Watch Departures

Departures is a moving and poignant movie that tells the story of a journey towards acceptance, loss, and rebirth. Directed by Emanuele Caruso, the film stars Giorgio Colangeli as Guido, a former musician who has to face an unexpected tragedy that shakes his whole existence. Guido's wife, Elettra (Valeria Cavalli), suddenly dies, leaving him alone with their young son, Tommaso (Alessandro Tamburini).

Guido struggles to cope with the shock of his loss and the burden of his new responsibilities. However, he finds a new purpose when he learns about the ancient Japanese tradition of encoffining, which is the ritual of preparing deceased bodies for burial. Guido decides to take up this unusual profession, and he becomes an apprentice to an experienced encoffiner, Sasaki (Masakazu Tamura).

Through his new job, Guido slowly finds solace and meaning in life. As he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and emotional healing, he learns to appreciate the inherent beauty and dignity of the encoffining ritual. Guido's initial disgust and fear of handling dead bodies are gradually replaced by a sense of awe and respect for the departed souls.

The film is masterfully shot, with stunning visuals that capture the serene and contemplative atmosphere of the encoffining ritual. The audience is transported to a world where death is not feared or looked upon with dread, but rather embraced as a natural part of life's cycle.

The acting is superb, with Colangeli delivering a nuanced and sensitive performance as Guido. He portrays the character's pain, confusion, and eventual acceptance with an understated intensity that feels genuine and heartfelt. Cavalli is also exceptional as Elettra, bringing warmth and depth to her portrayal of a loving wife and mother who is taken away too soon.

The film explores several themes, including the fragility of life, the importance of family, and the value of tradition. However, it never feels preachy or didactic. Instead, it invites the audience to reflect on their own mortality and the legacy they will leave behind. It also highlights the power of human connection and the healing potential of simple acts of kindness and compassion.

In summary, Departures is a must-see movie for anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling and the beauty of life's journey. It is a poignant and heartfelt tribute to the human spirit and the power of resilience in the face of loss and adversity. Caruso's direction and Colangeli's performance make this a memorable film that will stay with you long after viewing.