Worldwide Distribution by TOEI COMPANY, LTD.
An ALTAMIRA PICTURES production
A Masayuki Suo film
Hurry, we'll miss the shoot
What's a shoot?
That's what they say in the "movies"
What are you looking at?
TALKING THE PICTURES
Taisho Emperor's Reign: 4th year(1915)
Now you turn towards camera
Blah, blah, blabbety blah
Blabbety...
Blah, blah...
Those eyes are what made him famous!
Keep quiet!
Cue the lady's entrance!
Blah, blah, blah...
Blah, blah, blabbety blah
The pissing geezer
I told you to be quiet
Get lost, all of you
Blabbety-blah!
"Assorted ruffians", that's your cue!
Do it now
What's going on?
Who let that dog loose?
You kids, again?
Not me...
Ignore them. We've only got 3 days Keep filming!
Hey, wait!
Let me go. I didn't do a thing
Don't answer back. I warned you
What the hell?
Goddamn it
This way
I won't let you get away this time!
What the hell are you doing?
Sorry, we're being chased
What?
Keep still then
What do we do?
I don't know
Damn, it's clouding over
Stay where you are! Nobody move!
He said stay still
We can't shoot without the sun. Just have to wait quietly
Is it bright enough yet?
Not long now...
Here we go...
Ready, steady...
Steady...steady...and...
Go!
Sorry
Out of my way!
Fool. Catch me if you can
Come back here!
Our "moving picture" is about to begin
A fateful tale of woe, filled with masterful swordplay, "Ichinojo the Hero"
The benshi narrator is that man of many voices, Shusei Yamaoka
Be sure not to miss it
The guy in that store's always nodding off
It's a piece of cake
Thank you for your support
Not at all, I love these "moving pictures"
Just hearing the barker gets my heart racing
Hey, get lost, you penniless brats
Piss off home
You shouldn't talk to us like that
Don't use rude words
Shut up. I'm warning you!
That got rid of them
- Thanks - Let's go
Do you often sneak in this way?
Never but I've always wanted to try
What if you get caught?
Then you'll just rescue me again, right?
Keep quiet or someone might hear
I hate spiders
Get rid of it, quick
Stay still
Look, it's gone now
Really?
Thank you
"Leave us alone"
"You dirty vermin, return our children to us"
"Pathetic human, what are you going to do about it?"
"Get lost unless you want to deal with this!"
"You've turned into a monster rat"
"Then let me employ my powers of transformation"
"Are you that legendary warrior?"
"The famous cat-ninja, Nekozuka?"
"I meow-st certainly am"
"Squeak, squeak"
"Mother, dear"
"Thank goodness you're safe. Let's go home"
"I shouldn't have let my guard down"
"Time to escape"
"No getting away, rat!"
"Oh, dear. It's curtains for me..."
That was great
Hold out your hand
What's this?
Caramel. Ever had it?
I've heard of it but never seen it
It's delicious
Here he is at last!
The genius!
Yamaoka!
We're counting on you!
May my fleeting vocal efforts find a home in your hearts
I, Shusei Yamaoka, poet of the dark express my deep gratitude
Thank you for such a large gathering
Yamaoka!
Fighting off the ruffians with just his wooden staff
Brave Ichinojo, joins battle in earnest
"Your villainous hearts are full of greed"
"Go to hell and meet your maker"
"Lord Ichinojo, please don't. If anything should happen..."
"I couldn't go on living"
"Come boys, cut him down to size!"
"So many against one? You cowardly crew"
Suddenly, out of the blue...
"Woof, woof"
A mysterious dog from foreign parts
Thus the cruel and bloody melée begins
Ichinojo reluctant to fight after so long
His favorite sword, with a life of its own, dropping bodies left and right
Two poor children cling to the body of a fallen ruffian
"Let's avenge our father's death"
They briefly bring our hero to his knees
Before making quick their escape
I can't believe we were in a moving picture
Do you like the pictures?
Yes, but today was my first time to see one
I've seen loads of them
Lucky you. There are so many I want to see
There's "Cleopatra" and "Resurrection"
and "Zigomar the Black Scourge"
I've seen Ryokufu Taniguchi and Ichiro Katsura
Gensui Oyama wasn't bad, either
But Yamaoka's far the best
You care more about the benshi than the movie?
That's right
Thanks for today
I can't take this
It's thanks to you we got in to see it
See you...
I've got a name, y'know
It's Umeko Kurihara. What's yours?
Shuntaro Someya
Thank you, Shuntaro
Until next time, then
See you
Come again, won't you?
Sure, soon enough
Until next time, then
You can come in now
I only get the cheapskates now. Time to move on, I guess
We have to move again?
Tough luck. Got to make a living somehow
Come see our new film
One more? Alright, as a special treat but be sure to come see it
Umeko...
Look, I got two. One for you
Matsu playing Chuji Kunisada
I always wanted to see that
Really? That's good
"Noble Rogue: Chuji Kunisada"
Let's go
Oh, no...
No more moving pictures...
"Your villainous hearts are full of greed"
"Go to hell and meet your maker"
"Lord Ichinojo, please don't. If anything should happen..."
"I couldn't go on living"
You're pretending to be Yamaoka? It's just like him
You love talking the pictures, huh?
I do
I want to become a real benshi one day
I'm sure you will
Really?
Yep
I wonder...
What do you want to be?
Don't laugh, alright?
I want to act in moving pictures
Wow, that's great
It's just a dream. Besides, I'm a girl
Don't worry. In foreign countries women play women's roles
It's fine...
Let me hear more of your narrating
In a foreign land, far far away The moon weeps, a cuckoo cries
A mysterious band of thieves strikes fear into Parisians' hearts
What is this letter 'Z' they leave on the scene as a solitary clue?
Here comes the famed Inspector Pauline to unravel the puzzle!
That's "Zigomar the Black Scourge"!
Hold our your hand
That's my admission fee
They're the ones you gave me
They lasted this long?
It's the last one. I was rationing myself
I see
In that case, wait here, Miss
Where are you going? I want to hear "Zigomar"
Moving pictures need caramel. I'll be right back
A thief, a thief!
He's always stealing from me
I'm not. Let me go!
Don't lie! Hand it over
Take your punishment
The pictures are here!
We've journeyed far and wide to be here
10 Years Later
We're the Shusei Yamaoka Moving Picture Tour
This time, with a rare masterpiece of the genre
"Ichinojo the Hero" in 5 reels
Welcome, sir
Two poor children cling to the body of a fallen ruffian
"Let's avenge our father's death"
They briefly bring our hero to his knees before making quick their escape
Shusei Yamaoka
Hurry up
These are rich pickings
It's all precious stuff. Be careful
Yasuda-san
Go tell him
That's everything
Load up
"Sire, we have learned our lesson, we'll rob no more"
Shuntaro, we're done. Let's go
"Good to hear, or it's your neck I shall come for next"
"But even I, Ichinojo are no match for you, my dear"
– So we leave them, laughing happily – Great job!
And thus ends the last reel of our tale of Ichinojo the Hero
Where is Yamaoka-sensei?
In his room, still getting changed
Shuntaro, get on quick!
Don't you have eyes in your head?
Having fun?
Nice work, y'all
Someya, here's your share with a little extra added
I don't care. I only joined because you wanted a benshi
It's going well thanks to you, "Sensei"
I'm no sensei. Just a fool who got tricked
Mind your tongue, you copycat, fake benshi
Be grateful we got you off the streets
Drink all you like, lads
Goddamn it...
Calm down, Shuntaro
Don't quarrel with Yasuda-san if you value your life
The last benshi had his throat crushed
"Ichinojo the Hero", a 5-reel, rare masterpiece
"Woof, woof", a mysterious dog from foreign parts
Thus the cruel and bloody melée begins
Detective Kimura
Thank you for coming from so far
You've confirmed there's an imposter benshi
The dishonor done to motion pictures is unforgiveable to me
I promise I will catch the culprit
That's good to hear
I'll give you a ride back
If it's no trouble
This way
Please
You may keep your shoes on
Are you sure?
Thank you
Stop the car, now!
"The World's Best" with Koyo Komada
Komada?
He retired years ago
Who's this bearded wonder?
Summon the local police, immediately
Yes, sir
The ruffian falls. Two children, sweet and innocent, run forward
"Father, you're bleeding so much"
Hey, you up there
Their words fall on deaf ears...
You're an imposter
"We are so terribly sad"
You're under arrest!
"Farewell"
Hey, come back!
Wait!
The pictures are burning!
Call the fire brigade!
Wait! Let me on!
Hoist me up, you jerk!
It's been nice working with you
What?
Someya, I'll get you someday!
Excuse me, sir?
You forgot your case
Aoki Theater Lead Benshi. Takayuki Mogi Regular Benshi: Shusei Yamaoka & Shiro Naito
Shusei Yamaoka...
Wait. Don't just walk out and leave us
We're fed up of that jerk, Mogi
Pay no attention to what he says
Plus your wife's such a slave-driver
Just while we're temporarily short-staffed...
Pay us more, then
The other guys pay in advance
"The other guys"? Who's that?
The Tachibana? Did they buy you out?
Let's go
Don't expect to come back! Traitors, all...
Excuse me...
What the hell do you want?
Are you short of staff?
Come in
You're as tall as a telegraph pole. Got a name?
Someya...no...
It's Kunisada
Kunisada...like Japan's Robin Hood? Hope you're worthy of the name...
Follow me
Those are our musicians
Only three of them?
It's not about the number
There's a certain tone only experience can produce
Slacking off? Is the cleaning done?
I'm not. I'm showing the new guy the ropes
New guy
I'm Kunisada
We lost a couple more musicians, to the damn Tachibana
And we're left with the bottom of the barrel?
So, you...
Not you, him. What do you do?
I can narrate
Odd jobs. We've no barkers nor touts. We need all the help we can get
It's perfect timing
Just as long as you're not trying to make your life easier
Of course I'm not
This Aoki Theater has a long and illustrious history
Listen to this
Work hard and respect our name
Ma'am
They used to put on plays here
The Kabuki star Danjuro trod those boards. Much to my wife's pride
Hamamoto, Hamamoto, Hamamoto, Hamamoto
What can I do for you?
We're opening half hour early. Be ready
Sure thing
Let's go
Expecting to live-in?
Alright, I'll make a special exception
Thank you very much
Good grief...
Are you alright?
The wood's rotten here. Watch out
Ouch...
You can stay here
I'll say this once. Never, ever smoke in here
Yes, sir
Go in
Excuse me
Don't give me that look
"Noble Rogue: Chuji Kunisada"
Lucky lad, Shuntaro...
Time to make a fresh start
Tachibana's the yakuza thug who rules these parts
They opened a picture palace and are poaching our staff
We manage to cling on because of our famed benshi
The great Yamaoka-sensei
Are you nuts? That old drunkard?
Look at him. We don't run a damn flop-house
What the hell was that?
Scene changes so fast I couldn't keep up
Movies are like that recently
Shut up!
People come here to listen to my narration
Absolutely, sir
I can turn a piece of crap into gold
Absolutely, sir
Movie trends are irrelevant
Absolutely, sir
Mogi-sensei, lighten up a little
What needs lightening is your make-up
I'm a little peckish
There's some bean jam somewhere
How dare you play your awful music over me
Don't interfere with my narration again
My sincere apologies, not!
I'm hot...
Where's my throat medication...
Times are changing
We can't go on just sticking to the old ways
Says who, the old drunk in the corner?
You're in my way
Polar opposites, those two...
Is Mogi-sensei that popular?
For tear-jerkers, he's the best in the business
"I already took my revenge"
"But a world without Seijuro holds nothing"
He acts like he's a star of the stage
Making eyes at the girls in the dark
"My worthy death will stir peoples' hearts"
Naito-sensei is an obnoxious jerk
Full of himself for graduating from teacher-training college
The kindness the girl had once shown him...
But heck, does he sweat. Has to remove his kimono mid-show
Which is a damn nuisance
A beautiful heart hidden within an ugly shell
But by the end, he's immaculate again. I'll give him that much
And Yamaoka-sensei? As popular as ever?
He sure used to be
Now he drinks every spare minute
The era of him pulling in the crowds is long gone
Is that right...
This goes in the film vault
Where's that?
Your room, dummy
There you go
Highly flammable, so put it in a tea chest
Tachibana Picture Palace
"Ten Commandments"
The Lord fights for His people
Behold the might of his hand!
Moses' voice reached to the Heavens
With a roar, the sea was split in twain
So, my dear, isn't it a splendid production?
The all-important narration's awful
Do with it as you wish
Stop your awful narrating
Boss, I don't know how to thank you
Without your help, I'd be...
Don't dwell on the past
I'm having Kotoe manage this theater
You will aid my daughter
Father, what do you mean?
I'm capable of doing it myself
Business is no easy matter
Yasuda has had dealings in the movies
I'm sure he'll be of use. Right, Yasuda?
I'd be delighted to be of service
Isn't it time you went to see that benshi guy?
Takayuki Mogi, lead narrator at the Aoki
One more push and he's mine
Like father, like daughter. Right, Yasuda?
Damn fool! You do not get a second chance
Forgive me, boss
One bean cake
Coming right up
Caramel, too
Caramel, right here
Oh, my...
So handsome...
Welcome to our theater, everyone
On behalf of our entire staff
I, Lead benshi, Takayuki Mogi express my deep gratitude
You're a star!
The unbreakable bonds of mutually-held love
Eyes on eternity, though death do they part
The timeless masterpiece, "The Cuckoo"
Please enjoy the show
"Are you alright? The view is better from here"
"Come join me"
"Thank you"
"Are you tired?"
"No, I'm fine"
"What's wrong? You're not your usual self"
"Do you think I'll get over my illness?"
"Of course you will"
"But my mother died of the same disease"
How's it going?
It's quite a slow picture, huh?
I'm matching the speed of his narration. Don't want to get shouted at
What an incredible skill...
It's my shoulders
Give me a massage Turning this all day is agony
Skip two reels. There's enough custom to do two sittings today
Roger, skipping two rolls
Turn off the lights
No prologue today?
Prologue? Idiot, just kill the light
Was the love Marguerite needed
the same as that which Armand I had to offer?
Benshi, we can't hear you
Shut up! It's obvious what's going on
Are you too drunk to talk straight?
The innocence of self-sacrifice
In "The Tale of Manon Lescaut"
The Camelia is a fragile flower
whose time soon comes to an end
That wasn't any good
Isn't she great? Her name's Matsuko Sawai
She's best as Oman in "Osen's Road to Hell"
I collect snippets of my favorite stuff
The perks of being a projectionist, I guess
Take a look at my treasures
I never let these out of my sight
Matsunosuke, Sessue Hayakawa...
Chaflin? That's a strange name
Don't you know that guy?
Wears a hat and cane...walks like this?
"The Professor"?
Bingo!
His name's Chaplin. I've also got Fatty and Keaton, too
You could make a gag reel
Idiot. Who'd sit and watch a bunch of short film clips?
After the great Kanto earthquake
many Edo benshi drifted our way but they struggle here
Our people like a familiar voice narrating to them
We're keen to hear a favorable response, Mogi-sensei
We're not the biggest in the land but good movies are coming our way
People don't come for the titles, they come for my narration
Your confidence is impressive
If you come aboard, I see I'll have to roll out the red carpet
Right?
Matsuko, quit moping and refill the Boss's glass
Yes...
An honor to be served by such a pretty actress
We've got the melodrama "Cuckoo", the love story "Camille"
The unmissable "Osen" or from literature "If Winter Comes"
Come on up and enjoy the show
Yamaoka-sensei, sir...
It's no use. He's too far gone
He hardly speaks anyway. Let him sleep on stage
We can't do that!
Mogi-sensei, might I trouble you to take over?
You must be joking
No way I'm covering his ass
Then Naito-sensei may I ask you?
I just finished. My throat won't take it
Please, I beg you
Well...
What?
Allow me to try. I often used to impersonate Yamaoka-sensei
Idiot. Mind your own business
A mimic? Let him try, it might be interesting
That's absurd
There's no way he can do it
Are they mad? Trusting an amateur...
This place is doomed. Best we look for work
But would anyone take us?
Let's get it over with
Don't lump me with the likes of you
May my fleeting efforts find a home in your hearts
Thank you for coming today
I, Shusei Yamaoka, poet of the dark
express my deep gratitude
The damn fool...
Addressing the audience is the lead benshi's job
How dare he?
Part one of "Camille", Alexandre Dumas' world-renowned masterpiece
Armand swears he will devote his young life to Camille
Amazing. He's not even looking at the script
It's like Yamaoka back in his prime
Go for it, kid
"Ah, Marguerite..."
"My true love..."
"Armand, you're home early today"
"I rushed home to tell you about this wonderful book"
"What kind of story is it?"
"It's called, 'Manon Lescaut'. I bought a copy for you"
"Would you write a few words in it for me?"
"I dedicate this book to Marguerite, with all my love"
With every minute, death steps closer to Marguerite Gautier
"Everything is well. Let me rest"
"Let me dream. I am happy"
The distant bells of Notre-Dame echo through the night
As if to mourn the Lady of the Camelias
He's better than the original
Best in Japan!
You still got what it takes!
Thank you very much, everybody
Thank you for coming. Do come again
Hello...
Hello
That was you narrating just now
Just like Yamaoka-sensei in the old days
Where did you see him perform?
Anyway, it took me back
Until next time...
Yamaoka-sensei
How dare you do that?
Sorry but everyone was happy. It reminded them of you
Leave it alone!
Wordy narration gets in the way of what's on screen!
"Dr. Caligari" would be boring without Tokugawa's words
The benshi's skill makes the movie come alive
Skill?
Come with me
Hamamoto, you still up there?
Play something, I don't care what
What?
Show us something
Start it up
Caroline begins to cry
Aurez accepts her love at last
"Oh, my dear Aurez"
"Forgive me for allowing myself to believe that swindler"
"How could I not forgive you? I found this letter"
"I had no idea how deep was your love for me"
"What letter?"
Somehow her letter had been misdelivered to him
"How could this be? It must be the divine hand"
The two lovers embrace
The boy watches them from the shadows
He takes her other letter from his pocket and puts a match to it
"Burn, burn" he says, as the flames take hold
Meanwhile our couple have found true love in each other's arms
Around them, petals fall
Enough!
That's Tenpu Hayashi's narration
We don't need a copycat!
Wait, please
You're wasting your time
Please, give me one more chance
Forget it!
Okay, I won't copycat! I'll make up my own narration
Tensei Kunisada?
Caroline begins to cry
She walks up to Aurez
"You're the only one for me"
"I can't bear it any more. Take me now"
"You say that to all the guys. I found that letter"
"Letter? I've no idea what you mean"
"Don't play dumb. The letter's proof enough"
"You talk too much. Let's just have some fun"
"Let me rub my cheek here"
"How do you like that?"
He's as popular as they say
I guess...
"And if I stroke here?"
It's that little bastard!
Meanwhile the little virgin watches as their hips join
"Damn her to hell. That bitch!"
"She was supposed to be stroking me!"
In fury, he sets fire to her letter
He's an impressive guy
Please don't look so grim
You said we should give him a chance
"Oh, Caroline dear with your bottom so near"
Ah, a sweet end to Spring and to our tale of Southern romance
Hey, there
I just watched your show. Not bad at all
Who might you be?
My name's Futagawa
A director of motion pictures?
It takes a good benshi to make a boring film fun
But please don't mess with my films
Sorry to trouble you
Not at all
I appreciate your work
Is it you?
Don't tell me...
You're Kunisada-sensei ?
You're the talk of the town
Well...thank you
This is Detective Kimura. What a guy, eh?
He's tracking that gang of thieves
And that imposter impersonating Yamaoka-sensei
And one other who made his escape
Wanted: Torao Yasuda
Maybe he's hiding out in a theater
I'm busted...
Kunisada...
Relax. The detective doesn't suspect you
But sir, l...
That Tachibana bastard took some of our viewers
But thanks to you, we're packing 'em in again
I can finally pay the guys their salary
Really? I'm glad to be of help
Kunisada...
You're our only hope
Hang in there. Help us out a while longer, huh?
I'm so glad...
What is this place?
It's good to have a change of scenery, no?
No. What if someone were to come in?
That's what makes it exciting
By the way...
You need to become the boss's mistress
What do you mean?
The dirty old bastard has totally fallen for you
No way
Do it for me
And sometimes I'll take my turn
Stop!
Listen...
Who gave you your start in the business?
What's going on?
Damn you, old chest
What the hell?
Don't disturb us
Goddamn chest
That does it
You want to fight, huh?
It's got a mind of its own
Bring it on!
Let's go
Quick, let's go
Thank you for saving me
What do you mean?
Get it off!
Stay still
I hate spiders
I knew it
Isn't it strange?
We think we change but we don't at all
I haven't changed either
You took your name from the kindly outlaw, Chuji Kunisada?
That's right
Hard to live up to it, though
Why did you change your name?
I wanted to have a posh name at least
So I upgraded it to Matsuko
Good idea
Listen, Shuntaro...
Yes?
How about we just run away together?
Where to?
Somewhere far. To escape together
Are you in trouble?
I can't right now
Why not?
I took the name of a loyal and chivalrous man
so I can't leave right now
Nonsense. Forget it, I wasn't being serious anyway
It just would've been nice to hear you say you'd come
Special Performance Tensei Kunisada "Osen's Road to Hell"
Now the dust's settled...
our jobs are safe
Small-minded thinking. I'm not rotting away here
You're all talk
Don't underestimate me. I'm a decorated Navy veteran, you know
Even your instrument doubts you
Why not re-skin the thing? Make the mice happy
Bastards. I'll show them...
With this money will I be able to make her happy?
Of course
You're right
Hello
I can't believe the new guy gets top-billing
I'm sorry
Doing "Road to Hell"... which happens to be my forte
I'm aware of that
Just for the record, do not mimic my style
No more copying. I'll stake everything on my own talents
Good to know. That makes it easy for me
Are you quitting this place?
Whoops, I said too much
Anyway, give it your best shot
Which reminds me, Aoki's waiting for you
Probably wants to talk money
If you get poached, he's in trouble
Drive a hard bargain, okay?
Long time, no see
Never guessed you'd be under my nose
With all that cash you swiped why still play at being a benshi ?
I don't know about any money
Besides, I'm done impersonating. I'm a real benshi now
Don't get big ideas, you clown
I know you ran off with my suitcase
I promise I don't know. Spare my life, I beg you
Idiot, I'd kill you at the drop of a hat
Just not this time...
You live because Tachibana's idiot daughter has a soft spot for you
However...
a certain someone wants your voice ruined
Now you won't impress her so much
What's going on?
Help, somebody! Murder!
Shuntaro!
Wake up! I don't want you to die!
Are you alright? I'II get some help
Don't...I need to be on stage
What happened? Can you perform in this state?
We're looking forward to this!
This is going to be good!
I'm glad I made it in time
Let me tell the saddest story ever...
A crude dwelling in a country village. Leaves fall all around
A man stands in the evening light
Speak up!
"Is it Autumn already?"
Seijuro gazes at the trees readying themselves for winter
The lady Osen approaches
"Master Seijuro"
Get another benshi!
Talk properly!
What's going on with him?
I wonder what happened?
You don't deserve top-billing!
"Master Seijuro"
"It's cold outside, please come indoors before you catch cold"
"I thank thee"
"But I must go now"
To keep him with her she clings desperately to his arm
"Please, don't go. You mustn't leave"
"If you go, those fellows will cut you down"
"Let me go, Osen. I know that they betray me"
"But I have no choice than to go"
"If I live through it we shall meet again"
Seijuro breaks free of the sobbing Osen and turns his back on their home
"Master Seijuro!"
Eyes full of sorrow, Osen watches him depart
Osen's sister, Oman, happens by on her way to visit her sister
"Ah, Master Seijuro"
Oman has secretly loved him since childhood
She's so happy to see him again
"You've grown beautiful after all these years"
"Sir, please don't tease me so"
"My sister has awaited your return these long years"
"Now she must be so happy"
"Osen, you are under arrest!" .
Attacked from all directions, painted in blood, Osen fights like a tiger
Grabbing ladders, rakes whatever they can
They finally subdue this solitary woman
"Now I have avenged Seijuro I leave no regrets behind"
"I, Osen, will show you a splendid death!"
At that moment, a spear plunges forth
As she crumples to the ground, the expression on her face
is one of blessed relief
"Master Seijuro"
"At long last..."
"I can be by your side, my love"
Along with the single tear on her cheek
Osen finally falls
Her passion melting the snowy peaks themselves
She ends her life in tears of blood
One woman's sad tale, we recount to this very day
From a bright Spring day in old Edo
Hereby ends the love story of "Osen's Road to Hell"
Maestro!
Best in the land!
That was something truly special
Thank you so much
You're wonderful, Kunisada-sensei
Fancy a cup of tea? We need to talk
What's all the fuss?
Nice job of rubbing my face in the dirt
Hey, Kunisada!
Let's go out
I'm supposed to meet Umeko...
Umeko?
First you steal Matsuko, now Umeko? That does it!
It's not what you think!
Shut up! Today we drink until dawn
Gimme another...
Excuse us...
Is he alright?
Sensei...
It's you guys? Come join me
Get him a bottle, please
I know you love it, but go easy, sir
I don't drink becase I love it
II drink because it's there. I wouldn't otherwise
Tea, water, whatever... as long as it gets me drunk
What do you mean?
It's pathetic...
I'm sorry
Not you, fool
The whole narrating business is pathetic
Why is that?
Moving pictures are called "films" these days
These "films" are already complete by themselves...
Yet we go ahead and slap our own narration on top of it all
This is what's so pathetic
You can have films without narration
But narration can't exist without films
Our so-called "profession" is just an side-show
We're home. Open up someone
I'll do it
Thanks
Your hat, sir
Yeah, my hat...
What's this?
Don't tell me...
Where's the money?
I said I don't know
You're happy if this shack turns to ashes?
Alright...
Hand it over
It was hidden up there?
It's gone. It's not here
It's too late to play dumb
Really, it was right there. Honestly
Think I'm a fool? Hand it over
Kunisada, where are you?
Someone's butting in...
Fine. Bring it to our office tomorrow
If you value that woman's life
Which one?
What on earth happened?
What's all this?
How come?
They broke the ceiling?
This...
This isn't a common burglary
It's Tachibana
Tachibana's handiwork for sure
That dirty bastard and his low tricks
What about tomorrow's show?
Listen
I hope you won't take this lying down
The pictures are our lives
But just look at this...
This is the end
It's all over now
Stop crying!
Ma'am
Tomorrow...open up as usual
Sensei, that's easy to say but...
Look at the pictures...
Hamamoto, glue the usable stuff together
What? How do I do that?
Forget it. The plots won't make sense
Kunisada...
Are you up to it?
Yes
Did it go as planned?
Yes, sir. He'll bring the cash tomorrow
Good
Sell the girl. She's a bitch...
Then I'll take care of that fake benshi
Yes, but my daughter mustn't know
I understand
Heck, who's making that racket?
The honor of our glorious Navy, evermore
In forever cloudless, blue skies
Beaming bright along with the rising sun
Heaven sides with justice and favors the true at heart
What are you talking about?
"The good Lord giveth"
Where's my father?
He went out
Out on the town again?
So...why are you standing there?
Well...
There's no-one inside here
Open it up
Yes
Please
Oh, it's you...
What are you doing?
That's what I want to ask!
I see what's going on...
This is perfect timing
You can go now
Yes
Tell me...
What's going on with you and Kunisada?
What business is it of yours?
I want to figure him out
In order to poach him? You can forget about that
Really, why?
Chuji Kunisada is a loyal and chivalrous fellow
What the hell is that?
All right. I'll let you go but on one condition...
Tell me what makes him tick
Their happy dreams were dashed
Chuji was surrounded by police...
Got anything showing a couple escaping from some baddies?
Escaping to where?
Good question...
Somewhere beyond reach...up into the sky
Dunno where I'll fnd that
I must bid farewell to my beloved Mt. Akagi
He brought me what I needed most
And Mogi-sensei didn't do that?
You were his lover, right?
You're rich. You can't know how miserable it is to be poor
You still look pretty miserable to me
You don't even know what happiness is
Tell me about it, then
I'll tell you...
The thing with happiness...
Happiness is...
..the taste of caramel!
These come to life when an audience sees them
You're right
Do I loan out my Matsuko, too?
I leave her in your care, my friend
Thank you
Is that enough?
Sure. You've been most helpful
Wait! You're supposed to let me go!
Didn't you know? I'm neither loyal nor chivalrous
Roll up, roll up. "Road to Hell" and "Golden Demon"
"Chuji Kumisada" and "Camille
All these and more, in one go
ls that for real?
By the heavens, I swear
We know you lie sometimes...
Get lost...
You won't see this anywhere else!
I left the place a wreck
Then why are they still in business?
have no idea!
Damn fool!
Let's go eat
Umeko?
Where are you?
Umeko?
Shuntaro?
Is that you?
I'll get you out of there
Where's the key?
Shuntaro, hurry up!
What's going on, Umeko?
What are you up to?
I wish our guys weren't so quick to violence
What are you doing?
Hurry up and get me out!
Listen...
Shall we make a deal?
A deal?
I'll let her go...
but you work for us exclusively
I want you as our lead benshi. Not a bad offer, huh?
I don't want to use force. The key, please
You don't get it, do you?
If they find out you were here, you're a dead man
I'm not important. As long as Matsuko is safe
I see what's happening...
You've been most helpful
See you...
You little shit. Prepare to die
Umeko!
Shuntaro!
Are you okay? You're not hurt?
What's the idea? I saved you
What were you doing with her?
It's blood
Idiot, it's lipstick
- It's not... - No excuses!
You men are all the same
Let's go...
I can't tell what's scrap and what ain't
I guess this is
Any old iron... let me buy your junk...
Sorry, but please wait a little longer, folks
We will start shortly
He's just bluffing
I hope he's alright
Might he have gone to Tachibana?
No way he'd do that
Their patience is running out
Kunisada, you fool. Where are you?
No need to worry
He'll be back...
What is it? We need to run
I want you to wait at the station
I must go back to the theater. I'll join you when I'm done
Wait for me. Please
You promise you'll come?
I promise
Shuntaro?
What?
I want to hear "Zigomar" from where we left off
You never finished it
Of course. I'll tell you later
Alright, I believe you
The lipstick's still there
Thanks. See you later
Time's up. Yamaoka-sensei, please
It's no use
He stinks...
I can't believe it. It's just not fair!
It's gone...
It's gone!
How come?
So where do we find ourselves?
Kanichi taking a stroll along Atami beach...
No, it's Seijuro...
Really? This is Lady Camille...
"My heart is"... "Who the hell are you?"
The Golden Demon...
"I'm not feigning this illness"
"Blinded by money, you abandoned me"
"Because you're penniless, Kanichi..."
"If money's that important...ring the bells"
Seijuro appears...no, it's Chuji Kunisada...
You can't call this a story...
Naito, do something...
This ain't good
We shouldn't have worried. Do it now
What's up? I want my money back!
This is terrible!
Sir, you can't come in here
Get lost
No, no, you mustn't...
Leave me alone
Excuse me
That jerk, what's he doing?
He's a Tachibana guy
Tachibana?
Today's screenings have been canceled
Sorry for the inconvenience
What's going on?
Kunisada...
I'm sorry...
To tell the truth...
Looks like they're done. Let's leave
I want my money back
It's over. We're ruined...
I'll go on...
Just one moment...
Yours is a famous blade, mine's rusty
Yours can kill, mine cannot
But love is never that cut and dried
He's back! Let's rewind the film
One-two, one-two, one-two...
Though one day the sun may fail to rise
There'll never be a day without love. It's the logic driving the world
Since I made you wait for so long
I, Tensei Kunisada will redouble my efforts in your service
So please a loud round of applause to start your viewing pleasure
Worth waiting for!
Give it all you've got!
You're late, you fool
This is where I belong, after all
Cut the crap. Let's go
Here we are, a beach in Atami
A couple takes a stroll away from prying eyes
"You know that I need you"
- "Are you sure?" - "Yeah, I think so"
"Then please say it once more"
"Sure thing, honey. Be my gal"
"Who are you? I can't believe you address me so crudely"
"What? You're saying I can't be trusted?"
"Well, your face changes each time I look at you"
"So does yours, y'know. The thing is..."
"We humans are pitiful creatures. Let's end it here"
"How dare you, you hussy?"
The poor woman looks up at him, forlorn...
Then, behold...in a blast of wind
"Miss, do not be fooled by him"
"He is an evil fellow"
"Devil, I will damn thee to hell with my sword"
"Who the hell are you?"
"I must bid farewell to my beloved Mt. Akagi"
"Ah, it's Chuji Kunisada."
"For you I'd forego loyalty and chivalry"
"So run away with me now"
"Nonsense. Men are all after the same thing"
"Sadly, I don't have any fancy words or smart advice for you..."
"But what's in my heart is true"
"You're such a hick, you are"
He's all over the place
Are you Miss Matsuko Sawai?
My name is Futagawa, I'm a film director
It's sudden I know but would you be in my next film?
May I accompany you to Kyoto?
You know the actor, Tsumasaburo Bando?
I'm doing a picture called "The Gangster"
It'll be his most important work
Shall we work together on it?
"The Gangster"
But I decided not to act anymore...
Kunisada told me to look after you
But that's not why I'm asking
I really want to work with you
"You're under arrest!"
Hounded by the cops they find themselves back on the beach
"I lead a thug's life. Do not fall for me. I'm already a wanted man"
"This makes me want you more. Such is a woman's heart"
"I don't think your mother will like me"
"You pesky cops, quit playing tag, will ya'?"
"Where should we flee?"
"Leave it to me"
"This is Portuguese magic carpet will spirit us away!"
What's wrong?
Kunisada set the girl free
Boss?
Go. Do it
Two hearts, once far apart, join as one, soaring toward the future
Ah, a sweet end to Spring and our romance of Southern tail
You're the best!
Great, Kunisada!
Maestro!
Be quiet! This is the police
Drop the gun, put your hands up
Do it now!
Damn it
Do not move
Or we'll gun you down like a dog
I'll count to 100
If your hands move an inch, we'll shoot
Yasuda, it's just Yamaoka doing voices!
Damn, he saw me...
Heck!
Toyoko, darling!
Get out of here
Toyoko!
My cane!
It's the police. Stay calm, everyone
Shut up!
Yasuda, huh? I knew it was you
Drop the gun!
Sensei, get out of here
You fool, he's just a fake benshi
What do you mean?
Stop!
What the hell?
He's over here!
Mogi, my leg's stuck
Yasuda, quit messing around
Never underestimate us again!
We're the men who beat the Russian fleet!
My poor drum...
Sorry
Someya!
Sorry!
Someya!
Who's Someya?
Who's that?
Someya!
That's a waste!
Best stop drinking anyway
Okay, calm down
You bastards!
Go on, Hamamoto!
Get 'em! Keep going!
Drive 'em out!
Get lost, assholes!
Fire!
Get out of here!
It's going to explode!
Hamamoto!
I'll go. Get everyone out
Hamamoto-san!
Someya!
Damn it
Excuse me, excuse me...
May I?
Nope!
Die!
That hurt!
You need the pedal!
The little shit
What's going on?
Shut up!
Get off!
Are you okay?
Stop!
Police orders! After that bicycle
Just get moving
What about my precious pictures?
Let me through!
Get out of the way!
Someya!
Yasuda!
Don't put on the brakes
Don't be a back seat driver...
Excuse me
I can't see...
What're you doing? Give me a push
Good lad. That's the spirit
Now get in
Go!
Keep on going! We'll show 'em
I can't climb that...
Someya!
Go!
What the hell?
Yasuda, you're mine now
Serves you right!
What the...
Someya, you've been such a pain in the ass
Alright. Let's end this
Get it over with
As you wish. I'm happy to oblige
What?
Goddamn it!
Yasuda!
Stop!
Your game's up
I knew I'd be caught eventually
Things are never as neat as in the movies
But this isn't the final curtain
Even in real life
you can get to have a sequel
Pull yourselves together
Don't be too down-hearted
I know it's tough but hang in there
After the storm comes sunshine
Morning always follows the dark
So you survived after all...
What's the matter?
What's that?
It's my...!
Darling!
Don't mind me...
Darling!
What is it, Toyoko?
How on earth...?
This must've been here for years!
Heaven didn't abandon us after all!
Darling!
I'm so happy for you
Yamaoka-sensei...
Where are you going?
In a foreign land, far far away The moon weeps, a cuckoo cries
Kaeriyama Prison
A mysterious band of thieves strikes fear into Parisians' hearts
What is this letter 'Z' they leave on the scene as a solitary clue?
Here comes the famed Inspector Pauline to unravel the puzzle!
"Wait, Zigomar!"
But he's nobody's fool. In a flash, he shakes off his pursuers
Beaming a smile before he leaves
...A fragile beauty steps out of the shadows
"Aoki Theater re-opens"
She whips out a knife from her sleeve
"I've completely fallen in love with you"
"But our love is doomed, so you must die and so will I"
"So you came all the way from Paris to die with me?"
It wasn't Paris, it was Kyoto
"Do the job with a single cut" he says
Zigomar then holds the blade against his heart
And pulls Louise into a tight embrace
I hate you so much, I could kill you
No matter how I try, I can never forget you...
No villain is truly evil through and through
Just as no good man is entirely free of sin
This ends the story of Zigomar the Black Scourge
You had a lady visitor earlier
A visitor?
Cute enough to be an actress. But she said she'd heard enough and left
She asked us to give you this...
It's against the rules but...
We'll make an exception
She said it was to pay for admission
A strange kinda girl...
Cast
Ryo Narita
Yuina Kuroshima
Masatoshi Nagase
Kengo Kora
Takuma Otoo
Naoto Takenaka
Eri Watanabe
Mao Inoue
Fumiyo Kohinata
Yutaka Takenouchi
Executive Producer Shoji Masui, Motoi Sasaki
Producer Kazuhito Amano, Takao Tsuchimoto
Written by Shozo Katashima
Director of Photography Junichi Fujisawa
Lighting Director Tatsuya Osada
Production Designer Norihiro Isoda
Art Decorator Koichi Hirai
Sound Hiromichi Kori
Editor Junichi Kikuchi
Music by Yoshikazu Suo
Directed by Masayuki Suo
Movies were once silent
But in Japan...
they never really were.
Because we always had the benshi's guidance
Hiroshi Inagaki (1905-1980) - Film Director
English subtitles by Kennedy Taylor & Aya Futami ©2019 TALKING THE PICTURES Production Committee