This is the first in a series of foreign films shown at the local library. The purpose is to learn about different cultures through the tales they show in their films. The subject in “Departures” is the rituals of death practiced in Japan and won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film of 2009. It is the tale of an out of work cellist who in desperation accepts the job of “encoffineer” (Japanese equivalent of an undertaker,) to provide for himself and his young wife. Daigo,the protagonist, grows in the job as he realizes the importance of the position of gatekeeper between life and death. He gains greater appreciation for life as he learns that he is giving the proper send-off from this state of being to the next.
The music was written especially for the film and prominently features the cello There is great growth and emotional connection in this story of family, love, discovery, hope , and death. It brought tears to many of the viewers and certainly to me! All that sniffling means I really connected and loved it!
This Is Departures!
TalesAlongTheWay 
The cello will get me every time! 😉
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It is the instrument closes to the human voice, I read.
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🙂
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Beautiful concept and great way to learn about new culture and traditions, definitely looking for it at my public library…
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Just heard from another blogger that Departures is available on Netflix. I can’t remember where you are located but I am thinking Canada. Hope it is available for you ! Big Smiles.
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Yes, it is! And I just added it to my list…looking forward to watching. Thanks Anne.
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Let me know what you think!
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I think that’s one I would like to see. I love the cello, the violin (except when I try to play it). and the guitar especially, since I did manage to learn that, and even gave lessons in that one. Just wish I could still play it, but now my instrument is a Q-Chord. Easy to play with shoulders that hurt and hands that still want to make music.
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Never stop making music. . . . . . Sunshine
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I couldn’t stop if I tried, and so far I haven’t tried. I love making music and my Q-Chord is perfect for luring myself to sleep on some of the bad nights.
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Great you have it !
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I would like to see this movie right away. The career is intriguing to me.
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Maybe on Netflix. Do you have access?
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Yes, I do but I am not a member. I will look around. Thank you.
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Oh I hope you are able to find a copy. Please let me know . Smiles. . . . .
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Found it on Netflix! Will be watching it tonight, Lord willing.
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Great news. It is long at two hours. Let me know how you like it . Blessings!
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Thanks. Will do 🙂
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