The Way I Loved You

Caught a Japanese movie, Departures a while back. Directed by Yojiro Takita, it is a 2008 Japanese film that started with subtle humor which had me roaring into laughter at the onset. As the mood of the movie becomes more sombre, I was drawn more deeply into the story. It turned out to be a very touching and emotional experience for me.

As a devoted cellist in an orchestra, the plot unfolds with the lead actor losing his job when the the group is dissolved. By chance, he applies for a job with vague description and it turns out to be a eyebrow-raising job, the encoffiner. One that requires him restoring the beauty for the dead people before their loved ones see them off in the last journey. This movie also aptly depicts the pride and purpose in one's job, as well as questions the meaning of death.

This movie has enlightened me that death is not the end of life, as it triggers reconciliation of those who hate another person. Just like the cellist who dislikes his dad for running away from home. In the end, his death offers the son an opportunity to forgive and forget. It was very emotional for me when he realizes that his father dies with the beloved "stone" from him in his palm. For those who have not catch the show, the dad teaches the son that one can make out the mood of the sender by touching the surface of the rock. When the recipient has a smooth stone from the giver, it means the person is happy and vice versa. Very ingenious:)

I have to specially commend on the superb acting by the cast. Motoki Tomohiro's acting was especially stupendous, as he exhibits the full gamut of human emotion - comical at times, yet carry the thoughtful and professional scenes perfectly. Yamazaki Tsutomu is equally unparalleled as the strict mentor in the story. Overall, the film has a nice flow and well-paced. The usage of music in the movie is also instrumental in expressing the protagonist's feelings every scene. At the end of the journey, the story successfully paints a touching scene of farewell to all, including the movie-goers. Wonderful movie. I was moved.