Departures 2008

Kobayashi Daigo(Motoki Masahiro) is an aspiring cellist newly hired by a symphony in Tokyo. After Daigo’s first performance with the orchestra he receives the devastating news that the orchestra will be disbanded. Daigo made the fateful decision to mortgage his future by purchasing a cello that cost well over $100,000. Now he has to break the news to his faithful wife (Hirosue Ryoko). When she asks Daigo what his plans are now, he suggests they move back to his rural hometown Yamagata and start over again. She agrees. After the couple settles into their new home, Daigo finds a listing in the newspaper advertising a position that requires little hours, no experience, and centers around helping out others on their journeys. Daigo assumes the position is for a travel agent, but when he arrives at the office, he realizes the job is for an “Nokanshi" – similar to an embalmer in the U.S., but requires the Nokanshi to work in front of the deceased in a ceremony steeped in tradition. The job is not a popular one in Japan and people often look down on it as dirty. Daigo tries to keep his job secret, but soon rumors spreads around the small town. When Daigo’s wife learns of his new job, she gives him the ultimatum to quit his job or she’ll leave him.

Director: Yojiro Takita

Stars: Masahiro Motoki, Hrosue Ryoko, Yamazaki Tsutomu, Sasano Takashi

JDramaMama Rating: A

Beauitfully acted, intense and thought provoking. I just can't add anything more to this wonderful film.

#Japan #family #drama