My Mother and Her Guest (1961) - full transcript
Ok-hui lives with her grandmother, her mother and the maid. People refer to their house as the "Widow House" because all three adult women who live there are widows. One day, a teacher named Mr. Han moves into the house as a lodger.
MOTHER AND A GUEST
Based on the short story by
Ju Yo-seop
Adaptation: Lim Hee-jae
Director of Photography: Choi Soo-young
Gaffer: Lee Gye-chang
Art: KANG Sung-bum
Music:Jeong Yoon-joo
Mother: Choi Eun-hee
I(Ok-hee):Jeon Young-sun
Guest: Kim Jin-kyu
Grandmother: Han Eun-jin
Maid: Do Geum-bong
Egg Seller: Kim Hee-gap
Uncle: Shin Young-kyun
Fortuneteller: Huh Jang-kang
Director: Shin Sang-ok
This is my painting of our town.
You can see the church,
a kindergarten and a middle school.
Look!
There is a river too.
Isn't it pretty?
There are many small houses
all over the town.
And one of them is my house!
That's my house.
WIDOW'S HOUSE
That's my house.
WIDOW'S HOUSE
WIDOW'S HOUSE
People call it
a widow's house.
I don't know
what 'widow' means.
So I asked grandma...
She says I don't have a father
while others have.
That's why they call us
the widow's.
GRANDMOTHER
That's why they call us
the widow's.
GRANDMOTHER
GRANDMOTHER
My grandma
living with my dad's brother.
The person my mom is
most afraid of
But I'm not scared of her.
Grandma is a deacon.
If she gets a scary face
I sing a hymn smiling.
MOTHER
My mom.
MOTHER
MOTHER
My painting doesn't show it,
MOTHER
MOTHER
but she's the prettiest in the world.
I'm a widow's daughter
so it makes my mom a widow.
My father passed away
one year after she married him.
A month before my birth.
Maybe that's why...
I've never seen my mom
laughing out loud.
FATHER
laughing out loud.
FATHER
FATHER
I haven't met my father
in person.
FATHER
FATHER
He taught at the middle school here.
Heard that he was a great person.
It's the picture of him.
I don't know why mother of my mom
says to put it away
whenever she visits us.
AUNTIE MAID
says to put it away
whenever she visits us.
AUNTIE MAID
AUNTIE MAID
Our maid.
AUNTIE MAID
AUNTIE MAID
She's a widow too
just like my mother.
She's a widow too
just like my mother.
She works well, eats well, sleeps well
and she's got a warm heart.
They say she's the happiest one
at our house.
But I don't know
what 'happy' means.
ME
But I don't know
what 'happy' means.
ME
ME
I'm a 6-year-old maiden.
I am Lim Ok-hee
and go to the kindergarten.
Later!
Get chicks! For healthy soup!
Get fresh eggs, too!
Hello, chicken!
Good chicks.
- Ok-hee!
- Mom!
Welcome home.
They are newly hatched chicks?
Yes, please pick one.
- Want to buy eggs?
- No.
We don't need any.
Be my first customer for today.
Please pick one.
Please, madame!
Chicks! For healthy soup!
- I hate bean sprouts.
- Chicks!
Eggs!
Let's go this way.
Eggs!
Get fresh eggs.
Hey! You!
We've got eggs.
Don't need any!
What?
I said I don't need eggs!
Are you a blind or what?
Can't you see
what you've done?
You should've watched out!
What did you say?
What the...
Rabbit dear.
Where are you going now?
Hopping, hopping
here and there.
Where are you going now?
Oh, brother!
How are you?
Ok-hee!
How's the kindergarten?
- Hello.
- Is everyone well?
This is Mr. Han.
I've told you.
She's mother of
brother Kyung-seon.
I see.
How do you do?
You've come a long way.
Sorry to cause you
inconvenience for a while.
No way.
Please make yourself at home.
And that's my sister.
Ok-hee! Come
and say hello.
- Go ahead.
- You're so cute.
- She is...
- Yes, Kyung-seon's daughter.
You look like your father.
Come here.
Ok-hee!
Say hello.
What's with you?
You're a big girl now,
behave like one.
- Greet him properly.
- Yes.
He's old friend of your father's.
He'll be staying at the guest room.
Greet him now.
Good girl.
- I greeted the guest.
- Good.
He looks kind, doesn't he?
You silly girl.
Let's go to your room.
Hope you'd like it.
Ok-hee's mom cleaned it.
I just loved him
at first sight.
So we became close
from the first day.
He's got lots of picture books.
When I go to his room to play
he shows the books
holding me on his lap.
Sometimes he gives me sweets
and kisses me.
You want this book, Ok-hee?
- Really?
- Keep it.
- No thank you.
- What is it?
Mom will scold me.
It's okay.
It's my present.
Thank you.
Instead, I will ask mom
to cook something
delicious for you.
- You shouldn't.
- Why not?
I'll show it to mom.
- Be careful.
- Don't worry.
Gosh!
You should behave,
don't make a fuss.
You're always scolding me!
It would give him
a bad impression.
No way.
He gave me the picture book
saying he likes me.
Look!
- He even kissed me.
- What?
Who's making a fuss here?
- Did he really give it to you?
- Yes!
We can go and ask him!
Mister!
- It's me again.
- Come in.
It's not much.
But please help yourself.
- Why don't you join me?
- No.
- Mom will hate it.
- Then excuse me.
Yes, please.
You must be hungry.
- Eat eggs!
- I will.
What's your favorite food?
- Boiled eggs!
- Really?
How about you?
Well, I like boiled eggs too!
Wow, just like me!
Really?
I'll tell mom to give you
lots of boiled eggs.
Don't do that.
- Mom!
- What's in your hand?
Mr. Han likes the boiled eggs best!
Why took his food?
I said no,
but he insisted.
And he asked me to tell you
he likes boiled eggs like I do!
Good lord!
Help yourself.
Chicks for healthy soup!
Fresh eggs!
Is she home?
Why don't you buy
some eggs?
- We won't
- Please.
No one to eat it!
Go away!
- You have hard feelings for me?
- What?
Don't despise me,
Mrs. Sung-hwan.
We're exactly even
on a social scale.
So don't be mean to me.
How can we be even?
Of course, we can!
When you're a widow,
and I'm a widower.
Remember?
I did nothing but smiling
when you splashed the water
all over me.
So what?
Nothing.
I'm just telling you.
It doesn't matter
if you buy eggs or not.
How dare you touch me?
Go away!
- Right now!
- Okay, I will.
What a pervert!
- Wasn't it the egg seller?
- Yes, ma'am.
Why did you kick him out
without asking me?
Go get him.
Who would be eating eggs?
The guest likes the eggs.
- Buy a dozen or two.
- Yes, ma'am.
Chicks and eggs!
- Chicks and eggs!
- Wait, egg seller!
Are these fresh?
Let me see if they've gone bad.
Don't shake it.
It'll go bad.
You should pay me back
if these are not fresh.
I'll never cheat anyone.
Especially you.
- You mean it?
- Sure.
Don't worry.
I'm reliable.
Then two dozen of
big and fresh ones.
You buy that much
all of a sudden?
It's for our guest.
What guest?
He's weird enough
to like the boiled eggs only.
A strange taste, indeed.
Would be perfect
if he likes chicken.
Who does cooking
and laundry for you
when you live alone?
- Myself, of course!
- Is that so?
Pathetic,
but I don't get pessimistic.
I've got a house
and some savings.
And I work everyday like this.
No reason to be gloomy.
- Mrs. Sung-hwan.
- Yes?
Why don't you introduce
me a widow?
You're asking a widow
to introduce another widow?
You want me to die
out of anger?
I'm done.
- Are you?
- Yes.
Let me see.
You're better than me.
What are you looking at?
Nothing.
There's mom!
It's her, right?
Mom!
Mom!
You've got your father's nose.
And you've got
your mother's eyes and lips.
Haven't you?
Your mother is pretty
like you, isn't she?
Haven't you seen
my mother yet?
Of course, she is pretty!
Prettiest in the world!
Yes, she's the prettiest!
How do you know
when you haven't seen her!
I'll introduce her
when we get home.
- No, you shouldn't.
- Why not?
Just no.
- You sleep with your mom?
- Yes.
Why are you afraid her?
She is not a scary person.
- For me, she is.
- You're a coward.
She's the scariest person
for me.
Then I will ask her
not to make a scary face to you.
How come you have
hairs on your leg?
Because I'm a grown-up.
But my mom has none!
Look!
There goes a train.
Salute!
Look, there comes
Ok-hee with her father.
Hi Ok-hee!
Where have you been to?
- Over there.
- Where?
- The hill.
- For what?
To paint!
Like you know how to draw.
- I do, right mister?
- Sure.
- He's not your father?
- Let's go.
Seems like she doesn't have father.
She surely doesn't.
I told you to clean the room.
What are you doing?
Laundry...
- Come out, I'll do it.
- Yes, ma'am.
I wish you were my father.
You should not say
such a thing!
Mom!
Why are you crying?
- Mom.
- What is it?
- Mr. Han...
- What about him?
He...
You must've heard a word
for not behaving.
He cursed me
when I said
I wished he were my father.
- He's such a liar!
- Why do you say that?
He said I've got father's nose
and your eyes and lips.
And asked if you are pretty
just like me.
- Did he?
- Yes.
But he's never seen you or dad,
so it's all lie!
Lower your voice.
He will hear you.
- He spoke ill of you.
- What did he say?
You're the scariest person
in the world!
Scarier and fiercer than a tiger!
Did he?
Today is Sunday.
I go to church
with grandma and mom.
But Mister is a sleepyhead.
On every Sunday,
he sleeps until noon.
I decided not to play with him
but I've changed my mind
feeling pity for him.
What if he's still mad at me
and ignore me?
Where are you going, Ok-hee?
I won't talk to you!
You'll get dumb if you don't.
I won't.
Please forgive me just once.
- You won't get angry again?
- I won't.
Where are you going today?
To church
with mom and grandma!
Are you?
You want me to take you too?
- Ok-hee.
- Yes?
Let's go.
Don't go anywhere
and look out for our house!
Stop it!
Mr. Han!
- Do you like him that much?
- You don't like him?
Tell me!
- I like him if you like him.
- I knew it!
- I'll tell him!
- Don't do that.
- Hello.
- How was the sales?
Bad.
You want a few dozen?
- Yes, come tomorrow for money.
- Don't worry.
- Is the lady away?
- She went to church.
- The guest is away, too?
- Yes.
So you're alone.
Did you eat too much?
Not that much...
I've got healing hands
so let me.
Hands off me!
How dare you!
Wait!
Stay still.
How's it?
Feeling better?
A little bit... maybe.
You must!
These are healing hands!
Don't hit too hard!
My chest!
I think you need
a full-scale treatment.
How is it?
- Feeling better?
- Well...
- How's it?
- How dare you!
Why touch there
when I've got an upset stomach?
You should heal
from the bottom
to soothe the pain in the chest.
You feel much better, right?
My chest!
It's killing me!
You should lie down.
I'll rub your chest.
You must have acute indigestion.
Don't move. Lie still.
Hey you!
Why do you put your hands inside?
Have you thought about
my proposition?
What proposition?
See! The hiccups stopped!
It got digested!
Thanks to my healing hands!
Guess you are right!
Jesus Christ is the gift from God...
While everyone
is listening to the preach,
I get so bored.
So I look around
to see if Mr. Han is here.
And there he is!
God loves even the sinners.
But he doesn't love the sin.
- God hates the sin.
- Mister!
He's really strange.
I called him
as I was glad to see him.
He ignores me.
And mom is strange, too.
She scolds me all blushing.
Mr. Han is also very upset.
So funny.
I don't understand them.
Stop it.
And look now!
She even hits me!
I don't know why
everyone is mad at me.
Why are you crying?
Stop crying!
I said stop!
If you want to cry,
go out!
In Jesus' name we pray,
Amen.
Auntie! Open the door!
Open it!
Oh god!
Lady is returning.
- Open the door!
- Is the service already over?
I'm coming!
Hurry!
Use the back door!
Auntie!
Don't forget what I told you.
- I don't know, I'm yours now.
- Yes, trust me.
- Hurry!
- Open the door!
Coming!
Open the door!
Opening now.
Ok-hee? Why are you alone?
Where is your mom?
- She hit me!
- Oh gosh!
- That's why you cried.
- You don't need eggs?
Give me a few dozen
of fresh and big ones.
Such a cute girl.
You must be a good kid.
Don't buy the eggs!
Why not?
I hate mom and Mr. Han.
Don't buy them!
So adorable little one.
I won't buy any.
I promise.
I'll excuse myself.
So long.
I'll wait for you.
I will come often.
- Have a good sales!
- Thanks.
The more I think,
the more I feel resentful.
I wish I had father
just like other kids.
If I could tell my father
to scold them for me.
I would feel great.
So I thought of an idea...
to play a trick on mother.
Ok-hee!
That kid needs some discipline!
What an embarrassment
at the holy church?
- Mrs. Sung-hwan.
- Yes, ma'am.
Where is Ok-hee?
Well... She was
in the living room just now.
She came home crying
saying you hit her.
Why is your skirt inside out?
Gosh!
- You took a nap again.
- No way.
It's going to rain.
Go cover the crocks.
Crocks.
Ok-hee!
Come out now.
Strange.
- She's not there?
- No.
Is she at the guest room again?
Ok-hee!
Ok-hee!
Weird.
- She's not there?
- No.
The guest might've
taken her out.
He was at the church
and left with us.
Then where should she be?
Did Ok-hee come home?
Sure!
Then where is she now?
She might be hiding
to play with us.
Ok-hee! Ok-hee!
Ok-hee!
Come out if you are hiding.
Ok-hee!
Where did she go?
Ok-hee!
Have you seen Ok-hee?
No. What is it?
Her mother sent her home
for not behaving at church.
She disappeared
after she came back home.
She might be
at her friend's.
Maybe...
I checked almost everywhere...
What if she fell into the well?
Why do you say such an omnious thing?
Have you checked her kindergarten?
I haven't but, no reason for her to go there
as no one is there.
So?
She's nowhere to be found.
What shall we do?
It's already been 5 hours.
Something must've happened.
Guess we should report to the police.
- You're right.
- I'll do it.
Don't worry too much.
I will go check
on the kindergarten.
Ok-hee!
Ok-hee!
- Have you seen Ok-hee?
- No.
- Ok-hee!
- Don't look back!
- Have you seen Ok-hee?
- No, ma'am.
Ok-hee!
Ok-hee!
How was it, mother?
She didn't come to the kindergarten.
- No news from Mr. Han?
- Not yet.
She must've met the trouble.
Something very serious.
Please compose yourself.
She will turn up unless she's dead.
Ok-hee, poor thing.
Isn't this Ok-hee crying?
- What?
- Listen!
I'm not sure.
It's coming from the main bedroom.
Ok-hee! Oh dear!
My little girl.
She was sleeping in the attic!
You wicked one!
You want your mother to die?
I'm sorry mom.
Don't hit her.
Please forgive me.
I won't do it again, mom.
- Ok-hee!
- Mom!
Spring has gone
and Summer is here.
It's been quite a while
since he came to our house.
The egg seller comes everyday.
And mother never forgets
to serve the boiled eggs to Mr. Han.
How are you?
You dressed up!
What is it?
Going on a blind date?
My lonely days
will be over soon.
I hope you don't bite the dust
like the previous time.
I'm confident this time.
I found the perfect widow.
Good looking and
an excellent homemaker.
She will definitely bear
the healthy child, too.
Good to hear.
I'm meeting her today.
So I was wondering...
if I could borrow your watch.
My watch?
I'll return it safe.
I promise.
Of course, you can borrow it.
But this watch stops often.
Will it be okay?
It's for fashion
not for checking time.
You've got a point.
You're seeing someone, aren't you?
Nonsense!
My brother came to town to sell a cow
so I'm meeting him.
Here it is.
Thank you.
I'll return it safe.
It would look weird
to walk separate like this.
Let's walk like a couple.
Why act like a couple
when we are not one?
Why do you keep looking at me?
- Isn't this scarf nice?
- Really nice.
You're such a smart dresser.
How much did you pay?
- For this?
- Must be a lot.
It's already past noon.
- You must be hungry.
- No.
Shall we go to a restaurant?
- You hungry?
- Yes.
I prepared the lunchbox.
Then let's go somewhere quiet.
Go ahead.
I don't like eggs.
You eat them.
- Help yourself.
- No you eat it.
- I am okay.
- Listen to me.
- People will see us!
- Eat it for your health.
- No! Oops.
- You're too stubborn.
What a waste.
- Give it to me.
- Lift your foot.
- Give it to me.
- Lift it, please.
- Your foot!
- What foot?
Lift your foot.
I'm sorry.
What is it?
Having an upset stomach again?
No, I'm not.
Those damn healing hands
got me into this!
My healing hands?
What did they do?
Don't have any clue?
Tell me, what clue?
I'm pregnant.
The thing on that day
got us the baby? Really?
Don't ask me.
Are you sure?
It is my baby, right?
Then whose baby would it be?
- What shall we do?
- Why worry?
Perfect, let's get married!
Let's live happily ever after
with our baby!
My darling!
One day, I picked
some flowers at kindergarten,
to please my mother.
She loves flowers.
Then I wanted to play tricks
seeing her happy.
- Aren't they pretty?
- Where did you get them?
Mr. Han isn't home yet?
Mom, the truth is...
these are from Mr. Han
at the guest room.
What?
He asked me
to bring them to you.
- Are you angry again?
- No way.
Did he really tell you
to give these to me?
Yes.
- You are not supposed to receive these.
- Why not?
Listen to your mother.
- Ok-hee.
- Yes?
Don't tell anyone
about the flowers.
Why not?
Just don't.
Okay?
- Not even to grandma?
- No.
- I'll go get the vase.
- Yes.
I never expected mom to get angry
receiving the flowers she adores.
To see her get mad,
I thought I did a right thing
to lie that
the flowers were from Mr. Han.
Mom is really strange today.
She's never touched the piano
since my father passed away.
What made her play it now?
Excuse me, Ok-hee is...
Oh gosh.
I didn't want to
wake her up.
Mister.
What brought you here?
You never come out.
I was at the market.
Why don't you come in?
Come!
- How's the business?
- Not good.
Thanks to people like you
sticking to the old style.
You did our maid's hair,
didn't you?
- Yes, isn't it nice?
- Not really.
I heard some good news
about you.
What?
What did you hear?
- Tell me the truth, prude.
- What truth?
I heard you get along well
with your guest.
- What?
- I knew it!
Nonsense!
Who told you that?
Your face shows it!
Stop it! It's disgraceful!
Your problem is this.
Time's changed.
Widows can get married again.
You can get married as many as you want
if it can make you happy.
Don't worry about me.
Think about your life.
It's simple for you
as you don't have a kid.
I should quit this business
and get married!
You have someone, don't you?
It's between you and me.
Don't tell anyone.
- What do you think?
- Oh, gosh.
And who is a prude now?
He's a widower with a kid,
and really into me.
- Really?
- Give it back.
Jung-sook! Let's get brave
from now on.
To start, let me
cut your hair short.
No way.
Come sit here.
- It's not about the hair.
- In a way, it is.
If you cut your hair
your old-fashioned point of view
will be changed!
Would it?
Come here, madame!
I will tell everything
about your fortune!
Come.
No one would hear us.
By face reading or astrology?
By astrology.
Year and date of your birth, please.
I'm 28 years old.
Born at 5 am on May 5th.
Let me see... age 28.
May 5th, 5 am.
Please raise your face
and look this way?
Raise your head, please.
And turn this way.
You've got a noble feature.
Let me see your hand.
This is the life line.
And it's the emotional line.
Good.
Now, please allow me...
Really nice.
You're born with a superb fate.
But as I shouldn't lie to you,
forgive me saying this to you.
Please go ahead.
You're destined to lose
your first husband.
What do you say?
- Did I see it right?
- Yes.
But you have good days ahead.
Even though you're lonely
at present,
wind will melt the ice
and an old tree will see the spring
when someone noble
comes from the north-east soon.
Thanks to this noble man,
you will become happy
enjoying all the wealth
and prosperity.
Trust me.
I see you already have
someone in your mind.
Don't you?
If you do, tell me honestly.
It'd help me read
your fortune more clearly.
I'm sure there's one.
Tell me, please.
It's okay for now.
How much is it?
Even though she watered them
everyday
those flowers withered.
Mom took petals
and put them inside
her hymn book.
She still thinks
those are from Mr. Han!
She would think that way
until her death
if I don't tell her the truth.
One day,
the funny thing happened.
You know the maid
at the widow's...
People say our maid got pregnant.
So people in the village
started talking
how the widow got pregnant.
I don't understand.
Why is it wrong
for a widow to get pregnant?
So strange.
Then is it why my mom
doesn't give a birth, either?
- Are you in?
- Hello.
Is Mr. Han home?
- Not yet.
- Let's get in.
You should let the maid
out right away.
And Mr. Han too.
This is too scandalous.
What is it, mother?
That cunning bitch
got pregnant!
Pregnant?
Heard that it's been
already 4 months.
The whole village knows it.
Whose baby can it be?
Mr. Han's, of course!
It must be.
He arrived 4 months ago.
See?
I knew it.
Mrs. Sung-hwan!
Wake up.
Let me hear your thought.
Is Mr. Han really the father?
There's no smoke
without a fire.
Even if he's not involved,
this kind of rumor itself is
a humiliation to our family.
I'm worried about Ok-hee,
if I let him leave...
But I can't let
those shameless people
stay at my house
and feed them.
You can't see through
the people's minds.
Who knows?
He might do you a harm!
So do as I tell you.
Did you hear that?
The guest got
a maid pregnant?
That's what I've heard.
Someone even saw them together!
The lady got him eggs everyday
but the maid got him!
So funny!
- Here he comes.
- Where?
Him, right there.
Bastard.
It's none of your business.
Just sit back
and enjoy the spectacle.
- Let's get back to work.
- Sure.
You will catch a cold doing that!
I won't.
Don't need eggs.
Go away.
- And don't come again!
- I see.
Mr. Han, are you in?
Can I talk to you for a minute?
Please, come in.
So it's true.
How dare she cheated on me!
I'll tear you into pieces!
Are you there?
Answer me.
It's me!
Come here!
I didn't know
you are such a filthy bitch.
- What is it?
- What?
Tell me the truth.
Whose baby is it, really?
- What are you talking about?
- I heard it all!
You got someone else's seed
and told me it's mine?
You bitch!
Tell me the truth!
I'm speechless.
Someone else's seed?
I am about to being kicked out
because of you!
I get it.
You're doing this
as you don't want me now?
I'm so pissed.
All men are thieves.
What shall I do now?
Poor me.
Someone else's seed?
I just don't know
what to say.
So it is not true?
Tell me the truth!
The baby is really mine?
I don't know!
I'll throw myself
into the well and die!
I'm sorry.
It's my fault.
- Are you awake?
- Yes.
What brought you here?
It's quite late.
Mother
We almost made a huge mistake.
What mistake?
The maid.
The father was the egg seller.
The egg seller?
The egg seller
who comes everyday.
Is that so?
She was all smiles
whenever he came.
I see why now.
What a shame.
I'm relieved we found out
before Mr. Han knew about this.
You are right.
Then can we let him stay?
The house feels too big
and Ok-hee likes him so much.
Please let him stay.
No, you should let him go.
Some bad rumors can spread
with a man staying
at a young widow's.
It could ruin your reputation.
My mother-in-law died
as widow, and so will I.
But it's quite difficult to remain faithful.
Mom, have you seen Mr. Han's
painting of your face?
What? Did he draw my face?
It looks exactly same.
Especially the eyes!
Don't talk about him anymore.
Why not?
You hate him now
as he doesn't pay the rent?
Yes, I hate him so much
so I'll kick him out.
I feel pity for him.
Ok-hee!
If you keep talking about him,
I will run away alone
leaving you with him.
No!
Then Ok-hee, promise me
not to talk about him anymore.
I promise!
Good. Let's go.
Mom, there goes Mr. Han!
Mr. Han!
Where have you been?
- Grandma's.
- I see.
Let's go.
- Mr. Han!
- Yes.
- Mom's angry.
- Why?
Because you didn't pay the rent.
She hates you
and will kick you out.
You're in trouble.
But don't worry.
I'll break my piggy box
and pay for you.
And mom said she would run away
if I talk about you.
Gosh!
- She's strange, isn't she?
- You can live with me.
Who will cook
and do the laundry?
- I can do it.
- No way.
- Can you cook?
- Sure.
Mom! Mr. Han said if you run away
I can live with him.
Ok-hee!
What I told you about
kicking him out
was a lie.
Really?
I'm so happy.
Mister!
Mom just said that
kicking you out
if you don't pay the rent
was a lie.
- Really?
- Mom is good at lying.
I will never know
what's on your mom's mind.
I've got a headache.
- Me, too.
- Let me see.
It's very hot!
- Right?
- Aren't you cold?
- Yes.
- What is it?
Mom, I have a headache.
Are you ill?
Let me carry you.
- Want to be on my back?
- Yes.
That night, I was
burning up with a fever.
I even said strange things.
But I thought
mom deserved this
as she didn't let me go
to the guest room.
Mom!
Yes, I'm here.
Mom, I'm not sick.
Let me play with Mr. Han
in his room.
She's not herself.
Finally he's coming.
Yes.
- Sorry to call you late at night.
- No way.
Doctor is here.
She was okay after dinner.
Then suddenly she got cold sweat
and burned up.
We fed her salt
thinking she got an upset stomach.
The fever is very high.
She played too hard today.
Mr. Han!
Ok-hee, I'm here.
I am not sick.
I want to play
in your room!
Yes, get well soon.
Mom doesn't let me go to your room.
Dear Jesus, our life,
who is in control of
our life and death.
Please listen to
the low voice
humbly asking for your grace.
Sister.
Brother, what brought you here?
Heard that Ok-hee's ill.
How is she?
She's fine now.
She had an acute indigestion.
Mr. Han had to bring
the doctor at night.
Your mother-in-law must've
been surprised.
How is your family?
We're well.
I was going to your house
as there is something to talk to you.
What is it?
Let's go somewhere quiet.
Who said that?
Such a disgrace!
We don't need to listen to
that nonsense
and I hadn't thought it
that way.
But I guess there must be rumors
with a young man staying at
a widow's house.
- What do you think?
- Think what?
About Mr. Han.
There is nothing to think about.
Do you really want to
spend your life like this?
You lost your husband
right after you got married,
and went through hardships since then.
I've never thought of
my life that way.
I feel lonely at times
as I'm still young.
But I've got Ok-hee.
I understand your feelings.
But I just can't let you
live like this.
If a woman passes 30,
no one gets attracted.
So think about getting married
before you get too old.
Your late husband
would think like me
if he had truly loved you.
You need to pursue
your own happiness yourself.
You know the situation
I am in, brother.
Right.
You can't scratch your own back.
I'll talk to Ok-hee's
grandmother tonight.
What do you want me to do?
I don't know...
But I can guess
she must be quite frustrated.
So I hope she can come to us
and stay for a while.
You want to take her for good
or for a while?
Well... that's...
I see your point.
You want to take her
to get her re-married.
But she came under my wings
when she's married to my son.
To get her re-married or not
should be my call.
It's not appropriate for you
to talk about it.
Don't you think so?
I'm quite displeased!
I am not making her
get married right away.
I can't allow it.
But if she wants it,
how can I stop her?
What about Ok-hee?
I guess her mother should raise her
until reaches certain age.
No! Over my dead body!
The house feels so empty
after auntie maid left.
And mother doesn't talk much,
smile nor eat much.
She only keeps sighing.
And Mr. Han is also angry
and hardly talks.
Come in.
What is your mom doing?
She must be lonely
as the maid left.
So she doesn't talk or laugh.
And doesn't eat much.
She only sighs.
Why did she leave?
Grandmother kicked her out
as she hates her eating too much.
I eat a lot, too.
What if I get kicked out?
- Don't worry, you got me.
- How so?
I can give you my food
without telling anyone!
- What if she still wants me out?
- I will go with you!
How about your mom?
Mom...
Who do you like better?
Me or mom?
I like you both!
Ok-hee
Give it to your mom.
- It's rent for the last month.
- I see.
- Don't let grandma see it.
- Okay.
Mom, Mr. Han said
this is for you.
- Last month's rent.
- Okay.
- What is it?
- Nothing.
Ms. Lee,
I will leave this house...
as you asked.
But I can never let you
leave from my heart,
a place now fully
seized by you.
I love you.
Now I realize
I love you.
I need to confess this
even if this might be wrong
as I'm certain and proud
of my love for you.
I won't say much.
This is all I want to say.
I'm sleepy. Let's go to bed.
Okay. Let's sleep.
- Welcome.
- Hello.
How is she?
- Got better from yesterday.
- I see.
Welcome.
How are you feeling?
I'm okay.
I called you in because...
I have talked with your brother.
My feelings got hurt first
so I said no to him
right away that day.
But I thought it over
after he left.
The dead ones are the poor ones.
But you're bound to live your life.
The world has changed
and now calls us
fools for remaining faithful.
How can I stay stubborn
and ruin your future?
You should live your own life.
It's just that
although having met as in-laws,
we became so close and intimate.
I just feel sad and lonely
thinking you would be
out of my life.
That's all.
I will be happy to see you
living happily with
a good man.
You're a kind and diligent girl,
so you would be well off
wherever you go.
Hope you meet someone nice
and live well.
And visit me sometimes.
For Ok-hee,
do as you wish
whether to taker her
or leave her here.
Mother.
My girl.
Mom!
What are you doing?
- Are you sick?
- No.
Why are you crying then?
Go sleep.
- You too.
- Okay.
- We need to pray.
- You're right.
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come.
Your will be done
on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us today
our daily bread.
Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven
our debtors.
And lead us not
into temptation,
And lead us not
into temptation,
- Not into temptation...
- Let me finish!
but deliver us
from the evil one.
For yours is
the kingdom, and power,
and the glory forever.
Amen.
Let's sleep.
- Ok-hee.
- Yes?
I need no one but you.
You will live with me
forever, won't you?
Yes.
Even when I become an old lady?
Yes.
When you graduate kindergarten,
elementary school,
middle and high school.
And when you become
a great person
after the college.
You will live with
your mom, won't you?
- I'm not getting married?
- What?
The next day
was Sunday.
But suddenly mom said
she was sick,
and didn't go to church.
And in her bed,
she kept writing and tearing something.
She's got really strange recently.
That night,
she combed my hair,
put ribbons and
new clothes on me.
- Are we going somewhere?
- No.
This is Mr. Han's.
Go give it back to him.
Yes.
Come back soon.
Don't stay long!
I won't.
- Hello!
- Yes.
You're dressed up.
What's the occasion?
This is yours.
Mom told me to give you.
Did she?
Dear Mr. Han,
don't put the fire
on the barren tree.
What if it starts to burn up?
The thought of it
horrfies me.
Ok-hee is all I have.
I can't do anything
about my unfortunate destiny.
If you love
someone like me,
please forget me.
Mom!
Has it run dry?
Or have I gone mad?
The next day, the maid
and the egg seller visited us.
I found out later,
that the maid married
the egg seller.
I guess they get happy
when get married.
- Ok-hee!
- Auntie!
- Doing well?
- Yes.
- Your mom's well?
- Yes.
Good.
Madame and lady!
- How have you been?
- Welcome.
What brought you here?
We got married.
Oh, you did!
I wanted to do it
after I saved some money.
But the baby came along with
a one time fling...
so we did it simple
before her belly gets too big.
- Come on up.
- Yes.
Sit down.
It's not the first marriage
for both of us
but it feels so much fun
as if this were our first time.
- Good for you.
- Right?
Of course.
Honey, don't forget about it.
- Oh, yes.
- What is it?
It's not much...
but we brought some food
from our wedding.
You didn't have to!
- Ok-hee.
- Yes?
- Take that.
- I'll do it.
- Give it to me.
- No, you go up.
She always says
you are like her family.
- Why didn't you invite us?
- It was really a simple one.
Mom!
A guest from Seoul!
From Seoul?
A pretty lady.
Excuse me.
Mr. Han Sun-ho is
staying here, right?
Yes, and who are you?
I'm his sister.
Our mother has been sick
for three years
and is in a critical condition.
So I came to get him.
You will forget me soon
after I am gone?
No!
Really?
- Mom!
- Yes?
Is he really leaving?
Why don't you
go with him?
Really?
Yes.
- Then what about you?
- Me?
I will get married.
Then I'll get married too
following you!
Don't be silly.
Go go get all the eggs
from the shelf.
Eggs?
Thank you for everything.
Take care.
It was my pleasure.
What are they doing?
Ok-hee, come out
and say good-bye.
Take care, Ok-hee.
These are from mom,
for you to eat on the train.
Don't cry.
I'll be back.
- Mom, he's gone!
- Yes.
Why do you cry?
He said
he would be back.
Rabbit dear.
Where are you going now?
Hopping, hopping
here and there...
Ok-hee!
Shall we climb the hill?
Yes.
Okay.
Mom!
The train is here!
It's leaving!
Mister! Mister!
He's gone.
Mom, let's go home.
a SHIN FILM production, 1961
Subtitles translation support
Literature Translation Institute of Korea
Subtitles Translation: EJ CHO
Proofreading: LIM Jiyoon
Based on the short story by
Ju Yo-seop
Adaptation: Lim Hee-jae
Director of Photography: Choi Soo-young
Gaffer: Lee Gye-chang
Art: KANG Sung-bum
Music:Jeong Yoon-joo
Mother: Choi Eun-hee
I(Ok-hee):Jeon Young-sun
Guest: Kim Jin-kyu
Grandmother: Han Eun-jin
Maid: Do Geum-bong
Egg Seller: Kim Hee-gap
Uncle: Shin Young-kyun
Fortuneteller: Huh Jang-kang
Director: Shin Sang-ok
This is my painting of our town.
You can see the church,
a kindergarten and a middle school.
Look!
There is a river too.
Isn't it pretty?
There are many small houses
all over the town.
And one of them is my house!
That's my house.
WIDOW'S HOUSE
That's my house.
WIDOW'S HOUSE
WIDOW'S HOUSE
People call it
a widow's house.
I don't know
what 'widow' means.
So I asked grandma...
She says I don't have a father
while others have.
That's why they call us
the widow's.
GRANDMOTHER
That's why they call us
the widow's.
GRANDMOTHER
GRANDMOTHER
My grandma
living with my dad's brother.
The person my mom is
most afraid of
But I'm not scared of her.
Grandma is a deacon.
If she gets a scary face
I sing a hymn smiling.
MOTHER
My mom.
MOTHER
MOTHER
My painting doesn't show it,
MOTHER
MOTHER
but she's the prettiest in the world.
I'm a widow's daughter
so it makes my mom a widow.
My father passed away
one year after she married him.
A month before my birth.
Maybe that's why...
I've never seen my mom
laughing out loud.
FATHER
laughing out loud.
FATHER
FATHER
I haven't met my father
in person.
FATHER
FATHER
He taught at the middle school here.
Heard that he was a great person.
It's the picture of him.
I don't know why mother of my mom
says to put it away
whenever she visits us.
AUNTIE MAID
says to put it away
whenever she visits us.
AUNTIE MAID
AUNTIE MAID
Our maid.
AUNTIE MAID
AUNTIE MAID
She's a widow too
just like my mother.
She's a widow too
just like my mother.
She works well, eats well, sleeps well
and she's got a warm heart.
They say she's the happiest one
at our house.
But I don't know
what 'happy' means.
ME
But I don't know
what 'happy' means.
ME
ME
I'm a 6-year-old maiden.
I am Lim Ok-hee
and go to the kindergarten.
Later!
Get chicks! For healthy soup!
Get fresh eggs, too!
Hello, chicken!
Good chicks.
- Ok-hee!
- Mom!
Welcome home.
They are newly hatched chicks?
Yes, please pick one.
- Want to buy eggs?
- No.
We don't need any.
Be my first customer for today.
Please pick one.
Please, madame!
Chicks! For healthy soup!
- I hate bean sprouts.
- Chicks!
Eggs!
Let's go this way.
Eggs!
Get fresh eggs.
Hey! You!
We've got eggs.
Don't need any!
What?
I said I don't need eggs!
Are you a blind or what?
Can't you see
what you've done?
You should've watched out!
What did you say?
What the...
Rabbit dear.
Where are you going now?
Hopping, hopping
here and there.
Where are you going now?
Oh, brother!
How are you?
Ok-hee!
How's the kindergarten?
- Hello.
- Is everyone well?
This is Mr. Han.
I've told you.
She's mother of
brother Kyung-seon.
I see.
How do you do?
You've come a long way.
Sorry to cause you
inconvenience for a while.
No way.
Please make yourself at home.
And that's my sister.
Ok-hee! Come
and say hello.
- Go ahead.
- You're so cute.
- She is...
- Yes, Kyung-seon's daughter.
You look like your father.
Come here.
Ok-hee!
Say hello.
What's with you?
You're a big girl now,
behave like one.
- Greet him properly.
- Yes.
He's old friend of your father's.
He'll be staying at the guest room.
Greet him now.
Good girl.
- I greeted the guest.
- Good.
He looks kind, doesn't he?
You silly girl.
Let's go to your room.
Hope you'd like it.
Ok-hee's mom cleaned it.
I just loved him
at first sight.
So we became close
from the first day.
He's got lots of picture books.
When I go to his room to play
he shows the books
holding me on his lap.
Sometimes he gives me sweets
and kisses me.
You want this book, Ok-hee?
- Really?
- Keep it.
- No thank you.
- What is it?
Mom will scold me.
It's okay.
It's my present.
Thank you.
Instead, I will ask mom
to cook something
delicious for you.
- You shouldn't.
- Why not?
I'll show it to mom.
- Be careful.
- Don't worry.
Gosh!
You should behave,
don't make a fuss.
You're always scolding me!
It would give him
a bad impression.
No way.
He gave me the picture book
saying he likes me.
Look!
- He even kissed me.
- What?
Who's making a fuss here?
- Did he really give it to you?
- Yes!
We can go and ask him!
Mister!
- It's me again.
- Come in.
It's not much.
But please help yourself.
- Why don't you join me?
- No.
- Mom will hate it.
- Then excuse me.
Yes, please.
You must be hungry.
- Eat eggs!
- I will.
What's your favorite food?
- Boiled eggs!
- Really?
How about you?
Well, I like boiled eggs too!
Wow, just like me!
Really?
I'll tell mom to give you
lots of boiled eggs.
Don't do that.
- Mom!
- What's in your hand?
Mr. Han likes the boiled eggs best!
Why took his food?
I said no,
but he insisted.
And he asked me to tell you
he likes boiled eggs like I do!
Good lord!
Help yourself.
Chicks for healthy soup!
Fresh eggs!
Is she home?
Why don't you buy
some eggs?
- We won't
- Please.
No one to eat it!
Go away!
- You have hard feelings for me?
- What?
Don't despise me,
Mrs. Sung-hwan.
We're exactly even
on a social scale.
So don't be mean to me.
How can we be even?
Of course, we can!
When you're a widow,
and I'm a widower.
Remember?
I did nothing but smiling
when you splashed the water
all over me.
So what?
Nothing.
I'm just telling you.
It doesn't matter
if you buy eggs or not.
How dare you touch me?
Go away!
- Right now!
- Okay, I will.
What a pervert!
- Wasn't it the egg seller?
- Yes, ma'am.
Why did you kick him out
without asking me?
Go get him.
Who would be eating eggs?
The guest likes the eggs.
- Buy a dozen or two.
- Yes, ma'am.
Chicks and eggs!
- Chicks and eggs!
- Wait, egg seller!
Are these fresh?
Let me see if they've gone bad.
Don't shake it.
It'll go bad.
You should pay me back
if these are not fresh.
I'll never cheat anyone.
Especially you.
- You mean it?
- Sure.
Don't worry.
I'm reliable.
Then two dozen of
big and fresh ones.
You buy that much
all of a sudden?
It's for our guest.
What guest?
He's weird enough
to like the boiled eggs only.
A strange taste, indeed.
Would be perfect
if he likes chicken.
Who does cooking
and laundry for you
when you live alone?
- Myself, of course!
- Is that so?
Pathetic,
but I don't get pessimistic.
I've got a house
and some savings.
And I work everyday like this.
No reason to be gloomy.
- Mrs. Sung-hwan.
- Yes?
Why don't you introduce
me a widow?
You're asking a widow
to introduce another widow?
You want me to die
out of anger?
I'm done.
- Are you?
- Yes.
Let me see.
You're better than me.
What are you looking at?
Nothing.
There's mom!
It's her, right?
Mom!
Mom!
You've got your father's nose.
And you've got
your mother's eyes and lips.
Haven't you?
Your mother is pretty
like you, isn't she?
Haven't you seen
my mother yet?
Of course, she is pretty!
Prettiest in the world!
Yes, she's the prettiest!
How do you know
when you haven't seen her!
I'll introduce her
when we get home.
- No, you shouldn't.
- Why not?
Just no.
- You sleep with your mom?
- Yes.
Why are you afraid her?
She is not a scary person.
- For me, she is.
- You're a coward.
She's the scariest person
for me.
Then I will ask her
not to make a scary face to you.
How come you have
hairs on your leg?
Because I'm a grown-up.
But my mom has none!
Look!
There goes a train.
Salute!
Look, there comes
Ok-hee with her father.
Hi Ok-hee!
Where have you been to?
- Over there.
- Where?
- The hill.
- For what?
To paint!
Like you know how to draw.
- I do, right mister?
- Sure.
- He's not your father?
- Let's go.
Seems like she doesn't have father.
She surely doesn't.
I told you to clean the room.
What are you doing?
Laundry...
- Come out, I'll do it.
- Yes, ma'am.
I wish you were my father.
You should not say
such a thing!
Mom!
Why are you crying?
- Mom.
- What is it?
- Mr. Han...
- What about him?
He...
You must've heard a word
for not behaving.
He cursed me
when I said
I wished he were my father.
- He's such a liar!
- Why do you say that?
He said I've got father's nose
and your eyes and lips.
And asked if you are pretty
just like me.
- Did he?
- Yes.
But he's never seen you or dad,
so it's all lie!
Lower your voice.
He will hear you.
- He spoke ill of you.
- What did he say?
You're the scariest person
in the world!
Scarier and fiercer than a tiger!
Did he?
Today is Sunday.
I go to church
with grandma and mom.
But Mister is a sleepyhead.
On every Sunday,
he sleeps until noon.
I decided not to play with him
but I've changed my mind
feeling pity for him.
What if he's still mad at me
and ignore me?
Where are you going, Ok-hee?
I won't talk to you!
You'll get dumb if you don't.
I won't.
Please forgive me just once.
- You won't get angry again?
- I won't.
Where are you going today?
To church
with mom and grandma!
Are you?
You want me to take you too?
- Ok-hee.
- Yes?
Let's go.
Don't go anywhere
and look out for our house!
Stop it!
Mr. Han!
- Do you like him that much?
- You don't like him?
Tell me!
- I like him if you like him.
- I knew it!
- I'll tell him!
- Don't do that.
- Hello.
- How was the sales?
Bad.
You want a few dozen?
- Yes, come tomorrow for money.
- Don't worry.
- Is the lady away?
- She went to church.
- The guest is away, too?
- Yes.
So you're alone.
Did you eat too much?
Not that much...
I've got healing hands
so let me.
Hands off me!
How dare you!
Wait!
Stay still.
How's it?
Feeling better?
A little bit... maybe.
You must!
These are healing hands!
Don't hit too hard!
My chest!
I think you need
a full-scale treatment.
How is it?
- Feeling better?
- Well...
- How's it?
- How dare you!
Why touch there
when I've got an upset stomach?
You should heal
from the bottom
to soothe the pain in the chest.
You feel much better, right?
My chest!
It's killing me!
You should lie down.
I'll rub your chest.
You must have acute indigestion.
Don't move. Lie still.
Hey you!
Why do you put your hands inside?
Have you thought about
my proposition?
What proposition?
See! The hiccups stopped!
It got digested!
Thanks to my healing hands!
Guess you are right!
Jesus Christ is the gift from God...
While everyone
is listening to the preach,
I get so bored.
So I look around
to see if Mr. Han is here.
And there he is!
God loves even the sinners.
But he doesn't love the sin.
- God hates the sin.
- Mister!
He's really strange.
I called him
as I was glad to see him.
He ignores me.
And mom is strange, too.
She scolds me all blushing.
Mr. Han is also very upset.
So funny.
I don't understand them.
Stop it.
And look now!
She even hits me!
I don't know why
everyone is mad at me.
Why are you crying?
Stop crying!
I said stop!
If you want to cry,
go out!
In Jesus' name we pray,
Amen.
Auntie! Open the door!
Open it!
Oh god!
Lady is returning.
- Open the door!
- Is the service already over?
I'm coming!
Hurry!
Use the back door!
Auntie!
Don't forget what I told you.
- I don't know, I'm yours now.
- Yes, trust me.
- Hurry!
- Open the door!
Coming!
Open the door!
Opening now.
Ok-hee? Why are you alone?
Where is your mom?
- She hit me!
- Oh gosh!
- That's why you cried.
- You don't need eggs?
Give me a few dozen
of fresh and big ones.
Such a cute girl.
You must be a good kid.
Don't buy the eggs!
Why not?
I hate mom and Mr. Han.
Don't buy them!
So adorable little one.
I won't buy any.
I promise.
I'll excuse myself.
So long.
I'll wait for you.
I will come often.
- Have a good sales!
- Thanks.
The more I think,
the more I feel resentful.
I wish I had father
just like other kids.
If I could tell my father
to scold them for me.
I would feel great.
So I thought of an idea...
to play a trick on mother.
Ok-hee!
That kid needs some discipline!
What an embarrassment
at the holy church?
- Mrs. Sung-hwan.
- Yes, ma'am.
Where is Ok-hee?
Well... She was
in the living room just now.
She came home crying
saying you hit her.
Why is your skirt inside out?
Gosh!
- You took a nap again.
- No way.
It's going to rain.
Go cover the crocks.
Crocks.
Ok-hee!
Come out now.
Strange.
- She's not there?
- No.
Is she at the guest room again?
Ok-hee!
Ok-hee!
Weird.
- She's not there?
- No.
The guest might've
taken her out.
He was at the church
and left with us.
Then where should she be?
Did Ok-hee come home?
Sure!
Then where is she now?
She might be hiding
to play with us.
Ok-hee! Ok-hee!
Ok-hee!
Come out if you are hiding.
Ok-hee!
Where did she go?
Ok-hee!
Have you seen Ok-hee?
No. What is it?
Her mother sent her home
for not behaving at church.
She disappeared
after she came back home.
She might be
at her friend's.
Maybe...
I checked almost everywhere...
What if she fell into the well?
Why do you say such an omnious thing?
Have you checked her kindergarten?
I haven't but, no reason for her to go there
as no one is there.
So?
She's nowhere to be found.
What shall we do?
It's already been 5 hours.
Something must've happened.
Guess we should report to the police.
- You're right.
- I'll do it.
Don't worry too much.
I will go check
on the kindergarten.
Ok-hee!
Ok-hee!
- Have you seen Ok-hee?
- No.
- Ok-hee!
- Don't look back!
- Have you seen Ok-hee?
- No, ma'am.
Ok-hee!
Ok-hee!
How was it, mother?
She didn't come to the kindergarten.
- No news from Mr. Han?
- Not yet.
She must've met the trouble.
Something very serious.
Please compose yourself.
She will turn up unless she's dead.
Ok-hee, poor thing.
Isn't this Ok-hee crying?
- What?
- Listen!
I'm not sure.
It's coming from the main bedroom.
Ok-hee! Oh dear!
My little girl.
She was sleeping in the attic!
You wicked one!
You want your mother to die?
I'm sorry mom.
Don't hit her.
Please forgive me.
I won't do it again, mom.
- Ok-hee!
- Mom!
Spring has gone
and Summer is here.
It's been quite a while
since he came to our house.
The egg seller comes everyday.
And mother never forgets
to serve the boiled eggs to Mr. Han.
How are you?
You dressed up!
What is it?
Going on a blind date?
My lonely days
will be over soon.
I hope you don't bite the dust
like the previous time.
I'm confident this time.
I found the perfect widow.
Good looking and
an excellent homemaker.
She will definitely bear
the healthy child, too.
Good to hear.
I'm meeting her today.
So I was wondering...
if I could borrow your watch.
My watch?
I'll return it safe.
I promise.
Of course, you can borrow it.
But this watch stops often.
Will it be okay?
It's for fashion
not for checking time.
You've got a point.
You're seeing someone, aren't you?
Nonsense!
My brother came to town to sell a cow
so I'm meeting him.
Here it is.
Thank you.
I'll return it safe.
It would look weird
to walk separate like this.
Let's walk like a couple.
Why act like a couple
when we are not one?
Why do you keep looking at me?
- Isn't this scarf nice?
- Really nice.
You're such a smart dresser.
How much did you pay?
- For this?
- Must be a lot.
It's already past noon.
- You must be hungry.
- No.
Shall we go to a restaurant?
- You hungry?
- Yes.
I prepared the lunchbox.
Then let's go somewhere quiet.
Go ahead.
I don't like eggs.
You eat them.
- Help yourself.
- No you eat it.
- I am okay.
- Listen to me.
- People will see us!
- Eat it for your health.
- No! Oops.
- You're too stubborn.
What a waste.
- Give it to me.
- Lift your foot.
- Give it to me.
- Lift it, please.
- Your foot!
- What foot?
Lift your foot.
I'm sorry.
What is it?
Having an upset stomach again?
No, I'm not.
Those damn healing hands
got me into this!
My healing hands?
What did they do?
Don't have any clue?
Tell me, what clue?
I'm pregnant.
The thing on that day
got us the baby? Really?
Don't ask me.
Are you sure?
It is my baby, right?
Then whose baby would it be?
- What shall we do?
- Why worry?
Perfect, let's get married!
Let's live happily ever after
with our baby!
My darling!
One day, I picked
some flowers at kindergarten,
to please my mother.
She loves flowers.
Then I wanted to play tricks
seeing her happy.
- Aren't they pretty?
- Where did you get them?
Mr. Han isn't home yet?
Mom, the truth is...
these are from Mr. Han
at the guest room.
What?
He asked me
to bring them to you.
- Are you angry again?
- No way.
Did he really tell you
to give these to me?
Yes.
- You are not supposed to receive these.
- Why not?
Listen to your mother.
- Ok-hee.
- Yes?
Don't tell anyone
about the flowers.
Why not?
Just don't.
Okay?
- Not even to grandma?
- No.
- I'll go get the vase.
- Yes.
I never expected mom to get angry
receiving the flowers she adores.
To see her get mad,
I thought I did a right thing
to lie that
the flowers were from Mr. Han.
Mom is really strange today.
She's never touched the piano
since my father passed away.
What made her play it now?
Excuse me, Ok-hee is...
Oh gosh.
I didn't want to
wake her up.
Mister.
What brought you here?
You never come out.
I was at the market.
Why don't you come in?
Come!
- How's the business?
- Not good.
Thanks to people like you
sticking to the old style.
You did our maid's hair,
didn't you?
- Yes, isn't it nice?
- Not really.
I heard some good news
about you.
What?
What did you hear?
- Tell me the truth, prude.
- What truth?
I heard you get along well
with your guest.
- What?
- I knew it!
Nonsense!
Who told you that?
Your face shows it!
Stop it! It's disgraceful!
Your problem is this.
Time's changed.
Widows can get married again.
You can get married as many as you want
if it can make you happy.
Don't worry about me.
Think about your life.
It's simple for you
as you don't have a kid.
I should quit this business
and get married!
You have someone, don't you?
It's between you and me.
Don't tell anyone.
- What do you think?
- Oh, gosh.
And who is a prude now?
He's a widower with a kid,
and really into me.
- Really?
- Give it back.
Jung-sook! Let's get brave
from now on.
To start, let me
cut your hair short.
No way.
Come sit here.
- It's not about the hair.
- In a way, it is.
If you cut your hair
your old-fashioned point of view
will be changed!
Would it?
Come here, madame!
I will tell everything
about your fortune!
Come.
No one would hear us.
By face reading or astrology?
By astrology.
Year and date of your birth, please.
I'm 28 years old.
Born at 5 am on May 5th.
Let me see... age 28.
May 5th, 5 am.
Please raise your face
and look this way?
Raise your head, please.
And turn this way.
You've got a noble feature.
Let me see your hand.
This is the life line.
And it's the emotional line.
Good.
Now, please allow me...
Really nice.
You're born with a superb fate.
But as I shouldn't lie to you,
forgive me saying this to you.
Please go ahead.
You're destined to lose
your first husband.
What do you say?
- Did I see it right?
- Yes.
But you have good days ahead.
Even though you're lonely
at present,
wind will melt the ice
and an old tree will see the spring
when someone noble
comes from the north-east soon.
Thanks to this noble man,
you will become happy
enjoying all the wealth
and prosperity.
Trust me.
I see you already have
someone in your mind.
Don't you?
If you do, tell me honestly.
It'd help me read
your fortune more clearly.
I'm sure there's one.
Tell me, please.
It's okay for now.
How much is it?
Even though she watered them
everyday
those flowers withered.
Mom took petals
and put them inside
her hymn book.
She still thinks
those are from Mr. Han!
She would think that way
until her death
if I don't tell her the truth.
One day,
the funny thing happened.
You know the maid
at the widow's...
People say our maid got pregnant.
So people in the village
started talking
how the widow got pregnant.
I don't understand.
Why is it wrong
for a widow to get pregnant?
So strange.
Then is it why my mom
doesn't give a birth, either?
- Are you in?
- Hello.
Is Mr. Han home?
- Not yet.
- Let's get in.
You should let the maid
out right away.
And Mr. Han too.
This is too scandalous.
What is it, mother?
That cunning bitch
got pregnant!
Pregnant?
Heard that it's been
already 4 months.
The whole village knows it.
Whose baby can it be?
Mr. Han's, of course!
It must be.
He arrived 4 months ago.
See?
I knew it.
Mrs. Sung-hwan!
Wake up.
Let me hear your thought.
Is Mr. Han really the father?
There's no smoke
without a fire.
Even if he's not involved,
this kind of rumor itself is
a humiliation to our family.
I'm worried about Ok-hee,
if I let him leave...
But I can't let
those shameless people
stay at my house
and feed them.
You can't see through
the people's minds.
Who knows?
He might do you a harm!
So do as I tell you.
Did you hear that?
The guest got
a maid pregnant?
That's what I've heard.
Someone even saw them together!
The lady got him eggs everyday
but the maid got him!
So funny!
- Here he comes.
- Where?
Him, right there.
Bastard.
It's none of your business.
Just sit back
and enjoy the spectacle.
- Let's get back to work.
- Sure.
You will catch a cold doing that!
I won't.
Don't need eggs.
Go away.
- And don't come again!
- I see.
Mr. Han, are you in?
Can I talk to you for a minute?
Please, come in.
So it's true.
How dare she cheated on me!
I'll tear you into pieces!
Are you there?
Answer me.
It's me!
Come here!
I didn't know
you are such a filthy bitch.
- What is it?
- What?
Tell me the truth.
Whose baby is it, really?
- What are you talking about?
- I heard it all!
You got someone else's seed
and told me it's mine?
You bitch!
Tell me the truth!
I'm speechless.
Someone else's seed?
I am about to being kicked out
because of you!
I get it.
You're doing this
as you don't want me now?
I'm so pissed.
All men are thieves.
What shall I do now?
Poor me.
Someone else's seed?
I just don't know
what to say.
So it is not true?
Tell me the truth!
The baby is really mine?
I don't know!
I'll throw myself
into the well and die!
I'm sorry.
It's my fault.
- Are you awake?
- Yes.
What brought you here?
It's quite late.
Mother
We almost made a huge mistake.
What mistake?
The maid.
The father was the egg seller.
The egg seller?
The egg seller
who comes everyday.
Is that so?
She was all smiles
whenever he came.
I see why now.
What a shame.
I'm relieved we found out
before Mr. Han knew about this.
You are right.
Then can we let him stay?
The house feels too big
and Ok-hee likes him so much.
Please let him stay.
No, you should let him go.
Some bad rumors can spread
with a man staying
at a young widow's.
It could ruin your reputation.
My mother-in-law died
as widow, and so will I.
But it's quite difficult to remain faithful.
Mom, have you seen Mr. Han's
painting of your face?
What? Did he draw my face?
It looks exactly same.
Especially the eyes!
Don't talk about him anymore.
Why not?
You hate him now
as he doesn't pay the rent?
Yes, I hate him so much
so I'll kick him out.
I feel pity for him.
Ok-hee!
If you keep talking about him,
I will run away alone
leaving you with him.
No!
Then Ok-hee, promise me
not to talk about him anymore.
I promise!
Good. Let's go.
Mom, there goes Mr. Han!
Mr. Han!
Where have you been?
- Grandma's.
- I see.
Let's go.
- Mr. Han!
- Yes.
- Mom's angry.
- Why?
Because you didn't pay the rent.
She hates you
and will kick you out.
You're in trouble.
But don't worry.
I'll break my piggy box
and pay for you.
And mom said she would run away
if I talk about you.
Gosh!
- She's strange, isn't she?
- You can live with me.
Who will cook
and do the laundry?
- I can do it.
- No way.
- Can you cook?
- Sure.
Mom! Mr. Han said if you run away
I can live with him.
Ok-hee!
What I told you about
kicking him out
was a lie.
Really?
I'm so happy.
Mister!
Mom just said that
kicking you out
if you don't pay the rent
was a lie.
- Really?
- Mom is good at lying.
I will never know
what's on your mom's mind.
I've got a headache.
- Me, too.
- Let me see.
It's very hot!
- Right?
- Aren't you cold?
- Yes.
- What is it?
Mom, I have a headache.
Are you ill?
Let me carry you.
- Want to be on my back?
- Yes.
That night, I was
burning up with a fever.
I even said strange things.
But I thought
mom deserved this
as she didn't let me go
to the guest room.
Mom!
Yes, I'm here.
Mom, I'm not sick.
Let me play with Mr. Han
in his room.
She's not herself.
Finally he's coming.
Yes.
- Sorry to call you late at night.
- No way.
Doctor is here.
She was okay after dinner.
Then suddenly she got cold sweat
and burned up.
We fed her salt
thinking she got an upset stomach.
The fever is very high.
She played too hard today.
Mr. Han!
Ok-hee, I'm here.
I am not sick.
I want to play
in your room!
Yes, get well soon.
Mom doesn't let me go to your room.
Dear Jesus, our life,
who is in control of
our life and death.
Please listen to
the low voice
humbly asking for your grace.
Sister.
Brother, what brought you here?
Heard that Ok-hee's ill.
How is she?
She's fine now.
She had an acute indigestion.
Mr. Han had to bring
the doctor at night.
Your mother-in-law must've
been surprised.
How is your family?
We're well.
I was going to your house
as there is something to talk to you.
What is it?
Let's go somewhere quiet.
Who said that?
Such a disgrace!
We don't need to listen to
that nonsense
and I hadn't thought it
that way.
But I guess there must be rumors
with a young man staying at
a widow's house.
- What do you think?
- Think what?
About Mr. Han.
There is nothing to think about.
Do you really want to
spend your life like this?
You lost your husband
right after you got married,
and went through hardships since then.
I've never thought of
my life that way.
I feel lonely at times
as I'm still young.
But I've got Ok-hee.
I understand your feelings.
But I just can't let you
live like this.
If a woman passes 30,
no one gets attracted.
So think about getting married
before you get too old.
Your late husband
would think like me
if he had truly loved you.
You need to pursue
your own happiness yourself.
You know the situation
I am in, brother.
Right.
You can't scratch your own back.
I'll talk to Ok-hee's
grandmother tonight.
What do you want me to do?
I don't know...
But I can guess
she must be quite frustrated.
So I hope she can come to us
and stay for a while.
You want to take her for good
or for a while?
Well... that's...
I see your point.
You want to take her
to get her re-married.
But she came under my wings
when she's married to my son.
To get her re-married or not
should be my call.
It's not appropriate for you
to talk about it.
Don't you think so?
I'm quite displeased!
I am not making her
get married right away.
I can't allow it.
But if she wants it,
how can I stop her?
What about Ok-hee?
I guess her mother should raise her
until reaches certain age.
No! Over my dead body!
The house feels so empty
after auntie maid left.
And mother doesn't talk much,
smile nor eat much.
She only keeps sighing.
And Mr. Han is also angry
and hardly talks.
Come in.
What is your mom doing?
She must be lonely
as the maid left.
So she doesn't talk or laugh.
And doesn't eat much.
She only sighs.
Why did she leave?
Grandmother kicked her out
as she hates her eating too much.
I eat a lot, too.
What if I get kicked out?
- Don't worry, you got me.
- How so?
I can give you my food
without telling anyone!
- What if she still wants me out?
- I will go with you!
How about your mom?
Mom...
Who do you like better?
Me or mom?
I like you both!
Ok-hee
Give it to your mom.
- It's rent for the last month.
- I see.
- Don't let grandma see it.
- Okay.
Mom, Mr. Han said
this is for you.
- Last month's rent.
- Okay.
- What is it?
- Nothing.
Ms. Lee,
I will leave this house...
as you asked.
But I can never let you
leave from my heart,
a place now fully
seized by you.
I love you.
Now I realize
I love you.
I need to confess this
even if this might be wrong
as I'm certain and proud
of my love for you.
I won't say much.
This is all I want to say.
I'm sleepy. Let's go to bed.
Okay. Let's sleep.
- Welcome.
- Hello.
How is she?
- Got better from yesterday.
- I see.
Welcome.
How are you feeling?
I'm okay.
I called you in because...
I have talked with your brother.
My feelings got hurt first
so I said no to him
right away that day.
But I thought it over
after he left.
The dead ones are the poor ones.
But you're bound to live your life.
The world has changed
and now calls us
fools for remaining faithful.
How can I stay stubborn
and ruin your future?
You should live your own life.
It's just that
although having met as in-laws,
we became so close and intimate.
I just feel sad and lonely
thinking you would be
out of my life.
That's all.
I will be happy to see you
living happily with
a good man.
You're a kind and diligent girl,
so you would be well off
wherever you go.
Hope you meet someone nice
and live well.
And visit me sometimes.
For Ok-hee,
do as you wish
whether to taker her
or leave her here.
Mother.
My girl.
Mom!
What are you doing?
- Are you sick?
- No.
Why are you crying then?
Go sleep.
- You too.
- Okay.
- We need to pray.
- You're right.
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come.
Your will be done
on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us today
our daily bread.
Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven
our debtors.
And lead us not
into temptation,
And lead us not
into temptation,
- Not into temptation...
- Let me finish!
but deliver us
from the evil one.
For yours is
the kingdom, and power,
and the glory forever.
Amen.
Let's sleep.
- Ok-hee.
- Yes?
I need no one but you.
You will live with me
forever, won't you?
Yes.
Even when I become an old lady?
Yes.
When you graduate kindergarten,
elementary school,
middle and high school.
And when you become
a great person
after the college.
You will live with
your mom, won't you?
- I'm not getting married?
- What?
The next day
was Sunday.
But suddenly mom said
she was sick,
and didn't go to church.
And in her bed,
she kept writing and tearing something.
She's got really strange recently.
That night,
she combed my hair,
put ribbons and
new clothes on me.
- Are we going somewhere?
- No.
This is Mr. Han's.
Go give it back to him.
Yes.
Come back soon.
Don't stay long!
I won't.
- Hello!
- Yes.
You're dressed up.
What's the occasion?
This is yours.
Mom told me to give you.
Did she?
Dear Mr. Han,
don't put the fire
on the barren tree.
What if it starts to burn up?
The thought of it
horrfies me.
Ok-hee is all I have.
I can't do anything
about my unfortunate destiny.
If you love
someone like me,
please forget me.
Mom!
Has it run dry?
Or have I gone mad?
The next day, the maid
and the egg seller visited us.
I found out later,
that the maid married
the egg seller.
I guess they get happy
when get married.
- Ok-hee!
- Auntie!
- Doing well?
- Yes.
- Your mom's well?
- Yes.
Good.
Madame and lady!
- How have you been?
- Welcome.
What brought you here?
We got married.
Oh, you did!
I wanted to do it
after I saved some money.
But the baby came along with
a one time fling...
so we did it simple
before her belly gets too big.
- Come on up.
- Yes.
Sit down.
It's not the first marriage
for both of us
but it feels so much fun
as if this were our first time.
- Good for you.
- Right?
Of course.
Honey, don't forget about it.
- Oh, yes.
- What is it?
It's not much...
but we brought some food
from our wedding.
You didn't have to!
- Ok-hee.
- Yes?
- Take that.
- I'll do it.
- Give it to me.
- No, you go up.
She always says
you are like her family.
- Why didn't you invite us?
- It was really a simple one.
Mom!
A guest from Seoul!
From Seoul?
A pretty lady.
Excuse me.
Mr. Han Sun-ho is
staying here, right?
Yes, and who are you?
I'm his sister.
Our mother has been sick
for three years
and is in a critical condition.
So I came to get him.
You will forget me soon
after I am gone?
No!
Really?
- Mom!
- Yes?
Is he really leaving?
Why don't you
go with him?
Really?
Yes.
- Then what about you?
- Me?
I will get married.
Then I'll get married too
following you!
Don't be silly.
Go go get all the eggs
from the shelf.
Eggs?
Thank you for everything.
Take care.
It was my pleasure.
What are they doing?
Ok-hee, come out
and say good-bye.
Take care, Ok-hee.
These are from mom,
for you to eat on the train.
Don't cry.
I'll be back.
- Mom, he's gone!
- Yes.
Why do you cry?
He said
he would be back.
Rabbit dear.
Where are you going now?
Hopping, hopping
here and there...
Ok-hee!
Shall we climb the hill?
Yes.
Okay.
Mom!
The train is here!
It's leaving!
Mister! Mister!
He's gone.
Mom, let's go home.
a SHIN FILM production, 1961
Subtitles translation support
Literature Translation Institute of Korea
Subtitles Translation: EJ CHO
Proofreading: LIM Jiyoon