Departures

There is little that I should write about Departures. This is the best film I have seen since watching The Hurt Locker. Departures is poignant. It is beautiful to watch. It is thoughtful. And it is a well-rounded film. It has, as the subject matter suggests, melancholy but is also nicely balanced with humor and some heartwarming sentiment. Departures beautifies and sheds light on a profession not often talked about.

As you will see in the film, the "encoffinment" ceremonies performed by Daigo, the protagonists, have a magical quality that can calm the families of the dead. But this incredible effect extended beyond the screen; as I watched the film, I became profoundly affected as well. I think at the end of the film, the audience (at least speaking for myself) became more knowledgeable and respectful of this profession that, like in the film, was looked down upon. The viewer's prejudice transformed from one of disgust to thankfulness.

Departures is a film that should be watched sooner or later for its cinematic beauty and achievements but also for its insight into a clouded profession that, ironically, the departed does not have to think much about.