

The Whole Family Works(1939)
A large family scrapes by on the meager salaries of the father and three eldest sons, who left school in order to work and support the family. The fourth eldest is soon to graduate and follow in their footsteps, though he'd rather continue schooling. The eldest finally decides to break free and set out on his own against his parents' wishes, with the support and sympathy of his siblings.
Movie: The Whole Family Works
Top 10 Billed Cast
Kiichi, first son
Genji, second son
Noboru, third son
Eisaku, fourth son
Kokichi, fifth son
Hide, first daughter
Mitsuko
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