Departures

The film delves into the often-taboo subject of death and the *nokanshi* profession in Japan. In Japanese society, dealing with death is highly ritualized, but the undertaker profession faces social stigma due to its association with impurity. The film aimed to destigmatize this important role and showcase its dignity and beauty.

• The film boasts incredibly nuanced and heartfelt performances, particularly from Masahiro Motoki as Daigo Kobayashi.
• The plot is a poignant exploration of life, death, and the importance of rituals, challenging societal stigmas surrounding death in a sensitive and respectful manner.
• The movie beautifully intertwines the themes of tradition and modernity, showcasing the clash between ancient customs and contemporary life in Japan.
• The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the Japanese countryside and the emotional depth of the characters.

Fun Facts

• The film was initially not well-received in Japan due to the sensitive subject matter, but it gained popularity after winning the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
• The cellist, Tsuyoshi Tsutsumi, who played the cello pieces in the movie, is a world-renowned cellist. The music is vital to the emotional impact of the film.
• The original Japanese title is 'Okuribito' (おくりびと), which directly translates to 'someone who sends off', a more literal and evocative description of the *nokanshi* profession.