Twenty-Four Eyes (1954) - full transcript

OFFICIAL ENTRY
1954 FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

A MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
FILM SELECTION

SELECTION OF THE FIRST ANNUAL
"MASTERPIECE APPRECIATION SERIES"

A SHOCHIKU FILM

TWENTY-FOUR EYES

Produced by RYOTARO KUWATA
Based on the Novel by SAKAE TSUBOI

Director of Photography
HIROSHI KUSUDA

Production Design KIMIHIKO NAKAMURA
Sound Recording HISAO ONO

Lighting RYOZO TOYOSHIMA
Music CHUJI KINOSHITA

Set Design KAKUZO SASU
Set Decoration USHITARO SHIMADA

Edited by
YOSHI SUGIHARA



Starring

Children in First Grade
HIDEKI GOKO, ITSUO WATANABE
MAKOTO MIYAKAWA

TAKERO TERASHITA,
KUNIO SATO, YUKO ISHII
YASUYO KOIKE, SETSUKO KUSANO

KAORU KASE, YUMIKO TANABE
IKUKO KAMBARA, HIROKO UEHARA

ChiIdren in Upper Class
HITOSHI GOKO, SHIRO WATANABE
JUNICHI MIYAKAWA

TAKEAKI TERASHITA, TAKESHI SATO
SHISAKO ISHII, AKIKO KOIKE
SADAKO KUSANO

KAYOKO KASE, NAHOKO TANABE
TOYOKO OZU, MASAKO UEHARA

YUMEJI TSUKIOKA
TOSHIKO KOBAYASHI, KUNIKO IGAWA

TAKAHIRO TAMURA
CHISHU RYU as the Gentleman Teacher

SHIZUE NATSUKAWA, KUMEKO URABE
NIJIKO KIYOKAWA, CHIEKO NANIWA

USHIO AKASHI, HIDEYO AMAMOTO
TOSHIO TAKAHARA

TOKUJI KOBAYASHI, TOYOKO
TAKAHASHI, TOYOKO SHINOHARA

MAYUMI MINAMI, KIMIYO OTSUKA
TAZUKO KUSAKA, KAZUKO MOTOHASHI

REI MIURA, YASUKUNI TOIDA
YOSHIKAZU OTSUKI



TATSUO SHIMIZU
YOSHIKO NAGAI

TOSHIYUKI YASHIRO
NAOTORA KINOSHITA, KEIKO GOKO

HIDEKO TAKAMINE
as Miss Oishi

Written for the Screen and Directed by
KEISUKE KINOSHITA

AMONG THE ISLANDS
OF JAPAN'S INLAND SEA,

THE SECOND LARGEST,
AFTER AWAJI,

IS SHODOSHIMA.

IF A DECADE COUNTS
AS "AN ERA,"

THIS STORY TOOK PLACE THERE
TWO ERAS AGO.

CHILDREN IN THIS HAMLET

ATTEND A LOCAL SCHOOLHOUSE
FOR THE FIRST FOUR YEARS.

FOR THE FIFTH YEAR
AND ABOVE,

THEY MUST WALK THREE MILES
TO THE MAIN SCHOOL.

The hammer rings out
without pause

APRIL 4, 1 928
Sparks fly and boiling water splashes

The wind from the bellows
blows without end

The village blacksmith
is hard at work

He's known by all
as a stubborn old fellow

Early to bed, early to rise,
and never sick a single day

He's proud of his arm,
stronger than iron

Though his spirit
is strongest of all

His labors earn him great rewards
and he's far from poor

The blacksmith is famous
and his business is thriving

Teacher!

Are you leaving now?

I said farewell to the cape.
Now I'll say farewell to you.

I just said my good-byes
at the boarding house.

You're moving on
to the main school now.

Study hard!

What's the new teacher like?

She's very nice.

- A country bumpkin?
- Not at aIl. She's a fine teacher.

But she's just a beginner?

Every teacher
was a beginner once.

You plan to make her cry
like you did me?

You'd better not.
My daughter will be in her class.

- What's her name?
- Miss Oishi.

"Big Stone"?
Then she's very tall.

Names don't always fit.

Mine means "Little Grove,"
yet I'm quite tall.

Miss "Big Stone" is shorter than me -
only up to my shoulder.

Then she's a pebble.
Miss Pebble!

But she won't cry like I did.

I told her,
"You might see children

on their way
to the main school.

If they tease you,
just pretend they're monkeys.

And if they're mean,
pretend they're squawking birds."

Monkeys and birds, get flying!
You're late for school.

Ding-a-ling!

Ding-a-ling man!

Good-bye! Be well!

Be a good wife!

Good morning.

- She looks tough!
- A woman riding a bike!

Good morning.

She's tough!
A "modern girl"!

Good morning.

A woman in Western clothes!

Must be the new teacher.

On a shiny new bike!

Good morning.

A woman in Western clothes
just went by on a bike!

Must be the new teacher.

Looks like a man's jacket!

What's the world coming to?

Riding a bicycle and wearing a suit!
A real tomboy!

Stop pushing!

Stop it!

It's pretty!

Haven't you ever seen
a bicycle before?

Who wants a ride?

My house is
over by that smokestack.

It's 50 minutes by bike,
though it looks so close.

Yes, it's fine weather.
Not too hot, not too cold.

And it's barely April.

I think I'll go have a look.

What am I going to do?

What's wrong?

That new teacher's got a teaching
license and degree and everything.

Not like the bumpkins
we usually get around here.

Is she smart?

Seems to be.

You didn't expect her
to ride in on a bike.

Why send such a classy teacher
here all of a sudden?

What's the principal thinking?

It's the opening ceremony.
My speech has to be good.

- Keep your head high.
- Okay.

Better wear shoes today.

You're right.
I better look Western today.

Everybody line up!

You hear me?

Attention!

You're all starting
first grade, right?

Let's line up.
Come over here.

Are they all here?
One, two, three, four...

Are there 1 2?

Yes, all 1 2 present.

Let's line up here.

Come on.

Everyone over here, quick.

I'll be your teacher
starting today.

Make a straight line.

Good.

Look straight ahead.
Where are you looking?

Look at me.

Arms out in front.

That's it.

When I call your name,
answer in a loud voice.

I want to learn
all your names right away.

Isokichi Okada?

Is Isokichi Okada not here?

He is.

Answer "here"
when I call your name.

Isokichi Okada?

Sonki, answer!

Everybody calls you Sonki?

All right then.
Sonki Isokichi?

Next... Takeichi Takeshita?

That's a nice clear answer.

Next... Kichiji Tokuda?

- Kit-chin!
- Here!

So you go by Kit-chin?

K-l-T-C-H-l-N

Tadashi Morioka?

Tanko!

Only answer
if I call your name.

Tadashi Morioka?

So you're called Tanko?

Nita Aizawa?

You're a little busybody, aren't you?
And no need to shout.

What's your nickname?

Nikuta.

Nikuta?
Does that mean you're a bully?

It's not nice to tease others.

Matsue Kawamoto?

What do they call you?

Mat-chan.

Misako Nishiguchi?

Do they call you Misa-chan?

Mi-san.

Mi-san?
That's a cute name.

Masuno Kagawa?

Yeah.

"Yeah" sounds odd.

Say "here," Masuno.

She's Ma-chan.

Fujiko Kinoshita?

Your family used to be
village heads, right?

Sanae Yamaishi?

Kotoe Katagiri?

Kotsuru Kabe?

Your father's
the delivery man, isn't he?

The ding-a-ling man!

That's why people
call you a bully!

Good-bye.

Big stone, little pebble!

Good-bye.

Big stone, little pebble!

She wrote down
all their nicknames.

She said Mi-san
was a cute name.

Playing favorites already!
They probably gave her a present!

She asked Fujiko
if her family

used to be village heads,
like it was some big deal.

Village heads?
They're nearly broke!

Class, where does
the emperor live?

Nikuta.

The emperor lives
in the closet.

Why do you say that?

Isn't he hiding
in the school closet?

That's not the emperor.
That's just his picture.

This little school doesn't have
a proper place for his picture,

so we fixed up the closet
to keep it in there.

It doesn't mean the emperor
himself is in there.

The train chugs along
puffing white smoke

Choo choo choo
choo choo choo

Through the tunnel
across the railway bridge

The train chugs along

The train chugs along
puffing white smoke

Through the tunnel
across the railway bridge

Mother Crow,
why do you cry?

Because I left

My seven precious babies

Back on the mountain

They're precious, so precious

It opened, it opened

What has opened?

The lotus flower has opened

And the minute it opened

It closed again

Before I even knew it

It closed, it closed

What closed?

The lotus flower has closed

And the minute it closed

It opened
before I even knew it

I hope the rain
stops tomorrow.

Your school is so far away.

Today I asked
the other teacher

why people there
aren't more friendly.

He laughed and said
my suit and bicycle

are too flashy
and make people uneasy.

It's discouraging.

Don't let it get you down.

People will always talk.

Am I to walk there in a kimono?
It's ten miles round-trip.

A bike's not exactly a luxury.

That's what I said!

I told him I bought it
on installments

because I couldn't
walk all that way.

And you still haven't
paid it off.

The other teacher saves
every penny he can.

A woman buying on credit...
he must think it's an outrage.

So do the villagers,
I'm sure.

People say he volunteered
to teach out there

so he wouldn't
spend money on socializing.

I made my suit myself
out of your old kimono.

Yet they keep calling me
a "modern girl."

There's nothing you can do.

They'll understand someday.

They say it's hard

for young female teachers
to start out there.

And older men
who never made principal

are sent there
as their last assignment.

They'll send you
to the main school in a year.

The school year's a third over,
and it'll soon be vacation.

Don't lose your spirit.

Patience, patience.

Takeichi Takeshita?

Kichiji Tokuda?

Tadashi Morioka?

Nita Aizawa?

Matsue Kawamoto?

Misako Nishiguchi?

The day I began teaching

was also the first day of school
for those 1 2 kids.

They looked so small
and anxious.

Those 24 eyes
looking up at me

were so adorable.

I don't want those adorable eyes

to ever lose their sparkle.

You know, Mother,
none of those children

has time
to play after school.

Most have to care
for younger siblings

or help with farming
or fishing.

It's a poor village.

So I shouldn't let
a little rain get me down.

Now you're talking!

I'll carry on,
no matter what anyone says.

That's the spirit.

Well, that's enough for today.

The banker's wife always wants
everything in a hurry,

but this kimono won't make
her daughter any prettier.

She's too fat and too plain.

Mother, the rain stopped.

Really? That's good.

And the stars are coming out.

SEPTEMBER 1

Is it always like this
after a storm?

You all help
pick up the stones?

Teacher!

How's Nita?

The walls of his house fell in.
He was in his closet, soaked.

We could see inside.

He sat in the closet
looking up at the sky.

In the closet?

He was trying
to take the emperor's place.

Young lady!

What's so funny?

Other people's misfortune?

My father-in-law fell off the roof.
I suppose that's funny too!

I'm sorry.

Then why laugh
when others suffer?

Making the kids
clear the path!

Well, not near my house!

You just want it cleared
for your bike!

Well, you can do it yourself!

A teacher cackling
at others' misfortune!

I set her straight!

Let's stop now.

It seems I got carried away.

Let's go to the seashore.

Little crab whisks up

Some shaving foam

Old man crab
clicks his nippers proudly

Snip, snip, snippety snip

In comes Rabbit

He's a customer

"A haircut, please,
and make it quick"

Snip, snip, snippety snip

Rabbit's in a hurry

Teacher!

We found a rare seashell.
Come look!

- What kind?
- Come look.

What did you find?

It's all right.

Go get the other teacher.

Tell him I broke my leg
and can't walk.

Miss Pebble is hurt!

Somebody come with us!

Someone come help!

I don't think it's broken,
but she needs a doctor or masseur.

Take her to Dr. Soka
in Nakamachi.

It'd be quicker by boat.

Not in this weather.

Do do do re mi mi mi
so so so la so

That doesn't sound right.

I only went to grammar school.
I never learned to play the harmonium.

With Miss Oishi out,
it's more work for you.

Oh, she's got it worse.

You're right.

It's more painful to tear a tendon
than play a harmonium.

She may not
come back to school.

Her mother's furious
about the whole thing.

She says her daughter
is irreplaceable

and she won't send her
to this miserable village again.

I don't blame her.

But Miss Oishi's out for now,
so we need a substitute.

I'm tired of teaching
sewing in her place.

I have no time
to make money on side work.

Enough talk.
I'd better practice.

I've got to learn this.

You're right.

Miss Oishi teaches them
corny old folk songs.

It's like an Obon festival.

If you learn to play well,
the students will respect you.

The crags of Senbiki...

Do do do re mi mi mi
so so so la so

Let's all sing together, okay?

Why aren't you singing?

I've done all I can.
You won't learn if you don't try.

Everybody on your feet.

Stand up.

Here we go.

You're impossible.

Sing whatever you want,
and I'll listen.

Ready?
One, two, three, go.

Teacher, what should we sing?

Anything.

I know!
"Chirp, Chirp, Plover."

I know that one.
Ready?

Chirp, chirp, plover

On nights when the plover sings

Even with the window closed

It's still so cold

I hate that music class.

I like Miss Pebble's songs better.

When's she coming back?

I wish I could see her face.

She's in the hospital.

She was, but she's out now.

Maybe she'll be back soon.

I hope so.

She can't even stand up yet.

Let's all go visit her.

Yeah, let's go to her village.

She said her house
is near that smokestack.

Nita, how long
does it take to get there?

It's not far.

The bus hardly had time to honk
and we were there.

I didn't even have time
to eat a bun.

Liar!
That only takes a minute.

Even a fast bus
can't get there in a minute!

I started eating it at the shrine

and still had it in my hand
when I got off.

- You telling the truth?
- Yes.

- Then hook pinkies.
- All right.

I want to go see Miss Pebble.

- Let's go!
- Yes, let's!

We'll run
all the way there and back.

Let's sneak away
after lunch.

Don't tell your folks
or they won't let you go.

We'll sneak out.

- We'll meet by the grove.
- Good idea!

Let's go!

Kotoe, aren't you going
home to eat?

I can't sneak out with Grandma there.
I'll skip lunch.

I'll bring you some beans.
Wait at the grove.

Miss Pebble will be surprised.

You think her leg still hurts?

See, the Achilles tendon is here.
This big muscle got torn.

- Big kids!
- What do we do?

Hide!

Keep quiet!

Why are you hiding
down there?

Hello.

Have you seen our Kotoe?
- No, I haven't.

I don't see my Sanae
anywhere either.

- Nice weather, isn't it?
- Yes.

Have you seen
Sanae around?

I haven't seen
our Matsue either.

- I can't believe Fujiko's gone too.
- Where would she go?

Our children are gone.
Is Takeichi around?

How strange
for all of them to disappear.

Is Kit-chin around?

He was here for lunch.

Where did they go?

SUIGETSU INN

The first-graders are all gone!

Then Masuno's probably gone too.

Did you see a group
of 7- and 8-year-olds go by?

No.

I saw them
outside the stationery store.

Maybe they went
to a puppet show.

Without money?

Maybe they're gaping
at the posters.

What will that little fool say
when she gets home?

Should we scold them?

We can't exactly
praise them!

Here, wear this.

You sure
you just ate one bun?

I don't know.
It was my first time on a bus.

So you lied?

No, but I was watching
the scenery, not eating.

So you just held it
in your hand?

Kotoe, we have to keep walking.

I'm hungry.

Come on.

Mother Crow,
why do you cry?

Because I left

My seven precious babies

Back on the mountain

They're precious, so precious

Mother Crow sings

It's Miss Pebble!

Miss Pebble!

What's going on?

We wanted to see you.

We didn't tell anyone
we were coming.

Well, you'd better all get
on the bus.

Go on!

I made a lot,
so eat all you want.

- I want more.
- Eat what you have first.

It's good my doctor's visit ended early
or I'd have missed you.

That's right.

Seconds!

Me too!

Here we go.
Look at the flower.

Here we go.
Ready?

Look at the flower!

Steady now.

All done.

Good-bye!

Good-bye, Teacher!

Hisako, is your head
off in the clouds?

Thank the principal.

Has it been decided
who'll take my place?

Yes, we decided at our staff meeting.
Is something wrong?

No, I'm just...

in a bit of a fix.

What kind of fix?

I promised the children
I'd return to school.

Now that's a surprise!
Can you get there by yourself?

Your mother says
you can't ride your bicycle.

Hisako, the principal
has been very kind.

If you transfer her
to the main school,

in just 1 0 days
she can start taking the bus.

Your help
would be greatly appreciated.

Your replacement
is to be Mrs. Goto.

We planned to ask her
to retire next year,

but she could work
three more years at that school,

so she was very happy
to accept.

Things worked out
quite well.

Isn't that nice?

She's like her father...
a bit stubborn.

Yes, like him
in all the worst ways!

The principal was
a friend of your father's.

That's why he's being
so accommodating.

Pardon me.

What's all this?

Thanks for treating
the children the other day.

It was nothing.

I was very happy
to have visitors.

Their parents
sent along a few things:

A quart of rice,
two quarts of beans,

These are dried sardines.

Two more quarts of rice
and a quart of beans.

It's Miss Pebble!

Miss Pebble's coming!

Miss Pebble!

Does your leg still hurt?

Can you ride your bike yet?

It may be another six months.

So you'll come by boat?

So you'll walk all the way?

Let's go to the school.

Teacher!

How's your leg?
We've been worried.

Thank you.

I'm very grateful
for the rice you sent.

I want to thank you
for the lovely beans.

I sent sesame.

Ah, thank you
for the wonderful sesame.

Thank you for the lovely card.

Actually, I meant to send
something, but I was too late.

Please forgive me!

Thank you
for the wonderful presents.

Oh, it was nothing.

Forgive my bad habit
of always meddling.

Not at all.

You know...

I can't ride my bicycle
for quite a while,

and the school
is so far away.

Limping along on my crutches,
it would be night before I got here.

That's why I can't...

If you take the boat,
we'll come meet you every day.

Really? And see me off
every evening?

Yes. Right?

Thank you.

I wish I'd known
that sooner.

I'm afraid it's too late.

I've been transferred
to the main school.

I'll be waiting for you there
when you're older.

I just came to say farewell.

Another teacher
will be coming soon.

Study hard.

I love this little village,

but with my leg like this,
it's impossible.

Teacher, we're sorry!

It's all right.

All children play pranks.

It was just my bad luck.

What's this? She came
all this way just to see you.

You should be laughing
instead of bawling.

Are you better now,
Miss Oishi?

Yes, thank you.

There's no figuring out
women and children.

If you want to cry, go ahead!
Cry all you want!

So much for teaching
my lesson!

Teacher!

Come back to see us!

Come back when your leg
gets better!

You promised!

Good-bye, Teacher!

Let's send her off with a song.

This time let's sing
"The Crags of Senbiki."

One, two, three...

Mother Crow,
why do you cry?

Because I left

My seven precious babies

Back on the mountain

They're precious, so precious

Mother Crow sings

Go take a look

In my old nest
on the mountain...

THE COLOR OF THE SEA AND THE
SILHOUETTE OF THE MOUNTAINS

REMAINED THE SAME
AS DAY FOLLOWED UPON DAY.

OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS...

THE MANCHURIAN AND SHANGHAI
INCIDENTS TOOK PLACE,

AND THE WORLD SUFFERED
THROUGH THE GREAT DEPRESSION.

UNAWARE OF WHAT
LAY IN STORE...

THE CHILDREN PASSED
THEIR DAYS

CAUGHT UP IN THEIR OWN
JOYS AND SORROWS.

LAND OF THE RISING SUN

Night falls in autumn

Upon our encampment
covered in frost

A flock of crying geese

Passes overhead

Moonlight once shone

Upon our planted swords

That moonlight of olden days

Where is it now?

Above the castle ruins

The moon rises at midnight

Its light remains unchanged

For whom does it shine now?

Nothing along the fence

But the creeping vine

No sound from the pines

But the howling wind

The lights in the heavens

Are forever constant

But the fates of those on earth

Forever rise and fall

Will you choose
to shine upon us

Even to this very day?

High above the castle ruins

O midnight moon!

There's the principal!

Good morning, sir!

Why are you all here?

To greet
Miss Oishi's fiancé.

How did you know?

From Kotsuru's father,
right?

He's an engineer on a tourist ship.
Everybody knows that.

We want to see his mug.

If you stare at him like that,
he'll crack!

Is Miss Oishi coming?

She's getting prettied up
at home.

Ooh, isn't that nice?

Miss Oishi is very pretty.

Let's follow them!

I'd be too embarrassed.

I'll get yelled at
if I don't get home.

Why?
This is a special day.

It was hard enough
getting out to join you.

Yes, go home
and help your parents.

School starts in five days.
- That's why we have to have fun now.

Is that any way
for sixth-graders to talk?

You're practically grown-ups!
Get to work!

The boat's coming!

He's so fat.

No, her fiancé's
behind that man.

He's all right.

Matsue!

What do you want?

Stop playing around.

Your mother's
having the baby.

- Really?
- Hurry home.

You can't walk
all the way back.

Matsue, pack your father's
lunch box tight,

but leave room in your own.

It's too big.

Mother, I'd like a new one
with a lily on it.

When will you get me one?
- When I can get up.

That same day?

Wait a minute.
Who's going to pay for it?

Wait until your father
earns some money.

- I'll buy you one.
- You will?

Just be patient.

I wish you'd stay home today.

I don't feel so good.

Matsue can stay.
Times are too tough to take a day off.

See you later.

Hurry or you'll be late
for school.

- You don't need me here?
- No, don't stay home.

It's your first day in sixth grade.

But come home
right after school.

Don't mention the lunch box again
in front of your father.

He's having trouble finding work.

But Ma-chan and Mi-chan
have lily lunch boxes.

You promised
to buy me one this year.

I'm ashamed of this old one.

Teacher!

- What is it?
- My mother had a baby girl.

Congratulations!
What's her name?

Nothing yet.
I'm going to choose it.

- Have you thought of one?
- Not yet.

I see.
What would be a nice name?

You seem happy.
What is it?

Mother's going to get me
a new aluminum lunch box

with a lily on the lid.

That's nice. A lily, eh?

Wait! That's a good name
for the baby.

Lily... Yuri.
Name her that.

Yuriko... or Yurie.

I prefer Yurie.
Yuriko is so common these days.

- You smell nice.
- What?

Just like a bride.

- What's going on?
- They're rushing someone to the hospital.

Maybe appendicitis?

Mat-chan, what's the matter?

You're very kind,
but unless the baby dies,

I can't let Matsue
go to school.

I know it's hard on her...

but now that I'm a widower,

I don't know what else to do.

Mat-chan, this lunch box
has a lily on the lid.

Use it when you
come back to school.

Help your father here at home.

I'll be thinking of you
at school.

You're such
an admirable girl.

She kept asking
for that lunch box.

Thank you.

In any case,
the baby was premature.

Without her mother's breast,

she hasn't much
chance of surviving.

She'll be better off that way.

In a home as poor as this...

what happiness
could she hope for?

Teacher!

Mat-chan's baby sister died.

My grandma went to offer condolences,
and Matsue's dad was drunk.

He kept crying,
"It's better this way."

The poor baby.

Good morning, Teacher.

Good morning.

What is it?

They arrested Mr. Kataoka.

The police are still here.

- What did he do?
- They say he's a Red.

Mr. Kataoka a Red?

How could that be?

He'll be released soon
for lack of evidence.

It's most unpleasant.

- How did this happen?
- A teacher friend of his in Onomichi

was filling his own students'
heads with antiwar ideas.

He and his pupils printed
an anthology, Seeds of Grass.

The police thought
Kataoka had a copy.

I've seen that pamphlet.

It didn't seem Red to me.

Say that and they'll think
you're a Red too!

What on earth for?
I thought it was well-written.

I read some of the stories
to my class.

"Barley Harvest" and
"Soy Merchant's Chimney" were good.

That's dangerous material!
Where did you get it?

- A copy was sent here.
- Where is it now?

- In my classroom.
- For heaven's sake!

Quick, show me where it is!

That was a scare.
We teachers have to be patriotic.

What a fright you gave me!

I think it took years
off my life.

SEEDS OF GRASS
ONOMICHI MIDDLE SCHOOL, CLASS 3

"Dear Matsue, I was so sad
to hear about your baby sister,

but these things happen in life.

Never stop loving her
in your heart.

Please try to feel better.

When will you come
back to school?

I look at your empty
desk every day

and think of you."

Now...

who gets
a newspaper at home?

And who reads it?

Just three of you?

Who knows what a Red is?

No one, of course.
How about a capitalist?

It's a rich person.

That'll do for now.
And what's a worker?

Your late father was my friend.
That's why I'm worried.

Can you imagine your mother's grief
if you got into trouble?

The students know all about
Seeds of Grass and Mr. Kataoka.

They asked
why he was arrested.

Then you simply say
you don't know.

You have to be careful
what you say these days.

Proletariat, capitalists...

you don't discuss such things
with your students!

I'll be more careful.

Please do that.

Being too outspoken
can only hurt you.

Teacher.

It's about Mat-chan.

Did you give her my letter?

I took it to her house.
A strange woman was there.

She took Matsue
to Osaka on the night ferry.

She's being adopted
by relatives.

Matsue cried
and said she wouldn't go

and held on to the beams
of the house.

Her father was calm
and gentle at first,

but then he started
slapping and punching her.

Nobody could stop him.
Finally she agreed to go.

Everybody was crying.

I cried too
as I went to see her off,

but Mat-chan
didn't say a word.

Konpira comes from the shadows
Kirakirara!

AUTUMN... OCTOBER
He flashes his golden staff

And clears the fog
from the mountains and seas

Once again now!

Konpira comes
from the shadows

Of the mountain's fresh leaves
Kirakirara!

This shrine belongs to Konpira

Guardian deity of seafarers
Rarararara!

Keeps you safe in stormy weather
Lights the way with his lantern

Until you drop anchor

Once again now!

This shrine belongs to Konpira

Guardian deity of seafarers
Rarararara!

I wish Fujiko and Sanae
could have come.

Mi-san too,
though she's an only child.

That's why she couldn't come?

- She might catch a cold.
- She said that?

She'll get two times
what the trip would have cost.

Mi-san told me herself.

There are other ways
to get money.

But getting to see Konpira
is a once-in-a-lifetime chance.

I'm using my money
from fishing.

I sold eggs,

and Sonki and I raided
our bank accounts, right?

My folks said I had
to use my own savings.

Your parents are stingy.

My dad bought me this uniform.

What's wrong with your shoes?

Can you walk in those?

I wear size 1 0, but my dad says
my feet grow fast.

What size are those?

Eleven.

Fujiko's family is deep in debt
so she couldn't come.

Their big house
is about to be repossessed.

They've got nothing
left to sell.

You shouldn't talk
about such things.

You want to be a midwife,
don't you?

A good midwife doesn't gossip.

Let's sing some more.

Let Ma-chan sing.

Masuno, you're
the best singer in school.

- Sing "Moon over the Castle Ruins."
- I like "Song of the Beach."

Walking along the beach

In the morning light

I'm reminded

Of things from times past

The sound of the wind

The shapes of the clouds

The tide coming in

The colors of the shells

Wandering the beach

In the evening light

I'm reminded

Of people from times past

The tide coming in

The tide going out

There's the tourist boat!

Oishi, don't fall overboard.

Leave me alone!

There's her husband's ship!

Teacher, wave!

Aren't you going to wave?

There he is. I know that mug.
Hey, Mr. Pebble!

Yashima Bay and its pale waters
are a reminder

of young Minamoto archer
Nasu no Yoichi.

Some 760 years ago,
in this tranquil cove,

the brief glory of the Taira clan
disappeared like a springtime dream.

Here the final battle
between the two clans took place.

White sails cross the sea
of green islands,

and cool water
laps at the shore.

Yashima Bay is blessed
with lovely scenery

and legends that are now
beautiful poetry.

REMAINS OF YASHIMA CASTLE

Ritsurin Park,
in Takamatsu City,

occupies 1 85 acres
at the foot of Mt. Shiunzan.

It's one of Japan's
most famous parks,

along with Kairakuen,
Kenroku, and Korakuen.

Mrs. Oishi, do you feel ill?

No, I'm fine.

You are now at one
of Shikoku's main attractions,

Mount Zozu.

Rising 1 ,700 feet
above sea level,

it's the site
of the Konpira Shrine.

It's 785 steps from the base
to the main shrine,

and another 583 steps
to the inner shrine.

Deity of seafarers,
protector of safety and prosperity,

Konpira has many
fervent devotees.

Mrs. Oishi, you look pale.

I'm tired and feel chilled.

- Did you take any medicine?
- Yes, seasickness pills.

But some hot udon
would be nice.

I'll go with you.
We have time.

I'll let the other teacher know.

Udon in broth
is good for a cold.

Let's try over there.

One tempura.

Mat-chan!

Welcome!

So you weren't in Osaka?
You've been here the whole time?

May I ask who you are?
I can't have her going outside.

This was my teacher.
She was very kind to me.

I'm Mrs. Oishi,
from Shodoshima.

Well, well!
So kind of you to come.

Please come in.

Get them some tea.

Please join me, Mrs. Tamura.

Thank you.

I've been wondering
what happened to you.

But I'm glad you seem well.

This is Matsue,
a former pupil.

You seem to be working hard.

Yes, she's a big help.

There's so much
to do in a restaurant.

Matsue, the donburi is ready.

Are you ladies
sightseeing here?

Yes, on a school excursion.

Isn't that something!

You must be tired.

It can't be easy running all over
with so many children.

How about a bite to eat?

What should we do?

- Do you have noodles?
- I'm afraid we don't.

Welcome.

We have all kinds
of donburi.

There's not much time,
so we wanted something light.

I see.
Well, at least enjoy your tea.

Thank you.

Two crab donburi.

Are you catching
the next ferry?

It'll be leaving soon.

- Shall we go?
- Aren't you going to talk to her?

She's quite busy.

Matsue,
don't just stand there.

Come say good-bye.
Your teacher's leaving.

Sorry to have
inconvenienced you.

Please forgive
our poor hospitality.

Mat-chan...

take care.

Write to me,
and I'll write too.

Good-bye.

Take care of yourselves.

Teacher!

Teacher, where did you go?

HOPES FOR THE FUTURE

MATSUE KAWAMOTO

Since I'm an only child,

my mother

wants to send me

to a prefectural
high school.

But even just looking at numbers

makes my head hurt.

I want to go to sewing school,
where there are no exams.

From now on...

if women don't have jobs,

they'll have a hard life

like my mother.

That's why my older sister

is working as a nurse

at the Red Cross.

I want my sister

to send me

to a teacher's college

so that I can become...

A TEACHER

Fuji-chan, why aren't you
writing anything?

What's wrong?

What is it, Fuji-chan?

Can't you tell us?

Come with me.

I have no hopes for the future.
What can I write?

You don't have to write then.

I know how hard
things have been.

I really wanted to go
on the school trip.

I don't even know

how much longer
we can stay in our house.

It's someone else's now.

It's all right.
Don't say anymore.

I don't know what to say,

but these hardships
aren't your fault,

or your parents' fault either.

These things happen
for a lot of reasons.

So don't lose heart.

Just keep your spirits up.

Maybe I'm asking
the impossible.

I don't know
what else to say.

But if you ever feel like crying,
come to my house.

We'll have a good cry together.

So you're really dropping out?

But you like school, don't you?

Why not stay
at least another year?

You're a good student.
I'd hate to see you go.

Shall I speak to your family?

It's too late.
I already promised.

Promised what?
To whom?

I promised my mother
I'd quit school

if I could go
on the school trip.

That's too bad.

So there's nothing I can do?

My sister will be
starting fifth grade.

If I stay in school,
who'll cook at home?

It's my turn
to fix the meals.

Your sister cooked until now?

Your mother goes out
to fish every day?

Almost every day.

That's why
you wrote one day

you wished you were a boy
for your mother's sake.

Yes, I feel sorry for her.

But Kotoe,

it's not your fault
you were born a girl.

In any case,
it's a shame.

But at least when my sister
finishes sixth grade,

I'll get to work
for a dressmaker.

And when I'm 1 8,
I'll be a maid in Osaka.

I'll spend all my money on clothes,
like my mother did.

And then you'll get married?

Yes, you'll get married...

just like your mother.

I'm going to middle school.

After I graduate,
I'll fish until I'm drafted.

Teacher, I can become
a sergeant major, right?

- You want to be an NCO?
- They get a monthly salary.

I'll go to college
and become a second lieutenant.

Stop bragging.

I'd go to middle school
if there weren't entrance exams.

Why do you want
to become soldiers?

I won't inherit anything.
It beats being a poor fisherman.

I'll inherit the rice shop,
but I'd rather be a soldier.

Really?
You'd better think it over.

Are you against soldiers?

No, but I prefer fishermen
and rice merchants.

So you're a coward.

That's right.
I'm a coward.

Mother, I brought
the teacher.

She won't listen
to a thing I say.

I know she has a good voice,

but lots of girls in Japan
have good voices.

The shamisen is more fitting
for a restaurant owner's daughter.

What good
are school songs here?

She insists on attending
a conservatory in Tokyo,

so she wants
to go to high school.

Her father's absolutely furious.

Please talk
some sense into her.

She sulks all day
and won't eat a thing.

Masuno, listen to what
your teacher says.

Don't be so mule-headed.

Tell her if she goes
to the conservatory, she'll be no help

to her family at all.

It's not my place to interfere.

I understand you
and your husband's position,

but I know
how Masuno feels too.

No! She's talking nonsense,
grasping at rainbows!

I've known Masuno
since she was

just a little girl
in first grade.

She was so adorable.

Masuno...

your happiness
means everything to me.

I feel so bad that
I can't say more now.

But you know, all the boys
want to become soldiers.

I'm worried sick
about losing even a single one.

I'm happy I don't have to worry
about that with you girls.

I want you to grow up
happy and healthy.

I'd like to help you
realize your ambitions,

but there's nothing else
I can say for now.

There's really
nothing more I can say.

What is it?

Mrs. Oishi.

Please sit down.

People are saying you're a Red!

You must be more careful!

I'm afraid
I don't understand.

What do people say I did?

I warned you about this before.

There are things a teacher
must not discuss with her pupils.

I can't think
what I might have said.

I didn't tell them
anything that was wrong.

That's where the danger lies.

You're young.

You blurt out everything
that enters your head.

You can't do that
these days!

Watch your words
or you'll get in trouble!

Watch what words?

Ever since Japan
established Manchukuo,

there's been tension
on the Soviet border.

We have air-raid drills
even on this island!

The whole country
is banging the war drums,

while you keep saying
it's silly to become a soldier!

I just don't want
my students killed.

It won't do!

But I just...

Just don't say anything.

See nothing, hear nothing,
say nothing!

Our sole duty as teachers

is to raise citizens
to serve the nation.

We look up to our teachers

So grateful for their kindness

The years on the playground

Have passed so quickly

We look back

On those precious days

But now we must part

And say good-bye

The friendship and kindness

Shown every day

Will stay with us

The rest of our lives

We'll fend for ourselves

Work hard
and make our names

But now we must part

And say good-bye

We'll never forget

The school's familiar windows

The glow of the fireflies

The snow so deep and white

We'll never forget the years

We have spent here

But now we must part

And say good-bye

Mother?

You're awake?

- Where's Mother?
- She went shopping.

How do you feel?

Better.
A little sleep did the trick.

That school excursion
wore you out.

No, it's the baby.

Don't worry.
Just pop it out.

Easy for a man to say.

- Hurry up and have it.
- Don't be silly.

It'll make coming home
that much more fun.

I'm sure our baby
will be adorable.

But your work's probably
made you sick of kids.

Want some tea?
- No, thanks.

The truth is...

I'm fed up with teaching.

School starts in two days.
Maybe I should resign.

Why?

I'd like to quit
and start a candy shop.

I've done my best
for my students for six years,

but we're not allowed
to establish any real bonds.

The only thing tying us together
is the state-approved textbook.

What hypocrisy!

"Loyalty" and "patriotism"
from dawn till dusk!

My boys all want
to become soldiers. It's awful!

It's the times.

Can you stop the war
by running a candy shop?

I should've listened to my mother.
"Never marry a seaman."

You begged me to marry you!

What will happen
if war breaks out?

Our lives will be cut short.

You'll be drafted onto a ship
that could be sunk at any time.

I could be widowed
with a baby on the way.

Say, if I'm quitting,
why don't you quit too?

We could be farmers.

No, thanks,
but you quit if you like.

I will.
I'm going to tell Mother.

Aren't you being
a bit impulsive?

No!

Well, your mother's
too old for surprises.

She needs glasses
to do her sewing jobs.

You get to listen
to the putter of your ship.

But I'm serious.
I've had enough of teaching.

- Hisako!
- She's back.

Some students are here.

Really?

Welcome!

Pardon my appearance.
I was sleeping.

I'm so glad you came.

Good day.

Come inside.

We have to catch
the next bus in 1 5 minutes.

Really?
Catch the one after that.

Then we won't get back
until dark.

I see.

Wait and I'll walk you
to the stop.

Isokichi,
what's that hunting cap for?

I'm not going on
to high school.

You're really quitting?

Thanks for all you've done.
Take care.

Wait.
I'm coming with you.

What will you do now?

I leave tomorrow
for an apprenticeship in Osaka.

My employer will send me
to night school.

It's all decided?
What kind of work?

- A pawnshop.
- You'll be a pawnbroker?

No, just a clerk.
I'll work until I'm drafted.

Well, be a good clerk,

and write to me.

Takeichi, when does
school start?

In two days.

Hisako!

Are you really quitting teaching?
- Yes.

I'll tell you about it later.

You're quitting teaching?

That's right.

It won't be any fun
without you two there.

Wait here.
I'll go change.

Come inside.

Be sure to visit
on your holidays.

I want to see you
all grown up.

You were my first students,
and my last.

Now we'll be good friends.

You too, Takeichi.

Fujiko and her family
moved to Hyogo yesterday.

Yesterday?

Five people and their stuff
in ding-a-ling man's boat.

All they had were
futons and pots.

Her parents never did
any heavy labor.

Everybody's afraid
they'll become beggars.

I see.

How awful.
I feel so bad for Fujiko.

Thank you for everything.
Take care of yourself.

Be well.

Good-bye, and take care.

Attacking injustice
in heaven's name

In loyalty and bravery
our soldiers have no peer

Let's send them off with a cheer

Now they leave
their parents' land

"We won't return alive
unless we've won!"

They vow with courage
in their hearts

They'll crawl
through the grass

They'll dive
into the sea...

THE COLOR OF THE SEA AND
THE SILHOUETTE OF THE MOUNTAINS

REMAINED THE SAME
AS DAY FOLLOWED UPON DAY.

BUT THE LIVES OF THE PEOPLE
OF SHODOSHIMA

WERE CARRIED ALONG
ON THE VAST WAVES OF HISTORY:

THE WAR WITH CHINA,

AND THE ANTl-COMINTERN PACT
WITH GERMANY.

To what can we compare

Our army engineers'
meritorious deeds?

We'll support our engineers,
with hoes in their hands

We'll support our infantry,
with rifles in theirs

Our army's shells

Will silence the enemy

EIGHT YEARS LATER

Heaven and earth
resound with their booms

The enemy's resolve will falter

In the face of our volleys

We will dance
to the top of their forts

Despite their barbed wire...

Hello?

Kotoe, it's me.

No, don't get up.

I wanted to visit sooner,

but the baby
keeps me so busy.

Thank you for coming.

Are you home alone?

Everybody's out fishing.

I'm always alone during the day.

I'm really glad you came.

I wanted to see you.

Me too.

I always want to see you.

All I do is look
at that picture.

Ah, that picture.

I often take it out too.

You were all so young.

I hadn't eaten when we set out.
I got so hungry on the way.

I was the first to cry.

You were all crying
when I ran into you.

It makes me laugh
to think about it.

The noodles you gave us
were so good.

I still remember the taste.

Now all of you are grown.

I heard that Misako
found a husband

and had a wonderful wedding.

That's right.

She's lucky to be
an only child.

And Sanae's now
a teacher at the main school.

She graduated with honors
from a teacher's college.

I ran into Kotsuru in Osaka.

She's an honors
graduate in midwifery.

That's right.
She writes to me sometimes.

I'm the worst off of all.

Teacher, I don't...

have long to live.

What are you saying?
You have to keep your spirits up.

Teacher,
I've suffered so much.

I know.

You've been through a lot.

Do you remember
what we talked about

during recess that day
in the sixth grade?

I certainly do.

I wanted to grow up

and pay my mother back
for all her kindness.

I was happy to go to Osaka
and become a maid.

Yes, I remember.

You were the brightest girl
in the class,

so I hoped you'd go on
to high school.

But you went to work
for your family's sake.

Teacher...

I worked so hard that I got sick
and had to come home.

My parents

won't even come near me.

I'm left alone all the time
because I have tuberculosis.

But you know...

you're not the only one
who's suffered.

I saw Mat-chan eight years ago
on our school trip.

She had a hard life
as a waitress.

Fujiko's family went bankrupt.

Kotsuru's been writing to me.

She's now working
in a café in Kobe.

I can't imagine
her life is easy either.

You'd think Masuno would be happy
at her parents' restaurant,

but she runs away to sing
and always gets dragged back.

There aren't
many happy people around.

So don't think you're alone.

Try to cheer up.

I'll come visit
as often as I can.

It's nothing,
but I brought these for you.

Thank you.

Our soldiers leave home

Bravely vowing
to return victorious

They won't die
before achieving great deeds

KICHIJI TOKUDA
On hearing the bugle's call

They see a sea of flags
before their eyes

NITA AIZAWA
They spend the night in camp

With their bullets,
tanks and bayonets

TAKEICHI TAKESHITA
In their dreams their fathers tell them

"Don't come back alive!"

TADASHI MORIOKA
With calm eyes they stare at enemy skies

With smiling faces they think

ISOKICHI OKADA
"May today's battle drench me in red."

They will never forget
their comrades

Who died laughing

"Long live the emperor!"
Were the last words on their lips

Ah, those faces

Those voices

My wife and child

Urging me on to great deeds

Flags were waved so hard

That they tore in pieces

Now they flutter again
in the distance

Far off in the clouds

The duty of a soldier

Is to die

For the sake

Of his emperor

The cap of my comrade

Who laughed as he died...

Soldiers all in a row
marching with their guns

March, march, march

I'll heat up some sake.

Handsome soldiers
I want to be a soldier

Mother, you think
it's something to celebrate?

There you go again.

He only got furlough because he's sick.
They'll send him off again.

Stop arguing.

Mother, I'd like some sake.

It's war.
There's nothing we can do.

What's wrong
with those kids?

Daikichi, be quiet in there!

Are they too dense
to see I'm upset?

They're just kids
having fun.

Come to Daddy.

Don't start crying.
That won't help.

I want you to grow up
big and strong

to take care of your mother
and grandmother.

I'm leaving for the war.

Come on, let's sing a song.

Soldiers all in a row

Marching with their guns

March, march, march

FOUR MORE YEARS PASSED,

AND THE WAR IN ASIA SPREAD.

THE NUMBER OF PLAIN
WHITE GRAVE MARKERS GREW.

They fly again today
through the inlet's misty skies

The vast cloud of our hopes

Has finally taken shape

Navy student pilot

You do not fear death

Your wings

Are the wings of victory

Break through

Across the turbulent seas

And strike the enemy's fleet

I wish I was in middle school.

That way I could enlist.

Are you that eager to die?

After all I went through
bringing you up,

you want me to cry
the rest of my life?

You'd be the mother
of a hero honored at Yasukuni.

What's so special about that?

Being your mother
is enough for me.

You know, Daikichi,

I just want you to be
a normal human being,

an ordinary person
who values life.

No one else talks like that.

They may not say it,
but that's how they feel.

My teacher doesn't
talk like that.

That's why I quit teaching.

- Coward!
- Coward!

Fine by me.
I don't need people's praise.

I just love the three of you.

Hisako.

Mother, can't you sleep?

Are you in pain?

You'll feel better soon.

I'll make some
nice rice porridge tomorrow.

What's wrong?

Are the blankets too heavy?

Mother, what's wrong?

Daikichi, come here!

Go get the doctor.
Tell him to hurry.

Mother, you'll be all right.

Tell him to come quickly!

At ease!

Oishi, your mother's here.

Mother, what is it?

Daikichi, your father's dead.

I just got the notice.
I ran right over.

We must be strong, Daikichi.

You understand?

COUNTY ASSEMBLY HALL
VICTORY AT WAR!

AUGUST 1 5, 1 945

Attention!

Present arms!

Order arms!

We've called you here
on short notice

to hear the voice

of His Gracious Majesty
the Emperor

broadcast on the radio

as he addresses
the entire nation.

Listen attentively
and with reverence.

Present arms!

Daikichi, don't be so glum.

Now children can go to school
like children again.

Let's eat.

Mother, we lost the war.
Didn't you hear on the radio?

I did...

but it's good
that the war is over.

Nobody else
will be killed in action.

The survivors will return.

We couldn't die
for our country.

Thank goodness for that.

Are you glad?

Stop talking nonsense.

Are you?

Your father was killed.

He won't be coming back.

Aren't you going to cry
because we lost?

I cried all right.

I cried for the dead.

Please help!

Somebody, please!

Doctor!

She fell out of a tree!
Please help!

Yatsu!

Daikichi...

Mrs. Oishi!

Doctor!

You were so small,

and so hungry.

No wonder you climbed
that persimmon tree.

You had to.
You were starving.

You didn't do anything wrong.

Poor thing...

still clutching
that unripe persimmon.

A YEAR AFTER THE WAR'S END

APRIL 4
SCHOOL RESUMES

It's finally clearing up.

Is it your first time
to the cape?

Yes, I never had
any reason to come.

Of course not.

I never thought I'd be teaching
in that schoolhouse again.

It's been 1 8 years.

Almost two decades.

I can row you in the rain,

but not if it's windy.

Don't worry.
If there's a storm, I'll walk.

That'll tire you out.

Don't be silly.
I've still got some life in me.

I have to raise you and Namiki
to be fine young men.

You could use a bike.

We can't afford one.

They're so expensive.

Are you tired?

I'm all right.

You're good at rowing.

Another child of the sea.

Anyone can row.

There was a child named
Takeichi Takeshita.

He was just a first-grader then,
but he offered to row me home.

That was long ago.

He was killed in the war.

- A pupil of yours?
- Yes.

When I call your name,
answer "here" in a loud voice.

Satoru Kawasaki.

Katsuhiko Yamamoto.

What spirit!

You all answer nice and clearly.

Makoto Katagiri.

Are you Kotoe's little sister?

Kotoe died, didn't she?

Chisato Kawamoto.

Are you related to Matsue?

My mother's in Osaka.
She sent me this uniform.

So you're Matsue's daughter?

Katsuko Nishiguchi.

Is your mother's name
Misako Nishiguchi?

You look just like she did
at your age.

Hiroshi Shono.

In the fields of rape blossoms

The setting sun grows dim

A thick mist frames

The distant mountains

A spring breeze blows

And you gaze up at the sky

The evening moon rises

Amid the faint aroma
of blossoms

The fires in the village

The color of the woods

People walking the paths
through the fields

TADASHI MORIOKA
FALLEN IN BATTLE

The croaking of the frogs

The tolling of the bell

All grows hazy
on this misty moonlit night

Mrs. Oishi!

Misako!

My daughter said
you went home this way.

It's so good to see you.

I wanted to see you again.

What a coincidence that
my daughter will be in your class.

Please take care of her.

It'll be my pleasure.

When I heard you were back
on the cape, I cried for joy.

Two generations.
It's such a rare thing.

I owe it to Sanae.

She's teaching
at the main school.

I thought I was too old,
but she recommended me.

Sanae, Kotsuru, Masuno
and I talked it over.

We want to have a party
for you at Masuno's.

You're all very kind.
Thank you.

No, we're all
very happy to do it.

Seeing all of you again...

how wonderful
that will be!

Tadashi wanted so badly
to be a soldier.

I suppose he died happy.

Look over here.

TAKEICHI TAKESHITA
FALLEN IN BATTLE

He preferred being a soldier
to running a rice store.

Now he's ended up here.

Nita's grave is here too.

NITA AIZAWA
FALLEN IN BATTLE

He was so big and loud,

but not a mean bone
in his body.

On our school trip,
his uniform was too big,

and so were his shoes.

Mrs. Crybaby!

Mrs. Crybaby!

You've already got
another nickname.

It was Miss Pebble before.
Now it's Mrs. Crybaby.

Mrs. Crybaby!

The bus would be quicker.

Are you tired already?
You're such a weakling.

I'm not tired at all!

I don't mind walking.

Isn't that best?

You're having a picnic today,
so we'll walk.

The bus costs money.

And it wouldn't be a picnic.

Mother, we'll play
on the temple grounds,

but what if your party
lasts a long time?

You can play on the beach
below the inn.

What if the village kids tease us?

Then tease them back.

What if they're stronger?

Then bawl your head off.

They'll laugh at us.

I'll laugh at you too.

If I hear you crying,
I'll clap my hands and laugh.

Will you see the beach
from the restaurant?

I imagine so.

Will you check on us
once in a while?

All right.
I'll look out and wave.

Go on now.

Don't leave
your lunch boxes behind.

See you later, Mother.

Mother, what if it rains?

Silly! You'll just have
to think of something!

Teacher!

We have a surprise guest.
Can you guess?

A surprise guest?

We'll put our faith in you
if you guess right.

Oh no, the moment
of truth has come.

A surprise, you say?

Could it be two people?
Fujiko and Matsue?

So close!

- Am I right?
- You have to choose one.

Then Matsue.

It is Matsue!

She came from Osaka.

Did she really?

I haven't seen her
since the school trip.

Teacher!

We've been expecting you.
Welcome.

Thank you.
I'm so glad to see you well.

Kotsuru, you're so plump!
Just like a midwife!

Watch what you say.

Teacher, I'm Matsue.

I'm so glad...

you could make it,
Mat-chan.

I really am.

When Misako wrote, I knew

I could never face
you all again if I didn't come,

so I swallowed my pride
and rushed here.

Teacher, forgive me!

Let's go.

Teacher!

I could hardly wait.
Please come in.

Thank you
for hosting this party today.

- What about Sonki and Kit-chin?
- They haven't come yet.

It's a gift from all of us

for coming back
to teach at our school.

Let's sit down and relax.

Today we get
good and drunk.

Sonki's here.

Sonki's blind now.
It must be hard.

It was kind of him to come.

He made it back alive,
but it's tough.

He's studying to be a masseur.
He lives at the tofu merchant's.

He's said a few times
he'd rather be dead.

Poor boy.

That means he didn't see
any way to go on.

- You kept us waiting.
- Sorry I'm late.

Sonki, it's been so long.

Teacher!
Yes, it's been a while.

Five years.

That's right.
And look what a sorry state I'm in.

Enough of that.
This is a cheerful occasion.

Sonki, you'll sit
next to Mrs. Oishi.

Only Kit-chin isn't here yet.

- Who wants soda?
- I'll have sake.

- So will I.
- Just a minute.

Maybe I will too.

Sonki, would you like
some sake?

Just one cup,
in your honor.

Thank you all for the bicycle.
It was so thoughtful.

Don't thank me.
I couldn't give much.

That doesn't matter.

Thanks to you all,
I can ride to school now.

You're all here?

You're late!

What a huge fish!

Teacher, it's been so long!

Yes, it certainly has.

Kit-chin,
don't leave the fish there.

I caught it especially for Mrs. Oishi.
That's why I'm late.

It's huge!
I'll have them prepare it.

Thank you.

Thank you for going
to all this trouble.

Mother Crow,
why do you cry?

Because I left

My seven precious babies

Back on the mountain

They're precious, so precious

Mother Crow sings

May I see the picture?

That's right.
We didn't show it to Sonki.

It's as if you can see it.

Yes, I can see it perfectly.

Teacher is here in the middle.

Takeichi, Nita and I
are in front.

Ma-chan is to the right,

and Fujiko's over here.

Mat-chan is clasping her hands
with her pinky sticking out.

Walking along the beach

In the morning light

I'm reminded

Of things from times past

The sound of the wind

The shapes of the clouds

The tide coming in

The colors of the shells

Wandering the beach

In the evening light

I'm reminded

Of people from times past

The tide coming in

The tide going out

The color of the moon

The light of the stars

We look up to our teachers

So grateful for their kindness

The years on the playground

Have passed so quickly

We look back

On those precious days

But now we must part
and say good-bye

THE END