DEPARTURES (2008) Japan Director: Yōjirō Takita With: Masahiro Motoki, Ryōko Hirosue, Tsutomu Yamazaki Running time: 131 minutes “A very moving and sensitive film.” ...

DEPARTURES (2008) Japan
Director: Yōjirō Takita With: Masahiro Motoki, Ryōko Hirosue, Tsutomu Yamazaki
Running time: 131 minutes

“A very moving and sensitive film.”

"Departures" follows Daigo Kobayashi a cellist who loses his job and moves back to his hometown with his wife Mika. Struggling to find work, Daigo answers an ad for what he believes is a travel agency but turns out to be a funeral home specializing in the traditional Japanese ritual of "encoffinment," where the deceased are prepared for cremation.

Despite initial hesitation, Daigo takes on the role of an "encoffiner," and, through his work, begins to develop a deeper appreciation for life, death, and the human experience. Along the way, he forms a close bond with his boss, Ikuei Sasaki who becomes a mentor and father figure to him.

"Departures" is a moving and poignant exploration of the beauty and dignity of life, even in its final moments. The film won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Following the screening there will be a film analysis and discussion with independent filmmaker and scholar Elías Nahmías who has studied and worked in every aspect of filmmaking .