Gonza the Spearman (1986) - full transcript
The tragic story of Gonza, a handsome ladies man, set in the Tokagawa Period, a time in which appearences are very important. Gonza competes with Bannojo for the honor to perform the tea ceremony to celebrate the birth of an heir to the lord of their clan. To see the sacred tea scrolls Gonza promises to marry the daughter of the family which possesses them, even though he is unofficially engaged to another. When studying the scrolls with Osai, the mother of the house, Bannajo sneaks into the house and steals their obis and runs through the town proclaiming the two as adulterers.
From 1635 on, the shogunate...
ordered provincial lords to edo...
alternate years
this allowed the tokugawa government
a means of control
since then a century has passed
the lord is departing!
Gonza the spearman
the lord is departing!
Executive producers/kiyoshi iwashita,
masatake wakita, masayuki motomochi
script by taeko tomioka
make way!
Hiromi go as gonza sasano
shohei hino as bannojo
misaka tanaka as oyuki
hideji otaki as iwaki
takashi tsumura as ichinoshin
kuniko miyake as his wife
haruko kato as oyuki's nurse
kaori mizushima as okiku
shima iwashiti as osai
directed by masahiro shinoda
the bout is over!
Oh, what a handsome samurai...
everyone just stares at him...
at gonza, the spearman, such a dandy
as though a picture that's come alive...
gonza, the spearman,
such a handsome man
oyuki!
I'm all sweaty
bring me a change of clothes
gonza, why must you avoid me...
like this?
Why, oyuki?
If you so hate me...
why not just run me down?
I was just now getting rid of the man
how can you, a samurai, lie like that?
What are you saying?
You're bannojo's sister
how could i go flattering you?
Nurse, you're thoughtless...
letting her come this far
how can you say that?
Do you remember what you said
when you met...
oyuki at my house last winter?
I did not forget. I keep my promises
now take oyuki back home
and you have never kindly answered...
her letters
you have not done right by her
speak to bannojo, her brother, and...
the marriage can be arranged
if that is what you intend
but if not, then say so clearly
and we will no longer trouble you
bannojo is difficult
i must be careful how i speak
only if he were to fully agree could i...
marry oyuki
even my horse here knows i love her
he will testify. Listen carefully
it's bannojo
he mustn't see us
oyuki, let us go
gonza, you out riding too?
Your horse's gotten better, right?
No, i don't even feed it well
it's no good
sarcasm? Because you beat me...
when we raced?
How about another race now?
I wish i could
but we're tired - the horse and me
perhaps another time
very smart
let's race!
A letter from bannojo
from bannojo?
He said he would come for an answer
to osai
from bannojo
madame...
mr. Iwaki, your father, has arrived
torajiro-has your fencing improved?
Yes, grandfather
welcome, father- jinbei too
do be careful when you play with...
the child
i am sorry
and you might scratch the walls as well
but boys ought to be active like this
torajiro
you are always with that fool
shall i tell your father?
I want to be as strong as uncle is
a real honour
you are only twelve
fencing is not enough
your father is also excellent at the...
tea ceremony
that is how he received his new post...
and new raise
you ought to study tea ceremony...
as well
for a samuarai, the martial arts must...
come first
there are no more wars,
no battles now
samurai must serve in different ways
i don't like this new peaceful world
even samurai musicians - how weak
nothing weak about the tea ceremony
that is true
but you spoke differently...
when just married
your husband wasn't manly becasuse...
he liked...
the tea ceremony
who said that?
Father, that's all in the past
where are you off to?
Stay with your grandfather
i can't stay long today
we're on our way to a meeting
dropped by to see torajiro, that's all
then take him home and...
make him study
here he just wastes his time
they'll say i spoiled him...
during my husband's absence
when will father be back?
Do you miss him so much?
It's only been three months
grandfather, uncle, you are welcome
how is it?
Excellent
please, get ready
tea ceremony has its disciplines
it's like fighting
except that you don't get killed
and it helps the better to get you...
promoted
i wish i could study it too
you can't do that
let's look at the tea thing
bannojo, you're lucky
you're ichinoshin's disciple and...
so you have a bright future
as samurai like us, we can't even
try to use a sword
that reminds me.
When i was young i once tested...
a sword on an executed man
then on my way home i ate some fish
i reminded me of the meat...
on that corpse
i had to run out to throw up
that's too bad
samurai nowadays leave...
their sword behind
you heard that, too?
Something like that could happen to us
this samurai was eating his meal
as the ferryboat was about to go
he got in a hurry...
it was after he got off the ferry...
that he remembered his sword
you should have seen him run
another got dismissed - left his sword...
in a theater
oyuki is more beautiful than ever
any special reason?
Not that i know of
been three months since ichinoshin left
it'll soon be a year
no, a year is very long time
yes, for wives waiting for...
their husbands
right
many kill themselves when...
the husband returns
she's gone and committed adultery,
you see
why didn't she try absortion?
Double suicide - it's a strange fashion
our lord doesn't have a successor yet?
With no son...
our clan might be abolished
and we'd be out on the streets
no way we can help him that way
you're pretty fast with women. You'll do
i lost again. I can't pay
you still have your hamlet and...
your armor
no
not any more
i sold them long ago
who cares about these anti-gambling...
laws?
But a few days ago,
kihei's place got raided
ten people got arrested
too bad
well...?
Well?
This time...
good
why not join us?
It's not just a game.
We're betting real money
your luck matters. It's interesting
too bad
it's muggy tonight
and what is it brings you here today?
It's been raining so long
i just wondered how you were
my husband is gone, but i have...
my servants
and i have my children too
what are you thinking of...
watching the rain?
It's been 3 months since...
your husband left
but i'm glad he is doing well
i am here for the answer to my letter
i don't understand
did the messenger bring it to the...
wrong person?
I only wrote to find out how you're doing
i'm not brave enough to take...
ichinoshin's wife
but i thought i'd relieve your boredom
does it rain in edo too?
I wonder what your husband is doing...
on a day like this
my children will soon be back
would you please leave now?
The world is too peaceful
waiting for war slows a samurai's...
promotion
stationed in edo,
something goes wrong at home
this is our reality
osai
let me help you during...
your husband's absence...
i'll call someone
you're being too familiar
gonza
i have something for you
here, look at this sash
three lines in a circle. Your crest
and a chrysanthemum. Mine
take it
it's wonderful
i'm very happy
it represents our love
when it's tied...
you are with me, and i am with you
i made it so we would never be apart
make way
make way
from edo!
You made it
an heir has been born
the clan will survive
so we will. The clan will live
congratulations
i had you two come to tell you this
an heir has been born to our lord
he will celebrate in edo
at the end of the month...
his family here will gather for...
a celebration
a tea-ceremony will also be held
since my son-in-law is in edo...
one of his disciples, learned in the art...
should officiate at the party
if either of you have such qualifications...
would you kindly officiate?
This would also be the means of...
promotion
i have not been officially initiated as yet
but i do have some knowledge
i, bannojo, accept this honor
rest assured i will do my best
and you?
The true arcane knowledge of...
the tea ceremony...
ought be transmitted only...
from parents to children...
but my master has taught me...
so i should make no errors
making no errors is not perfection,
i know...
but do let me try myself
it is not for us to decide. We must...
also hear the opinions of...
ichinoshin's wife
should some error be made
the shame would be our master's
the tea-ceremoney secrets?
I must beat gonza at this
ichinoshin is in edo - osai is here alone
where is your nurse?
I don't know
you two are hiding something
now listen to me
to get you married into a good family...
i have to succeed
to do so, i must beat gonza
gonza?
Right
what about it?
You seem always to be thinking of...
gonza
can't be helped. He's very handsome
gonza and i are engaged...
though he has not given...
a definite answer
what?
My own sister?
You cannot marry him
why do you say i can't marry him?
Because he is absolutely unfaithful
gonza unfaithful?
Can you prove that?
You don't understand men
you don't understand me
i am gonza's
i want him
he won't marry you.
He understands nothing
not women, not life itself
gonza and i are engaged
brother, let me go!
Stupid!
Don't do that?
Mr samurai, why not drop in?
You are a samurai, aren't you?
Why not just step in?
She's a samurai's daughter -
from osaka
a very beautiful woman
that girl?
Please come in
you like that girl?
A guest has come
excellent
that is very good indeed
your father will be surprised
but so long before he comes back
look at your hair. It's not well done
who did it?
The maid, after my bath
it doesn't become you
that girl never improves
this doesn't suit you
i'll do it for you
this way suit you
a woman's hair style is important
the classics say a woman...
with good hair is best
there, you look better now
here, i will prove it to you
sugi!
Will you come here?
I hardly recognize you
madame dresses hair so beautifully
she looks even more beautiful
i'm pretty myself...
but men don't look twice
it must be my hairdo
if you were only to help,
then all the men...
would come rushing
that's enough
i could never marry such a...
girl as you to an ordinary man.
It would be a waste
i am always thinking about...
who would be...
best if you married one of...
our own samurai
i wish i could marry you to
gonza sasano
he is most handsome,
and the best spearman
he is the best at the disciplines of...
tea ceremony, too
and he has the best character
he is the best of all the men
but he's old enough to be my uncle
he is certainly like your uncle
he is twenty-five. You are fifteen
but i am thirty-seven and your father is...
forty-seven
his being ten years older is best
in a few years you will accept it
i myself would marry gonza...
were i not already married to ichinoshin
i wish you could wear the bridal kimono
sitting side by side with gonza
what is your business, sir
is iwaki here?
Not today, sir
then give this message to the madame
i have a favor to ask him but...
will explain later
in the meantime this sake is for her
please enjoy it. Tell her that
very well, sir
you came at just the right time
please come in
everything seems well here
thank you. And i much appreciate...
your gift
i have had no opportunity to speak...
with you
please come in
okiku
there will be a party to celebrate...
the heir's birth
how nice
and i was assigned to officiate at the...
tea ceremony
i should be most grateful if...
your showed me the family tea-scrolls
that knowledge should be passed...
from parents to children
i know that well enough
but in this peaceful time...
it is my only way to distinguish myself
please, i beg of you
you are serious about this
i too...
excuse me, but i long wanted you to...
wed my daughter
we have long discussed here
it woud make you my son-in-law
and i could show you family secrets
this may sound bartering
trading our knowledge for our daughter
but try to think of these as...
really separate
what do you say?
You do not like my daughter?
Or are engaged to someone else?
Then we must give up
do not be too hasty
i am not engaged
then...
i will take your daughter okiku...
as my wife
thank you very much
my wish is granted
i am more than pleased
now, swear your intentions...
upon this sake
the scrolls are our go-between. Swear
of course, we have no real go-between
so, let me hear your pledge
i quite understand your care
even though, all unarmed, i am killed...
by lord ichinoshin...
that is enough. I am grateful
today is a lucky day.
My husband too will be happy
now, gonza, you are no longer...
a stranger
i will show you our secrets
come to the tea-ceremony room...
this evening
this is very kind of you.
I will come without fail
come so that no one will see you
excuse me. This is oyuki's nurse
bannojo's sister
would you announce me?
The nurse to bannojo's sister?
I must leave so that she will not see me
very well
i wonder what brings her here
madame
i heard. Tell her that i am out
and don't let her see him
come after everyone is asleep
i will show you the scrolls
i am very sorry, ma'am
the madame is out on an errand
but i'll take the message. What is it?
Very well, then
oyuki, whom i raised
is engaged to gonza sasano,
and everything is readied
but there is no go-between as yet
i helped them spend a night together
and gonza gave me a pair of sandals...
and a silver coin
is that so? Then you did your job well
but what is it that brings you here?
I would like the madame here
to be the go-between for gonza...
and oyuki
please tell her that. Understand?
If everything turns out all right...
we'll pay her
we'll do our best for you too
our lady would never do this for money
but i will give her your message
mother
are you back?
Is torajiro not with you?
Madame's father is here
mother, i'm back
they played so hard
they're sleepy. So, i brought them back
is okiku in?
She ought stay in
so nothing occurs while...
her father's away
you played that hard?
No wonder your grandparents complain
my wife says that he looks just like...
his father
she's right
torajiro, you act like your father
take care of your mother
take osute inside, put them to bed
make sure they don't catch cold
kakusuke
why not light the stone lantern?
It is already dark
bring some sake for father
thank you, but i would like to look at...
the garden
i admire ichinoshin's taste.
This garden never bores
did gonza ask to be shown...
the secret scrolls?
He came o his own.
I decided to show him
that is good
basically, only family members have...
the right
but ichinoshin sent me permission
if gonza made a mistake...
it would shame ichinoshin
would disgrace our lord as well
that much i know
you cannot be too careful in imparting...
this knowledge
let no one, not even in family,
hear your conversation
wait until after midnight,
when all are asleep
be especially careful while...
ichinoshin is in edo
your family is only women now
and that undependable manservant
oyuki is engaged to gonza?
And everything is ready set?
How that nurse spoke
it makes me so angry, and jealous
and i'm to be their go-between?
Who cares now about our secrets?
How jealous and angry i am
and just when i have chosen him...
for my daughter
who could help being angry?
Who is it?
Gonza
these drawings and these scrolls...
explains all
everything necessary for the ceremony
is written in this list
it includes methods for any occasion
this is another possible form
and here is for an imperial visit
in our case the latter ought be applied
this display is for the imperial visit
it requires three scrolls and...
three utensils
a jar for powdered tea
these are probably self-explanatory
please study these carefully
you hear anything in these?
Only the frogs
you do it like this!
They have gone to sleep
they're only women. We can gag them
very well
follow me
i heard something.
Is someone in the garden?
No - no one comes, even in daytime
the frogs have been silenced
even frogs must rest
they're quiet again
that's odd
i'll go look in the garden
high fences and a thorn hege
who could get in?
What's the matter?
Afraid of being alone with me?
Afraid your woman will rush in?
That is false!
Someone's nurse said...
you were engaged
came to ask me, of all people,
to be go-between
still false?
I'm very angry. You are the false one
now i see you as you truly are
i have reasons...
i've been stifling this anger because i
your mother-in-law, ought not be jealous
but i can endure no longer
who embroidered that sash of yours?
Your own crest and another.
Whose is it?
I have my reasons...
of course, you have, and i am jealous...
of them
how dare you wear that when...
you come here?
Filthy thing! My hands are all dirtied
you still want it?
You need another one?
Why not use mine?
There now. Use mine
it is like me. It will cling to you
i couldn't wear a woman's sash
osai! Gonza!
These proclaim that you are adulterers
i will tell everyone
why are you doing this?
He took the sashes.
We cannot prove our innocence
he's the adulterer
this is the end
the sashes are gone.
What should we do?
Dead or alive, this is the end
what a disgrace
my husband could not face...
the other samurai...
if gossip had it that his wife was stolen
they will make us out...
to be immoral beasts...
low, degenerate
i cannot live
if you must die, then
make yourself an adulterer and...
have my husband kill you
what?
Shame! I have not committed adultery
let him kill me as i am now
and our deaths my prove our innocence
if you die to save our reputations...
then my husband's will be disgraced
if you refuse adultery, then...
call me your wife - just one word
i beg you
call me your wife
no
I cannot do that
i know your feelings, but think of...
my husband
i am sorry
i cannot call a married woman my wife
dawn is coming
my luck has ended
i will save your husband
just call me your wife
you are...
my wife
and you are my husband
osai and gonza ae adulterers!
As evidence...
i, bannojo, hold their sashes
ichinoshin's wife, osai, and...
gonza sasano
are adulterers
i have their sashes as evidence
ichinoshin's wife, osai...
and gonza sasano
they are adulterers
i, bannojo, have their sashes...
as evidence
i had planned to break into...
osai's room and get the scrolls
i wanted to beat gonza
but, as it turns out...
osai, the sun is rising.
Your children will wake up
and they know nothing of this...
forget them. Let us go
open the gate!
It's jinbei!
Open up!
Open the gate!
I'm coming
what's happened?
I am here to see gonza
welcome back, father
we are here to bring back...
the adulteress' personal possessions
open the gate and receive them
do not leave them here.
What shame for osai
bring them in before people can see...
them
what are you saying?
The will only dirty our house
destroy them!
No, wait
do as you're told
wait
please listen
i am stopping you because...
we will never see osai while...
we are alive
cannot we at least keep these...
to remember her by?
It's been twenty years, but they look new
she kept them for our grandchildren
osai...
she will never return
we cannot accept them
men, destroy them!
Listen...
an even greater tragedy will fall upon us
what shall we do?
Our daughter will die.
But we must live and endure our sorrow
i want my mother. Where is she?
Grandmother, i miss mother
in all your lovely innocence...
how could she...
abandon you?
Father will kill her
grandfather, grandmother.
Please kill me instead
well said
you still have your grandparents
don't worry. And jinbei is here.
Don't cry
ichinoshin sent us our grand-daughters
then why not torajiro?
He is our grandchild, too
a courier has brought a letter...
from jinbei
a letter from jinbei?
They're coming
jinbei is coming
you must go right now
get ready
brother, i can walk no more
i can go no further. I cannot walk
jinbei is coming
he's a good swordsman
but you've killed no one
hurry up
no more
i'm tired of running
no more
oyuki
ichinoshin!
I accept osai's daughters and...
her belongings
going on a journey?
Thank you for coming. I wish you luck
what is the matter with you?
You came back all the way from edo
yet osai is still alive. What shame!
Jinbei is looking for her
he sent me a letter
he found where bannojo was
though old, i can still walk
i cannot just sit and wait
bannojo was the one who told everyone
i will kill him myself
i know how you feel. But you are old
he might kill you
then i would first have to avenge...
my father-in-law
you still call me a father-in-law?
Yes, even though osai is an adulteress
i will avenge your death
ichinoshin, how grateful i am to you
if she had not done this then...
all the family would be here
you are keeping torajiro?
And abandoning our family?
That is not the way it is
my lord has given me leave.
I have no duties
but i would still like to continue...
my tea ceremony
so i asked the master to accept...
torajiro
is that how it is?
Now with this sake wish me luck
i wish you all success
success in killing the mother of...
three children
success in killing my wife.
And this is duty?
What a world we live in
jinbei? How was it?
I am very sorry
they asked i kill them before...
you arrived home
i started out after them right away
rest a while first
with a woman they cannot have gotten...
far
yet, though i searched everywhere
i could not find them
ichinoshin is going too
this is fortunate. Let me go with you
i appreciate your kindness
but i ought go alone
but why? Gonza has many relatives
they will do anything
you will need help. Let me go
thank you
but i cannot kill my wife...
with her brother's help
i want to do all i can for you
you imply i know nothing but...
tea ceremony?
No, i know swordsmanship as well
then why not kill the enemy...
who is right here
the enemy right here?
You mean bannojo?
If you know all, kill him first
i did find his letter to her
but i have this other duty first
i shall save him for later
you said you did not need my help,
but you have many duties
come here
look
it's bannojo. No mistake
well done
he deserved our anger and hatred
he was hiding in a nearby village
no, i beg you...
i will never interfere with your duty
no, no! Let's go kakusuke!
What is the matter with you?
Where are you going?
Let me go to my father!
What is this?
Where are you going?
My sisters are all women,
but i am a man
i'm going to revenge my father
then you will kill your own mother?
Not my mother, but i will kill gonza
i will go with father
grandfather, tell him to take me...
with him
listen well
your grandparents will be all alone
and your sisters are women.
What if gonza comes?
You stay here and get him. All right?
Continue your tea-ceremony study.
Come to...
see your grandparents sometimes
and kill gonza if he comes
if you are afraid to be left alone,
i will take you
i will stay
and i will kill gonza
do not worry about us. Please go
i am happy you understand. I will go
father!
Kill gonza
but, mother...
bring her home
bring back mother, father
and she abandoned such children
what shame!
I no longer care. Kill her as you will
make up another bed
sorry, we're full. No more beds
make the best of it
married couples everywhere
i've never envied farmers before
but now i do. They're always together
how hot! Just sitting i am perspiring
and i must wash this kimono
thank you very much
how do you feel?
I feel better
come and look!
We bring you a drama of real adultery!
They elope but get killed!
A popular drama!
See even only one act!
The best part's now starting!
I feel like we're thieves,
wanted by the police
is ichinoshin really headed for kyoto?
Yes, i am certain
he knows i have relatives here
it's not difficult to chase down a couple
there are many couples passing
but we are the adulterers
everyone can tell
you are still using that word
yet, as we left, you called me your wife
and i have already abandoned...
my children
you made me call you my wife...
for your husband's sake
to be killed as an adulterer is one thing
to be killed as a sacrifice to...
your husband is another
are you still thinking of that?
I never wanted to be married him
i always wanted to marry you.
Understand?
That is not true
you only felt that way...
because your husband was not...
with you
had he been then i...
would have been just another of...
his retainers
why must men obey the past the way...
you do?
Gonza
don't you know i love running away...
with you?
There are so many people...
here in kyoto - they won't notice us
no, we'll go to osaka
there are even more people there
you want to go on living?
You are not yet resigned to death?
We'll get married. Then...
married for the sake of your husband
that is too much
when we have come this far together
have you no emotions at all?
Cannot you forget that...
samurai pride of yours?
Can't you hold me to you?
Hold me!
We'll marry before we die
it's been seven days now
it's hopeless to look for them here
let's move to fushimi
the ferries for osaka start from there
we can watch everyone there
gonza...
stay here
why not stay here?
Guests!
Bring some water
five guests
make yourselves at home
if they go to osaka they'll take this ferry
let's separate
ferry is leaving!
Ferry to osaka!
Everyone aboard!
It's rare to see such a good sword
you really want to sell it?
I'm not here to be judged.
I am here to sell
what's the matter? Why are you crying?
Stop crying, now
be a good child, now
stop crying, now
master, jinbei has found them!
Master!
Here?
You do it
the earliest ferry?
This one. It leaves at six
but what a small one
it's not small
see? A young couple's already here
there's lots of space
you can sit over there
no, i'll take one tomorrow
ferryman
we've forgotten something important
we have to buy something for someone
where are you going? Shopping?
We'll go through town to fujinomori
fujinomori?
You know how far that is?
It is very far - we cannot wait for you
that's all right. We'll pay anyway
master. What is the matter?
I cannot take money if you do not board
you've already boarded, so just stay
i know you do not want to take money...
for nothing
but we must go. We have this duty
please let us go. I beg you
then go on if you must
don't hurt yourself -
not when your're already hurt
now that jinbei is here,
ichinoshin is here too
they'll kill us, just as you desired
osai, are you ready?
Of course. My life belongs to him
we wanted to live
it was only a dream
how lovely they are, looking like that
the children i left are just that age
we've come so far
there is no way to know how they are
okiku will not dance...
at this year's festival
gonza sasano!
Adulterer! I am here for revenge!
I have expected this
i must now fight for a samurai's honor
he only had a wooden sword
jinbei!
Please don't kill him!
Let my husband kill him!
He's only a good swordsman.
He needs no help
die!
If i had a bamboo pole...
i could use it like a spear
i have missed you, my husband
please kill me
everyone just stares at him...
at gonza, the spearman,
such a dandy...
as though a picture that's come alive...
gonza, the spearman,
such a handsome man
make way!
Make way!
No more adultery, i hope
i will begin
how is it, sir?
Excellent
ordered provincial lords to edo...
alternate years
this allowed the tokugawa government
a means of control
since then a century has passed
the lord is departing!
Gonza the spearman
the lord is departing!
Executive producers/kiyoshi iwashita,
masatake wakita, masayuki motomochi
script by taeko tomioka
make way!
Hiromi go as gonza sasano
shohei hino as bannojo
misaka tanaka as oyuki
hideji otaki as iwaki
takashi tsumura as ichinoshin
kuniko miyake as his wife
haruko kato as oyuki's nurse
kaori mizushima as okiku
shima iwashiti as osai
directed by masahiro shinoda
the bout is over!
Oh, what a handsome samurai...
everyone just stares at him...
at gonza, the spearman, such a dandy
as though a picture that's come alive...
gonza, the spearman,
such a handsome man
oyuki!
I'm all sweaty
bring me a change of clothes
gonza, why must you avoid me...
like this?
Why, oyuki?
If you so hate me...
why not just run me down?
I was just now getting rid of the man
how can you, a samurai, lie like that?
What are you saying?
You're bannojo's sister
how could i go flattering you?
Nurse, you're thoughtless...
letting her come this far
how can you say that?
Do you remember what you said
when you met...
oyuki at my house last winter?
I did not forget. I keep my promises
now take oyuki back home
and you have never kindly answered...
her letters
you have not done right by her
speak to bannojo, her brother, and...
the marriage can be arranged
if that is what you intend
but if not, then say so clearly
and we will no longer trouble you
bannojo is difficult
i must be careful how i speak
only if he were to fully agree could i...
marry oyuki
even my horse here knows i love her
he will testify. Listen carefully
it's bannojo
he mustn't see us
oyuki, let us go
gonza, you out riding too?
Your horse's gotten better, right?
No, i don't even feed it well
it's no good
sarcasm? Because you beat me...
when we raced?
How about another race now?
I wish i could
but we're tired - the horse and me
perhaps another time
very smart
let's race!
A letter from bannojo
from bannojo?
He said he would come for an answer
to osai
from bannojo
madame...
mr. Iwaki, your father, has arrived
torajiro-has your fencing improved?
Yes, grandfather
welcome, father- jinbei too
do be careful when you play with...
the child
i am sorry
and you might scratch the walls as well
but boys ought to be active like this
torajiro
you are always with that fool
shall i tell your father?
I want to be as strong as uncle is
a real honour
you are only twelve
fencing is not enough
your father is also excellent at the...
tea ceremony
that is how he received his new post...
and new raise
you ought to study tea ceremony...
as well
for a samuarai, the martial arts must...
come first
there are no more wars,
no battles now
samurai must serve in different ways
i don't like this new peaceful world
even samurai musicians - how weak
nothing weak about the tea ceremony
that is true
but you spoke differently...
when just married
your husband wasn't manly becasuse...
he liked...
the tea ceremony
who said that?
Father, that's all in the past
where are you off to?
Stay with your grandfather
i can't stay long today
we're on our way to a meeting
dropped by to see torajiro, that's all
then take him home and...
make him study
here he just wastes his time
they'll say i spoiled him...
during my husband's absence
when will father be back?
Do you miss him so much?
It's only been three months
grandfather, uncle, you are welcome
how is it?
Excellent
please, get ready
tea ceremony has its disciplines
it's like fighting
except that you don't get killed
and it helps the better to get you...
promoted
i wish i could study it too
you can't do that
let's look at the tea thing
bannojo, you're lucky
you're ichinoshin's disciple and...
so you have a bright future
as samurai like us, we can't even
try to use a sword
that reminds me.
When i was young i once tested...
a sword on an executed man
then on my way home i ate some fish
i reminded me of the meat...
on that corpse
i had to run out to throw up
that's too bad
samurai nowadays leave...
their sword behind
you heard that, too?
Something like that could happen to us
this samurai was eating his meal
as the ferryboat was about to go
he got in a hurry...
it was after he got off the ferry...
that he remembered his sword
you should have seen him run
another got dismissed - left his sword...
in a theater
oyuki is more beautiful than ever
any special reason?
Not that i know of
been three months since ichinoshin left
it'll soon be a year
no, a year is very long time
yes, for wives waiting for...
their husbands
right
many kill themselves when...
the husband returns
she's gone and committed adultery,
you see
why didn't she try absortion?
Double suicide - it's a strange fashion
our lord doesn't have a successor yet?
With no son...
our clan might be abolished
and we'd be out on the streets
no way we can help him that way
you're pretty fast with women. You'll do
i lost again. I can't pay
you still have your hamlet and...
your armor
no
not any more
i sold them long ago
who cares about these anti-gambling...
laws?
But a few days ago,
kihei's place got raided
ten people got arrested
too bad
well...?
Well?
This time...
good
why not join us?
It's not just a game.
We're betting real money
your luck matters. It's interesting
too bad
it's muggy tonight
and what is it brings you here today?
It's been raining so long
i just wondered how you were
my husband is gone, but i have...
my servants
and i have my children too
what are you thinking of...
watching the rain?
It's been 3 months since...
your husband left
but i'm glad he is doing well
i am here for the answer to my letter
i don't understand
did the messenger bring it to the...
wrong person?
I only wrote to find out how you're doing
i'm not brave enough to take...
ichinoshin's wife
but i thought i'd relieve your boredom
does it rain in edo too?
I wonder what your husband is doing...
on a day like this
my children will soon be back
would you please leave now?
The world is too peaceful
waiting for war slows a samurai's...
promotion
stationed in edo,
something goes wrong at home
this is our reality
osai
let me help you during...
your husband's absence...
i'll call someone
you're being too familiar
gonza
i have something for you
here, look at this sash
three lines in a circle. Your crest
and a chrysanthemum. Mine
take it
it's wonderful
i'm very happy
it represents our love
when it's tied...
you are with me, and i am with you
i made it so we would never be apart
make way
make way
from edo!
You made it
an heir has been born
the clan will survive
so we will. The clan will live
congratulations
i had you two come to tell you this
an heir has been born to our lord
he will celebrate in edo
at the end of the month...
his family here will gather for...
a celebration
a tea-ceremony will also be held
since my son-in-law is in edo...
one of his disciples, learned in the art...
should officiate at the party
if either of you have such qualifications...
would you kindly officiate?
This would also be the means of...
promotion
i have not been officially initiated as yet
but i do have some knowledge
i, bannojo, accept this honor
rest assured i will do my best
and you?
The true arcane knowledge of...
the tea ceremony...
ought be transmitted only...
from parents to children...
but my master has taught me...
so i should make no errors
making no errors is not perfection,
i know...
but do let me try myself
it is not for us to decide. We must...
also hear the opinions of...
ichinoshin's wife
should some error be made
the shame would be our master's
the tea-ceremoney secrets?
I must beat gonza at this
ichinoshin is in edo - osai is here alone
where is your nurse?
I don't know
you two are hiding something
now listen to me
to get you married into a good family...
i have to succeed
to do so, i must beat gonza
gonza?
Right
what about it?
You seem always to be thinking of...
gonza
can't be helped. He's very handsome
gonza and i are engaged...
though he has not given...
a definite answer
what?
My own sister?
You cannot marry him
why do you say i can't marry him?
Because he is absolutely unfaithful
gonza unfaithful?
Can you prove that?
You don't understand men
you don't understand me
i am gonza's
i want him
he won't marry you.
He understands nothing
not women, not life itself
gonza and i are engaged
brother, let me go!
Stupid!
Don't do that?
Mr samurai, why not drop in?
You are a samurai, aren't you?
Why not just step in?
She's a samurai's daughter -
from osaka
a very beautiful woman
that girl?
Please come in
you like that girl?
A guest has come
excellent
that is very good indeed
your father will be surprised
but so long before he comes back
look at your hair. It's not well done
who did it?
The maid, after my bath
it doesn't become you
that girl never improves
this doesn't suit you
i'll do it for you
this way suit you
a woman's hair style is important
the classics say a woman...
with good hair is best
there, you look better now
here, i will prove it to you
sugi!
Will you come here?
I hardly recognize you
madame dresses hair so beautifully
she looks even more beautiful
i'm pretty myself...
but men don't look twice
it must be my hairdo
if you were only to help,
then all the men...
would come rushing
that's enough
i could never marry such a...
girl as you to an ordinary man.
It would be a waste
i am always thinking about...
who would be...
best if you married one of...
our own samurai
i wish i could marry you to
gonza sasano
he is most handsome,
and the best spearman
he is the best at the disciplines of...
tea ceremony, too
and he has the best character
he is the best of all the men
but he's old enough to be my uncle
he is certainly like your uncle
he is twenty-five. You are fifteen
but i am thirty-seven and your father is...
forty-seven
his being ten years older is best
in a few years you will accept it
i myself would marry gonza...
were i not already married to ichinoshin
i wish you could wear the bridal kimono
sitting side by side with gonza
what is your business, sir
is iwaki here?
Not today, sir
then give this message to the madame
i have a favor to ask him but...
will explain later
in the meantime this sake is for her
please enjoy it. Tell her that
very well, sir
you came at just the right time
please come in
everything seems well here
thank you. And i much appreciate...
your gift
i have had no opportunity to speak...
with you
please come in
okiku
there will be a party to celebrate...
the heir's birth
how nice
and i was assigned to officiate at the...
tea ceremony
i should be most grateful if...
your showed me the family tea-scrolls
that knowledge should be passed...
from parents to children
i know that well enough
but in this peaceful time...
it is my only way to distinguish myself
please, i beg of you
you are serious about this
i too...
excuse me, but i long wanted you to...
wed my daughter
we have long discussed here
it woud make you my son-in-law
and i could show you family secrets
this may sound bartering
trading our knowledge for our daughter
but try to think of these as...
really separate
what do you say?
You do not like my daughter?
Or are engaged to someone else?
Then we must give up
do not be too hasty
i am not engaged
then...
i will take your daughter okiku...
as my wife
thank you very much
my wish is granted
i am more than pleased
now, swear your intentions...
upon this sake
the scrolls are our go-between. Swear
of course, we have no real go-between
so, let me hear your pledge
i quite understand your care
even though, all unarmed, i am killed...
by lord ichinoshin...
that is enough. I am grateful
today is a lucky day.
My husband too will be happy
now, gonza, you are no longer...
a stranger
i will show you our secrets
come to the tea-ceremony room...
this evening
this is very kind of you.
I will come without fail
come so that no one will see you
excuse me. This is oyuki's nurse
bannojo's sister
would you announce me?
The nurse to bannojo's sister?
I must leave so that she will not see me
very well
i wonder what brings her here
madame
i heard. Tell her that i am out
and don't let her see him
come after everyone is asleep
i will show you the scrolls
i am very sorry, ma'am
the madame is out on an errand
but i'll take the message. What is it?
Very well, then
oyuki, whom i raised
is engaged to gonza sasano,
and everything is readied
but there is no go-between as yet
i helped them spend a night together
and gonza gave me a pair of sandals...
and a silver coin
is that so? Then you did your job well
but what is it that brings you here?
I would like the madame here
to be the go-between for gonza...
and oyuki
please tell her that. Understand?
If everything turns out all right...
we'll pay her
we'll do our best for you too
our lady would never do this for money
but i will give her your message
mother
are you back?
Is torajiro not with you?
Madame's father is here
mother, i'm back
they played so hard
they're sleepy. So, i brought them back
is okiku in?
She ought stay in
so nothing occurs while...
her father's away
you played that hard?
No wonder your grandparents complain
my wife says that he looks just like...
his father
she's right
torajiro, you act like your father
take care of your mother
take osute inside, put them to bed
make sure they don't catch cold
kakusuke
why not light the stone lantern?
It is already dark
bring some sake for father
thank you, but i would like to look at...
the garden
i admire ichinoshin's taste.
This garden never bores
did gonza ask to be shown...
the secret scrolls?
He came o his own.
I decided to show him
that is good
basically, only family members have...
the right
but ichinoshin sent me permission
if gonza made a mistake...
it would shame ichinoshin
would disgrace our lord as well
that much i know
you cannot be too careful in imparting...
this knowledge
let no one, not even in family,
hear your conversation
wait until after midnight,
when all are asleep
be especially careful while...
ichinoshin is in edo
your family is only women now
and that undependable manservant
oyuki is engaged to gonza?
And everything is ready set?
How that nurse spoke
it makes me so angry, and jealous
and i'm to be their go-between?
Who cares now about our secrets?
How jealous and angry i am
and just when i have chosen him...
for my daughter
who could help being angry?
Who is it?
Gonza
these drawings and these scrolls...
explains all
everything necessary for the ceremony
is written in this list
it includes methods for any occasion
this is another possible form
and here is for an imperial visit
in our case the latter ought be applied
this display is for the imperial visit
it requires three scrolls and...
three utensils
a jar for powdered tea
these are probably self-explanatory
please study these carefully
you hear anything in these?
Only the frogs
you do it like this!
They have gone to sleep
they're only women. We can gag them
very well
follow me
i heard something.
Is someone in the garden?
No - no one comes, even in daytime
the frogs have been silenced
even frogs must rest
they're quiet again
that's odd
i'll go look in the garden
high fences and a thorn hege
who could get in?
What's the matter?
Afraid of being alone with me?
Afraid your woman will rush in?
That is false!
Someone's nurse said...
you were engaged
came to ask me, of all people,
to be go-between
still false?
I'm very angry. You are the false one
now i see you as you truly are
i have reasons...
i've been stifling this anger because i
your mother-in-law, ought not be jealous
but i can endure no longer
who embroidered that sash of yours?
Your own crest and another.
Whose is it?
I have my reasons...
of course, you have, and i am jealous...
of them
how dare you wear that when...
you come here?
Filthy thing! My hands are all dirtied
you still want it?
You need another one?
Why not use mine?
There now. Use mine
it is like me. It will cling to you
i couldn't wear a woman's sash
osai! Gonza!
These proclaim that you are adulterers
i will tell everyone
why are you doing this?
He took the sashes.
We cannot prove our innocence
he's the adulterer
this is the end
the sashes are gone.
What should we do?
Dead or alive, this is the end
what a disgrace
my husband could not face...
the other samurai...
if gossip had it that his wife was stolen
they will make us out...
to be immoral beasts...
low, degenerate
i cannot live
if you must die, then
make yourself an adulterer and...
have my husband kill you
what?
Shame! I have not committed adultery
let him kill me as i am now
and our deaths my prove our innocence
if you die to save our reputations...
then my husband's will be disgraced
if you refuse adultery, then...
call me your wife - just one word
i beg you
call me your wife
no
I cannot do that
i know your feelings, but think of...
my husband
i am sorry
i cannot call a married woman my wife
dawn is coming
my luck has ended
i will save your husband
just call me your wife
you are...
my wife
and you are my husband
osai and gonza ae adulterers!
As evidence...
i, bannojo, hold their sashes
ichinoshin's wife, osai, and...
gonza sasano
are adulterers
i have their sashes as evidence
ichinoshin's wife, osai...
and gonza sasano
they are adulterers
i, bannojo, have their sashes...
as evidence
i had planned to break into...
osai's room and get the scrolls
i wanted to beat gonza
but, as it turns out...
osai, the sun is rising.
Your children will wake up
and they know nothing of this...
forget them. Let us go
open the gate!
It's jinbei!
Open up!
Open the gate!
I'm coming
what's happened?
I am here to see gonza
welcome back, father
we are here to bring back...
the adulteress' personal possessions
open the gate and receive them
do not leave them here.
What shame for osai
bring them in before people can see...
them
what are you saying?
The will only dirty our house
destroy them!
No, wait
do as you're told
wait
please listen
i am stopping you because...
we will never see osai while...
we are alive
cannot we at least keep these...
to remember her by?
It's been twenty years, but they look new
she kept them for our grandchildren
osai...
she will never return
we cannot accept them
men, destroy them!
Listen...
an even greater tragedy will fall upon us
what shall we do?
Our daughter will die.
But we must live and endure our sorrow
i want my mother. Where is she?
Grandmother, i miss mother
in all your lovely innocence...
how could she...
abandon you?
Father will kill her
grandfather, grandmother.
Please kill me instead
well said
you still have your grandparents
don't worry. And jinbei is here.
Don't cry
ichinoshin sent us our grand-daughters
then why not torajiro?
He is our grandchild, too
a courier has brought a letter...
from jinbei
a letter from jinbei?
They're coming
jinbei is coming
you must go right now
get ready
brother, i can walk no more
i can go no further. I cannot walk
jinbei is coming
he's a good swordsman
but you've killed no one
hurry up
no more
i'm tired of running
no more
oyuki
ichinoshin!
I accept osai's daughters and...
her belongings
going on a journey?
Thank you for coming. I wish you luck
what is the matter with you?
You came back all the way from edo
yet osai is still alive. What shame!
Jinbei is looking for her
he sent me a letter
he found where bannojo was
though old, i can still walk
i cannot just sit and wait
bannojo was the one who told everyone
i will kill him myself
i know how you feel. But you are old
he might kill you
then i would first have to avenge...
my father-in-law
you still call me a father-in-law?
Yes, even though osai is an adulteress
i will avenge your death
ichinoshin, how grateful i am to you
if she had not done this then...
all the family would be here
you are keeping torajiro?
And abandoning our family?
That is not the way it is
my lord has given me leave.
I have no duties
but i would still like to continue...
my tea ceremony
so i asked the master to accept...
torajiro
is that how it is?
Now with this sake wish me luck
i wish you all success
success in killing the mother of...
three children
success in killing my wife.
And this is duty?
What a world we live in
jinbei? How was it?
I am very sorry
they asked i kill them before...
you arrived home
i started out after them right away
rest a while first
with a woman they cannot have gotten...
far
yet, though i searched everywhere
i could not find them
ichinoshin is going too
this is fortunate. Let me go with you
i appreciate your kindness
but i ought go alone
but why? Gonza has many relatives
they will do anything
you will need help. Let me go
thank you
but i cannot kill my wife...
with her brother's help
i want to do all i can for you
you imply i know nothing but...
tea ceremony?
No, i know swordsmanship as well
then why not kill the enemy...
who is right here
the enemy right here?
You mean bannojo?
If you know all, kill him first
i did find his letter to her
but i have this other duty first
i shall save him for later
you said you did not need my help,
but you have many duties
come here
look
it's bannojo. No mistake
well done
he deserved our anger and hatred
he was hiding in a nearby village
no, i beg you...
i will never interfere with your duty
no, no! Let's go kakusuke!
What is the matter with you?
Where are you going?
Let me go to my father!
What is this?
Where are you going?
My sisters are all women,
but i am a man
i'm going to revenge my father
then you will kill your own mother?
Not my mother, but i will kill gonza
i will go with father
grandfather, tell him to take me...
with him
listen well
your grandparents will be all alone
and your sisters are women.
What if gonza comes?
You stay here and get him. All right?
Continue your tea-ceremony study.
Come to...
see your grandparents sometimes
and kill gonza if he comes
if you are afraid to be left alone,
i will take you
i will stay
and i will kill gonza
do not worry about us. Please go
i am happy you understand. I will go
father!
Kill gonza
but, mother...
bring her home
bring back mother, father
and she abandoned such children
what shame!
I no longer care. Kill her as you will
make up another bed
sorry, we're full. No more beds
make the best of it
married couples everywhere
i've never envied farmers before
but now i do. They're always together
how hot! Just sitting i am perspiring
and i must wash this kimono
thank you very much
how do you feel?
I feel better
come and look!
We bring you a drama of real adultery!
They elope but get killed!
A popular drama!
See even only one act!
The best part's now starting!
I feel like we're thieves,
wanted by the police
is ichinoshin really headed for kyoto?
Yes, i am certain
he knows i have relatives here
it's not difficult to chase down a couple
there are many couples passing
but we are the adulterers
everyone can tell
you are still using that word
yet, as we left, you called me your wife
and i have already abandoned...
my children
you made me call you my wife...
for your husband's sake
to be killed as an adulterer is one thing
to be killed as a sacrifice to...
your husband is another
are you still thinking of that?
I never wanted to be married him
i always wanted to marry you.
Understand?
That is not true
you only felt that way...
because your husband was not...
with you
had he been then i...
would have been just another of...
his retainers
why must men obey the past the way...
you do?
Gonza
don't you know i love running away...
with you?
There are so many people...
here in kyoto - they won't notice us
no, we'll go to osaka
there are even more people there
you want to go on living?
You are not yet resigned to death?
We'll get married. Then...
married for the sake of your husband
that is too much
when we have come this far together
have you no emotions at all?
Cannot you forget that...
samurai pride of yours?
Can't you hold me to you?
Hold me!
We'll marry before we die
it's been seven days now
it's hopeless to look for them here
let's move to fushimi
the ferries for osaka start from there
we can watch everyone there
gonza...
stay here
why not stay here?
Guests!
Bring some water
five guests
make yourselves at home
if they go to osaka they'll take this ferry
let's separate
ferry is leaving!
Ferry to osaka!
Everyone aboard!
It's rare to see such a good sword
you really want to sell it?
I'm not here to be judged.
I am here to sell
what's the matter? Why are you crying?
Stop crying, now
be a good child, now
stop crying, now
master, jinbei has found them!
Master!
Here?
You do it
the earliest ferry?
This one. It leaves at six
but what a small one
it's not small
see? A young couple's already here
there's lots of space
you can sit over there
no, i'll take one tomorrow
ferryman
we've forgotten something important
we have to buy something for someone
where are you going? Shopping?
We'll go through town to fujinomori
fujinomori?
You know how far that is?
It is very far - we cannot wait for you
that's all right. We'll pay anyway
master. What is the matter?
I cannot take money if you do not board
you've already boarded, so just stay
i know you do not want to take money...
for nothing
but we must go. We have this duty
please let us go. I beg you
then go on if you must
don't hurt yourself -
not when your're already hurt
now that jinbei is here,
ichinoshin is here too
they'll kill us, just as you desired
osai, are you ready?
Of course. My life belongs to him
we wanted to live
it was only a dream
how lovely they are, looking like that
the children i left are just that age
we've come so far
there is no way to know how they are
okiku will not dance...
at this year's festival
gonza sasano!
Adulterer! I am here for revenge!
I have expected this
i must now fight for a samurai's honor
he only had a wooden sword
jinbei!
Please don't kill him!
Let my husband kill him!
He's only a good swordsman.
He needs no help
die!
If i had a bamboo pole...
i could use it like a spear
i have missed you, my husband
please kill me
everyone just stares at him...
at gonza, the spearman,
such a dandy...
as though a picture that's come alive...
gonza, the spearman,
such a handsome man
make way!
Make way!
No more adultery, i hope
i will begin
how is it, sir?
Excellent