description Departures Overview
Departures is a 2008 Japanese drama film centering on a former musician who becomes a nōkanshi, a traditional Japanese mortician. The narrative explores societal prejudice surrounding this profession, specifically the challenges faced by the protagonist due to ingrained social taboos. Through his work, he attempts to rebuild relationships strained by these prejudices.
Sources: en.wikipedia.org
info Departures Specifications
| Country | Japan |
| Year | 2008 |
help Departures FAQ
Did Departures win an Academy Award?
Yes, Departures, originally titled 'Okuribito,' won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 81st Academy Awards. The win surprised many observers who had expected 'Waltz with Bashir' or 'The Class' to take the prize, and brought significant international attention to the Japanese film.
What is a nōkanshi in Departures?
A nōkanshi is a traditional Japanese encoffiner, a professional who ceremonially prepares the dead by washing, dressing, and placing the body in a casket before mourners. In the film, the protagonist Daigo takes up this profession after losing his job as a cellist and initially faces social stigma.
Who directed Departures?
Departures was directed by Japanese filmmaker Yōjirō Takita and released in 2008. The film stars Masahiro Motoki as Daigo Kobayashi, a former cellist who finds unexpected meaning working as a nōkanshi in his rural hometown.
What language is Departures in?
Departures is a Japanese-language film, with its original title being 'Okuribito' (おくりびと). The screenplay was written by Kundo Koyama, and the film's score features cello performances central to the protagonist's backstory as a musician.
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