiful bride off for
honeymoon in Manchuria
Your brother, Sire.
Work hard at your marriage.
Thank you, Sire.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Well, they finally installed
a telephone.
I'm so pleased.
That's good.
Something else is bound
to arise.
They said the residence
was outstanding,
but it's like a barracks!
It's no place for a princess.
It's unfinished and doesn't even
have an automobile.
How inconvenient.
The Prime Minister asked
the army for a vehicle.
Not for a Manchurian
sub-lieutenant, they said.
He's the Emperor's brother!
They must consider his rank.
I heard that the
Manchurian constitution,
allows for no royalty
other than the Emperor.
-Is that true?
-Yes.
But they never complain.
How trying.
Come in.
-It's time to depart, Sire.
- Alright.
And Ryuko?
She's in the living room.
The phone is connected.
Come see.
Let's call someone.
Are you alright?
Last night as I slept,
I heard a far off train.
The days are so quiet.
It's so isolated.
Homesick?
Come here.
When summer comes,
we'll see wild rabbits
frolicking here.
It was a mongolian farm.
And here is where we'll
build the new capital.
The palace will be right there.
A total of 250 square kilometers.
It will soon fill with people.
With the palace just
across the road.
I did so enjoy my stay
in Japan.
I'd still be there if I
hadn't graduated.
I shouldn't.
I'm just making you homesick.
I couldn't bear it if you left.
I'd never leave you.
Thank you.
Let's buy that land next door,
and plant apricots.
-Do you know the flower?
-No.
Similar to cherry blossoms.
But not as exquisite.
Closer to plum blossoms.
There's a forest of them
in Beijing.
In spring they bloom
a delicate pink.
Yes, we'll plant apricots.
Why do the Japanese try,
to plot a dynastic clash
twixt my brother and I?
You exaggerate, Majesty.
His wife is Japanese.
Forget you're my Prime Minister,
and tell me what you,
yourself, think.
My opinion doesn't matter.
But China and Manchuria are one,
and we're Chinese.
What the Japanese army dictates,
matters not a whit.
I am merely the Prime
Minister of Manchuria.
And I'm the Emperor of Manchuria.
A beautiful scent.
Ryuko,
have they sprouted yet?
I hear that Her Majesty
personally,
gathered the seeds for
you to plant here.
My grandmother wrote me,
that she's still
tending the shoots.
Have her send them as soon
as they sprout.
We'll raise them as we
will our child.
They have flowers like
white clouds.
Awake Eisei?
It's Daddy. Say Daddy.
You'll have to wait.
Silly Daddy.
Can you see?
The apricots are beautiful.
Just wait till next year!
Ryuko.
The Emperor wants to see her.
He's tired of just seeing photographs.
You should take her.
Don't you want to go?
From the first time
that I met him,
he's treated me as if I
were a stranger.
That's because he's shy.
He's had a hard life.
I'll take her.
Madame.
Madame.
We're short again this month.
I've asked him to cut down.
He agrees, but then,
he gives so much away.
He has no conception of money.
Aren't you the same, ma'am?
But I'm a woman!
Don't all wives suffer so?
Since Furuya was promoted,
he's done everything to
thwart us.
He never visits anymore.
Yours?
She's cute.
She's Manchurian, like you.
No, you're Japanese.
You speak funny.
Yes, I'm Japanese.
But I married a Manchurian,
so I am too.
Is it true that,
our Emperor is brother to
the Japanese Emperor?
Not at all.
He was the Emperor of China,
but the Ch'ing dynasty ended,
and he became
Manchuria's Emperor.
He can't speak a word
of Japanese.
How do you know that?
He's my baby's uncle.
-Really?
-Absolutely.
Japs killed two Manchurians
last night.
You should be careful.
My dad gets mad when
Japanese eat,
at our restaurant but
don't pay.
-Greetings, Futetsu.
-Long may you reign.
Don't be so formal.
Haven't seen you for a while.
Sit down.
Your majesty is aware that,
I've been absent for a year.
Eisei has started talking.
Talking already?
It seems you've really
fallen for the lass.
Are you jealous of my baby?
I've no conception of
a family life.
If it pleases Your Majesty,
I shall bring them both
occasionally.
Have the Kempetai kept
you away?
I'm not afraid of them.
The Japanese secret police
have no right,
to keep brother's apart.
Why don't you lodge
a complaint
with the Japanese military?
Futetsu, your wife is
Japanese.
Your standing with them is
different to mine.
In 1941, Japan struck at
Pearl Harbor
The Japanese Emperor's
brother visited Manchuria
What are you doing here?
You're supposed to be
with the lower ranks!
Present arms!
Our mother holds you in
fond regard.
You form a bridge between
our two empires.
Mummy!
Yes, dear?
What's that?
I'm painting.
Pretty, isn't it?
Yes.
My happiest days were
studying art.
I could forget my loneliness.
Are you lonely?
You have me.
I'm not lonely any more.
Show me your dance.
One, two...
Do you know what we're celebrating?
Memorial Day.
We have so many festivals.
I know many.
10,000 Years and then
New and Old Years,
Dowager Empress' Day.
Fifth Month Festival.
You've done well.
You're very good.
Thank you, Majesty.
Clever little girl.
We bask in your
praise, Your Majesty.
-Sit down.
-Thank you.
I long thought you were a spy,
with the mission of
deposing me.
A tool of the Japanese army.
I, sir?
I can't trust anyone.
A spy? Here?
Unfortunately so.
Especially today,
when all the clan is gathered.
I'm so sad to hear it, Sire.
I am Futetsu's wife,
my heart and soul
belong to China.
I see how they have
tormented you, too.
Futetsu never mentioned it.
I have wronged you,
forgive me.
Tell me if you need money.
You have a child.
The Empress is tormented
by barrenness.
You noted her conduct
at the banquet.
She's so beautiful,
the Empress.
A beautiful doll.
Rumor has it that the
Americans will soon invade.
Panic reigns - schools
are closed.
It's rumored the Emperor is
in the mountains,
ready to fight to the death.
The army's requisitioned
all bottles,
to use as fire-bombs against
the invaders when they land.
We're short of weapons.
There's no food.
This may be my last letter.
I pray it gets through.
Sorry, I didn't see you come in.
My mother writes that
Japan is having it hard.
What are you doing?
The Emperor has donated his
treasures to the army.
I shall do the same.
These I got from the Empress.
From my family.
It's hard to part with them.
But the country needs them.
Japan and Manchuria are
as one.
Manchuria must do its utmost.
Even my stiped is questioned.
They are too much, the army.
They're interfering in
family matters.
They forbade me to pay
respects to my father.
My brother put his foot down.
They tried to stop him
worshipping our ancestors.
They have no respect for our
religion nor customs.
Be patient, dear.
They say perseverance
will bring victory.
Their gestapo arrested a
minister for suggesting,
we'd be completely dominated
should the Japanese win.
They nearly killed him.
No wonder so many flee to Beijing.
They've plundered our coal,
while the people freeze.
Yes, we too suffered
last winter.
Because I'm not Japanese.
How can I help?
Tell me what I can do.
All I hear makes me so sad.
There's nothing I can do.
I didn't mean to hurt you.
Forgive me.
There are good Japanese.
Many came to build Manchuria,
but left in disgust.
I hear Japan's suffering
shortages, too.
Don't speak of Japan,
it saddens me.
Yes?
Daddy! Daddy!
Come and play.
Daddy's busy.
Go and play with Mummy.
Mummy!
-Mummy!
-Yes, dear?
We'll play with Lilly.
Lilly! Lilly!
Lilly! Lilly!
Lilly, here girl.
We'll go to the cellar.
Tokyo, July 20.
A fleet of carrier-borne bombers,
made repeated attacks
on Tokyo.
Over 800 planes were counted.
The golden sun sets
slowly in the west
The bell of an ancient
temple chimes
Let's join hands and
return to our homes
Like the crows themselves do
Mummy!
Still awake?
I tucked you in earlier.
Daddy woke me up!
Really?
Naughty Daddy.
She was having a nightmare.
I wasn't frightened!
Not with Mummy and Daddy here.
I'm truly happy.
I'm a courier from Army HQ.
The palace was not hit last night.
The Emperor is unharmed.
Good man.
The Soviets declared war.
I've just come from a
cabinet meeting.
The Emperor's transferring
the capital.
The entire government?
They realize that by doing so,
the people will lose faith
in the government.
The capital is
extremely vulnerable.
The Japanese Army have
long held,
that they can defend
the new location.
I see.
The consul's wife told me
earlier on the phone.
Consul?
He was at HQ today.
She's the only wife
still remaining.
She asked me to fly to
Tokyo with them.
And?
Dear?
Will you go?
Where to?
I am of your family.
I've nowhere to be but
by your side.
August 1945, Japanese Army
retreats south
I see you're not ready
to evacuate,
but the Russians are pouring
across the border.
They could be here tomorrow.
The army's taken to the
hills for a last stand,
but I can't see them
lasting two months.
Two months?
You said you had a
million troops,
and could last for 5-10 years!
I don't know the details.
We had a treaty with
the Russians.
Their move took us off guard.
Most troops were
transferred south,
and we only have 300,000
left in Manchuria.
Darling.
Ryuko, go with the Emperor.
I'll fight to the finish here.
Your commission is invalid.
The order came today.
This is your work!
I will not betray my
people as you have!
It was a direct order
of the Emperor.
I shall serve him to the end.
It's easy to go to your death.
But to abandon your Emperor!
He needs you.
You're the only one who
can protect him.
It's not a betrayal to evacuate!
The Empress!
Please forgive me.
We know not what fate
awaits us.
August 14, 1945
The capital was transferred
Manchurian Court
...marks the end of the
Emperor's announcement.
Let his words reside in
100 million hearts.
He spoke to ease the
suffering,
and the chaos of his
loyal subjects.
There is but one road
left to us.
I know you weep for the
country and myself.
But this is all that
remains to me.
Our empire has faced much
opposition,
in the 13 years and 5 months
of its existence.
And now it has come to
an end.
I am abdicating.
The Prime Minister and
other cabinet members
are released from their duties.
Together we can
overcome this anguish.
The Japanese Emperor
has endured worse.
You've stood by me through
all the hardships.
You too, dear.
Now we can live simply
in Tokyo.
It pains me to ask this of you.
Would you take care of
the Empress?
I shall protect her
with my life.
Thank you.
Take care, Sire.
Be a good girl.
Farewell, Daddy.
After the Emperor abdicated,
the remaining retinue fled
to the mountains,
to escape the guerrilla bands.
We waited anxiously for orders,
to follow you by airplane.
But then we heard that
the Emperor's plane,
had been captured by
the Soviets.
The Empress fell ill and
we were all at a loss.
Remember how Eisei said
farewell to you?
I never dreamt it was
to be so final.
Any Japs here?!
Get the Japs!
It was their new year festival.
The people were celebrating.
But we, under house arrest,
watched in a
kind of desperation.
Get up!
Who's that?
That's my mummy!
That's daddy!
And me!
That's mine.
-Have it.
-Thank you.
That night, gunfire heralded
the start of a nightmare.
Who are you?
Japanese troops.
The Empress is here.
We're here to rescue you.
Help! Help!
Guard. Guard.
Guard.
Let me go to the Empress.
Please, I can quieten
her down.
She's upsetting everyone.
Pull yourself together.
Help me! Help me!
She needs opium.
I'll sell my things
for the money.
Tell the warden.
She'll die without it.
Once you freed us.
Why are we under
arrest again?
At least buy medicine.
Bring me my jewels!
Can't you see she's ill?
Is my bath not ready?!
Bring me my gown!
Eat this.
Thank you.
Get ready to leave.
Only bring necessities.
What about the Empress?
If she stays, I shall too.
Don't worry about the Empress.
Your Highness!
Your Highness!
Stop that!
Let me stay with her.
No, get over there.
But she's ill.
Forget about the Empress.
Get back with the others.
Your Highness!
Your Highness!
The Red Army took us
along as they fled north,
then suddenly released us
at a small village.
Penniless, malnourished,
racked with dysentery,
we trudged through what seemed
the length of China.
One year and five months
after our farewell,
we finally reached Japan.
Look! Over there! Land!
That's Japan!
You can see land!
It's true! It's true!
Thank god!
You can see it!
Eisei.
Wake up.
Eisei.
In spite of our hardships,
Eisei flourished.
Mater had passed away.
The residence survived.
Father and mother did their
best to comfort us.
Ah, the smell of violets.
The violet is a pretty flower.
Where, oh, where are
they hiding?
The violet is a pretty flower.
Eisei has picked up the
language well.
She studies hard and has
blossomed beautifully.
We've shed memories of
prisons and hardships.
I wonder where you are.
Are you still alive?
I ask every refugee if
they have seen you.
But no one knows.
Eisei boldly wrote to
Chou En Lai about you.
Ah, you're safe!
Both you and the Emperor!
I heard that you've
been imprisoned.
One thought dwells
heavily on my mind.
Why do Japan and China have
to fight all the time?
I know nothing of politics.
But I don't doubt both peoples
can live in friendship.
Can we be a small bridge
between them?
To this I shall devote
the rest of my life.
I thought to bring
Eisei up as a Japanese.
But the Chinese has
slowly seeped in.
She has an interest in
Chinese history and culture.
I've tried to help her see
with a Chinese heart,
so that a war such as that
shall never happen again.
But I was careless.
I made a dreadful mistake.
Eisei is dead.
No matter for what reason,
she took her life.
I was wrong for not
perceiving her pain.
Ah, the smell of violets
The violet is a pretty flower
Where, oh, where are
they hiding?
The violet is a pretty flower
Eisei was the last of
the Ch'ing dynasty.
This weighed heavily on
her young self.
I augur she just wanted peace.
We went through so much
together.
How could I not know
how she felt?
The seeds we planted
grew with her.
They are big now and in bloom.
But Eisei is no more.
Please forgive me, dear.
Pity me who has gone from
spring to a bitter winter.
Don't blame yourself.
Her death is a
suffering we share.
It's not your fault.
Perhaps my absence was
the reason.
The greater sorrow that
I bear is that,
I cannot hold you in my
arms and comfort you.
High mountains and a deep
sea stand between us.
But I believe,
one day we shall be
together again.
And I know,
that you shall be a bridge
between our two lands.
All springs turn to winter.
There is warmth in even
the darkest winter.
Press a flower for Eisei
and send it to me.
I shall treasure it.
We couldn't be together as
a family,
but have faith that one day
we shall be together again.
As Eisei would wish us to.
THE END
December 1957, Mt. Amagi.
The Wandering Princess
Directed by:
Kinuyo Tanaka
Ryuko's not back yet?
Not yet, m'lady.
My call confirmed that the princess
had already departed, ma'am.
What's keeping her?
She knows it's Kabuki tonight.
Kazuko, is it ready?
Yes.
Something about Ryuko?
Mother, did you tell Ryuko
about tonight?
Not I.
But have you mentioned the
betrothal?
Her suitor is very eager.
It's his invitation so
we should attend.
You must hear her feelings
on the matter.
-It's extremely important.
-Yes.
M'lady.
The General is here to see you.
General Asabuki?
Ryuko? Ryuko?
Here, Grandmother.
Hello. I did knock.
-The most wonderful thing, Mater!
-Yes dear?
I had a premonition.
So I rushed to Professor Kinoshita's.
He wants me to do oils!
He's accepted me as a pupil.
It's marvelous!
It surely is.
A perfect premonition.
I bought a gown.
All the artists wear them.
I couldn't wait to get mine.
What on earth is that?
But it does suit you.
He's absolutely the best artist.
Such a wonderful gentleman.
Don't forget, it was
my introduction.
And you're wonderful too!
Thank you, dear.
I shall be an artist.
And I'll exhibit in the spring.
And win!
It's wonderful to have dreams
when you're young.
I'll have them for my whole life!
Mother's always on about marriage.
It's too soon.
Your parents don't agree.
And you, mater?
Whatever makes you happy.
You are wonderful.
Oh, look at the time!
Hurry, lest you be late.
Mother!
Sorry I kept you.
Dear, something serious has arisen.
We must talk.
The General visited earlier.
For what purpose?
An issue of importance.
In the matter of the betrothal of our Ryuko to
the brother of the Emperor of Manchuria.
Lt. General Furuya journeyed from Army
HQ in Manchuria to set the schedule.
-Whose betrothal?
-Ryuko's.
To whom?
The younger brother of
the Manchurian Emperor.
Our Ryuko?!
They're far too arrogant.
It's ridiculous!
But we'd better agree to a meeting.
The military is very powerful.
We're not cowed by the military.
My granddaughter's not
to be bandied about.
Mother, I daresay it's
cause to celebrate.
That a Japanese be wed to
the Manchurian throne,
is a matter of joy to
both empires, isn't it?
General Asabuki was the military
governor of Manchuria,
and the army in Manchuria
are pushing the marriage.
They've become
extremely powerful,
and have influence over
the entire military.
Heaven forbid they're so dominant.
But the recent coup attempt
confirms it.
I'd refuse to meet him.
Pray, who's in command
of the military?
I'll go see the
Minister of the Army!
Mother.
The Minister's not in charge.
-Then whom?
-The army.
No individual?
Exactly.
That's where the power is.
We're bloodline to
Emperor Meiji,
how could it come to this?
I wish I were a commoner.
Am I to be cast off,
and you sent away to
marry a Manchurian,
under military orders?
Couldn't wait, eh?
-Be seated.
-Yes.
I usually travel by airplane.
I'm not used to cramped Japanese trains.
You should see the size of
them in Manchuria!
Exactly.
I planned to meet you
in Kyoto,
but I had urgent orders.
I see.
You gained an assent from
the Hosokawa girl?
As expected, they refused.
That's insolence!
No, it's natural.
The Emperor himself prefers his brother
marries into the Ch'ing dynasty.
That's why it's essential that the army
take a leading role in making sure,
that we form a bond between
the two countries.
What's wrong with
General Aki's daughter?
I've no wish to further inflame
the power stuggle in the ranks.
Think of the consequences
of a military girl.
It must be a girl
from the court.
Time is of the essence.
And it's my decision.
The military can purge
you anytime.
Military? Define military!
Is it you fascist
upstarts who are,
trying to force my hand?
You're simply impatient
with my centrist views.
I want what's best for
Prince Futetsu.
From among all the photographs,
he himself chose Princess Ryuko.
And you running off to
Hosokawa in Kyoto,
was an extremely stupid,
impudent move.
My duties are to oversee the
Manchurian royal family,
and this is one of my tasks.
Allow me.
His Imperial Highness,
Prince Futetsu.
General and Mrs. Asabuki,
who need no introduction,
serving as go-betweens.
I am Lieutenant General Furuya.
Today's meeting ranks as a state secret,
hence the suddenness of it all.
To avoid any counter reaction,
I must ask you to keep it secret.
Her grandmother.
We're honored, your Majesty.
The princess Ryuko.
The thing is...
I'd heard and dismissed reports of your opulence
until I slipped on the marble in your entrance!
It did no damage, but knocked
me down a peg or two!
Money as such means
nothing to me,
but the truly wealthy
live like this, eh?
The princess dables in
painting and calligraphy.
The Prince left Manchuria,
and graduated from our
Military Academy.
He's currently training
as an officer in Chiba,
so he's fluent in Japanese.
He tells a good joke, too.
I'd like to say that,
the Prince is agreeable
to the match,
and we await the
Princess' response.
In my own opinion, Ryuko should,
have the perogative of
making the decision.
Please.
He seems like a fine young man.
He's as gentle as a spring breeze.
Not much of a talker but gentlemanly
enough to put us to shame.
I've asked around his classmates,
and he enjoys a good reputation.
I thought so too, when I met him.
He graduated in the top of his
class, so he's intelligent, too.
And very fair to the lower ranks.
No matter he's not Japanese.
I really think you couldn't make a
better match, Ryuko.
You needn't stand on ceremony.
You're free to reject the proposal.
Ryuko, forget all about
the politics,
and ask yourself if you want
to become his bride.
I bow to your wishes.
Manchurian Prince Futetsu
engaged to Princess Ryuko
Army announces royal
wedding on April 3rd
Congratulations.
Her Majesty awaits.
Please.
Ryuko Sugawara, Ma'am.
I'm honored, Your Majesty.
May your good health
continue, Majesty.
Enter.
Approach.
Be seated.
Congratulations.
You are beautiful.
Not often do we see
such youthful dress.
Hence the stipulation
of our invitation.
The hair is not too heavy?
No.
Your family is well, we hope?
Yes.
They enjoy your blessings.
How long has it been?
The Marquis brought you,
when you were but a little girl.
You ran through the palace,
fell down and wept bitterly.
We picked you up but
alas, you still cried.
It was your father, wasn't it?
When I heard of you going to
Manchuria, I was so pleased.
Faithfully serving their Emperor,
is a form of service to
our Emperor.
Let not homesickness
afflict you.
Show them the virtue of
Japanese maidens.
As you say, Your Majesty,
I shall strive to do my best.
I received this as a gift from,
the late Emperor Meiji's mother.
It's fitting that it
should pass to you.
When you're lonely in
distant Manchuria,
remember us and gain
strength from it.
Approach.
These seed of styrax obassia,
I gathered them myself.
Plant them in your new land.
A gift from the Emperor.
I have the honor of conveying it.
It is beautiful.
A magnificent dress.
It's Chinese, isn't it?
By custom, a Chinese bride
wears red the first year.
Wedding Invitation
The Emperor gives congratulatory
speech at Royal Wedding
Beautiful bride off for
honeymoon in Manchuria
Your brother, Sire.
Work hard at your marriage.
Thank you, Sire.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Well, they finally installed
a telephone.
I'm so pleased.
That's good.
Something else is bound
to arise.
They said the residence
was outstanding,
but it's like a barracks!
It's no place for a princess.
It's unfinished and doesn't even
have an automobile.
How inconvenient.
The Prime Minister asked
the army for a vehicle.
Not for a Manchurian
sub-lieutenant, they said.
He's the Emperor's brother!
They must consider his rank.
I heard that the
Manchurian constitution,
allows for no royalty
other than the Emperor.
-Is that true?
-Yes.
But they never complain.
How trying.
Come in.
-It's time to depart, Sire.
- Alright.
And Ryuko?
She's in the living room.
The phone is connected.
Come see.
Let's call someone.
Are you alright?
Last night as I slept,
I heard a far off train.
The days are so quiet.
It's so isolated.
Homesick?
Come here.
When summer comes,
we'll see wild rabbits
frolicking here.
It was a mongolian farm.
And here is where we'll
build the new capital.
The palace will be right there.
A total of 250 square kilometers.
It will soon fill with people.
With the palace just
across the road.
I did so enjoy my stay
in Japan.
I'd still be there if I
hadn't graduated.
I shouldn't.
I'm just making you homesick.
I couldn't bear it if you left.
I'd never leave you.
Thank you.
Let's buy that land next door,
and plant apricots.
-Do you know the flower?
-No.
Similar to cherry blossoms.
But not as exquisite.
Closer to plum blossoms.
There's a forest of them
in Beijing.
In spring they bloom
a delicate pink.
Yes, we'll plant apricots.
Why do the Japanese try,
to plot a dynastic clash
twixt my brother and I?
You exaggerate, Majesty.
His wife is Japanese.
Forget you're my Prime Minister,
and tell me what you,
yourself, think.
My opinion doesn't matter.
But China and Manchuria are one,
and we're Chinese.
What the Japanese army dictates,
matters not a whit.
I am merely the Prime
Minister of Manchuria.
And I'm the Emperor of Manchuria.
A beautiful scent.
Ryuko,
have they sprouted yet?
I hear that Her Majesty
personally,
gathered the seeds for
you to plant here.
My grandmother wrote me,
that she's still
tending the shoots.
Have her send them as soon
as they sprout.
We'll raise them as we
will our child.
They have flowers like
white clouds.
Awake Eisei?
It's Daddy. Say Daddy.
You'll have to wait.
Silly Daddy.
Can you see?
The apricots are beautiful.
Just wait till next year!
Ryuko.
The Emperor wants to see her.
He's tired of just seeing photographs.
You should take her.
Don't you want to go?
From the first time
that I met him,
he's treated me as if I
were a stranger.
That's because he's shy.
He's had a hard life.
I'll take her.
Madame.
Madame.
We're short again this month.
I've asked him to cut down.
He agrees, but then,
he gives so much away.
He has no conception of money.
Aren't you the same, ma'am?
But I'm a woman!
Don't all wives suffer so?
Since Furuya was promoted,
he's done everything to
thwart us.
He never visits anymore.
Yours?
She's cute.
She's Manchurian, like you.
No, you're Japanese.
You speak funny.
Yes, I'm Japanese.
But I married a Manchurian,
so I am too.
Is it true that,
our Emperor is brother to
the Japanese Emperor?
Not at all.
He was the Emperor of China,
but the Ch'ing dynasty ended,
and he became
Manchuria's Emperor.
He can't speak a word
of Japanese.
How do you know that?
He's my baby's uncle.
-Really?
-Absolutely.
Japs killed two Manchurians
last night.
You should be careful.
My dad gets mad when
Japanese eat,
at our restaurant but
don't pay.
-Greetings, Futetsu.
-Long may you reign.
Don't be so formal.
Haven't seen you for a while.
Sit down.
Your majesty is aware that,
I've been absent for a year.
Eisei has started talking.
Talking already?
It seems you've really
fallen for the lass.
Are you jealous of my baby?
I've no conception of
a family life.
If it pleases Your Majesty,
I shall bring them both
occasionally.
Have the Kempetai kept
you away?
I'm not afraid of them.
The Japanese secret police
have no right,
to keep brother's apart.
Why don't you lodge
a complaint
with the Japanese military?
Futetsu, your wife is
Japanese.
Your standing with them is
different to mine.
In 1941, Japan struck at
Pearl Harbor
The Japanese Emperor's
brother visited Manchuria
What are you doing here?
You're supposed to be
with the lower ranks!
Present arms!
Our mother holds you in
fond regard.
You form a bridge between
our two empires.
Mummy!
Yes, dear?
What's that?
I'm painting.
Pretty, isn't it?
Yes.
My happiest days were
studying art.
I could forget my loneliness.
Are you lonely?
You have me.
I'm not lonely any more.
Show me your dance.
One, two...
Do you know what we're celebrating?
Memorial Day.
We have so many festivals.
I know many.
10,000 Years and then
New and Old Years,
Dowager Empress' Day.
Fifth Month Festival.
You've done well.
You're very good.
Thank you, Majesty.
Clever little girl.
We bask in your
praise, Your Majesty.
-Sit down.
-Thank you.
I long thought you were a spy,
with the mission of
deposing me.
A tool of the Japanese army.
I, sir?
I can't trust anyone.
A spy? Here?
Unfortunately so.
Especially today,
when all the clan is gathered.
I'm so sad to hear it, Sire.
I am Futetsu's wife,
my heart and soul
belong to China.
I see how they have
tormented you, too.
Futetsu never mentioned it.
I have wronged you,
forgive me.
Tell me if you need money.
You have a child.
The Empress is tormented
by barrenness.
You noted her conduct
at the banquet.
She's so beautiful,
the Empress.
A beautiful doll.
Rumor has it that the
Americans will soon invade.
Panic reigns - schools
are closed.
It's rumored the Emperor is
in the mountains,
ready to fight to the death.
The army's requisitioned
all bottles,
to use as fire-bombs against
the invaders when they land.
We're short of weapons.
There's no food.
This may be my last letter.
I pray it gets through.
Sorry, I didn't see you come in.
My mother writes that
Japan is having it hard.
What are you doing?
The Emperor has donated his
treasures to the army.
I shall do the same.
These I got from the Empress.
From my family.
It's hard to part with them.
But the country needs them.
Japan and Manchuria are
as one.
Manchuria must do its utmost.
Even my stiped is questioned.
They are too much, the army.
They're interfering in
family matters.
They forbade me to pay
respects to my father.
My brother put his foot down.
They tried to stop him
worshipping our ancestors.
They have no respect for our
religion nor customs.
Be patient, dear.
They say perseverance
will bring victory.
Their gestapo arrested a
minister for suggesting,
we'd be completely dominated
should the Japanese win.
They nearly killed him.
No wonder so many flee to Beijing.
They've plundered our coal,
while the people freeze.
Yes, we too suffered
last winter.
Because I'm not Japanese.
How can I help?
Tell me what I can do.
All I hear makes me so sad.
There's nothing I can do.
I didn't mean to hurt you.
Forgive me.
There are good Japanese.
Many came to build Manchuria,
but left in disgust.
I hear Japan's suffering
shortages, too.
Don't speak of Japan,
it saddens me.
Yes?
Daddy! Daddy!
Come and play.
Daddy's busy.
Go and play with Mummy.
Mummy!
-Mummy!
-Yes, dear?
We'll play with Lilly.
Lilly! Lilly!
Lilly! Lilly!
Lilly, here girl.
We'll go to the cellar.
Tokyo, July 20.
A fleet of carrier-borne bombers,
made repeated attacks
on Tokyo.
Over 800 planes were counted.
The golden sun sets
slowly in the west
The bell of an ancient
temple chimes
Let's join hands and
return to our homes
Like the crows themselves do
Mummy!
Still awake?
I tucked you in earlier.
Daddy woke me up!
Really?
Naughty Daddy.
She was having a nightmare.
I wasn't frightened!
Not with Mummy and Daddy here.
I'm truly happy.
I'm a courier from Army HQ.
The palace was not hit last night.
The Emperor is unharmed.
Good man.
The Soviets declared war.
I've just come from a
cabinet meeting.
The Emperor's transferring
the capital.
The entire government?
They realize that by doing so,
the people will lose faith
in the government.
The capital is
extremely vulnerable.
The Japanese Army have
long held,
that they can defend
the new location.
I see.
The consul's wife told me
earlier on the phone.
Consul?
He was at HQ today.
She's the only wife
still remaining.
She asked me to fly to
Tokyo with them.
And?
Dear?
Will you go?
Where to?
I am of your family.
I've nowhere to be but
by your side.
August 1945, Japanese Army
retreats south
I see you're not ready
to evacuate,
but the Russians are pouring
across the border.
They could be here tomorrow.
The army's taken to the
hills for a last stand,
but I can't see them
lasting two months.
Two months?
You said you had a
million troops,
and could last for 5-10 years!
I don't know the details.
We had a treaty with
the Russians.
Their move took us off guard.
Most troops were
transferred south,
and we only have 300,000
left in Manchuria.
Darling.
Ryuko, go with the Emperor.
I'll fight to the finish here.
Your commission is invalid.
The order came today.
This is your work!
I will not betray my
people as you have!
It was a direct order
of the Emperor.
I shall serve him to the end.
It's easy to go to your death.
But to abandon your Emperor!
He needs you.
You're the only one who
can protect him.
It's not a betrayal to evacuate!
The Empress!
Please forgive me.
We know not what fate
awaits us.
August 14, 1945
The capital was transferred
Manchurian Court
...marks the end of the
Emperor's announcement.
Let his words reside in
100 million hearts.
He spoke to ease the
suffering,
and the chaos of his
loyal subjects.
There is but one road
left to us.
I know you weep for the
country and myself.
But this is all that
remains to me.
Our empire has faced much
opposition,
in the 13 years and 5 months
of its existence.
And now it has come to
an end.
I am abdicating.
The Prime Minister and
other cabinet members
are released from their duties.
Together we can
overcome this anguish.
The Japanese Emperor
has endured worse.
You've stood by me through
all the hardships.
You too, dear.
Now we can live simply
in Tokyo.
It pains me to ask this of you.
Would you take care of
the Empress?
I shall protect her
with my life.
Thank you.
Take care, Sire.
Be a good girl.
Farewell, Daddy.
After the Emperor abdicated,
the remaining retinue fled
to the mountains,
to escape the guerrilla bands.
We waited anxiously for orders,
to follow you by airplane.
But then we heard that
the Emperor's plane,
had been captured by
the Soviets.
The Empress fell ill and
we were all at a loss.
Remember how Eisei said
farewell to you?
I never dreamt it was
to be so final.
Any Japs here?!
Get the Japs!
It was their new year festival.
The people were celebrating.
But we, under house arrest,
watched in a
kind of desperation.
Get up!
Who's that?
That's my mummy!
That's daddy!
And me!
That's mine.
-Have it.
-Thank you.
That night, gunfire heralded
the start of a nightmare.
Who are you?
Japanese troops.
The Empress is here.
We're here to rescue you.
Help! Help!
Guard. Guard.
Guard.
Let me go to the Empress.
Please, I can quieten
her down.
She's upsetting everyone.
Pull yourself together.
Help me! Help me!
She needs opium.
I'll sell my things
for the money.
Tell the warden.
She'll die without it.
Once you freed us.
Why are we under
arrest again?
At least buy medicine.
Bring me my jewels!
Can't you see she's ill?
Is my bath not ready?!
Bring me my gown!
Eat this.
Thank you.
Get ready to leave.
Only bring necessities.
What about the Empress?
If she stays, I shall too.
Don't worry about the Empress.
Your Highness!
Your Highness!
Stop that!
Let me stay with her.
No, get over there.
But she's ill.
Forget about the Empress.
Get back with the others.
Your Highness!
Your Highness!
The Red Army took us
along as they fled north,
then suddenly released us
at a small village.
Penniless, malnourished,
racked with dysentery,
we trudged through what seemed
the length of China.
One year and five months
after our farewell,
we finally reached Japan.
Look! Over there! Land!
That's Japan!
You can see land!
It's true! It's true!
Thank god!
You can see it!
Eisei.
Wake up.
Eisei.
In spite of our hardships,
Eisei flourished.
Mater had passed away.
The residence survived.
Father and mother did their
best to comfort us.
Ah, the smell of violets.
The violet is a pretty flower.
Where, oh, where are
they hiding?
The violet is a pretty flower.
Eisei has picked up the
language well.
She studies hard and has
blossomed beautifully.
We've shed memories of
prisons and hardships.
I wonder where you are.
Are you still alive?
I ask every refugee if
they have seen you.
But no one knows.
Eisei boldly wrote to
Chou En Lai about you.
Ah, you're safe!
Both you and the Emperor!
I heard that you've
been imprisoned.
One thought dwells
heavily on my mind.
Why do Japan and China have
to fight all the time?
I know nothing of politics.
But I don't doubt both peoples
can live in friendship.
Can we be a small bridge
between them?
To this I shall devote
the rest of my life.
I thought to bring
Eisei up as a Japanese.
But the Chinese has
slowly seeped in.
She has an interest in
Chinese history and culture.
I've tried to help her see
with a Chinese heart,
so that a war such as that
shall never happen again.
But I was careless.
I made a dreadful mistake.
Eisei is dead.
No matter for what reason,
she took her life.
I was wrong for not
perceiving her pain.
Ah, the smell of violets
The violet is a pretty flower
Where, oh, where are
they hiding?
The violet is a pretty flower
Eisei was the last of
the Ch'ing dynasty.
This weighed heavily on
her young self.
I augur she just wanted peace.
We went through so much
together.
How could I not know
how she felt?
The seeds we planted
grew with her.
They are big now and in bloom.
But Eisei is no more.
Please forgive me, dear.
Pity me who has gone from
spring to a bitter winter.
Don't blame yourself.
Her death is a
suffering we share.
It's not your fault.
Perhaps my absence was
the reason.
The greater sorrow that
I bear is that,
I cannot hold you in my
arms and comfort you.
High mountains and a deep
sea stand between us.
But I believe,
one day we shall be
together again.
And I know,
that you shall be a bridge
between our two lands.
All springs turn to winter.
There is warmth in even
the darkest winter.
Press a flower for Eisei
and send it to me.
I shall treasure it.
We couldn't be together as
a family,
but have faith that one day
we shall be together again.
As Eisei would wish us to.
THE END