“Departures”: A Profound Journey Through Life, Death, and Dignity

Initially one might approach the Japanese cinematic masterpiece “Departures” (入殓师) with a certain trepidation, perhaps anticipating a somber and macabre exploration of mortality. However, the film swiftly dismantles such preconceptions, unfolding as an incredibly moving, tender, and deeply philosophical meditation on life’s most inevitable transition, the unspoken language of human connection, and the profound beauty found in respect and dignity. It is a story that truly resonates, inviting introspection on universal themes through the lens of a highly specific, yet universally relatable, cultural practice.

Daigo’s Unforeseen Path: From Musician to Messenger of Farewell

The narrative centers on Daigo Kobayashi, a talented cellist whose life takes an unexpected and drastic turn when his Tokyo orchestra is suddenly disbanded. His dreams shattered and financial stability suddenly gone, he makes the difficult decision to return to his quiet hometown in Yamagata prefecture with his supportive wife, Mika. Seeking any form of employment, Daigo stumbles upon a cryptic job advertisement for a position he vaguely interprets as dealing with “departures.” Unbeknownst to him, he is about to step into the world of “Nokanshi” – a traditional, highly revered Japanese mortician whose role transcends mere embalming, transforming it into an intricate, ceremonial art of “encoffinment.”

His initial encounter with the profession is fraught with discomfort and even revulsion. The very idea of touching the deceased, preparing their bodies for their final journey, conflicts with his sensibilities. Yet, under the guidance of Mr. Sasaki, his seemingly eccentric but deeply wise mentor, Daigo slowly, almost imperceptibly, begins to shed his apprehension. Mr. Sasaki, a seasoned and remarkably empathetic practitioner, patiently instructs Daigo in the meticulous rituals: the gentle cleansing, the careful dressing, the artful application of makeup, all performed with an extraordinary blend of skill, reverence, and grace. Through his mentor’s example and his own growing experiences, Daigo not only masters the technical aspects but also begins to appreciate the profound spiritual significance of this work.

Challenging Societal Perceptions: The Sacred Art of Farewell

In many cultures, including contemporary Japan, occupations related to death often carry a significant social stigma. Daigo’s new profession is no exception, initially causing dismay and even shame among his wife, Mika, and his former friends. They view his path as “unclean,” lowly, and something to be hidden from polite society. Mika, in particular, finds it difficult to accept, leading to a period of tension and misunderstanding in their relationship.

However, the film beautifully illustrates how compassion and observation can dismantle deeply ingrained prejudices. A pivotal moment of enlightenment occurs when Mika, despite her initial protests and disgust, witnesses Daigo performing an encoffinment for a deceased elderly woman. She observes him with a newfound quiet curiosity, watching every delicate movement: the ritualistic bathing, the meticulous folding of the kimono, the gentle tending to the smallest details, all executed with an unwavering respect and tenderness that borders on reverence. In that profound moment, she perceives not just a body being prepared, but a sacred act of final care, a gentle bridge between this world and the next. The beauty and quiet dignity of the process evokes a powerful sense of peace, revealing the sacredness, solemnity, warmth, and inherent nobility of her husband’s vocation.

Daigo’s role, as portrayed in the film, transcends the practicalities of corpse preparation. He becomes a facilitator of healing, a conduit for families to offer their final respects and say their goodbyes in the most dignified way possible. By presenting the deceased in their most serene and beautiful state, he enables loved ones to retain a lasting, positive memory, fostering closure and compassion in the face of immense grief. Each encoffinment is a unique performance, executed with meticulous precision and deep empathy, tailored to honor the individual life it celebrates.

Reconciliation and Redemption: A Father’s Unspoken Love

The emotional crescendo of “Departures” arrives with the news of Daigo’s estranged father’s death. This is a man who abandoned him and his mother thirty years prior, leaving Daigo with a deeply rooted resentment and an unhealed wound. Consumed by bitterness, he initially refuses to acknowledge the death or attend the funeral. However, urged by Mika and his understanding colleagues who have witnessed his transformation, Daigo reluctantly agrees to perform the encoffinment for his father. This is not merely a professional duty; it is a profound, deeply personal confrontation with his past.

During the ritual, a moment of startling discovery unfolds: clutched tightly in his father’s hand is a small, smooth white stone. Daigo instantly recognizes it. It is one of the “stone letters” they used to exchange as a child, finding ordinary river stones and conveying messages through their touch, weight, and feeling rather than words. This simple, worn object speaks volumes, revealing a silent, enduring love and a lifetime of longing and regret that his father carried with him until his final breath. Overwhelmed by this tangible proof of his father’s unspoken affection, Daigo’s decades of bitterness finally melt away, giving way to a torrent of grief and profound understanding. He breaks down in tears, a cathartic release that has been a lifetime in the making. Mika watches him, a gentle, knowing smile gracing her lips, witnessing the long-awaited and deeply moving reconciliation. It is a powerful reminder that forgiveness often begins not with grand gestures, but with small, symbolic acts of remembrance and unspoken love.

A Symphony of Human Emotions: Beyond Mortality

While “Departures” masterfully navigates the subject of death, it is ultimately a poignant exploration of life’s intricate tapestry: the bonds of family, the enduring power of friendship, and the redemptive force of love. The film skillfully portrays the multifaceted nature of grief – from the raw anguish of a grieving widower struggling to let go, to the quiet regret of a son haunted by an unspoken past, and the ultimate triumph of forgiveness. It emphasizes how, even in death, relationships continue to evolve and offer opportunities for final connection.

Another truly remarkable and indelible aspect of the film is its evocative musical score. The hauntingly beautiful cello melodies, primarily composed by Joe Hisaishi, are not merely background music; they are an integral character, a soothing companion to the most poignant and emotionally charged moments. The melancholic yet hopeful strains of the cello perfectly complement the film’s themes, enhancing its emotional impact and lending a sense of timeless elegance to the solemn rituals. The music’s seamless flow and subtle instrumentation are perfectly integrated with the narrative, creating an immersive and unforgettable auditory experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

“Departures” is a testament to the power of cinema to touch the soul and provoke deep introspection. It encourages viewers to embrace the full spectrum of human experience, including the natural cycle of life and death, with grace and understanding. It left me contemplating its profound interpretation of mortality long after viewing, a message beautifully encapsulated in the film’s own resonant words: “Death is a door. It is not the end, but a transcendence. It is stepping into a new journey.” This film is not just watched; it is felt.