Giants & Toys
Executive Producer Hidemasa Nagata
Original Story by Ken Kaiko Screenplay by Ishio Shirasaka
Photography by Hiroshi Murai Recording by Toshikazu Watanabe
Lighting by Isamu Yoneyama Art by Tomoo Shimogawara
Music by Tetsuo Tsukahara Editing by Tatsuji Chujo
Starring
Hiroshi Kawaguchi Hitomi Nozoe
Hideo Takamatsu Michiko Ono
Yunosuke Ito Kyu Sazanka
Directed by Yasuzo Masumura
Look at that crowd! A human flood!
The more chocolate and caramel they eat, the more we prosper.
To me, they look like caramels.
Here’s the balance sheet.
I know. The figures show our sales records are getting worse.
And we’re to blame.
We were over optimistic and lazy to boot.
You’re responsible.
You made no eye-catching publicity campaigns.
Sorry I’m late.
But we did what we could.
People like caramels. They’ll keep buying them forever.
But others make candy, too.
Both Apollo and Giant Caramel do.
Apollo’s new line has several flavors in one.
The taste changes as you eat them.
We can’t just sit back and wait.
It’s time, sir.
Excuse me.
Sign these.
Upset stomach?
It’s my age. It began when our sales started declining.
There’s no connection.
The market’s wide open! Right?
Our caramel sales are still good.
But, the more the better.
All three makers will have sales campaigns.
We must beat the competition.
Especially Apollo’s triple-flavor line.
The way to publicize this is through some sort of contest.
I want some ideas about prizes for tomorrow’s meeting.
New Japan Ad Agency? World Confectionery here.
Our neon sign at Shinagawa is busted.
The W and R in ’’WORLD’’ are out.
The wiring is defective! It reads ’’OLD.’’
But we’re not old, are we?
The public prefer those American candies to our caramels.
They make progress, and we lag behind.
What’s the boss thinking?
He’s totally hysterical.
The directors, too. They’re all his relatives, anyway.
If you aren’t a relative, you’ll never get on.
Why haven’t they fired our manager?
He’s a relative.
No caramels for his weak stomach.
He’s a protected man.
He’s only 38 but he’s on the fast track. Do you know why?
Simple. He went and married the manager’s daughter.
Chief!
This comic gives good ad results.
Radio Car Monthly, too.
This month’s spread.
You played football?
―Yes, a forward. ―I played half-back.
Let’s go have tea.
He’s only been here a week.
I should’ve played football.
Any idea about prizes? 8mm film projectors are old hat.
Something new. A totally new concept.
Prizes? Overseas they never resort to that old trick.
When it comes to caramels…
Hands up!
Made in the USA. Very well made.
―Good morning. ―Morning.
But we’re living in Japan.
Here, it’s a desperate fight just to survive.
Our rivals constantly have us in their sights.
The one who sells more caramels survives.
You like girls?
Yes, I do.
How about her?
She looks like a monkey.
―Bring her here. ―Now?
Hurry it up!
―Hi! ―Hello.
―How about tea? ―No, thanks.
It won’t take long.
Five minutes.
I said no!
―I’m not a weirdo. ―Police!
Really? She had a nose job?
And her eyelids, too.
Her entire face has been remodeled.
That’s terrible!
―Disappointed? ―I won’t watch her movies.
Severe! What’ll you have?
―Lemonade. ―Lemon squash is better.
I’ll send you some movie tickets. Your address?
Fukagawa. I’ll write it down.
Not to my home. My brother will steal them.
Okay. Bring a box of chocolates.
Next to movies, I like cars. I work at a taxi company.
Phone number, too.
They’re going bankrupt. No hope of a raise.
Only seven cabs, and they work us like slaves.
―I do mainly skip-work. ―Skip-work?
Yeah, I skip work.
Very masculine handwriting.
All taxi drivers are lewd. I ignore them.
There was one nice guy, but he quit.
He looks just like him, even walks like him.
Like who?
It’s a secret.
It certainly is. A present for you.
Thanks. I’d better get going.
Don’t forget the tickets.
I keep my word.
I’ll be waiting.
Her teeth are rotten!
Vivacious eyes and a long tongue.
You were quick.
After she turned you down, I said you loved her.
She stuck her tongue out and came along.
I really blew it!
Let’s give her a camera test.
Let’s go and get drunk!
―You enjoy your work? ―No.
They’re acting like fools.
Why did we like it here as students?
No demands on us.
How’s Giant Caramel going?
Preparing a new campaign.
―The prize? ―Live animals.
Squirrels, hamsters, little monkeys.
―You guys decided? ―Not yet.
―Campaign girl? ―Not yet.
Too slow.
We’re careful. We aim to win.
It’s war between Giant, World and Apollo.
What’s the matter?
You’re not just holding out on me?
Me? Why should I?
We’re old friends, sure, but we’re also rivals.
And both in charge of publicity.
Yokoyama!
I’m sorry. Forgive me.
Come on. We’re adults now. Let’s go somewhere more adult.
I don’t like this, doubting each other.
Sure, okay. But if…
Betray me, and I’ll fight.
All drinks are free.
Giant pays the bill.
Your chief often comes here.
Mr. Goda? I respect him. I hope to be as great as him.
Good evening.
This is Masami Kurahashi, from Apollo.
I’m Nishi, from World.
Highball!
―Publicity Dept? ―Yes, I’m new.
Can you hack it? You don’t look tough.
Buy a good idea?
―For sale? ―A bargain for you.
Sell it to World.
Let’s not talk shop.
―Why not? ―It’s our free time.
In Japan, we’re always working.
―You’re tough. ―You’re too soft.
Is that a challenge?
―The kid’s a player. ―Don’t insult me.
It’s those soft eyes.
What’s your idea? I’ll buy it.
―How much? ―It depends.
Space suits.
The kids will love it!
Free of charge. My gift.
To Apollo!
―To Giant! ―To World!
Space suits? That is a good idea.
I can’t reveal what Giant are planning…
…but space suits are much better.
They’re doing live animals.
So you knew?
They’re waiting.
No information about Apollo yet.
It’s unusual. I’m worried.
I’ll find out. I’ll devote myself to it.
Give it your best.
Chief, do I really have soft eyes?
Tranquil’s the word.
By coincidence, I thought of space suits 3 months ago.
Anyway, we want conclusions!
Show me the pamphlet.
How about the Wild West, with guns as prizes?
Mothers will complain!
The police won’t allow it.
Baseball uniforms are best.
Speak up, man!
Fishing rods?
Not for kids. But I like fishing for women.
It’s your responsibility!
Gentlemen, let’s hear what Mr. Goda has to say.
―Your medicine. ―The filial son-in-law.
Is it your bowels?
No, the stomach.
Prizes like baseball uniforms, microscopes…
…fishing gear, guns and women. They all lack appeal.
None of them can outshine Apollo’s new line of caramels.
Get to the point. Hurry up.
I’ve been looking into what interests children.
I’ve examined TV, radio, movies, the press and magazines.
A clear answer has emerged. Science! Space!
―Satellites! ―New worlds!
Prizes can be space suits and ray guns.
Old hat to Americans, but new to Japanese children.
It’s a fresh idea.
A newspaper is going to hold a Space Expo, targeted at kids.
If we can make a tie-in , we’ll cut our costs.
We can place space and science stories in the press.
That’ll go down well with the PTAs.
I think the idea is sound, fresh and unique.
What’s this material?
Plastic. I have cost estimates.
It’s brilliant!
―Yes, but… ―You disagree?
American kids may like it, but will Japanese?
You’re out-of-date.
America is Japan.
Maybe so, but…
Our company is 40 years old.
As the name indicates, the world’s our market.
We’ve tried to lead the young. But not any more.
You can’t link caramel to space.
Shall we vote?
I’m with space.
The boss will go for it.
Now we have to find a model for the posters.
Goda has some good leads on the model, too.
That’s whetted my appetite.
―What has? ―Your milk tanks.
How’s business?
Bad. I worked all night for a measly 800 yen.
―Shut up! ―Morning.
We’re heading for a recession.
You must be hungry. Here’s some food.
Get me tea!
Do it yourself.
That’ll be a fare.
More like an accident.
Hello? Koto Taxi.
Mr. Goda? Yes, it’s me.
You’ll pick me up? I’ll be waiting.
That’s no accident.
And it ain’t a fare.
Check!
If you skip work, I’ll deduct your pay.
Go ahead!
Check! Business sure is slow.
More like a depression.
Been waiting long?
No. Go on, get in.
What a nice car!
Hello there.
The tickets I promised you.
Shall we go for a drive?
This is fantastic! This upholstery!
―Who’s that? ―Some nut.
Camera test?
It won’t take long.
We may hire you as our poster girl.
Take me home!
―This could be your big chance. ―Not in these clothes!
But my hair… make-up… No pictures!
Everything’s at the studio.
Some other time.
Let me go!
Just forget about the camera.
All you have to do is eat candy and stick out your tongue.
We’ll do the rest.
No! Let me go! You’re violating my rights!
Let me go!
Are you finished?
Stop sleeping around. It’s starting to show.
He takes shots of pretty actresses’ weak points.
And a model in evening dress eating a sweet potato.
He captures what women hate.
But the girls adore him.
Another lousy kid?
How’s your father-in-law?
Not very well.
He used to be a fighter.
He got me started. I should go see him.
But I’m busy. Too many women to service.
What sort of ’’service?’’
Matters of the flesh.
And the heart, too.
―How old? ―I’m 18.
―Name? ―Kyoko.
My first love was a Kyoko.
How many first loves is that?
I had another last night.
But she stunk. Making love was pure torture.
Come with me.
―Stay with me. ―Me?
Or else I’ll faint!
―In a minute. ―Promise me.
Don’t forget.
This won’t work!
―She likes you. ―I hate monsters.
You don’t get it.
Harukawa is a magician.
She’ll be our mascot. You be her boyfriend.
Hello, gentlemen.
They’re the new World Girls.
They’re not much good.
The third one’s spunky.
The top brass here all have bad taste.
Goda discovered a new girl.
―Who? ―It’s a secret.
You’d know, you’re his bum-boy.
No need for all this hostility.
We salesmen need the help of you publicity people.
You produce posters and TV commercials.
And we exploit the market.
But there are many obstacles in our way.
For example, if it rains on a holiday, forget about picnics.
No one’s buying candy, right?
Rain just doesn’t stop builders.
Railroad strikes cut into our sales, too.
And what if a pleasure boat sinks?
No passengers, no candy sales.
Or an earthquake, a fire, or even worse…
…a typhoon, Japan’s own specialty.
A tiny country with much to worry about.
Right. If there were no disasters…
…there’d be too much fruit and farmers’ kids wouldn’t eat candy.
―No way! ―It’s no laughing matter.
Capitalism has come to an end.
Enjoy our delicious Silver Caramels!
Everybody loves Giant’s Silver Caramels!
The exotic taste of the South Pacific!
Giant brings you the joys of the South Pacific!
Silver Caramels not only taste good, they’re romantic!
Everybody loves Giant’s Silver Caramels!
Silver Caramels help to refresh you…
when you’re tired from demonstrating.
They’re invading our territory.
What are you doing?
You know why girls prefer foreign boyfriends?
The difference in physique is decisive.
Japanese men have short, bandy legs.
Most of us are skinny. Look depressed.
We make less money.
They make 100,000 yen a week.
Our Nobel prize winner makes one-fourth of that.
It’s obvious why the girls don’t like us.
I gotta take a piss.
Hello, kid. Good evening.
They’re from Apollo. You know her?
We met here.
Yes, sir?
Back to business. These are Kyoko’s stills.
She looks good through a viewfinder.
Plus she can lick her nose.
―Lick her own nose? ―Damn good at it, too.
―Good. ―She’ll do.
Hell of a big mouth. She could swallow a roll.
I’m expert at making women laugh and cry.
I want her to model for me.
Do your best. We’ll pay you well.
I’ll start tomorrow.
Nishida will assist you. Sorry it’s a Sunday.
No problem.
Give it some fighting spirit.
―Keep your hands off her. ―Of course!
I’ll go spy on Apollo.
That lighter’s just like you. Irritating!
Pour my beer, kid.
Ready?
That’s her there.
I don’t understand what you see in Kyoko.
But you’re free to photograph her at will.
A little present.
―They’re for me! ―No! Mine!
Stop that! Shut up!
Stop. I’ll give you noodles.
No, you won’t.
Stop that and give me a hand!
What next?
―You can go home. ―I wish I could.
You’re not needed.
―Can I come? ―Why even ask?
Take the car. The girl stays here.
―Take me. ―No way!
I’ll bring the car back tonight.
Wait! Nishi!
Leave the room messy.
But it’s far too dirty.
Better spruce up…
Not you. No thanks.
Hands on your waist.
What’s that?
I need ozone. Tomorrow I’m back into the concrete jungle.
You can’t stock air.
Girls certainly can.
Why did you invite me?
You need a reason?
No. Isn’t the sky beautiful?
You’re so romantic.
I’m a woman.
And it shows.
You’re sounding very adult.
Am I still a kid?
You smell of milk.
You’re hard to dupe.
Go ahead, dupe me.
What prizes did you decide on?
Is that why you kissed me?
No, not at all.
―Then why? ―Because I like you.
Still haven’t decided.
―Liar! ―No, it’s true.
But World has, right?
You know?
Sure. Which will it be, squirrels or space suits?
Space suits, of course.
Grand scale!
We’re talking space, after all.
Let’s forget all about work.
We’ve got more important things to do.
She’s cute, isn’t she?
I’d like to see her nude.
This town is so boring! Nothing ever happens.
There ain’t much for poor people like us.
She’s a good-looking babe.
She looks like a nut.
Just like you.
I’m not used to this…
Don’t worry. They’re good shots.
Oh, no! I’m eating noodles!
This is the TV studio.
Mr. Harukawa shouted out really loud.
Rock ’n roll is great. I love to get excited.
Next, please.
Mighty Mouse is flying!
Stop it.
Look up.
Has Nishi seen them?
Better than the real thing, he said.
How insulting! Where is he?
At the factory. Want to see him?
Soon you’ll start getting lots of visitors coming to see you.
Like who?
So don’t mention us and World Caramels.
Just say Harukawa discovered you on his own.
I’m not good at lying.
If they ask about your family…
…say that you never ever quarrel.
Say you give all your wages to your sick father.
I spend it on myself. I earn it.
Never say that again.
Difficult, isn’t it?
―He’s waiting for me. ―A boyfriend?
Four of them. My little tadpoles.
Little know-it-all!
Your magazine is full of crap.
Where did you find her?
That issue is sold out.
Byron wrote poems while inflicting self-torture.
Dryden conjures up plots while he drives.
Kyoko is a bigger hit than the James Dean special edition.
Kyoko Shima is a character.
Musset meditated surrounded by books.
Japanese novelists meditate on the toilet.
She’s young, she’s fresh.
Good catch.
She’s no different from any other girl her age.
The only difference is that she keeps tadpoles.
That’s brilliant!
Grotesque bullfrog tadpoles. They eat dried bonito.
―Bonito? ―Human interest!
Your salary?
I give it to my sick father.
Such a sweet and honest young lady.
That ends today’s special report.
Show us the tadpoles.
Camera!
Yujiro’s dead!
―Dead? ―Yes, dead.
International norms are a form of control.
They’re functional.
To put it into laymen’s terms…
Hey, this is a sweet, friendly face.
’’Gives salary to her sick father.’’
She has a heart, too. That’s rare.
I give you credit.
That funny face of hers is attractive.
You’re great! A genius!
Do you know how many publications Japan has?
How many pages in total?
How many TV, record and movie companies?
Good morning.
Japan is filled with them.
Editors and producers
must keep printing and broadcasting programs
or they lose their jobs.
They’re eager to find stars. Everyone gets their 15 minutes.
Writers, transvestites, even thieves.
Why not Kyoko? We’ll make her a big star.
Morning.
Get me 20th Century Fashion.
You found a model?
My daughter visited me.
That you, Okuda? It’s Goda. How about a drink tonight?
I want to introduce a new model. But keep it quiet.
See you then.
I know you’re busy, but go home early sometimes.
I’m saying this as your wife’s father, not your boss.
I found you at last!
Do me a favor. Put an ad in my newspaper.
―Please. ―Speak to the chief.
If you say yes, he’ll agree.
He’ll be retiring soon, anyway.
I feel sick. I’ll go home.
Was that the chief?
Every morning she has a bright and cheery hello for me.
I’ve known her all her life, she’s such a good girl.
Her neighbor, a local florist.
Loved by her co-workers, friends, teachers, everyone…
Don’t drink!
But I’m thirsty.
Do it again. From ’’Loved by her…’’
Who gave her water?
She’s a precious flower who beautifies the whole town.
That’s our Kyoko.
I want to be happy. I want the people in my…
What’s this say?
Come on! We rehearsed all this!
Sorry. I’m nervous.
Start again.
I want to be happy.
I want the people in my environment to be happy, too.
I ask the twinkling stars at night…
Apollo still hasn’t decided. We’re way ahead.
Really? Are you sure?
Believe me, I know.
Why do people fight and cheat each other?
Why don’t they trust each other and work to improve the world?
The stars give no answer.
And I know not why…
You soon will, kid.
How was I?
Great for a first-timer.
I’m thirsty. Water!
Meet me at the exit.
Thursday’s a fashion show.
Who’s she?
You’ll be kept informed.
Goodbye.
How about dinner?
No thanks.
I want to star in a TV drama.
―Your home town? ―Shizuoka.
Pass the cigarettes.
What’s Apollo’s prize?
I don’t know. The boss hasn’t decided.
She was cute. That girl.
The tomboy?
―Who is she? ―Nothing.
I’m handling her.
What’s that entail?
I can’t say. But you’ll see.
Goodbye.
What’s wrong?
You can’t hunt two rabbits at one time.
You’ve got it wrong.
Don’t you know who she is?
You must be blind.
She’s that new sensation in all the magazines.
Why was she with you?
I was with her.
It’s the same thing.
Are you jealous?
Maybe I am.
That’s silly!
You aren’t too bright.
Just between you and me. She’ll be our…
Your poster model, right? Has she signed?
You knew?
I just read it in your face.
Don’t dare tell anybody.
Alright.
Do you love me?
Yes, very much!
When you find out the prize, tell me.
Our products are superior to those of…
…both Apollo and Giant. We’re confident.
Your publicity will make or break the campaign.
Must be hard working for a stubborn boss.
Shoot from here.
You like fashion shows?
I’m here to hire a model.
She has a sponsor already.
I didn’t know. But introduce me anyway.
―You’ve really changed. ―How?
You just have.
Well, that’s my job. I had to.
Established stars have thousands of fans.
They love their stars.
Right. They collect posters of the stars they like.
So I don’t want a star.
The fans look at the star, not the goods they advertise.
I disagree.
Well, can you tell me what two of today’s big stars are selling?
This isn’t a quiz show!
Singers, baseball players, entertainers, etc.
They sell everything from pop to lipstick.
Even a gravestone, if you want one.
They sell so much their fans can’t remember them all.
That’s why I won’t use a star.
We aren’t selling bromides.
In short, you want some new personality.
Yes, sir.
A new face?
Okay, show us your new star. I’m sick of this.
He should’ve done this first.
He knows what he’s doing.
This face is familiar.
Are you sure she’s free?
I scouted her. I made her a model and a star.
Does everyone agree?
We have to. There’s not much time left.
Alright, then. Decided?
Look at the pictures.
Kyoko, pay the fare!
Don’t be so stingy.
Everything ready?
She just arrived. We’ll come on up.
Why did you ask me here?
We’ll hire you as our public face.
Just sign the contract and you’ll be paid.
―How much? ―200,000 yen.
I’ll buy crackers!
Five zeros, but you’re well worth it.
Any problems, you tell us.
You can appear in the press
but you’re forbidden to advertise any products.
If you agree, sign.
I’ll quit working.
Apollo Caramel also called me. Some woman.
She said she wanted to meet me.
Your seal.
How would I know? But Apollo is our enemy, right?
Stamp here.
You can see her.
You blew it.
Goodbye.
What’s wrong?
Was it you who called Kyoko?
I did. So what?
How could you!
She’s a marketable character, of course I did.
You trampled on my love for you.
What about you? Didn’t you try to make use of me?
But I played fair.
Sooner or later you’ll do what I did.
Alright. What’s Apollo’s prize?
Sure, I could tell you. It’ll soon be out.
But that wouldn’t help you.
Who cares? Just tell me.
Win a subsidized life. From cradle to wedding.
It was my idea. Satisfied now?
This needn’t affect our relationship.
Let’s remain lovers.
Great idea. It targets one out of millions.
Everyone will want to win.
But if you compare the three offerings
the poor will be lining up to win Apollo’s prize.
Space suits don’t eliminate poverty. We’re sunk.
I don’t mind a struggle.
Such a reckless attitude does give me some encouragement.
Your tea.
If we had a daughter, I’d want her to marry Nishi.
Yes, that would put him on the fast track.
That’s right. That’s how it works.
Unfortunately she’s barren. My bad luck!
You could run for Miss Mars, and you’d win.
Look this way. Pull in your chin. Now relax and smile.
She looks like a star!
You like sumo wrestling? Let’s go sometime.
I saw a bout once.
One of the wrestlers lost his loincloth.
He was buck naked.
A sight to behold!
Hello? It’s for you. From Osaka.
Japan Plastic? About the space suits…
I think Goda’s got it wrong this time.
But she’s very appealing.
First, she’s no unattainable star. Second, that’s a boy’s toy.
Plus caramels have rotted her teeth. It’s a whole new concept.
She’s going to become a sensation.
Sure, she’s fresh, charming…
…but I don’t think she can beat Apollo.
We’re focusing on kid’s toys, they’ve targeted adults.
Apollo gets women, the PTA and religious groups.
You’re in charge, how could you let this happen?
Apollo’s idea is brilliant, and ours isn’t.
We’re not engaged in philanthropic work.
We sell caramels. That’s the point.
Are you confident?
I’ll try.
Goda, wait. This is in strictest confidence.
We’re going to promote you to director.
The president will go along with it.
Don’t worry. I’ll find a post for Yashiro.
We’re counting on you.
It’s your Giant pro-wrestler.
Giant offers you many gigantic prizes!
Pocket monkeys, rabbits, squirrels, and much more!
World Caramel is proud to present as prizes:
A set of space suits.
Space helmet and space gun, plus caramel-packed rockets.
And free invitations to the planetarium.
World Caramels are the best!
Pep pills?
I haven’t slept for three days.
Everybody loves Giant’s Silver Caramels!
The exotic taste of the South Pacific!
Giant brings you the joys of the South Pacific!
Enjoy our delicious Silver Caramels!
Everybody loves Giant’s Silver Caramels!
The exotic taste of the South Pacific!
World Caramels
Let’s have fun!
You feel better?
World vs. Giant: A desperate fight to the finish.
But look at Apollo.
They’re doing it all with posters. Damn hypocrites!
Apollo Queen Candy From Cradle To Wedding
Welcome to Japan!
TV rehearsal.
I like your hat better.
Let’s go.
But it’s just started.
You came here to present bouquets.
Can’t I enjoy myself?
No. You’re a star.
Let’s watch together.
―Don’t be silly. ―Help me up.
Don’t block! Hey, don’t I know you?
I’m Kyoko Shima.
He struck out again.
Drop dead! You jerk!
Sorry to be late.
―It’s her fault. ―That’s not true.
You can rest later.
It wasn’t me. Nishi is lying.
What are they?
Tranquilizers? Should you mix the two?
You look beat.
You’re young. I envy you.
Apollo Winning! Best prize choice!
Business is good. Our publicity’s working.
Our campaign costs more than Apollo’s.
But they’re selling more. They’re getting better results.
I went along with you. I’ve supported you.
It’s up to you to beat Apollo!
Things are looking bad.
A hopeless situation.
The last of the tadpoles is dead, too.
Your fee. Sign the receipt.
You people pay late.
We pay for publicity and help our retailers financially.
At least you’re making money.
I hate TV.
It’s the best ad medium.
It sends Kyoko and caramels into people’s homes.
Her rotten teeth, too.
You’ve got bags under your eyes.
You’re as tired as I am.
Look at her. She isn’t afraid of anything.
While you slave away, she’s transforming herself.
She’s gone from a tadpole to a frog.
If you want to be a star, take three lovers.
A producer, a writer and a critic.
―If they’re handsome. ―They never are.
Next reel!
I’m beat.
But I like TV, no one demands their money back.
A hopeless dancer, but she laughs well.
Thanks.
Sorry, it wasn’t that good.
Still here? I’m busy. Some other time.
―A woman producer. ―She’s no woman.
―What is she? ―A machine.
No! That’s not how it goes.
Don’t you get it? Do it this way.
Oh! Mother!
You want more close-ups? No problem.
Not me, the chief.
―Finished? ―Five minutes.
Who was that woman?
The old actress?
She used to be your poster model.
Still hasn’t realized her star’s faded. It’s a tough business.
She’s looking for work.
But we can’t use her and she keeps hassling me.
Come on, let’s go shopping.
Autograph please!
Up close she’s ugly.
Goodbye. Let’s go.
What are you looking at?
I want to study piano, dancing, singing, anything!
Jazz, first.
Stars should sing jazz.
Who said that?
I’m not as stupid as I look.
Then learn English.
That’s what I was thinking.
―Got a dictionary? ―No.
Choose one for me.
―Is this French? ―German.
―German? ―French.
How about this one?
English?
English-Japanese, Japanese-English?
Americans speak American!
You don’t know the difference?
It’s all the same, isn’t it?
You’ll learn soon enough.
Kyoko, autograph please.
Do you know how much I make a month?
No, I don’t.
Including radio, TV, magazines and posters, I earned 500,000 yen.
I can buy fur coats, jewels, cars. Anything!
The sun revolves around you.
I only lack one thing.
What’s that?
You, Nishi.
Be my lover.
No way, no thanks.
Why not? We’d make great lovers.
I disagree.
I’m in love with you but you look at me so coldly.
You’re salable goods.
I don’t see a price tag.
Some things we can’t have.
I can, when I want to.
Do you like me?
I have my career and a woman.
That doesn’t matter.
Do you like me, or not?
Not.
That’s strange. I can’t believe it.
You’re conceited.
Better than being hopeless. Love me.
No.
You won’t regret it.
I’ll buy you anything. Do anything. I mean it.
Stop insulting me. You’re a star, but you’re still a kid.
If you have time for men, better you study singing.
Me, a kid?
Yes, a baby. Success has gone to your head.
You just don’t get it. I never want to see you again!
You jerk!
Stupid! It was your fault!
This is the model for the Space Expo.
It’ll be finished in a week.
Satellites, space stations…
We need more good ideas.
It’s too big. We can’t afford it.
They’ll pay. Don’t worry.
Haven’t seen Kyoko for a while.
We’ll need her for the expo.
Big news! Apollo’s factory is on fire!
’’Apollo Reduced to Ashes!’’
’’Campaign Abandoned!’’
The greatest damage we at Apollo face, is…
Our candy vending machines will be empty.
Useless, laying idle.
Production on our new line has stopped.
What a catastrophe!
The problem is, if we have no new line to sell…
the prize we’ve been offering will be meaningless.
We were winning the sales war against Giant and World.
But not any more.
What a disaster!
Any stockpiles?
Nothing.
The new factory?
Six months off.
What stupendous damage!
―Six months! ―They’re hibernating.
Our big chance.
Three horses eating hay. One of them falls ill.
More for the other two!
Let’s demolish Apollo!
―Can we produce more? ―No problem.
Their whole campaign is in tatters.
Apollo is in critical condition.
We’ll crush them and dominate the market!
Do your best.
But there’s something called conscience…
We don’t have to act like thieves.
We should behave like gentlemen and act decently.
What are you saying?
There were two rival samurai who helped each other
when a famine swept the land.
The spirit of bushido?
Sportsmanship. Fair play.
What was that? Conscience? Decency?
Are we discussing morals?
No, but still…
We aren’t samurai.
If we did as you suggest, Giant would walk all over us.
Our duty is clear. More publicity, more sales!
You’re still young.
Young?
All you think of is publicity.
So what?
There’s a limit to sales. The public just won’t buy.
Not everyone wants to eat caramels.
You’re out-of-date. You don’t understand the media.
The public are worse than babies. Worse than dogs.
Because they don’t think.
They work like slaves, and get drunk at night.
TV, radio, movies, games. They have no time to think.
That’s where we come in.
We’ll fill their empty heads with our message:
’’Delicious caramel, World Caramel, World, World…!’’
Every time they see a pack, they’ll automatically buy it.
Use radio, TV and movies to control them. You understand?
Control their thoughts. The dictatorship of publicity!
Such conceit! You’re too arrogant.
That’s how it is.
―Can you sell more caramels? ―Certainly.
No. We can’t.
Sir, you were a great man but the times have outpaced you.
Now you’re just a nuisance. Resign.
Excuse me.
Alright Goda, do it your way.
But make sure you double our sales.
Production’s up but we’re not bullying Apollo.
It’s just a coincidence.
But it’s so heartless.
It’s our policy. You just stick to the line.
Forget compassion, fear, shyness, compromise and remorse.
’’Who will win, World or Giant?’’
Huge stockpiles, but less sales!
It’s only temporary. Apollo is out of the race.
Sales are everything. Raise the wholesale commission.
Wine and dine the buyers who matter.
Sales are everything!
Increased sales all depend on you fine men.
We’re also doing our best to boost production.
Sell! We’ve got to sell!
Try World Caramels!
Giant’s Silver Caramels are delicious!
It’s like Giant and World have gone crazy.
They have! And what are we doing?
Trying to survive.
Strangling ourselves.
That’s modern times.
You give up? I won’t!
Let’s you and I get married.
I must refuse.
You dislike me?
When I do marry, I’ll quit working.
But your salary is too low.
Money’s not everything.
You’re so sweet and carefree.
Why be paupers? I like it as it is.
Making use of each other?
Work is work and love is love.
We love as we cheat. It’s so thrilling!
Such a love will last.
No, it’s deceit!
Take my advice.
If we stop and think, we’ll be crushed.
Do you know Kyoko has a manager?
Really?
I don’t like you like this. I want to spur you.
I love you.
Sales have come to a halt.
Retailers have started dumping.
It’s like a landslide.
Prices will drop. But we can’t back out.
The campaign will end soon. There’ll be a final spurt.
We need more publicity, more space shows!
Yes, but a smaller budget.
With money, even a child could do it. You try without money!
But…
About you being promoted to chief publicity manager…
The boss has agreed. This is your chance to show them.
Let me have a ride!
Let me!
No, you’ll get it dirty.
No, I won’t.
Just a ride.
Is your sister in?
No.
No, you’ll break it.
She isn’t here?
She moved out. It’s far too dingy for her.
Moved where?
We have no idea, but she sends messengers here.
―Who? ―Different people.
Ask her to get in touch with us, please.
Be careful with that!
We’re moving, too. This is no place for Kyoko’s parents.
Be careful. Don’t carry heavy stuff.
He just needed nourishment.
Money certainly cured him.
Come on, call a taxi.
Okay, okay.
Look, that’s Kyoko.
She’s putting on airs.
―Autograph, please. ―Later, I’m busy.
She’s so stuck-up!
You should have told us your new address.
Where’ve you been?
I’ve been busy.
Did you get my letter?
You must appear in our show.
It’ll take about ten days.
It’s simple enough. Hand out caramels at the Space Expo.
From 10:00 to 4:00 every day.
Okay, make it a week. You’re probably busy.
That’s difficult.
Radio and TV work is easy, but I can’t stand up all day.
You get rest time.
I’ll be too tired to record.
A record company offered me a deal.
I’m taking lessons.
A jazz singer, eh? Good for you.
But you are bound by our contract.
Your obligation to us comes first. Understand?
It’s me who discovered you and made you a star.
You should consider it a debt you owe me.
Let me point out that handing out caramels in a space suit
is not in the contract.
The contract only covers radio, TV and the media.
I never signed to be a peddler. I’ve been exploited.
Okay, look, let’s forget the contract.
But we really need you to be on the floor for us.
I’ll pay you well. What’s your price?
Who put you up to this?
If you pay enough…
I’ll help you out.
She’s changed. She scares me.
Our budget is down, but we must use her.
What’s her price?
There’s no extra budget to pay for her.
But we can’t force her.
We have to.
But how?
We have one ace:
You.
Date her. Kiss her. Lay her!
Are you serious?
She loves you. That’s why I put you in charge.
But you neglected your duty. It’s all your fault!
You have no choice!
No! I won’t do that!
You can’t refuse.
You told me to keep my hands off her.
That was then!
I don’t love her.
She has a good body.
No, thank you.
It’s an order!
As of today, I’m director of PR.
It’s a company order, you can’t refuse.
Make love to her and get control of her.
Mr. Goda!
Hurry it up!
Get going!
Beat the drums, here comes the night
Running through the darkness, from one to another
Without the slightestsound, creep up andspear them
With lightest ofsteps, approach and kill them
Let rivers of blood run from them
Bleeding, bleeding
Sell it to the native women
The native women, when they see the blood flow
Oh how happy they will be They leap and dance with Joy
Dance! Dance! Possessed by the god of death
Leave them, discard them we can’t help the dead
Traveling from one darkness to another, to a funeral
Something floating in the azure blue sky
Floating…
When I wink, I want you to throw the streamers.
But not at my face.
If I go blind, thousands of girls will be heartbroken.
Here she comes.
Miss Shima! You were wonderful!
Nice to see you.
You know why?
Here to pay me?
No.
To hear my songs?
―To love you. ―What?
To lay you.
Don’t be silly.
Happy now? You’ve got the whole world.
How conceited. Don’t talk to me like that.
I don’t care about you.
Even if you’re the best, I’m not interested.
―Get lost! ―No!
―Why not? ―Orders.
―Goda’s? ―No!
Then whose?
Shut up. Come with me.
No one tells me what to do.
You think you’re a star but you’re just a puppet.
So what? I don’t mind.
I’m enjoying this puppet’s life.
The public is fickle. They’ll soon find another star.
And you’ll end up a nobody.
So what?
You’re very strange. Do you envy me?
You regret you lost me? I’m happy and content.
The man I love is taking care of me and business.
What?
How dare you! Go!
Get out!
I will. But tell me one thing.
Who is this lover? Who’s managing you?
Me.
Wait. Listen to me.
Don’t be so upset.
You double-crossed me. I thought we were friends.
You can’t rely on friends these days.
Look what you’ve become!
Come on, grow up!
Eat or be eaten. Cheat or be cheated.
That’s how it is these days.
Change, or you’ll get left behind.
What changed you?
I quit Giant.
What’s your salary? How about in ten years?
How much will you have coming when you retire?
I’ll do anything for money.
You dumped Kyoko, so I picked her up.
What’s wrong with making a fortune?
I’m forcing myself to do it.
Don’t you remember all we went through?
We played football and sang together.
The days are long gone. Forget them!
Don’t put the blame on me. One day you’ll understand.
I already do.
Are you crying?
Don’t forget, you’re a star. Fans don’t like weepers.
I’m angry.
Angry?
Anger and tears are useless.
Only fools cry or get angry.
Clever people laugh.
Kyoko, you must laugh, forget everything.
Back to work!
Teenagers are fickle. You’ve got to hustle.
A show in Nagoya tomorrow…
and fly back for the TV show tomorrow night.
They’re lovely. Thank you.
Goda Residence
Hello.
He’s still not back.
He vomited blood earlier today.
No, he comes home late every night.
This is Fu. It’s a silly name.
I see a big future for you.
You’ll be very rich…
with a handsome boyfriend.
That’s me.
Another highball.
Is Goda here?
No. He stopped coming.
His days are over.
This girl…
She’s another Kyoko Shima.
I hear World lost Kyoko.
Goda sure is smart, but Kyoko outsmarted him.
Slum girl fools big shot from a major company.
It serves him right.
He’s fighting a war alone. What a fool!
You’re just like World’s marshmallows.
So you’re here?
Where’s Kyoko?
It didn’t work. I failed.
That’s unacceptable!
Sorry. But I did my best.
You can’t manipulate me.
You think it ends there?
The campaign will continue.
Even if Kyoko comes back to work for us…
then what would happen?
Sure, sales would go up a bit.
Power. Money. And I’d be a director!
And you crave that, don’t you?
But I don’t. I’m quitting!
Quit? Then what?
I’ll live like a human being.
Are you dreaming? This is Japan.
We must work hard, or else we won’t survive.
Taxi drivers, teachers, everybody.
We cry and run around like madmen.
You don’t know humanity. You didn’t marry for love.
You schemed to oust your own boss!
And I respected you. I wanted to be like you.
What a fool I was! You’re not even human.
Complain to Japan, not me!
Go ahead, live like a man. In Wonderland!
But if you’re Japanese, you’ll do as I do!
Go back to Kyoko and get her to wear this space suit!
No. I refuse to kill myself.
Because that’s what you’re doing.
Fool! We must sell candy. We must win!
No! I won’t sacrifice my dignity.
You’re a total idiot!
Shut up! I can’t count on you.
If you and she won’t, I’ll do it myself!
You’re a real Japanese after all. You can succeed me.
I’ll never be like you.
You think so?
Give them a smile.
A bright smile.
The End