Confetti (2023) Movie Script
Hey, Yuki?
Yes, Leader?
I had it wrong.
You have to go now.
- To school?
- Yes.
But I can't make it today.
You're not related?
I'm Shinnosuke Hashimoto
from the Yuhiza Theater Troupe.
- Transfer procedures should be...
- I'm sorry.
Leader is busy right now.
Leader?
My father. Also, I don't have a mother.
I see.
I've known Yuki since birth.
We're like family.
We'll let it slide for now.
Third years should fill out this form
about their future path.
Actor
Please don't tell my classmates
about the theater troupe.
But you'll make friends more easily.
I'm only here for a month.
I don't need friends.
"If I close my eyes and think deeply,"
"I can see my long-lost mother."
"That's all I need."
"When I want to see her,"
"I just close my eyes."
That's all your tests.
Now for the rankings.
In first, Ken Ogawa,
who's absent.
Second place, Maya Hasegawa.
Only two of you had
over 90 points this time.
Come talk to me to learn your rankings.
Open your textbooks to page 40.
We're learning square roots today.
The new kid always leaves early.
Wonder why.
He has a different uniform too.
- Yuki, can you do me a favor?
- Yes?
There's a Ken Ogawa in our class.
The absent kid?
He hasn't been in recently.
Can you give him this?
Here's the address.
- Me?
- It's on your way home.
If you don't mind, be his friend too.
- Yes?
- Hi, I'm from Ken's class...
Hello.
Nice to meet you.
Ken's friend?
Our teacher sent me.
Wait one minute.
- Ken, it's a friend.
- No, no. I'm not...
Wow, that's a strong denial.
No, I just mean...
Are you going somewhere?
Yeah.
Who's he?
Nice to meet you.
Oh, you've never met?
I'm Yuki Iwata.
I just moved here.
I was asked to bring you this.
Shouldn't you still be in class?
I left early.
And he made you run an errand?
Thanks for this.
It was on my way.
Yuki, was it? Would you like to
come in for some snacks?
He's on his way home.
Oh, that's right. Sorry.
- Have fun.
- Yeah.
Off to the station?
Yes.
- You can relax a bit.
- Huh?
We're in the same class, right?
Yes. I mean, yeah.
When did you transfer?
Last week.
- That's really recent.
- Yeah.
What?
You have good grades.
Grades?
You're top of the class.
Well, I'm good at studying.
I wish I was the same.
Really?
Better good than not.
It's not hard.
You just have to know how.
- Well, I'm going that way.
- Okay.
See you.
Yuhiza Theater Troupe
- It should say mesh wig. Go find it.
- Right away.
- How's it going?
- Good.
Yoko's coming today.
Make dinner reservations.
- Who's that again?
- Leader's biggest fan.
Oh, her.
Confetti
- If it isn't the fool from earlier.
- You!
Thought I'd get you back
your lost wallet.
This doesn't concern you. Get lost.
What! I'll kick your ass!
I'd like to see you try!
Fellas, get him!
- Wanna keep going?
- I'll get you for this!
- You'll be sorry!
- Get lost!
With blush on your cheeks
and a flower hairpin in your hair
Everybody over there
is certain to love you
The sleet won't stop
If it doesn't, you're going to be cold
Even if...
Another great performance.
Thank you very much.
If only you had a bigger audience.
We're hoping for a full house next week.
- Let me.
- It's all right.
- Yuki, you should be serving here.
- I'm sorry.
It's all right.
You're all coddling him.
Maybe I was too strict with my child.
Did something happen?
Hey!
My daughter suddenly decided
she wanted to be an idol.
Your daughter must be very pretty.
Stop that.
But she's already over 20.
I wasn't supportive of her plan,
so she ran away from home.
Don't be so nosy.
Sorry.
It's fine.
I wanted to discuss it.
That's why I came out all the way here.
Does that mean your daughter
is in Tokyo now?
Yes, it seems she's now...
an... underground idol?
Asaka's an idol?
I've never been to an idol's concert.
I'm a bit nervous.
I just want to know how she's doing.
Okay, then.
Let's send in Yuki to scout it out.
What, me?
Yuhiza owes Yoko a lot.
Don't you want to help her?
Of course.
Thank you.
I'm the red member,
the fiercest baby, Mitsu Himemiya.
I'm the blue member sending
magical love, Ai Tsukino.
The yellow member,
I'm the hyper Asaka Asuka.
We're Patty Five.
Asaka!
Here's our last...
I mean, here's our next song.
Here's Flash.
What?!
You're a Patty Five fan?
I was just curious.
Who's your fave?
Asaka.
Seriously?
- She's my favorite too!
- Boring day after boring day
With no way of finding love
I can't leave without
telling you either line
That moment when our eyes met
I want to recreate that feeling
Today is...
our last day as Patty Five.
What?
We can't agree with management,
so we've decided to part ways.
We haven't been paid in forever!
We're done entertaining drunk men.
Stop, stop! Shut up!
We really haven't been paid at all!
It's not like I thought
they'd make it big,
but I didn't think they'd break up.
I had a feeling though.
K-pop is more mainstream now.
Indie idol groups like Patty Five
don't stand a chance.
That's a bit dramatic.
I wonder what Asaka's going to do now.
What did you like about Asaka?
Um...
her face?
Her face?
I get it.
Yes, broke up.
They broke up just now.
Will you be at today's...
No, you won't.
Of course not. You're worried.
I understand.
We could be next, huh?
Let's go rehearse.
Yes, sir.
- Got it?
- Yes.
Let's try it.
- Ready?
- Yes.
Alright. Alright.
It feels a bit shallow.
Yes, sir.
Expressions become stronger
when you're delivering them to someone.
- Yes, sir.
- Deliver them to the audience.
Sometimes I can't tell
who you're doing this for.
Shinnosuke told me...
about your future plans.
Yes.
You want to be an actor?
I've always said I want to keep acting
after middle school.
I'm talking to you now as your father.
I won't force you.
I told you, you can go
another path if you want.
Why bring this up now?
Because you seem lost.
I don't feel lost.
Even so...
give it more thought.
Yes, sir.
Yuki.
Um, it's Maya, right?
You know my name.
Are you taking that file to Ken?
- I am.
- Did you meet him?
- Yeah.
- Was he okay?
- I guess.
- I see.
You always leave early.
What's going on?
Family matters.
Everything okay?
You should talk to our teacher.
He knows about it.
If you say so.
Is that all?
Yeah.
See you.
Thank you.
Enjoy.
Are you okay on time?
I should go soon.
I'm really worried.
Asaka shut down all her social media.
Really?
Were you not that into Patty Five?
I guess I was just starting
to get into them.
Huh.
You into anyone else?
Um, not really.
There's this group
I'm into right now.
Want to go see them with me?
You're over Patty Five?
That's separate.
I see.
Yeah. So how about it?
When is it?
Next month.
Next month, huh?
Yuki, do you want to stay for lunch?
Thank you, but I should leave soon.
Okay.
Family matters?
Yeah. I'll already be gone next month.
Huh?
Didn't you just transfer here?
Yeah, but I move every month.
I see.
Got to go now.
You move every month?
Popular theater?
Wow.
You knew about popular theater?
Asaka blogged about it. She said
she used to go as a kid.
I see.
Here.
Yuhiza Theater Troupe
May 2023 Performance
Dance show? Like Japanese dance?
Something like that.
You dance to enka songs?
Actually, we do J-pop and stuff too.
Sometimes even idol songs.
Really.
If you're interested,
come see it.
I have cram school.
Well, when you have time.
Not really interested.
I'd rather go see some idols.
I get it.
No offense.
None taken. I didn't know
you go to cram school.
High school entrance exams?
Oh, right.
Hey Yuki. Over here.
Hello, Mrs. Narusawa.
Huh?
This is Asaka. She's going to
stay with us for two weeks.
At Yuhiza?
I'm Asaka Narusawa.
Pleased to meet you.
Watch out for her, Yuki.
Nice to meet you too.
We have things to discuss.
Go show Asaka around Yuhiza.
Yes, sir.
Asaka.
An idol isn't the only way
to be in entertainment at your age.
Work hard at Yuhiza and learn.
Then we'll think about your future.
I'm with you, okay?
Go on, Yuki.
- Sorry.
- Excuse me.
Sorry.
You're in the way here.
- It's your first day, so just observe.
- Okay.
When you're done here,
please go eat.
Alright.
Yuki?
Yes?
You came to my concert, didn't you?
Um, yeah. It looked like you
were having a hard time.
Sorry you had to see that.
You're friends with Ken?
I saw you together.
You could tell it was us?
We don't have a lot of
young fans.
I'm classmates with him.
Please don't tell him I'm working here.
You don't want it to get out?
It's just that our group
broke up like that,
and I'm not ready to see fans right now.
Right.
I understand.
It's lame that my mother
brought me here.
But I promise I won't
make trouble for you.
I won't tell.
Finish up the steaming please.
- Thank you.
- Excuse me.
Leaving early again?
Yeah, soon.
Let's go together.
Huh?
I'm leaving early too.
Family matters.
Come on.
Hurry up.
Hey.
Why are you here?
I'd never see you otherwise.
Maya, it's lovely to see you.
It's been a while.
Thanks for coming, Yuki.
Not at all.
Are you two still dating?
No, we broke up.
Didn't these newbies quit?
Why are you skipping school?
Don't call them that!
You should come back.
Don't tell me what to do.
It's bad for me if you skip school.
Huh? Why?
It looks bad if my ex
is skipping school.
- Ridiculous.
- There's a rumor that it's my fault.
It'll go on my record.
No, it won't.
Okay, I lied. I just don't want to be
the reason you skip school.
- There's no reason.
- So come back.
It's not challenging enough.
There's no point in going.
Shut up.
Today's test was hard, right?
Yeah, I guess.
How'd you do?
- Don't be nosy.
- Bad.
Don't tell her.
Well, that's on you.
Don't say that.
Yuki's got other stuff going on.
It's our job to study.
I study.
You gave up private school.
So did you. Stop harping on it.
You'll be a middle school grad forever.
- Will not.
- Will too.
- Will not!
- Will too!
Is it that bad...
to not go to high school?
Well, getting better grades
wouldn't hurt.
Looking at your test,
better start from the basics.
Here, try this.
I'll tutor you.
Yeah, I'll help too.
Thanks.
Both of you should come here
to study for midterms.
Ready to come back?
Just for the exams. Maybe.
We'll see.
Is this really you?
Yeah.
You look so different.
I should go to a show.
You should. Maybe bring Ken with you.
I'm not sure he'd come.
He only likes idols.
Why did the two of you break up?
When we were studying once...
No, don't.
What?
This isn't it.
That's all?
Then he started chasing idols.
I just held his hand.
Isn't he awful?
For sure.
But he goes to idols' handshake events.
Maybe idols are his escape from reality.
I'm the reality he's escaping?
I don't really know.
- Sorry for the bother.
- It's okay.
Leader just told me.
It's just one line. You'll be fine.
I'm really nervous.
Wow, this is how I look?
You look pretty.
Amazing. You can do anything.
It's the only thing I'm good at.
I'm bad at studying.
I was bad at it too.
- Really?
- Yeah.
I was a child actor always
going to auditions.
Mom and I tried really hard,
but it never worked out.
Neither did my idol career.
I think that
you got to work on what you can
where you are.
What you can...
- Sorry.
- Huh?
I gave advice to a senior.
Don't think of me like that.
- Great performance. Thank you.
- Thank you.
Take care.
Thanks for coming.
Thank you.
- That was moving.
- Thank you.
It was amazing.
You're so pretty.
I did some of the workbook.
Forget about that.
Sorry.
You got a lot of tips in your kimono.
Surprised?
You bet.
You're amazing in a female role.
Thank you. It's my specialty.
Really?
I did try to invite Ken, but...
I don't want to force him to come
if he doesn't want to.
- You're new, right?
- Yes.
Good luck. I'm rooting for you.
Thank you. I'll try my best.
What is it?
Nothing.
Make sure to rehearse.
I only have 100 mon on me.
Be a dear and help me out.
Be more coquettish.
Yes, sir.
I only have 100 mon on me.
Be a dear and help me out.
Let's move on for now.
Yes, sir.
Next scene, then.
- Let's run through the whole thing.
- Yes, sir.
Ow!
Are you okay?
- It hurts.
- Your ankle?
There, I'm all done.
Thank you.
Did Leader say something to you?
Not in particular.
Oh.
It's just that he seemed regretful.
- Regretful?
- Yeah.
He thinks you got injured
because of something he said.
I don't know why.
I'm not sure.
Are you going to high school?
Huh?
Leader seems to think so.
Why would he think that?
I think he wants you to continue acting.
Then he should say so.
When can you perform again?
In about a week.
And the final show?
- I'll be better by then.
- I'm glad.
I saw a show in Asakusa.
It was different, but good.
- You're hooked.
- Yup.
It was different from Yuhiza,
but I had fun.
Yuki,
a word?
Yes.
I just phoned your father and he said
things were under control
and you should stay in school.
What?
He said you've been studying hard.
Why were you talking?
I just wanted to see
if I could be of any help.
We have tutoring...
Mind your own business!
I did what I thought
was best as your teacher.
Goodbye.
Goodbye!
Wait up!
Thank you, thank you.
This concludes the first part.
We will proceed with the second part,
the dance show, momentarily.
Didn't leave early today?
I didn't.
Now you have y, so substitute that
into the equation for the answer.
Oh, I get it.
What's wrong?
I was just wondering what
Asaka's doing right now.
Oh.
Goodbye, I love you
I can't leave without
telling you either line
That moment when our eyes met
I want to recreate that feeling
So flash your eyes at me
I'm staying at a friend's tonight
- Thanks.
- Yeah.
Here we are.
Oh, can you call your father to
pick up cake on his way home?
Okay.
This is a nice dinner.
I rarely have friends stay over,
so she's excited. Don't worry about it.
Hey, Yuki.
Yeah?
How do you feel about Maya?
Huh?
She's into popular theater recently.
Yeah.
- If you're worried about me...
- Me and Maya?
You don't like her?
Not like that...
"Not like that." My mistake, then.
That came out harsh, but trust me.
Okay.
Did... something happen at home?
Nothing important.
So something did happen.
Well, it really isn't a big deal.
It's just...
I realized it doesn't matter
if I'm at Yuhiza or not.
But the troupe is your family, right?
Well, my father is the troupe leader.
I've known the troupe so long,
they're like family.
My mom died when I was small.
Sorry, this is too dark.
That's okay.
So I'm jealous about how normal your
family feels... or something like that.
But I'm not related
to my parents by blood.
Really?
That's probably why they can't
make me go to school.
Do you have any memories about your mom?
Nope. You?
Me neither.
I wonder what she's like...
Can't you see her?
It wouldn't be fair to my parents now.
I see...
I can't sleep.
Let's go outside.
If it doesn't matter if you're there,
why are you an actor?
What?
You were talking about it earlier.
I thought acting was what I wanted.
But customers come in and everything
runs just fine without me.
Plus, there are so many
troupes out there.
Only a small few make it big.
Huh. I don't have anything I want to do,
so I dunno what it's like.
You study.
I just do it so that I'll have
more options in life.
I see.
But... I want to be an adult
and be on my own.
On your own...
What do you mean?
Hmm... I'm not sure actually.
Thanks for lending me your uniform.
I don't use it anyway.
See you later...?
Have a good day.
Have a good day.
This feeling... it's weird.
It is.
What?
I'll go. We have midterms today anyway.
In that case, if you're going
to school anyway...
Wear this.
- What? No.
- Wear it.
- That's okay.
- Please.
No thanks, I'm good.
- Wear it.
- I said I'm good.
- Wear it!
- No thanks!
And start.
Midterms
Math: 9:00-9:50
Midterms are now over.
I'm sure everyone has noticed,
but Ken Ogawa has joined us
for class today.
I actually asked Yuki
to be Ken's friend.
Yuki, thanks for your help.
The choir concert is soon,
so let's come together as a class.
- Okay. Time for bows.
- Rise.
Bow. Goodbye.
- Bye, everyone.
- Bye.
About what he said...
This is why I hate school.
There, how's that? Better?
Yes. Thank you.
Good.
Can you come back today?
Yes.
Rest up if you need...
I need to catch up.
I see.
How's studying?
Midterms are over.
- That doesn't mean...
- Leader.
You quit school earlier than me.
What do you know?
Well, that was...
I'm going to catch up.
I look forward to your guidance.
Yuki Iwata.
Here.
And the top score goes to...
Ken Ogawa, who is absent.
Second, Maya Hasegawa.
Thank you, thank you. This concludes
all of the performances for today.
Thank you for coming.
- Thank you.
- Thank you for coming.
Thank you.
You came again.
I'm coming tomorrow too.
- Really?
- Yeah.
You leave after that?
Yeah. Clean up and then
off to a new school.
I see...
So Ken isn't ever going to come?
I did hurt his feelings.
Yeah, but still...
Only if he knew Asaka
from Patty Five was here.
- What do you think?
- Um...
You're Asaka, right?
Um... I don't know what to say.
Yuki, what do you want?
What do I want?
Don't you want your friend
to come for the last show?
I mean...
He said he wasn't interested.
Asaka, let's go.
Wait, where? Where are we going?
Ken, are you here?
Sorry, he doesn't want
to see anyone right now.
And she is?
Hello. I'm Asaka Narusawa
from Patty Five.
Patty Five?
Louder!
I'm Asaka Narusawa from Patty Five!
What?!
Asaka?!
You're so pale!
Why?
Ken, it's been a while.
Very good. Let's keep it like that.
Thank you.
Yuki, line.
Sorry!
Get your act together.
Tomorrow's the last performance.
Yes, sir.
Yuki! Ken's coming tomorrow.
Asaka, where have you been?
We're in rehearsals.
Um, I don't know what to say...
Excuse me!
Can I say one thing?
What is it?
I'm sorry this is sudden,
but I need to ask for a favor.
Can we perform Long-Sought Mother
tomorrow instead?
I know I'm being selfish.
But my friend's coming
to see us tomorrow.
I've already decided
I'm going to be an actor,
so I thought I didn't need to study.
But I thought I should try
at least once.
And because of him...
I got a pretty good score on my test.
And he's finally coming
to watch tomorrow.
Do you...
carry that with you?
It's like a good luck charm to me.
Let's do Long-Sought Mother then.
- Agreed?
- Yes!
As for casting...
- Chutaro.
- Yes, sir.
- Hanji.
- Yes, sir!
- The rest, ensemble.
- Yes, sir.
You, Otose.
Yes, sir. Thank you!
- Break a leg.
- Yes, sir!
Yuhiza Theater Troupe
Part One: Long-Sought Mother
Part Two: Dance show
Leis for sale! If you wish to buy one,
please put your hand up.
Thank you for your support.
You're giving that to Asaka?
Should I not?
You need a new 10,000-yen bill.
Think about how it looks to others.
What do I do?
Buy a lei, they're easy to give.
Over there.
Two leis? Thank you very much.
Go buy one.
Okay.
Thank you. Would anyone else like one?
One for you, thank you.
Oh no, Mom's here.
Asaka, I have a favor to ask.
What is it?
Will you dance with me during
the dance show in the second part?
Me? Dance with you?
Yes.
I can't. I haven't even practiced.
I got permission from Leader.
But it's too late...
What if we dance to Patty Five?
You're serious.
Yes. Ken will have
more fun that way too.
You really want...
Ken to enjoy himself.
Well, today's the last day.
Okay. I'll do it.
Thank you.
I should thank you too.
What?
I wanted my mom to see me
as an idol, just once.
Thank you for your patience.
The first part, Long-Sought Mother,
is about to begin.
No good will come from staying here,
Hanji. Do you have a place to go?
Perhaps your mother knows of a place.
Yes, to an uncle's in Hitachi.
I'll make him leave tonight.
What about you, brother?
I'm off to...
Edo.
Edo? Did you find out
where your mother is?
Perhaps, but it's only a rumor.
But just the thought of
meeting my mother
makes my heart yearn for Edo.
If your mother knew how
beloved she was by her son,
she would be overjoyed.
You, who are you?
My name is Chutaro.
Chutaro?
I used to have a son named Chutaro,
but he's passed now.
How awful to say!
I know what you seek.
You only say you're Chutaro.
But you're after half of my restaurant
that I was going to give to my daughter.
After spending years apart
in two different places,
the distance also grew
between our hearts.
"Children are unaware
of their parents' love"?
Looks like it's the opposite for me.
My heart, which loves my mother deeply,
doesn't reach her heart.
Not at all.
Mother, who was that?
Oh no, you saw him?
He looked awfully like you.
Isn't he who you always talked about?
Isn't he Chutaro from Oshu?
It's him. He's my brother.
But why did you send him away?
Forgive me. I'm a cold-hearted fool.
I love you so much, I haven't left
your side since you were born.
But I haven't seen Chutaro
in over 30 years,
so I just couldn't feel the same way.
No...
No.
He's still your child.
- Brother! Brother!
- Chutaro!
Brother!
Chutaro!
Brother!
This must be what it's like...
to have fate work against you.
It's all my fault.
To think that he's out here
in this lonely place,
I can't just leave him behind.
Maybe I'll call for him once more.
Brother?
Brother!
If it doesn't matter if you're there,
why are you an actor?
I thought acting was what I wanted.
But customers come in and everything
runs just fine without me.
It's no use.
Nobody's there.
I...
I don't want to.
I don't, I don't!
Why would I see her again?
If I...
close my eyes and think deeply...
I can see my long-lost mother.
That's all I need.
When I want to see her,
I just close my eyes.
Rain or shine,
I'll follow the wind.
Whether it blows east...
or whether it blows west.
Bravo!
Thank you, thank you.
This concludes the first part,
Long-Sought Mother.
We will proceed with the second part,
the dance show, momentarily.
Yuki will be transferring to
another school due to family matters.
Thank you for everything.
Any parting words?
Yes.
Take care.
- Let's get back to...
- Excuse me.
What is it?
I need to leave.
What?
Is it family matters again?
No...
It's a personal matter.
Yuki.
- I left early.
- Huh?
Are you sad about transferring?
Well... a little.
I'll put it here.
- Is that all for this room?
- Yes.
That's the last of it.
Let's move on.
Good work.
Thank you.
Where's the next stop?
- A spa in Tochigi Prefecture.
- I see...
Is here good?
You're late.
You didn't even go to school.
For real.
Why would I go to school
when Asaka's here?
Less talking, more moving.
Got it!
I'll help too.
Thanks.
Sir.
Hey, Asaka.
Thanks for helping out.
Of course. My mom was moved
to tears last night, so thank you.
I'm glad it was a good
experience for you.
I wanted to talk to you about something.
Yes?
I want to stay with
Yuhiza a little longer.
Wait... did you tell your mother?
No. But it's my decision.
Well, I don't know about that...
I already packed my things,
so thank you!
No, Asaka. We should
really tell your mother...
Popular Theater
I'll come see you when you're back.
- What a theater nerd.
- Shut up.
I'll definitely be back.
So, see you.
Yeah.
See you.
You know...
Yuki looked beautiful as a woman.
He would've been happy to hear that.
Aren't you loved by so many people.
Did I do something?
No... just remembering how my fan
switched favorites in front of me.
Give this to her during
the dance show after the play.
Stay low and go quickly
so you don't get in the way.
- Okay.
- Here.
Welcome, welcome.
Thank you for being here today.
The dance show is about to begin.
It's starting.
Boring day after boring day
With no way of finding love
The seasons change,
as if driving us away
"I wish I could see you again"
The feeling in my chest grows
From the memories of our firsts
The gods didn't even
give us time to think
About how tomorrow is our last day
Goodbye, I love you
I can't leave without
telling you either line
That moment when our eyes met
I want to recreate that feeling
So flash your eyes at me
Directed by Naoya Fujita
Arisa Nitta
(Japan Visualmedia Translation Academy)
Yes, Leader?
I had it wrong.
You have to go now.
- To school?
- Yes.
But I can't make it today.
You're not related?
I'm Shinnosuke Hashimoto
from the Yuhiza Theater Troupe.
- Transfer procedures should be...
- I'm sorry.
Leader is busy right now.
Leader?
My father. Also, I don't have a mother.
I see.
I've known Yuki since birth.
We're like family.
We'll let it slide for now.
Third years should fill out this form
about their future path.
Actor
Please don't tell my classmates
about the theater troupe.
But you'll make friends more easily.
I'm only here for a month.
I don't need friends.
"If I close my eyes and think deeply,"
"I can see my long-lost mother."
"That's all I need."
"When I want to see her,"
"I just close my eyes."
That's all your tests.
Now for the rankings.
In first, Ken Ogawa,
who's absent.
Second place, Maya Hasegawa.
Only two of you had
over 90 points this time.
Come talk to me to learn your rankings.
Open your textbooks to page 40.
We're learning square roots today.
The new kid always leaves early.
Wonder why.
He has a different uniform too.
- Yuki, can you do me a favor?
- Yes?
There's a Ken Ogawa in our class.
The absent kid?
He hasn't been in recently.
Can you give him this?
Here's the address.
- Me?
- It's on your way home.
If you don't mind, be his friend too.
- Yes?
- Hi, I'm from Ken's class...
Hello.
Nice to meet you.
Ken's friend?
Our teacher sent me.
Wait one minute.
- Ken, it's a friend.
- No, no. I'm not...
Wow, that's a strong denial.
No, I just mean...
Are you going somewhere?
Yeah.
Who's he?
Nice to meet you.
Oh, you've never met?
I'm Yuki Iwata.
I just moved here.
I was asked to bring you this.
Shouldn't you still be in class?
I left early.
And he made you run an errand?
Thanks for this.
It was on my way.
Yuki, was it? Would you like to
come in for some snacks?
He's on his way home.
Oh, that's right. Sorry.
- Have fun.
- Yeah.
Off to the station?
Yes.
- You can relax a bit.
- Huh?
We're in the same class, right?
Yes. I mean, yeah.
When did you transfer?
Last week.
- That's really recent.
- Yeah.
What?
You have good grades.
Grades?
You're top of the class.
Well, I'm good at studying.
I wish I was the same.
Really?
Better good than not.
It's not hard.
You just have to know how.
- Well, I'm going that way.
- Okay.
See you.
Yuhiza Theater Troupe
- It should say mesh wig. Go find it.
- Right away.
- How's it going?
- Good.
Yoko's coming today.
Make dinner reservations.
- Who's that again?
- Leader's biggest fan.
Oh, her.
Confetti
- If it isn't the fool from earlier.
- You!
Thought I'd get you back
your lost wallet.
This doesn't concern you. Get lost.
What! I'll kick your ass!
I'd like to see you try!
Fellas, get him!
- Wanna keep going?
- I'll get you for this!
- You'll be sorry!
- Get lost!
With blush on your cheeks
and a flower hairpin in your hair
Everybody over there
is certain to love you
The sleet won't stop
If it doesn't, you're going to be cold
Even if...
Another great performance.
Thank you very much.
If only you had a bigger audience.
We're hoping for a full house next week.
- Let me.
- It's all right.
- Yuki, you should be serving here.
- I'm sorry.
It's all right.
You're all coddling him.
Maybe I was too strict with my child.
Did something happen?
Hey!
My daughter suddenly decided
she wanted to be an idol.
Your daughter must be very pretty.
Stop that.
But she's already over 20.
I wasn't supportive of her plan,
so she ran away from home.
Don't be so nosy.
Sorry.
It's fine.
I wanted to discuss it.
That's why I came out all the way here.
Does that mean your daughter
is in Tokyo now?
Yes, it seems she's now...
an... underground idol?
Asaka's an idol?
I've never been to an idol's concert.
I'm a bit nervous.
I just want to know how she's doing.
Okay, then.
Let's send in Yuki to scout it out.
What, me?
Yuhiza owes Yoko a lot.
Don't you want to help her?
Of course.
Thank you.
I'm the red member,
the fiercest baby, Mitsu Himemiya.
I'm the blue member sending
magical love, Ai Tsukino.
The yellow member,
I'm the hyper Asaka Asuka.
We're Patty Five.
Asaka!
Here's our last...
I mean, here's our next song.
Here's Flash.
What?!
You're a Patty Five fan?
I was just curious.
Who's your fave?
Asaka.
Seriously?
- She's my favorite too!
- Boring day after boring day
With no way of finding love
I can't leave without
telling you either line
That moment when our eyes met
I want to recreate that feeling
Today is...
our last day as Patty Five.
What?
We can't agree with management,
so we've decided to part ways.
We haven't been paid in forever!
We're done entertaining drunk men.
Stop, stop! Shut up!
We really haven't been paid at all!
It's not like I thought
they'd make it big,
but I didn't think they'd break up.
I had a feeling though.
K-pop is more mainstream now.
Indie idol groups like Patty Five
don't stand a chance.
That's a bit dramatic.
I wonder what Asaka's going to do now.
What did you like about Asaka?
Um...
her face?
Her face?
I get it.
Yes, broke up.
They broke up just now.
Will you be at today's...
No, you won't.
Of course not. You're worried.
I understand.
We could be next, huh?
Let's go rehearse.
Yes, sir.
- Got it?
- Yes.
Let's try it.
- Ready?
- Yes.
Alright. Alright.
It feels a bit shallow.
Yes, sir.
Expressions become stronger
when you're delivering them to someone.
- Yes, sir.
- Deliver them to the audience.
Sometimes I can't tell
who you're doing this for.
Shinnosuke told me...
about your future plans.
Yes.
You want to be an actor?
I've always said I want to keep acting
after middle school.
I'm talking to you now as your father.
I won't force you.
I told you, you can go
another path if you want.
Why bring this up now?
Because you seem lost.
I don't feel lost.
Even so...
give it more thought.
Yes, sir.
Yuki.
Um, it's Maya, right?
You know my name.
Are you taking that file to Ken?
- I am.
- Did you meet him?
- Yeah.
- Was he okay?
- I guess.
- I see.
You always leave early.
What's going on?
Family matters.
Everything okay?
You should talk to our teacher.
He knows about it.
If you say so.
Is that all?
Yeah.
See you.
Thank you.
Enjoy.
Are you okay on time?
I should go soon.
I'm really worried.
Asaka shut down all her social media.
Really?
Were you not that into Patty Five?
I guess I was just starting
to get into them.
Huh.
You into anyone else?
Um, not really.
There's this group
I'm into right now.
Want to go see them with me?
You're over Patty Five?
That's separate.
I see.
Yeah. So how about it?
When is it?
Next month.
Next month, huh?
Yuki, do you want to stay for lunch?
Thank you, but I should leave soon.
Okay.
Family matters?
Yeah. I'll already be gone next month.
Huh?
Didn't you just transfer here?
Yeah, but I move every month.
I see.
Got to go now.
You move every month?
Popular theater?
Wow.
You knew about popular theater?
Asaka blogged about it. She said
she used to go as a kid.
I see.
Here.
Yuhiza Theater Troupe
May 2023 Performance
Dance show? Like Japanese dance?
Something like that.
You dance to enka songs?
Actually, we do J-pop and stuff too.
Sometimes even idol songs.
Really.
If you're interested,
come see it.
I have cram school.
Well, when you have time.
Not really interested.
I'd rather go see some idols.
I get it.
No offense.
None taken. I didn't know
you go to cram school.
High school entrance exams?
Oh, right.
Hey Yuki. Over here.
Hello, Mrs. Narusawa.
Huh?
This is Asaka. She's going to
stay with us for two weeks.
At Yuhiza?
I'm Asaka Narusawa.
Pleased to meet you.
Watch out for her, Yuki.
Nice to meet you too.
We have things to discuss.
Go show Asaka around Yuhiza.
Yes, sir.
Asaka.
An idol isn't the only way
to be in entertainment at your age.
Work hard at Yuhiza and learn.
Then we'll think about your future.
I'm with you, okay?
Go on, Yuki.
- Sorry.
- Excuse me.
Sorry.
You're in the way here.
- It's your first day, so just observe.
- Okay.
When you're done here,
please go eat.
Alright.
Yuki?
Yes?
You came to my concert, didn't you?
Um, yeah. It looked like you
were having a hard time.
Sorry you had to see that.
You're friends with Ken?
I saw you together.
You could tell it was us?
We don't have a lot of
young fans.
I'm classmates with him.
Please don't tell him I'm working here.
You don't want it to get out?
It's just that our group
broke up like that,
and I'm not ready to see fans right now.
Right.
I understand.
It's lame that my mother
brought me here.
But I promise I won't
make trouble for you.
I won't tell.
Finish up the steaming please.
- Thank you.
- Excuse me.
Leaving early again?
Yeah, soon.
Let's go together.
Huh?
I'm leaving early too.
Family matters.
Come on.
Hurry up.
Hey.
Why are you here?
I'd never see you otherwise.
Maya, it's lovely to see you.
It's been a while.
Thanks for coming, Yuki.
Not at all.
Are you two still dating?
No, we broke up.
Didn't these newbies quit?
Why are you skipping school?
Don't call them that!
You should come back.
Don't tell me what to do.
It's bad for me if you skip school.
Huh? Why?
It looks bad if my ex
is skipping school.
- Ridiculous.
- There's a rumor that it's my fault.
It'll go on my record.
No, it won't.
Okay, I lied. I just don't want to be
the reason you skip school.
- There's no reason.
- So come back.
It's not challenging enough.
There's no point in going.
Shut up.
Today's test was hard, right?
Yeah, I guess.
How'd you do?
- Don't be nosy.
- Bad.
Don't tell her.
Well, that's on you.
Don't say that.
Yuki's got other stuff going on.
It's our job to study.
I study.
You gave up private school.
So did you. Stop harping on it.
You'll be a middle school grad forever.
- Will not.
- Will too.
- Will not!
- Will too!
Is it that bad...
to not go to high school?
Well, getting better grades
wouldn't hurt.
Looking at your test,
better start from the basics.
Here, try this.
I'll tutor you.
Yeah, I'll help too.
Thanks.
Both of you should come here
to study for midterms.
Ready to come back?
Just for the exams. Maybe.
We'll see.
Is this really you?
Yeah.
You look so different.
I should go to a show.
You should. Maybe bring Ken with you.
I'm not sure he'd come.
He only likes idols.
Why did the two of you break up?
When we were studying once...
No, don't.
What?
This isn't it.
That's all?
Then he started chasing idols.
I just held his hand.
Isn't he awful?
For sure.
But he goes to idols' handshake events.
Maybe idols are his escape from reality.
I'm the reality he's escaping?
I don't really know.
- Sorry for the bother.
- It's okay.
Leader just told me.
It's just one line. You'll be fine.
I'm really nervous.
Wow, this is how I look?
You look pretty.
Amazing. You can do anything.
It's the only thing I'm good at.
I'm bad at studying.
I was bad at it too.
- Really?
- Yeah.
I was a child actor always
going to auditions.
Mom and I tried really hard,
but it never worked out.
Neither did my idol career.
I think that
you got to work on what you can
where you are.
What you can...
- Sorry.
- Huh?
I gave advice to a senior.
Don't think of me like that.
- Great performance. Thank you.
- Thank you.
Take care.
Thanks for coming.
Thank you.
- That was moving.
- Thank you.
It was amazing.
You're so pretty.
I did some of the workbook.
Forget about that.
Sorry.
You got a lot of tips in your kimono.
Surprised?
You bet.
You're amazing in a female role.
Thank you. It's my specialty.
Really?
I did try to invite Ken, but...
I don't want to force him to come
if he doesn't want to.
- You're new, right?
- Yes.
Good luck. I'm rooting for you.
Thank you. I'll try my best.
What is it?
Nothing.
Make sure to rehearse.
I only have 100 mon on me.
Be a dear and help me out.
Be more coquettish.
Yes, sir.
I only have 100 mon on me.
Be a dear and help me out.
Let's move on for now.
Yes, sir.
Next scene, then.
- Let's run through the whole thing.
- Yes, sir.
Ow!
Are you okay?
- It hurts.
- Your ankle?
There, I'm all done.
Thank you.
Did Leader say something to you?
Not in particular.
Oh.
It's just that he seemed regretful.
- Regretful?
- Yeah.
He thinks you got injured
because of something he said.
I don't know why.
I'm not sure.
Are you going to high school?
Huh?
Leader seems to think so.
Why would he think that?
I think he wants you to continue acting.
Then he should say so.
When can you perform again?
In about a week.
And the final show?
- I'll be better by then.
- I'm glad.
I saw a show in Asakusa.
It was different, but good.
- You're hooked.
- Yup.
It was different from Yuhiza,
but I had fun.
Yuki,
a word?
Yes.
I just phoned your father and he said
things were under control
and you should stay in school.
What?
He said you've been studying hard.
Why were you talking?
I just wanted to see
if I could be of any help.
We have tutoring...
Mind your own business!
I did what I thought
was best as your teacher.
Goodbye.
Goodbye!
Wait up!
Thank you, thank you.
This concludes the first part.
We will proceed with the second part,
the dance show, momentarily.
Didn't leave early today?
I didn't.
Now you have y, so substitute that
into the equation for the answer.
Oh, I get it.
What's wrong?
I was just wondering what
Asaka's doing right now.
Oh.
Goodbye, I love you
I can't leave without
telling you either line
That moment when our eyes met
I want to recreate that feeling
So flash your eyes at me
I'm staying at a friend's tonight
- Thanks.
- Yeah.
Here we are.
Oh, can you call your father to
pick up cake on his way home?
Okay.
This is a nice dinner.
I rarely have friends stay over,
so she's excited. Don't worry about it.
Hey, Yuki.
Yeah?
How do you feel about Maya?
Huh?
She's into popular theater recently.
Yeah.
- If you're worried about me...
- Me and Maya?
You don't like her?
Not like that...
"Not like that." My mistake, then.
That came out harsh, but trust me.
Okay.
Did... something happen at home?
Nothing important.
So something did happen.
Well, it really isn't a big deal.
It's just...
I realized it doesn't matter
if I'm at Yuhiza or not.
But the troupe is your family, right?
Well, my father is the troupe leader.
I've known the troupe so long,
they're like family.
My mom died when I was small.
Sorry, this is too dark.
That's okay.
So I'm jealous about how normal your
family feels... or something like that.
But I'm not related
to my parents by blood.
Really?
That's probably why they can't
make me go to school.
Do you have any memories about your mom?
Nope. You?
Me neither.
I wonder what she's like...
Can't you see her?
It wouldn't be fair to my parents now.
I see...
I can't sleep.
Let's go outside.
If it doesn't matter if you're there,
why are you an actor?
What?
You were talking about it earlier.
I thought acting was what I wanted.
But customers come in and everything
runs just fine without me.
Plus, there are so many
troupes out there.
Only a small few make it big.
Huh. I don't have anything I want to do,
so I dunno what it's like.
You study.
I just do it so that I'll have
more options in life.
I see.
But... I want to be an adult
and be on my own.
On your own...
What do you mean?
Hmm... I'm not sure actually.
Thanks for lending me your uniform.
I don't use it anyway.
See you later...?
Have a good day.
Have a good day.
This feeling... it's weird.
It is.
What?
I'll go. We have midterms today anyway.
In that case, if you're going
to school anyway...
Wear this.
- What? No.
- Wear it.
- That's okay.
- Please.
No thanks, I'm good.
- Wear it.
- I said I'm good.
- Wear it!
- No thanks!
And start.
Midterms
Math: 9:00-9:50
Midterms are now over.
I'm sure everyone has noticed,
but Ken Ogawa has joined us
for class today.
I actually asked Yuki
to be Ken's friend.
Yuki, thanks for your help.
The choir concert is soon,
so let's come together as a class.
- Okay. Time for bows.
- Rise.
Bow. Goodbye.
- Bye, everyone.
- Bye.
About what he said...
This is why I hate school.
There, how's that? Better?
Yes. Thank you.
Good.
Can you come back today?
Yes.
Rest up if you need...
I need to catch up.
I see.
How's studying?
Midterms are over.
- That doesn't mean...
- Leader.
You quit school earlier than me.
What do you know?
Well, that was...
I'm going to catch up.
I look forward to your guidance.
Yuki Iwata.
Here.
And the top score goes to...
Ken Ogawa, who is absent.
Second, Maya Hasegawa.
Thank you, thank you. This concludes
all of the performances for today.
Thank you for coming.
- Thank you.
- Thank you for coming.
Thank you.
You came again.
I'm coming tomorrow too.
- Really?
- Yeah.
You leave after that?
Yeah. Clean up and then
off to a new school.
I see...
So Ken isn't ever going to come?
I did hurt his feelings.
Yeah, but still...
Only if he knew Asaka
from Patty Five was here.
- What do you think?
- Um...
You're Asaka, right?
Um... I don't know what to say.
Yuki, what do you want?
What do I want?
Don't you want your friend
to come for the last show?
I mean...
He said he wasn't interested.
Asaka, let's go.
Wait, where? Where are we going?
Ken, are you here?
Sorry, he doesn't want
to see anyone right now.
And she is?
Hello. I'm Asaka Narusawa
from Patty Five.
Patty Five?
Louder!
I'm Asaka Narusawa from Patty Five!
What?!
Asaka?!
You're so pale!
Why?
Ken, it's been a while.
Very good. Let's keep it like that.
Thank you.
Yuki, line.
Sorry!
Get your act together.
Tomorrow's the last performance.
Yes, sir.
Yuki! Ken's coming tomorrow.
Asaka, where have you been?
We're in rehearsals.
Um, I don't know what to say...
Excuse me!
Can I say one thing?
What is it?
I'm sorry this is sudden,
but I need to ask for a favor.
Can we perform Long-Sought Mother
tomorrow instead?
I know I'm being selfish.
But my friend's coming
to see us tomorrow.
I've already decided
I'm going to be an actor,
so I thought I didn't need to study.
But I thought I should try
at least once.
And because of him...
I got a pretty good score on my test.
And he's finally coming
to watch tomorrow.
Do you...
carry that with you?
It's like a good luck charm to me.
Let's do Long-Sought Mother then.
- Agreed?
- Yes!
As for casting...
- Chutaro.
- Yes, sir.
- Hanji.
- Yes, sir!
- The rest, ensemble.
- Yes, sir.
You, Otose.
Yes, sir. Thank you!
- Break a leg.
- Yes, sir!
Yuhiza Theater Troupe
Part One: Long-Sought Mother
Part Two: Dance show
Leis for sale! If you wish to buy one,
please put your hand up.
Thank you for your support.
You're giving that to Asaka?
Should I not?
You need a new 10,000-yen bill.
Think about how it looks to others.
What do I do?
Buy a lei, they're easy to give.
Over there.
Two leis? Thank you very much.
Go buy one.
Okay.
Thank you. Would anyone else like one?
One for you, thank you.
Oh no, Mom's here.
Asaka, I have a favor to ask.
What is it?
Will you dance with me during
the dance show in the second part?
Me? Dance with you?
Yes.
I can't. I haven't even practiced.
I got permission from Leader.
But it's too late...
What if we dance to Patty Five?
You're serious.
Yes. Ken will have
more fun that way too.
You really want...
Ken to enjoy himself.
Well, today's the last day.
Okay. I'll do it.
Thank you.
I should thank you too.
What?
I wanted my mom to see me
as an idol, just once.
Thank you for your patience.
The first part, Long-Sought Mother,
is about to begin.
No good will come from staying here,
Hanji. Do you have a place to go?
Perhaps your mother knows of a place.
Yes, to an uncle's in Hitachi.
I'll make him leave tonight.
What about you, brother?
I'm off to...
Edo.
Edo? Did you find out
where your mother is?
Perhaps, but it's only a rumor.
But just the thought of
meeting my mother
makes my heart yearn for Edo.
If your mother knew how
beloved she was by her son,
she would be overjoyed.
You, who are you?
My name is Chutaro.
Chutaro?
I used to have a son named Chutaro,
but he's passed now.
How awful to say!
I know what you seek.
You only say you're Chutaro.
But you're after half of my restaurant
that I was going to give to my daughter.
After spending years apart
in two different places,
the distance also grew
between our hearts.
"Children are unaware
of their parents' love"?
Looks like it's the opposite for me.
My heart, which loves my mother deeply,
doesn't reach her heart.
Not at all.
Mother, who was that?
Oh no, you saw him?
He looked awfully like you.
Isn't he who you always talked about?
Isn't he Chutaro from Oshu?
It's him. He's my brother.
But why did you send him away?
Forgive me. I'm a cold-hearted fool.
I love you so much, I haven't left
your side since you were born.
But I haven't seen Chutaro
in over 30 years,
so I just couldn't feel the same way.
No...
No.
He's still your child.
- Brother! Brother!
- Chutaro!
Brother!
Chutaro!
Brother!
This must be what it's like...
to have fate work against you.
It's all my fault.
To think that he's out here
in this lonely place,
I can't just leave him behind.
Maybe I'll call for him once more.
Brother?
Brother!
If it doesn't matter if you're there,
why are you an actor?
I thought acting was what I wanted.
But customers come in and everything
runs just fine without me.
It's no use.
Nobody's there.
I...
I don't want to.
I don't, I don't!
Why would I see her again?
If I...
close my eyes and think deeply...
I can see my long-lost mother.
That's all I need.
When I want to see her,
I just close my eyes.
Rain or shine,
I'll follow the wind.
Whether it blows east...
or whether it blows west.
Bravo!
Thank you, thank you.
This concludes the first part,
Long-Sought Mother.
We will proceed with the second part,
the dance show, momentarily.
Yuki will be transferring to
another school due to family matters.
Thank you for everything.
Any parting words?
Yes.
Take care.
- Let's get back to...
- Excuse me.
What is it?
I need to leave.
What?
Is it family matters again?
No...
It's a personal matter.
Yuki.
- I left early.
- Huh?
Are you sad about transferring?
Well... a little.
I'll put it here.
- Is that all for this room?
- Yes.
That's the last of it.
Let's move on.
Good work.
Thank you.
Where's the next stop?
- A spa in Tochigi Prefecture.
- I see...
Is here good?
You're late.
You didn't even go to school.
For real.
Why would I go to school
when Asaka's here?
Less talking, more moving.
Got it!
I'll help too.
Thanks.
Sir.
Hey, Asaka.
Thanks for helping out.
Of course. My mom was moved
to tears last night, so thank you.
I'm glad it was a good
experience for you.
I wanted to talk to you about something.
Yes?
I want to stay with
Yuhiza a little longer.
Wait... did you tell your mother?
No. But it's my decision.
Well, I don't know about that...
I already packed my things,
so thank you!
No, Asaka. We should
really tell your mother...
Popular Theater
I'll come see you when you're back.
- What a theater nerd.
- Shut up.
I'll definitely be back.
So, see you.
Yeah.
See you.
You know...
Yuki looked beautiful as a woman.
He would've been happy to hear that.
Aren't you loved by so many people.
Did I do something?
No... just remembering how my fan
switched favorites in front of me.
Give this to her during
the dance show after the play.
Stay low and go quickly
so you don't get in the way.
- Okay.
- Here.
Welcome, welcome.
Thank you for being here today.
The dance show is about to begin.
It's starting.
Boring day after boring day
With no way of finding love
The seasons change,
as if driving us away
"I wish I could see you again"
The feeling in my chest grows
From the memories of our firsts
The gods didn't even
give us time to think
About how tomorrow is our last day
Goodbye, I love you
I can't leave without
telling you either line
That moment when our eyes met
I want to recreate that feeling
So flash your eyes at me
Directed by Naoya Fujita
Arisa Nitta
(Japan Visualmedia Translation Academy)