Departures

2008

"Life’s true journey begins with a farewell."

Also known as: 🇬🇧 EN: Départs^? 🇪🇸 ES: Despedidas^? 🇵🇹 PT: A Partida^? 🇯🇵 JA: Okuribito^? 🇰🇷 KO: 굿' 바이^? All international titles (9) →

Drama 130 min 8.0/10

Synopsis

Departures is a movie released in 2008.

When a talented cellist finds himself unexpectedly laid off, he returns to his small hometown with his wife in search of a new beginning. What he discovers, however, is an opportunity that takes him on an emotional journey far beyond what he ever anticipated. Mistakenly believing he’s applying for a position at a travel agency, he instead becomes an undertaker’s assistant, leading him into the poignant world of death and the dignity of last goodbyes. This touching drama beautifully explores themes of mortality, memory, and the intricate bonds of family. As Daigo navigates the delicate process of preparing the departed for their final farewell, he not only learns to embrace the fragility of life but also discovers the profound impact one can have on those left behind. With stunning cinematography and a hauntingly beautiful score, this film invites viewers to reflect on the significance of honoring our loved ones and cherishing the moments that define us. Vividly human and deeply resonant, it’s a heartfelt reminder of the gift of last memories, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

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Parental Guide — Suitable for 13+

13+

Content guidance for parents

Category	Level	Indicator
Violence	1/5
Sexual Content	1/5
Language	1/5
Drugs / Alcohol	2/5
Frightening Elements	2/5

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Detailed explanations

Violence

There are minimal instances of violence, primarily related to the emotional context of the story.

Sexual Content

There is minimal sexual content, with only brief references and no explicit scenes.

Language

Mild language is used, but it is infrequent and not graphic.

Drugs / Alcohol

There are mild references to alcohol use, but it is not depicted as a primary theme.

Frightening Elements

Some emotional and thematic elements may be intense for younger viewers, but there are no horror elements.

Summary for parents:

Departures is a drama that explores complex themes surrounding life and death. The film may be suitable for viewers aged 13 and older due to its emotional depth and mild content. Parents may want to discuss the themes with younger viewers.

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Where to Watch Departures Online

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Box Office

Budget: $0

Revenue: $69,932,387

Profit $69,932,387

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Cast of Departures

Taro Ishida

Sonezaki

Yuuki Ogoe

Young Boy

Kazuko Yoshiyuki

Tsuyako Yamashita

Takashi Sasano

Shokichi Hirata

Cast Filmography

See the complete cast and other films with these actors.

Keywords

#musical 122 #dying and death 70 #hopeful 51 #based on memoir or autobiography 30 #funeral 29 #coffin 6 #cello 3 #octopus 3 #odd job 1 #yamagata 1

Production Companies

dentsu

Shochiku

The Asahi Shimbun

MBS

Shogakukan

Trivia & Fun Facts about Departures

7

• The film was shot in the picturesque town of Sakata, Yamagata Prefecture, which provided an authentic backdrop reflecting the protagonist's return to his rural roots.

  Behind the Scenes ai

• Masahiro Motoki, who played Daigo, initially hesitated to take on the role due to the emotional depth required, but he later embraced the character's journey of acceptance and understanding.

  Fun Fact ai

• The film's score, composed by Joe Hisaishi, features poignant melodies that enhance the emotional weight of the story, a hallmark of Hisaishi's collaborations with renowned director Hayao Miyazaki.

  Other ai

• In one scene, the character Daigo makes a reference to the Japanese term 'Ningen', which translates to 'human', symbolizing the film's exploration of life, death, and the connections between people.

  Easter Egg ai

• During the filming, the cast and crew faced challenges with the depiction of traditional Japanese funeral practices, necessitating consultations with experts to ensure cultural accuracy.

  Behind the Scenes ai

• One notable continuity issue occurs during a funeral scene where the position of an offering changes between shots, which can be seen if observed closely.

  Movie Mistake ai

• Yojiro Takita, the director, had previously worked on a film about a musician, which influenced his approach to the character development and emotional resonance in 'Departures'.

  Movie Connection ai

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