Sorrows and Joys of a Middle-Aged Man (1949)

[bunniefuu]

SORROWS AND JOYS OF A MIDDLE-AGED MAN

STARRING: Han Fei, Li Huanqing,

Shen Yang, Zhu Jiachen, Shi Hui

DOP: Huang Shaofen

SOUND: Shen Yimin

DIRECTED BY: Hu Sang

"Just as Heaven loves to hide its

intentions in the dark grasses,

"So love between people only

becomes clear...

"when it is too late."

- Li Yishan, poet

Father, can we

play over there?

All right.

Just don't wander off.

YUAN MINGHUI

WIFE OF CHEN SHAOCHANG

Stop crying.

Let's go home.

Zhiquan?

Oh, Principal,

you're here too?

Mr Chen.

Minhua, don't cry.

What an obedient child,

weeping over her mother.

My children seem to have

forgotten about their mother.

It's like they think

they're here on a picnic.

See? Look how

happy they are!

Are they all at your school?

Yes.

And, Minhua, what about you?

Her current school isn't very good.

I'll send her to yours next semester.

Fine, she's welcome.

I'm just worried she won't

meet your standard.

So please could you

look out for her?

Of course.

But she's a clever girl.

Yes, clever...

but also cries too much.

Look at you.

Your eyes are all swollen.

I brought her here without

her stepmother's knowledge.

You'd better not tell her, eh?

Why are you

so scared of your wife?

She's very capricious

and intolerant.

How does she treat Minhua?

She was all right at first,

but when she had her own baby,

everything changed.

But enough about this.

Come over to my place later.

I haven't drunk with you for a long

time. So let's make an evening of it.

All right.

Let me take the children home first.

Jianzhong!

Jianzhong!

Mr Chen, sorry that we

don't have much food.

It's fine, Mrs Liu.

But have a drink with me.

I don't drink.

Zhiquan, you can drink for me.

- Have another drink, Mr Chen.

- I've had enough.

Let's eat.

All right.

I'll get the food.

Here, Shaochang,

let's have a toast.

Big brother, how do I do this?

I'm busy!

Don't make me beg.

For the university entrance exams,

don't you know?

If you won't help, then don't.

I'll ask cousin.

- Aunt!

- Hello.

Cousin, how do I do this?

Look...

- Is your father back yet?

- No.

When he's back,

tell him I want to talk.

- Principal!

- Hey, Old Ma!

- You're late back!

- I had dinner with a friend.

There'll be a wedding dinner

soon too!

Oh, just go upstairs.

You'll know about it soon!

Father! You're back!

Auntie's looking for you!

Hey! Where's your walking stick?

Ah, I must have left it

at Zhiquan's place.

- Uncle.

- Hello.

You're looking for me,

sister-in-law?

I want to

show you something.

Who is it?

Someone Old Ma downstairs

wanted me to show to you.

He says she's a good person,

and if you want,

he'll act as your matchmaker.

Oh, that explains

what he just said.

Well, what do you think?

I have no plans to marry.

Don't get me wrong,

but how can someone

your age not have a wife?

My wife's been dead

for six years...

and I'm doing just fine,

aren't I?

It's not just

about you.

Someone has to take care

of your three children!

The children are actually the main

reason why I don't want another wife.

How's that?

No child wants a stepmother.

I had dinner

at Liu Zhiquan's place,

and his new wife has no interest

in his daughter.

So you're really not planning

to marry again?

If I wanted to, it'll at least be

after the children are grown up.

If you wait till then

you'll be an old man!

And when I'm old,

I won't need to get married!

Oh, yes...

It was payday at the school today.

Here's your and Xiaochuan's allowance.

We already live and eat

under your roof,

and every month

you give us money too...

Oh, it's nothing.

That's why I hope Xiaochuan

will find a job soon,

so we won't have to

rely on you forever.

Hey, things are

different now.

Children these days should

focus on their education.

Father, I want

to go to bed.

Look at you...

Wives usually put the children to bed,

but you have to do it yourself.

I'm used to it.

Let's go.

Ma,

This woman looks quite pretty.

Why doesn't uncle want her?

What do you

know about it!

Jianying, time for bed.

I don't want to!

Is this your diary for today?

"Today is Tomb-Sweeping Day.

Father took us tomb-sweeping.

"After that we went home.

When we got home we had some food.

"After eating we did our homework.

"After homework we went to sleep."

What are you doing?

Keeping records?

All right, bedtime for you.

Come on.

You've grown so big,

Father can barely carry you!

Jianzhong, you should

sleep too.

Look at you...

you're yawning.

Father, the graduation examinations

have been rescheduled to earlier.

I'm very worried.

I'm afraid I won't pass.

Well, you can't just

cram it in one day.

It's getting late,

so get to bed, hmm?

Who are you

looking for?

I'm looking for

the Principal.

He's giving a speech

at the moment.

Just wait here.

I'll get him for you.

I've already

spoken a lot,

and there are many

fun activities after this.

So, I'll end with a story.

I started this school

more than ten years ago.

I still remember how few

students we had back then.

Perhaps you might not believe it,

but we started with

only twelve students.

Twelve!

But that did not deter us,

and we moved forward

step by step.

And today, we have more than

three hundred students,

and have built

quite a reputation for ourselves.

So, no matter what we do in life,

we must be persistent,

and we must be prudent.

And so, I leave these two words,

"persistence" and "prudence",

to the graduating students today.

Thank you.

Mr Chen!

Minhua, what are you doing here?

Are you enrolling?

No. We're moving

to Hankou tomorrow.

Hankou?

Father's company is sending him there.

He told me to tell you.

So you're all moving?

Mr Chen,

here's your walking stick.

Oh, you've brought it!

Come here, Minhua.

I have some cakes here.

Come and have some.

The rats must have found it.

- There are rats here?

- Mm.

We can't eat these.

I'll ask them to buy some.

It's all right.

I have to go back.

Already?

Stepmother said I have

to be back in half an hour.

But you only

just got here!

It's stopped working again.

It never works for long.

This watch is older

than you are!

Mr Chen, I really

have to go now.

My brother will

wake up soon.

All right, I'll see you out.

- What's wrong?

- My hand hurts.

Your stepmother

beat you again?

Xiaochuan!

Once you've put your stuff down,

come to my room for roast chestnuts.

Let's play chess afterwards.

Mother -

Hello, sir.

Is your graduation over now?

This is my certificate. I got

first place, and this was my prize.

Oh?

You get prizes now?

Mother, look.

- Xiaochuan, where are you going?

- To Uncle Chen.

Come here.

Xiaochuan...

You're going to

start work tomorrow.

Work?

Mother, I don't want to work.

I want to study!

There is no other way...

Xiaochuan, they almost finished

these without you.

I saved some for you.

Here.

Uncle, I have to start

work tomorrow.

Work?

- Where?

- At a department store.

I really have to thank Old Ma for

helping my son find this position.

He's still a child.

Let him have an education.

We can find a way to deal with

his tuition fees together.

These days there's not much use

for higher learning.

Well, at least let him

finish High School.

It's not just

High School students...

even University students have trouble

putting food on the table these days.

Hey cousin! Big brother wants

to play chess with you!

Xiaochuan... go on.

Come on! Quickly.

I've been waiting for ages!

Sister, boil some water.

- Okay.

- I can do it!

Like hell you can!

Jianzhong...

I want to give

this to you.

What for?

I don't need it anymore.

I have to start work tomorrow.

Work??

Where are you going to work?

At a department store.

A department store??

Not exactly a great job!

Like you'll do any better!

Of course I will!

I have a plan.

When I grow up,

I'm going to work at a bank!

AnPing Bank, February Salary

Mr Chen Jianzhong

- Hey, Liu!

- Huh?

This is the first salary

I've ever received.

I feel so strange.

I can't quite believe I can make money.

That's how I felt

on my first payday too.

But by the second time,

you get used to it!

MANAGER'S OFFICE

Hey, who are they?

The boss's daughters.

Pretty, aren't they?

Absolutely!

Mr Chen,

the boss wants you.

Mr Feng.

Mr Chen, I'm looking

for a favour from you.

Of course.

My two daughters aren't doing

all that well in university.

So I wanted to ask whether you could

tutor them? If you have the time...

I appreciate the offer, sir.

But I'm no scholar either.

Oh please, don't be modest.

Of all our recent new staff,

you've done the best by far.

That's why I'm asking you.

If you really think that highly of me,

I'll give it a try.

Great.

We'll start tomorrow.

After we finish work tomorrow

I'll take you to my place.

All right.

So what did

the boss want?

He asked me to tutor

his daughters after work.

- Then there's your chance!

- What chance?

To get closer

to the two girls!

Yeah!

Don't talk nonsense! What chance would

a poor boy like me have with them?

You don't know that! You've just got to

be confident and go for it!

Stop joking.

But really,

here's some advice.

To get closer to people like that,

it's all about your image.

Take your tie, for example.

That won't do.

You should change it.

Jianping, have some duck stomach.

Someone's in a good mood!

Today was my first payday!

What's that?

A tie.

Nice!

Is it for me?

No, it's mine.

Where's sister?

In Auntie's room.

Auntie, have some duck stomach.

My teeth are no good.

But leave some

for Xiaochuan!

Here, Jianying.

Big brother,

feeling rich today?

It's my first payday today.

Oh! You want to treat us,

and you think duck stomach will do??

All right, I'll take you

to the cinema tomorrow.

Cinema? I'll come too.

Cousin, you're back.

Xiaochuan, Jianzhong has

got this for you.

Oh? Thank you.

I forgot that I could have

gone to your store for a tie.

I can give you

a 20% discount.

Jianzhong, you must learn how to spend

wisely now. Don't spend it all at once.

When your father comes back,

you should give your salary to him.

That would give him

some joy.

But Father already

has money.

You don't understand.

As parents, being able to

use our children's money...

even if it's just a small amount,

will give great happiness.

I still remember when Xiaochuan

started working.

When he gave me his first salary,

I...

I cried.

Mother is like that,

even when she's happy,

she'll cry.

Father is back.

- Uncle.

- Hello. You're all back?

Father, have some of this.

It's from big brother!

- Father.

- Hmm.

I... I got paid today.

I... I'll give it to you.

Shaochang, just take it.

It would mean a lot to him.

Keep it for yourself.

I don't need it.

Oh, wait.

I'll just take one bill.

I'll buy them

something nice tomorrow.

Whom?

Your old teachers!

For what they did for help you.

Have some treats, everyone!

They're from Jianzhong!

He's already making

money for himself!

Mr He, you should have some extra.

You were his class teacher.

Thank you, thank you!

- Here.

- Thank you, thank you.

Principal?

There's a Miss Liu

looking for you.

- Miss Liu?

- I told her to wait in your office.

Old Wang, you have some too!

The Principal is

really happy today!

Mr He, why aren't

you eating anything?

I'm taking it home

for my children.

Well, that's a little cheap!

I barely make enough for our rice,

much less treats like this.

One of these days I'm going to

switch jobs, and earn more.

Mr Chen.

Don't you recognise me?

I'm Minhua.

Minhua?

Ahh, Minhua!

It's been more than ten years.

You've grown so tall!

When did you come back

to Shanghai?

It's been less than a month.

How's your father?

He died.

Huh? When?

Last year.

Who would have thought!

Anyway, Minhua,

please have a seat.

Oh, have some candy.

Thank you.

So it's just you and your

stepmother at home now?

And my younger brother.

Oh, yes.

Your younger brother too.

Are you still in school?

No, I graduated high school.

- Mr Chen...

- Hmm?

I... I was hoping...

that you'd help me

find a job.

These days...

work is hard to find,

but if you'd be willing to work as a

teacher here, I might be able to help.

That's great!

I studied teaching in Hankou.

But a teacher's pay

really isn't great.

I don't mind. I'll be happy

with whatever you pay me.

Then... can you start tomorrow?

My house is far from here.

Can I live at the school?

Sure. Just bring your

things here tomorrow.

I was hoping I could

stay here from today.

Today?

Something's not right.

What's going on?

You can tell me.

I'm not going home.

Did... something happen with

your stepmother?

I've burned my bridges with her.

Minhua, don't get me wrong,

but running away like this

isn't right.

You don't understand!

After my father died she has treated

me even worse than before!

I have to run errands

for her all the time.

And recently she's tried to

make herself my matchmaker.

She wants to marry me off...

to some old man in his 50s or 60s!

Is that right?! You want to marry her to

an old 50- or 60-something?!

Mr Chen,

don't listen to her nonsense.

This man is a good person!

Just a bit older, that's all.

There's nothing wrong

with an older man!

This man could be her father!

How can you want her

to be with him??

This fellow...

It's just heartless!

What? You're calling

me heartless?

Who are you to our family?

What is our family business to you?

Of course I care.

I'm her father's old friend.

Then you should know

our financial situation.

Her father is dead, and

left us with nothing.

So you'll just solve your problems

by forcing her into marriage?

I can't take care

of her forever!

Stepmother,

that won't be necessary.

I found a job.

You're a woman.

Why do you want to work?

From tomorrow, I'll be a teacher

at Mr Chen's school.

A teacher?

You just said you can't

take care of her forever,

and now you're not happy

that she has a job?

Such a good man waiting for you,

but you want to work for low pay!

Well, if you want to work,

then don't come back!

You'll see what happens!

Minhua, let's go.

Miss Liu... can I

trouble you for a moment?

What is it?

Something's come up tomorrow afternoon.

Can you help cover my classes?

No problem!

I'm free tomorrow anyway.

- Really sorry about this.

- Don't mention it!

Ms. Liu is so nice,

always kind and helpful.

Yes, she's been here three months and

I've never seen her lose her temper.

Come on, you two,

no need for flattery.

Miss Liu,

the Principal is

asking for you.

That girl will make a great wife

for a lucky man someday.

So why haven't

you asked her?

I'm from a poor family.

I barely make enough for myself.

Marriage is out of the question!

- 16, 17, 18, 19...

...20.

Will you be late again?

Go.

- Is she from your class?

- Yes.

She's late almost every day.

You should handle this sort of thing.

I have asked her about it.

She said that her mother just had a

new baby, and there's no one to help.

She has to do all the household

chores before coming to school.

That's why she's late.

I think we can be

understanding about this.

- Hmm. So you allow this?

- Yes.

Anyway, I don't

approve of caning.

You don't

approve of caning?

Caning students' palms is

an outdated punishment.

Well, I've caned many palms

over the decades.

Nobody ever said

it wasn't right.

DICTIONARY

Your dictionary's in pieces.

It's because of the rats.

They're a huge problem.

Then why not get a cat?

I remember when I was young and

came here, you offered me some cake,

there were rats here

then too!

Yes.

That day I thought you

were coming for us to teach you.

I never thought you'd come here

to do the teaching yourself!

Time passes so fast...

Oh, let me tell you some news.

My eldest son is

about to be married.

Oh? Who's the bride?

The daughter of his boss

at the bank.

But I don't know how I feel about

his marrying this kind of rich girl.

Rich girls aren't

necessarily bad people!

- Have you met her yet?

- No, but I will tonight.

Her father

invited me to dinner.

No wonder you're

wearing new clothes!

I should probably get going.

Stopped again.

What time is it?

- 5 o'clock.

- 5 o'clock?

Is that your

same old watch?

Yes.

I've had it for so long

I've grown attached to it,

I can't bring myself

to replace it.

- Mr Chen.

- Hmm?

You should probably shave

before going there tonight.

- Can I borrow a little money?

- Of course.

I always forget my wallet

when I put on new clothes.

What?!

- Who broke the window?

- He did!

All right, all right.

Go on. Off you go.

Newsboy!

You go back first.

I'll come with my father later.

I'm worried

he might not like me.

I promise you that he will!

I heard that your father

prefers plain girls,

so today I styled my hair

like this.

You've thought of everything!

Jianzhong?

Jianzhong!

- Who's calling you?

- No one, no one. Get in.

Jianzhong!

Someone is calling you!

Jianzhong!

Didn't you hear me

calling you?

Uh... Lijun,

let me introduce you.

This is my father.

This is Miss Feng.

- Mr Chen.

- Ahh...

You head back first.

- See you later then, Mr Chen.

- Yes, yes, good, good.

- Father.

- Huh?

- What's wrong with you?

- What do you mean?

If you want to shave,

why don't you go to a barbershop?

Who does it

in the street??

It's cheaper.

What's the problem?

She saw you.

I'm sure she'll tell her father.

She'll say that

you're unrefined.

So I'm unrefined?

If you feel that way,

I won't go out to dinner.

But fine. Don't ask me

to officiate at your wedding!

Officiants, please stamp

the document.

Bride and groom,

please turn to the guests!

Bow to greet the guests!

I now pronounce you

man and wife!

Jianzhong!

You owe us big time

for your marriage!

Don't forget who

encouraged you to get her!

So how are you

planning to thank us?

All right.

I'll toast you.

- The bride should drink too.

- She doesn't drink.

That's not good enough!

She must drink.

But I really don't drink!

If she won't drink,

then neither will we!

I'll drink for

sister-in-law.

You don't have the right to!

Ohh, I get it.

You want to flatter her so she'll be

your matchmaker. Is that it?

Isn't that right, Miss Feng?

What's this? It's the newlyweds

whom you should be teasing.

How did we

become the focus?

Jianzhong, I think you'll

have to drink for me.

All right!

Look at this!

He's going to be

under his wife's thumb!

Mrs Chen!

- I can't stand it. I'm going back.

- What's wrong?

I know I'm only a handmaid,

but you brought me here with you.

The conditions here

are terrible.

I have to sleep on the floor!

They don't even provide a bed!

All right, don't worry.

I'll talk to father-in-law.

To be honest, miss,

we deserve better than this!

No telephone, no refrigerator,

no flushing toilet!

Not even a gas...

a gas cooking range!

What kind of life is that?

The guests are finally gone.

Mrs Yang,

you can go to bed now.

Hey, let me ask you.

- Where does she sleep?

- Under the stairs, as you know.

Yes, but you make her sleep

on the floor, without even a bed.

A bed??

Give her a bed right now,

otherwise she'll quit.

I'll buy her

a bed tomorrow.

Mrs Yang,

it's just for one night.

No! I brought her here with me.

She must be treated properly.

All right, all right.

I'll sort it out now.

- Father.

- Mm. You're not in bed yet?

I...

- What's wrong?

- Er...

It's about the handmaid

who is now here.

She wants a bed. But it's late now,

and all the shops are closed.

So what'll you do?

I... I wanted to ask whether

sister could lend hers.

Lend my bed

to your servant?

It's just for one night.

Come, on! Please!

"Come on" indeed!

Just think... we've already

"lent" you most of the house!

Even Auntie moved out!

This is all for you.

What more do you want?!

All right. But keep your voice

down! What if they hear you?

You should be

ashamed even to ask!

Hey, Jianping!

Jianping!

Don't bother him.

He's already asleep.

Here, just take mine.

Father, I...

- I can't let you do that!

- It's fine!

One night on the floor

is no problem.

I was used to sleeping

on the floor as a child.

Here, take it.

Where did you get that from?

My father lent me his.

I feel terrible!

Terrible?

He's an old man,

and he's sleeping on the floor!

Fine... it's my fault then!

I've made you a bad son.

Hey, no need for tears!

This is the happiest day of our lives.

There's nothing to cry about!

I know... living here feels

like a comedown.

But, Lijun,

I am not useless.

Your father thinks highly of me.

So in a couple years...

once I have money and status,

I'll buy a huge mansion for us,

Then we won't have to live

like this anymore, hmm?

Come on, come on...

stop crying, hmm?

Longlong!

Don't ride here.

Play over there.

Sister-in-law,

why did you bring all that

old junk back here?

Just throw it away!

But I think father

might still want it.

That's just like him!

Where's big brother?

Is he not back yet?

Not yet. And I've been

working like a dog.

What about my

younger brother?

Him? He's with

a guest upstairs.

- Who?

- My younger sister is visiting.

Sister-in-law,

we're off to the cinema.

Going to the cinema?

You should help your in-laws!

It's fine. If anything he'll just

make me even busier!

That's right.

So let's go then.

Those two have done nothing but

fall in love with each other.

Father is not back yet?

Eh?

He'd usually

be back by now.

- Everyone is out?

- Mm.

Someone gave us a cat.

She's adorable.

And should take care of

our rat problem.

- This can her bed.

- All right.

It's pretty late.

Why don't you go back home?

- We're moving house today.

- Moving?

Then you really

have to go back!

They already packed everything.

They wouldn't let me help at all.

Your new house

must be very well-kept.

I don't really like that area.

It's too far from here.

Doesn't your son

have a car now?

You can ask him

to drive you here.

He can drive his car.

I'd rather take the trams.

- You're back.

- Yes.

Longlong, say hello to Grandpa!

- Grandpa!

- Hello, Longlong!

Father, your bedroom

is all furnished!

- I'll take you up to show you.

- All right.

How did you two

come home together?

I saw him at the trams on my way home,

so I just drove him back.

This room is

your bedroom.

What do you think?

It's very big!

I've arranged everything for you.

You only have to do your books.

This bed is unusable!

Unusable?

What's wrong with it?

I didn't say there's anything

wrong with it, but...

it's too soft.

I can't sleep on that!

All the beds sister-in-law

bought are like this.

Then I'll just

sleep on the floor.

Don't worry.

I have an idea.

I brought your old cot with me.

I'll ask them to change it for you.

Good.

Yes, that'll work.

Lijun, from now on we can invite

our guests to our home.

Yes. Next month is your

father's 50th birthday.

We should have a party.

Hosting the party here

suits everyone...

all apart from the old man,

that is.

His school is just

too far from here.

I was thinking...

we should buy him a rickshaw.

A rickshaw?

What for?

Think about it. Him squeezing

into those trams every day...

that doesn't make me

look great.

Silly! Do you know

how much a rickshaw costs?

Especially compared to

how much he earns at his school?

- Then what should I do?

- I've already told you.

You should just tell

him to retire.

What's wrong with being a

respectable Master at home?

I don't think he would

want to leave.

Well then, find a way

to persuade him.

Yes! I'll do it right now!

- Father.

- Hmm?

I... I want to discuss

something with you.

We all think you shouldn't

go to the school anymore.

It's too far,

and inconvenient for you.

I take the trams.

Exactly! They're always

crammed to the brim.

I really can't bear to see you

trying to squeeze in.

Just think... if any of

our friends or family saw you,

they'd criticise us

for not looking after you!

Well, I don't blame you,

so it's fine.

You should think about it

from my side.

I'm the assistant manager

at the bank now.

People are starting

to know me.

What?

Am I embarrassing you?

That's not what I mean.

I'm just saying you should

relax more at home.

You've already reached the time to be

an Old Master, a man of leisure.

Old Master, Old Master...

Who's calling me "Old Master"?

I don't feel old.

I'm still perfectly healthy

and fit for my age!

You've misunderstood me.

Listen carefully.

Whether one is old or not has nothing

to do with one's physical well-being.

It's about one's

status in society.

Take you for example.

People already think

you're retired, an Old Master,

so that's the road

you should walk.

Otherwise, people will

view you negatively.

- Negatively?

- Yes.

Perhaps I am getting old.

But I have no idea

what an Old Master does!

That's fine. You can learn.

Learn?

Mm.

Then I'll learn.

Father.

Your old cot is here.

I don't want to change it.

Take it back.

Father, what's going on?

Now you don't want it any more?

Yes.

I have to be an Old Master now.

- Father has decided to retire.

- Really?

RETIREMENT CEREMONY

OF PRINCIPAL CHEN

Now, on behalf of the school's

staff and students...

I give this gift to Principal Chen.

We wish Principal Chen

all the best for the future.

I now invite Principal Chen to give

some parting words.

My dear staff...

and dear young ones...

I...

I really don't

know what to say.

Let me tell you a story.

When I started

this school...

there were only

a few students.

Perhaps you

might not believe it...

but in our first year,

we only had

twelve students.

Twelve.

But today...

I see so many students

in front of me.

That gives me

the greatest comfort in my life.

Today... for you all to gather

so warmly to send me off...

and to give me

such a precious gift...

I can never

repay your generosity.

But I have already agreed

with the School Council...

the perfect choice

to be your next principal.

Why isn't your father out yet?

- He's just finishing a few things.

- Then let's go on ahead.

No, let's wait a moment.

Let me think whether there's

anything else I need to tell you...

Er... the rice shop didn't send

enough rice yesterday.

We were short 20 pounds. So deduct that

when he comes for payment tomorrow.

20 pounds.

Got it.

Also, the medicine cabinet is

running low on gauze and cotton.

Gauze and cotton.

I'll buy those tomorrow.

- Do you mind leaving that here?

- Hmm?

I wanted to ask for

that photograph.

What could you

want that for?

You handed the school to me.

It's a very big responsibility.

I'm sure I'll face

many difficulties.

Your photograph will

give me encouragement.

Well, I feel totally confident

with things in your hands.

I'm just worried...

About what?

Well, you'll marry eventually.

Women usually stop working

once they're married.

I'll never give up

on my career.

And, anyway...

I won't get married.

Why not?

No reason.

Everyone settles down

eventually.

I believe that everyone

should get married.

Then why haven't you?

I?

I already have grandchildren!

Why would I marry?

Minhua, your situation

is not the same as mine.

But I do care

about you very much.

You care about me

only as an elder.

What's wrong?

Are you angry?

Father, can we go now?

Go on.

I'll take it from here.

Oh, I've just remembered.

Mr He's wife just had a baby.

Make sure to

advance them some money.

And the cat. Tell Wang not to forget

to buy her some fish every day.

Fish for cat.

Let's go. You shouldn't bother Miss Liu

with these unimportant things!

All right!

Let's go, let's go, let's go!

Where are the keys

I just gave you?

Give them to me.

This drawer's a bit stiff...

Look...

you can't lock it normally.

You have to...

do it like this.

Got it?

Yes. Let me try.

What's he still

doing in there?

This Old Master

is going to be trouble.

I think he's really

a bit senile.

All right.

Let's go.

Think clearly... is there

anything else you've forgotten?

No.

Let's go.

So, Minhua...

time to say goodbye...

Goodbye.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

- Where's the Master?

- Upstairs.

- We wish to pay our respects.

- Thank you, thank you. Come in and sit.

Jianzhong!

Liu! Great timing!

Play for me.

I've got to head out.

Where?

The radio station asked

me to give a lecture.

- A lecture?

- Yes.

Brother-in-law has become

quite a celebrity!

He's busy all day long!

Sir, the station is

calling for you again.

Yes. Tell them

I'll be there soon.

Right, I really

have to go.

Liu, play for me.

Auntie, you're here!

Jianzhong, you're

going out?

I'm so busy.

I'll be back in a bit.

Auntie!

Cousin!

- Where's Uncle?

- He's upstairs.

- I want to see him.

- Sure, I'll take you up.

Father, Auntie's here!

Hello, sister.

Uncle, happy birthday!

All right, all right.

Enough, enough!

Xiaochuan has brought you

two thermal tops.

Xiaochuan, you giving me presents too?

Everything is so expensive these days!

No, they were very cheap!

These tops were given to

us employees by the department store.

They were displayed in the window,

so they're a bit dusty.

Just wash them

and they'll be fine.

Xiaochuan,

you haven't changed!

Cousin, it's busy downstairs.

Let's go down.

Sure.

Come, sister.

Sit with me.

Why don't you go downstairs?

What would I do down there?

They're just playing mahjong.

But don't you get lonely

up here by yourself?

No, I'm used to it.

All I do is eat

and sleep anyway.

I'm bored out of my mind.

Bored?

Everyone's talking about

how fortunate you are.

Jianzhong and the others are so good

to you, but you're still not happy!

I didn't say they

haven't been good to me.

but you know me,

that's just how I am.

I can't bear

having nothing to do.

What do you mean

nothing to do?

Apart from anything else,

you still have two unmarried children!

Isn't planning their marriages

taking all your time?

Sister, you're really

old-fashioned!

Children these days want to find love

their own way. They don't want our help.

- Easy for you to say!

- Eh?

I have to

deal with Xiaochuan.

I have to arrange

things for him.

He's a bit naive in these matters.

He will never find a wife!

Xiaochuan is decent fellow.

I was thinking... Xiaochuan and

your Jianying would make a good couple.

It's just that our family is...

a bit poor.

That doesn't matter! All that matters

is whether they want to or not!

Cousin-in-law... play with us.

No, no, no...

I don't understand this game!

- Let's listen to the radio.

- Sure!

Big brother's giving

a lecture on the radio.

- About what?

- The title is "The Youth of Today".

"X O R T.

"United Radio.

"Broadcast No. 1800.

"Telephone number: 67347.

"Address: 63 Phoenix Road, Shanghai.

"Dear listeners, this next programme

is hosted by local esteemed banker,

"Mr Chen Jianzhong,

who'll be giving a lecture.

"Mr Chen's topic is:

'Cultivating the Youth of Today.'

"We shall now begin."

Sister-in-law, can you

turn the volume up?

"Dear listeners!

"Cultivating

the youth of today,

"certainly sounds like

a wide topic.

"But it is actually

very simple.

"I believe that all young people...

"...should have some principles

that they must follow.

"Number one:

"Absolutely no gambling!

"For it is an immorality

of the most blatant kind!

"For example,

whatever kind of gambling,

"be it mahjong, cards, or dominoes...

I don't know anything about any of it.

"Some of you may laugh at me

for being from the countryside,

"but I was able to get to

where I am today,

"because I did not

indulge in these vices.

"In any case,

I absolutely detest gambling.

"Gambling affects both one's financial

health and one's mental health,

"with the most serious

of consequences."

Hear that?

What a load of nonsense!

Social climbers these days

are all like my son,

making a career

out of lying!

Sister, let's talk about

something else.

So... tell me...

Xiaochuan and Jianying...

what do you think?

You should

ask them themselves.

If they want to be together,

then of course I'll agree.

Xiaochuan will obviously agree.

It's just a question

of Jianying.

If I ask her as her father,

it might be a bit awkward.

What if you ask her?

All right.

- Old Master.

- Huh?

We need some extra chairs

for the mahjong tables.

Can I take these?

All right.

Auntie, sister-in-law is asking for you

to play some games with her.

She said you can keep what you win,

but she'll cover you if you lose.

I can't let her do that!

Go on!

They're all waiting for you!

Well, go on then!

"Mr Chen's speech has concluded.

"Currently, the time

in Shanghai is 6:15 PM.

"Make sure to set your

time correctly."

Principal Shaochang - Retirement Gift

from Ziqiang Elementary School

Minhua.

Mr Chen!

What are you doing here?

My house is full of visitors.

They're all busy playing mahjong.

I was bored, so I crept out.

You haven't been back

since you retired!

Yes. But I've been wanting to.

How is everyone?

Fine!

The office still looks the same,

just some extra flowers.

A student gave them to me.

His father's a florist.

Minhua, I'm famished.

Is there anything I can eat here?

- I'll cook you some congee.

- Fine, fine.

Put a book underneath.

Oh, you rebound the dictionary?

Well... women certainly

are thorough!

Unfortunately we don't have much.

Only pickled vegetables.

Pretty good!

So, what news here

at the school recently?

No news.

Oh, there is one thing.

Your cat ran away.

Ran away?

The past couple of months

we've only been able to cook congee,

The cat couldn't eat it,

so she ran away.

Sounds like a career in education

is more and more difficult...

But look at me,

wasting your food!

Oh, you're welcome to it.

Have as much as you like!

Hey, slow down!

You've broken into a sweat.

This isn't from eating.

It's from walking here just now.

- You walked here?

- Mm.

Why didn't you

come by car?

Well...

I bet you don't have

any money on you.

How did you know?

These are new clothes.

Pretty perceptive!

You could have asked

your family to drive you.

They don't know

I've come here!

Won't they be worried?

Where on Earth can he have gone?

So late and he's still not back!

Do you think

something has happened?

Maybe we should call

the police and ask?

The Master is back!

What?

Has something happened?

How can you even ask?

Where have you been?

I was at the school.

Then why didn't you tell us?

We were worried sick!

I can take care of myself!

So we were wrong

to be concerned?

Jianzhong!

No need to talk further.

He's back now.

We can all relax now.

We're still in the middle of our game.

Let's go and finish it.

Mr Feng!

- I have something important to discuss.

- What is it?

Let's talk inside.

Everything's fine.

But the school I set up...

has some

financial difficulties.

It's barely keeping afloat.

So I'm hoping you can

donate some funds.

But...

If you can help, of course

I'll invite you be our Chairman.

Chairman??

I couldn't accept that!

- No, no... but why not?

- I?

It has a lot of potential!

You wouldn't be

wasting your money.

Let me tell you a story.

When I started the school...

we had barely any students.

Only twelve, to be exact.

But now, we have

more than six hundred!

All right.

I'll do what I can.

I'll send some funds tomorrow.

Jianzhong, let's go down

and play some cards now.

- You go first. I'll come in a moment.

- Good, good.

He's nice to you.

But you should have talked to me

before asking him for money.

I made him Chairman.

What's the problem?

Chairman, Chairman!

When people get old, they don't

realise that they've become annoying.

It's easy to talk.

That story you just told...

I've heard it hundreds of times.

Always the same.

"In the beginning...

we had only twelve students,

"and now we have..."

blah-blah-blah.

Why do you keep going on

about that?

I...

Brother, they're all waiting for you.

Father, what did you two

argue about again?

It's nothing!

Jianying!

Come here.

Did Auntie say anything to you earlier?

How do you feel

about your cousin?

Go on.

No need to be shy.

Just a pity

he's not well educated,

having to start working after

elementary school.

I feel that as long as

he's willing to learn,

that's not a problem.

Just because one is well educated

doesn't mean one is wise.

So you've

made up your mind!

Everyone's gone now.

You can go upstairs.

You go ahead.

I'll come in a bit.

What's wrong?

Seems there's something on your mind?

Lijun, I'm just thinking...

Just now, about the funds

your father's donating,

maybe I was a bit too harsh

on the old man.

- So you are filial after all!

- Ach, that's not what I mean.

I mean that someone like that old man

is already behind the times.

I can't talk

seriously with him.

Every time I try,

it goes nowhere.

Don't you agree?

I get it. You want to

maintain your image now.

Yes.

And it's his birthday today too.

Your father's a simple man.

Just say some nice words to him,

and everything will be fine.

Or maybe you can

send him a present.

I've got it.

Remember that land I bought last month?

I have an idea.

Think, the old man is already getting

quite advanced in age,

and we're not using that land.

So why not give it to him

as his final resting place?

Final resting place?

Not a bad idea.

But I tell you,

you can't take this lightly.

Otherwise, your descendants

will be cursed.

You think I don't know that?

Obviously I'll check the feng shui

there first, then make a decision.

Grandpa!

Longlong, give this to Grandpa.

Longlong, what is this?

Tell Grandpa to guess!

- Is it something to eat or use?

- You won't be able to guess!

I won't?

Then I guess I won't

waste time trying!

Tomb of Master Chen Shaochang

What's the meaning of this?

I bought some land.

The feng shui is very good.

We thought it'd make

a good resting place for you.

We'll rebury mother to be with

you on your centennial.

This year it's your golden jubilee,

and we wanted to give

you something special.

You two really

think of everything...

already planning

my burial.

Of course it's not like that.

This is just planning ahead.

It's going to happen one day.

There's nothing to be scared of.

I'm not scared of death.

What I'm afraid of

is waiting for death.

If we had known this would upset you,

we wouldn't have shown you.

Longlong, come on.

Jianzhong!

Don't go.

I need to talk to you.

Seriously, I don't want

just to wait for death to come for me.

Is your bank hiring?

Give me something to do.

It doesn't matter what.

Just don't lock me

in here as an "Old Master".

That's not what I want at all!

If you're bored

you can go on a trip.

Or you can

try gardening...

keeping fish or birds,

studying scripture...

stamp collecting...

whatever you want!

He told me to try gardening,

keeping fish,

go on a vacation...

and even read scripture!

I've tried everything.

But I just don't feel happy.

Your brother just

won't let me work!

He's just like that.

Oh dear, you've made

Grandpa's hat dirty!

Take this instead.

Children are such a handful.

Jianying...

since you got married

I've had no one to talk to.

Father, hold this for me.

Everyone at home

looks down on me.

Even the servants!

You shouldn't eat that!

Here, have a lolly.

Your younger brother

is the same too.

He's always either watching a film or

dancing with Lijun's sister these days.

Also...

your older brother...

Jianying, I'm

talking to you!

I'm listening!

Greetings,

esteemed Old Master!

We don't have much for you to eat...

but please have a roasted sweet potato!

Well, thank you,

my dear lady!

- Jianying, have one too.

- Oh, leave it for Xiaochuan.

- When he comes back we'll buy more.

- I'm really too full!

These two are really

a happy couple.

Father, now you're

flattering me again!

To be honest,

I came today because I have something

important to discuss with Xiaochuan.

What do you want

with Xiaochuan?

I want him to help

find me something to do.

Oh, come on.

Your eldest is a

big figure now.

If he can't help you,

what use can Xiaochuan possibly be?

Besides,

the economy isn't good.

Young people can

barely scrape by.

At your age...

why pick a fight with them?

Yes.

Why fight with the youth?

Father, everyone thinks

you're so fortunate.

So why do you

still want to work?

I'm leaving.

I won't wait

for Xiaochuan.

- Oh? Uncle, you're here?

- Hello, Xiaochuan.

- You're just leaving?

- I'll see you again in a few days.

- What's this?

- Mother asked me to buy it.

Tomorrow it's

Tomb-Sweeping day.

Look at me! I'm so preoccupied,

I even forgot about that!

YUAN MINGHUI

WIFE OF CHEN SHAOCHANG

Mr Chen!

Minhua?

Hello, Mr Chen.

What brings you

here today?

As you know...

it's Tomb-Sweeping Day.

Why isn't your family here?

They don't have time.

I remember...

many years ago on

Tomb-Sweeping Day.

You were only this high,

sitting here,

crying your heart out.

I wiped away your tears.

Do you remember?

How could I forget?

You left this walking stick in my house,

and then I brought it back to you.

Time certainly does fly.

Do I look much older?

Not really.

But it seems there's

something in your mind.

It's nothing.

All I do now is

eat and sleep,

sleep and eat.

People say I'm fortunate,

but really I'm miserable.

You can chat

with your friends.

I don't really

have any friends.

I used to chat

with my daughter,

but she has changed

since her marriage,

worrying about

her child all day.

She has no time

for her father.

You could find some work.

I've suggested that to Jianzhong

many times. But he doesn't want me to.

He says we're not struggling,

so if I go to work

it would just embarrass him.

But you should be

doing something.

For someone

at your stage,

with all that

wisdom and experience,

you are in the most

mature part of your life.

It'd be a real shame

just to throw that away.

They already think I'm old,

almost ready for the grave!

They've even prepared

my final resting place!

I always think that we Chinese go

straight from youth to old age,

with no middle-age.

But really the most precious

time of all is middle-age.

So you think I'm

middle-aged, not old?

Of course!

It's the best time

for work!

At home they won't

let me do anything!

I do mind about that,

but I know it's not healthy.

Let me tell you a story...

Early one morning,

I was relaxing in

the sunlight by the door.

The newspaperman came.

I just glanced through it.

After a while, I saw...

the cook bringing back

the shopping.

I was bored, so I

started to talk to him.

I went over,

and saw his basket.

I asked,

"How much was the chicken?"

He told me the price.

I asked about the fish,

and he gave the price.

I asked about the vegetables.

Again, the price.

Then I asked:

"How much was this egg?"

and he started

to become unhappy.

I didn't notice,

to my regret!

Then I asked:

"What about these small fish?"

That's where he lost his temper,

shouting at me.

He said:

"Old Master Chen!

"Why are you asking so much?

Worried about my spending?

"I'm using Young Master Chen's

money, not yours,

so it's

none of your business!"

I knew he had misunderstood me,

so I explained to him.

I said I had no problem with his

spending. I was making conversation.

But he didn't get it.

He carried on shouting, even louder.

That man had a short fuse.

Then my son and

daughter-in-law came down.

The cook dumped the shopping

on the floor, and said he quit.

My son immediately

calmed him down.

You should have seen my son.

He didn't scold him - he comforted him!

In the evening... I was reading,

and my son came to my room.

He said to me,

"Father, what's wrong with you?

"You are the Master.

Why would you argue with these people?

"Nowadays you can't

offend these people."

So I said, "But even if he quits,

would we all go hungry?

Well, after he complained,

what else could I have said?

I understand.

Your natural curiosity was too great,

but it didn't have a proper outlet,

so it accidentally

created this misunderstanding.

That's why I said you should find

something meaningful to do.

It's not easy these days.

Why don't you

come back to the school?

You helped donate a lot of money,

but what we really need is people.

I've thought about that too.

But I can do anything else.

I just can't go back to the school.

Why? Is it because

your son won't let you?

- Well, that's one reason.

- What else is there?

Mostly I'm concerned

about this.

Look... my retirement

is engraved here.

After being given such a gift,

how can I just go back?

Is that all?

That's a child's logic!

You're calling me a child?

Of course! You're saying you can't

come back because of that.

Isn't that pretty childish?

Everyone calls me Old Master,

but here you are

calling me a child!

But really,

come to the school tomorrow.

You can be Principal again.

All right?

No, no, no! You're the Principal.

I'll just be a teacher.

Then it's a deal.

You can't go back on it.

Of course!

Why would I go back on it?

What if your family

won't let you come?

Don't worry!

I don't need to tell them!

Old Master Chen! Where are

you going so early?

I'm... I'm just going

for a walk in the park.

Old Master Chen must be up to something,

leaving so early every day.

- Yes?

- Follow him, and see where he's going!

All right.

ZIQIANG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Father.

Where do you go every morning?

I... I...

I go to the park.

- You're going to the school, right?

- No, I'm not.

Why would you hide it from to me?

Someone has already told me.

What's this?

Why are you

doing this?

I tell you,

a man without work

has no joy.

He should have

daily responsibilities.

You've given that school

a life's worth of responsibility,

not to mention

the money you've donated.

If it wasn't to give you face, why would

my father-in-law agree to be Chairman?

He gives money, I give time.

We give what we have.

Regardless, you have to

think about me.

If people get to know that my father

is still working as teacher,

that's just

completely unacceptable!

All this talk, but all

you care about is your image.

Jianzhong, if it embarrasses you

so much, then don't call me your father!

All right, all right. Don't be angry.

We can find a way to work it out.

- I'll tell you something funny!

- What?

Jianzhong found out

I was teaching.

Yesterday evening he confronted me,

and I admitted it.

But there's nothing

he can do about it.

So you don't have to

keep it secret anymore?

So... that's why I'm

wearing these old clothes.

Right, can you persuade Mr Sun?

I've been trying all day.

- What's wrong?

- He wants to leave.

Leave?

To where?

- Singapore.

- Why?

A relation opened a rubber plantation

and asked me for help.

But our school needs you!

How could you leave us?

I feel there's no future in being

a primary school teacher.

I always wanted to change job. I've

just been waiting for an opportunity.

This is such a good opportunity.

I simply can't let it go.

Mr Sun, look at Mr Chen.

He could relax at home as an Old Master.

But he'd rather come here to work.

You're younger than he is,

but you don't want to work so hard?

My situation isn't

the same as his.

I am younger, so I can't

just stay here forever. Right?

It seems you've really

made up your mind,

so I won't

press it anymore.

When are you leaving?

In the next few days. I'll bring you

my resignation letter tomorrow.

It's not necessary.

No. And also...

There's something else

I want to talk to you about.

Don't be nervous

to talk to your father.

Father...

I...

What is it?

You feel awkward?

Shall I say it for you?

He wants to marry my younger sister,

and came to see what you think.

That's all it is!

As long as you're both willing,

then I'll support it.

See? Isn't he easy?

I told you he would agree!

I've never thought much

about my children's marriages.

But Jianping still can't support himself

so... I'd say don't rush it.

That's not a problem.

His older brother will help him.

Then I have no objections.

See? You can take it easy now.

We'll leave you in peace.

Sir, there's a

Mr Sun to see you.

Mr Sun...?

Ah, Mr Sun!

I'll be right down.

- Mr Chen.

- Please sit, sit.

When are you leaving?

It's very difficult to get boat tickets.

It'll be a few more days.

Mr Chen, I came

to ask a favour.

I was thinking...

No need to be awkward.

Just ask.

Actually, I don't

really want to leave...

because...

it's about Miss Liu...

I've really fallen for her.

I've never dared to tell her.

Why not?

She's not a difficult person.

Yes, she's very kind.

But she never lets anyone

get too close to her.

I think... she must

like someone else.

I don't think so. I've never heard

her talk about anyone.

Well, I could be wrong.

You've come to ask me

to be matchmaker?

Yes!

But do you really think it's right

that I discuss such things with her?

I don't think there's

anyone better!

Mr Chen, I really

need your help.

I'm hoping to get

an answer today.

All right. I'll go

to ask her now.

Then I'll wait

for you here.

- Hello, Mr Chen!

- Hello, Mr Chen!

What are you doing here?

It's Sunday today!

I need to talk to you.

What's all this?

They want me to take them

on a picnic tomorrow.

Picnic?

Why don't you come with us?

The weather's so good!

Please come, Teacher Chen!

I...

- Come! Come!

- All right, all right.

Now, please leave us a moment.

I need to talk to the Principal.

What's the matter?

You look so serious.

- Mr Sun has just been to see me.

- What did he want?

- He... asked me to tell you something.

- Tell me what?

He wants to marry you.

Well, that's unexpected!

He said that as

just a poor teacher,

he never dared

to ask you about this.

But now that he has a better job,

he can offer you a more stable life.

- Seems he's thought of everything.

- What do you think of him?

I think... he's pretty selfish.

How so?

He sees teaching elementary

school as a worthless job,

and he wants to leave

at the first opportunity.

It really is

a hard job nowadays.

One can barely make a living.

Who'd want to do that forever?

You can't

blame him for that.

I know.

This is a systemic problem,

I can't blame

just one person.

But marriage is

completely different.

Well, I feel... he might have

switched career because of you.

Obviously he wouldn't want

you to live a hard life.

Then... do you think I should

accept his proposal?

I did think

he was sincere.

He really does like you.

And besides, you should

get married eventually.

What's wrong?

Minhua...

Minhua?

I knew it! You're just like

my mother-in-law.

You're only thinking

about getting me married!

What? You're comparing

me to her?

To be honest, I don't

want you to marry him.

You don't?

When he asked me to come here...

I felt a strange sense of jealousy.

Jealousy?

Then why are you trying to

persuade me to marry him?

Well, it's not as if

I could marry you!

Why can't you?

I've always hoped

you'd feel that way.

No, no... this is completely

out of the question!

Why?

You just feel bad for me.

You think I'm bored and lonely.

If you married me,

it'd just be out of pity!

Pity?

I never thought of you

as deserving pity.

You... don't pity me?

But what's worth

loving about me?

There are many things to love!

You just don't know it.

- You're back!

- I am!

- So you told her?

- I did!

What did she say?

She wants...

to marry me!

- Marry you?

- Yes...

I never thought...

I also never thought

this could happen!

I really didn't know.

Please forgive me.

No, I must thank you.

It's you who has helped me.

No need to see me out.

Mr Zhao.

- Where's Young Mister Chen?

- Playing mahjong.

- Tell him to come upstairs.

- Right.

Young Mister Chen,

Old Master Chen is calling for you.

I'll come in a moment.

Do you think father wants

to speak to him... because of us?

Maybe he does object

to our marrying.

No, he doesn't object. We only asked

for his approval to give him face.

We don't need him to pay for it.

So it's really none of his business.

That's right.

Jianzhong, I need to talk

to you about a wedding.

Don't worry about my brother's wedding.

Just leave it all to me.

- I'm talking about myself.

- You... you...? Who are you marrying?

Liu Minhua.

Liu Minhua?!

Honestly!

He gets worse and worse!

Maybe talk of your marriage

gave him ideas?

What did you

say to him?

Of course I objected. We talked

for ages, but he's very stubborn.

Once they're married,

what if they have children?

When the old man croaks,

there'll be no one to care for them.

The widow and the children's expenses

will all be on you.

That's why we have to

find a way to stop this.

Jianping,

what do you think?

I?

Well, father never interfered

with our wedding plans.

So, now that he wants to get married,

I think we also shouldn't interfere.

Ah...

You don't want to interfere?

So it's just me

who has to sort this out?

Of course, when the old guy dies

all the problems will come to me,

It won't be on you.

So you can afford to be the nice guy.

All right! His and your weddings...

I'll keep out of both!

But don't come to me

when you need help!

Brother-in-law,

no need to get so angry.

Brother-in-law...

you and Master Chen marrying on the

same day would be quite convenient.

If you're both grooms on the

same day, wouldn't that be great?

Sister-in-law, really!

You're making fun of him.

Elder brother,

I was wrong.

I'll help you

deal with this.

I'll follow you.

We'll all oppose father.

We'll all -

Where are you going?!

- To the school.

- You really want to marry Minhua?

Aren't you worried

it'll look ridiculous?

- Ridiculous?

- Everyone will think so!

You've had plenty of time to marry.

Why didn't you do it ten years ago?

Ten years ago...

you were all too young.

It was because of you all

that I didn't re-marry.

What?

Ten years ago I didn't marry...

and now it's my fault?

No need to

say anything else.

If you really want to marry,

I just have three things to say.

One: none of us

will attend the wedding.

When the time comes,

don't complain that we're rude.

Two: you must find

your own place to live.

We will not let Minhua

set foot in this house.

We don't want

this stepmother!

Three: my father-in-law is

the school Chairman.

So now, I represent my father-in-law,

and in his name as Chairman...

I remove Minhua

as school Principal!

I don't think he's

going to let it go.

I have another idea.

I'll talk to Minhua's stepmother.

Mrs. Liu?

What are you doing here?

Not so fast!

I need to talk to you!

This plan to marry Minhua,

is it true or not?

Yes, it is.

You dare admit it?

All right, let me ask you...

A little while ago, when I wanted

her to marry that other man,

you said that he was too old...

old enough to be her father.

You called me heartless.

That's what you said.

Then what about you? Aren't you

old enough to be her father?

And you want to marry her?

You think you're not heartless?!

- I...

- I get it!

You invited her to teach here, because

you already had your eyes on her!

You're her father's old friend!

What would he say?

- I...

- You're a beast in human form!

A beast in human form??

Stepmother, I'm grown up now.

I can handle my own marriage.

Silly girl!

Haven't I always looked out for you?

I've already decided to marry him,

so you don't need to think any further.

It'll serve you right!

I shan't bother any more.

You're not thinking straight.

Look at him, at his age.

He already has

one foot in the grave!

And you want

to marry him?

You!

Your troubles are ahead of you!

She said I already have

one foot in the grave.

Perhaps I am too old.

She is not educated.

You can't listen to someone like her!

It's not just her.

My entire family is against it.

They said that they won't

attend the ceremony.

And you think it's shameful that

they won't come? You're wrong.

The shame is

on them themselves.

Also... they'll make us

find our own home.

They won't let you

in the house.

Even if they invited me,

I wouldn't go.

I wouldn't want

to live with them.

Also... they'll use the Chairman

to remove you as Principal.

That's nothing!

We can just set up our own school.

"Set up our own school"?

It's not as easy as that.

This school is my life's work...

You cannot hold onto

the old so tightly.

You must let it go if you

want to create something new.

I don't understand!

Why are they

so cruel to me?

Why do they treat my

wanting to marry as a sin!

I suppose... the world belongs

to the young people now.

You're wrong again.

You think they represent the youth?

Of course not!

They just think you're

past your prime.

Principal, are we

leaving or not?

Yes, yes, yes...

we should head off.

- You go. I don't feel like going.

- Why not?

I'm not

in the mood.

Oh, don't be like that!

Come on, come on...

Teacher Chen, can you referee

our tug-of-w*r match?

Sure, sure, sure.

All right, ready?

Now...

one... two... three

Come on!

Use your strength!

Pull!

Pull! Come on!

All right.

I'll take on all four of you!

Oh!

- Are you hurt?

- No, no, no.

- Sit down and rest over there.

- All right, all right.

- Teacher Chen, are you all right?

- Yes, yes. You go and have fun now.

- Why did you exert yourself so much?

- I don't know!

Please give me a banana.

Minhua?

I suddenly feel

a lot younger.

But no one said

you were old...

I finally understand

life's preciousness.

Everything I see...

the clouds, the river,

the trees, the dirt...

they're all the same,

because they're all alive.

Little fellow, come here.

Come on!

Give him a banana.

Here.

Take it!

Have you ever

been to school?

Is there a school here?

Someone should open a school

in this place, don't you think?

What the hell?

Why did you throw

a banana peel at me?!

I'm sorry.

It was me.

Never mind, never mind.

- Is this a garden?

- No, it's a cemetery.

"Chen Cemetery"...

Same surname as me!

- Can we have a look?

- Of course, of course.

This place is

really quite nice.

"Master Chen Shaochang...

Place of Eternal Rest."

So this is the place.

You know this man?

What is this?

The resting place

Jianzhong gave me.

You're... you're

Old Master Chen?!

That's great, Old Master!

Just another month and it'll be done!

Thank goodness you're building it early.

Prices these days are going up and up.

You're very fortunate!

I think your

stepmother was right.

I do really have

one foot in the grave.

You were in such a good mood earlier.

Don't be like this!

I have no home for us

when we're married,

but after I'm dead

I certainly have a place to rest.

Indeed. We Chinese

certainly are a strange people.

We treat death so importantly,

but forget how to live.

- That's it!

- What?

We don't have

a home, right?

We can build here,

and live here instead!

Master Chen,

what are you talking about?

We'll build a house here.

We have the materials for it!

You must be joking, Master!

You can't build a house in a cemetery!

The living are more

important than the dead.

With the extra space,

we can set up a school here!

Exactly!

- Let's go.

- Yes.

I'll be back

in a few days.

ONE YEAR LATER

CHEN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

INAUGURAL OPENING

TODAY

Dear students...

today is the first day of

school for all of us.

But let me tell you

all a story first.

Hold on, I'll be right back.

- Still crying?

- It's all right.

- Is it feeding time?

- We've just done that.

Mimi!

Mimi!

Mimi... Mimi!

The school opens today,

but I can't get out of bed yet.

I'm so worried!

No need! You'll be up again

and teaching in a couple of weeks.

We were supposed to do this together,

but now you're doing it all yourself.

Well, I suppose I should

deduct your salary then!

- You must be exhausted today.

- Oh, not at all!

I feel like my life has just begun,

just like our child.

You should get back.

Your students are waiting for you!

Yes, yes, yes...

What was I saying?

You wanted to tell us a story!

Yes, a story!

A long time ago,

I started a school.

There were only a few

students when we started.

If I told you, you might

not believe it.

Try and guess, in the first year,

how many students did we have?

Only twelve students!

Twelve!

But now, that school has

more than one thousand students.

So for this school, while we are

also starting small...

Of course...

let me count!

One, two, three,

four, five, six...

...seven, eight, nine, ten...

...eleven...

...twelve!

What a coincidence!

Twelve as well!

But I believe, in a few years...

this small school of ours

will prosper!

THE END