The strength of “Departures,” directed by Yôjirô Takita and winner of the 2008 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, is its depictions of the preparation of a body for cremation. The work of wiping down the body and clothing it in silk, carried out with grace and exactitude, carries a deeper meaning. ‘One grown cold, restored to beauty for all eternity….Everything done peacefully and beautifully.’ This will resonate with anyone who has had to deal with the loss of a loved one. If “Departures” has a weakness, it’s the film’s overly sentimental, at times manipulative, tone. Be sure to have plenty of tissue nearby.
Daigo (Masahiro Motoki) is a cellist with a failing Tokyo orchestra. Newly unemployed, he returns to his hometown in northern Japan with his wife, Mika (Ryoko Hirosue). Applying for a job he assumes is for a travel agency, he is surprised to learn that ‘departures’ refers to the business of ‘encoffinment.’ He is immediately hired and begins his tutelage under the company’s owner, Sasaki ( a droll Tsutumo Yamazaki). And he learns that the ritual preparation of the body is conducted in front of the deceased’s family and friends. When Miko discovers what Daigo’s job entails, she demands he get a ‘normal’ job. But the work has become meaningful to Daigo as he realizes the comfort it brings to the bereaved. “Departures” is a moving experience filled with affection and wisdom and sprinkled with just enough humor to balance the heavy emotion. This is a must see. Subtitles. 5/31/09
2 comments:
I don't disagree with the blogger, not at all, but I think the strength of "Departures" is the awe in which the families hold these encoffinment preparers after they see them work. No one wants this job but everyone is amazed at the dignity and professionalism that these two men bring to their jobs. Even Daigo's wife is amazed at the "artistry" with which her husband carries out his duties. I think an excellent comparison is the fact that Daigo plays the cello the same way he prepares the dead, with precision and dignity.
Wonderful movie. Incredibly touching story on so many levels. I loved the scenes with swans and the way they made time by showing the passing seasons.
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