Soundtrack

After recently seeing the accompanying film of the same name, I knew I needed to get the soundtrack. Absolutely beautiful soundtrack for a most moving film that has quickly joined my short list of favorite soundtracks of all time. Track #18 "Memory" is the standout track that is played to its entirety late into the film as the protagonist (Daigo) reminisces while playing the cello he had purchased to play in the orchestra that hired him for his first job after graduation and quickly laid him off following its collapse, set aside for a time due to his disappointment, and rediscovered as he became increasingly comfortable as a professional mortician through a twist of events. But track #14 "Ave Maria" follows close behind, as does track #19 "Ending", which is played during the closing credits and is a wonderful collage of many of the tracks presented throughout the film. What will make track #18 especially moving for many are the visuals of the protagonist and his wife (Mika) as forgotten memories return when beloved ones are prepared for burial.

I watched this movie in February of 2011 on Netflix and simply had to own a copy. The music is hauntingly beautiful (cello, flute, orchestral), so I also bought the soundtrack. The title is brilliant, reflecting many facets of life's truths."Departures" illustrates the sacred beauty in honoring the dead in the Shinto tradition. It might help the viewer appreciate this film better if one is acquainted with Japanese or zen symbolism, but the themes are common to all humanity, so no matter your own tradition, this movie will touch you deeply.I am not sure where the movie was filmed, but the setting reminds me of northern Japan around Sendai. Even if this is not the case, it would be a fitting tribute.

This is one of the most beautiful films I have ever seen. The music, the cinematography, and the storyline are so impressively put together it is a work of art. It's sub-titled but, five minutes into into it, I was so captivated I completely forget that I don't speak Japanese. Even though it's 2 hours long, I found myself wishing it wouldn't end.

This hauntingly beautiful music is so soulful that i plan you use it For a memorial service for a loved one, when the time comes. The life struggles in the movie are contrasted beautifully with the musical background. It's one of my favorite foreign films on many levels - the music is a core component. There is a sadness to the tone of many of these pieces, yet it invigorates the soul and leaves one more refreshed than mournful ... A real keeper for any musical collection.

I am a big soundtracks fan -- probably own 200 or so. And I like Joe Hisashai generally, so maybe I'm a little biased. But this melodic, romantic album is one of his finest efforts and has immediately gone into my "repeat play" list. The tunes are beautiful, the sound of the orchestra is good, and there are nice contrasts in the different tracks. This is an ideal album for putting on in the evening when you are relaxing and want to be soothed.

One of the movies you can watch multiple times. It's funny and compelling at the same time. The music is beautiful as is the story line as is development of characters. The sacredness of life and the care and thoughtfulness shown for those who die left my heart in a good place. It's worth watching.

This was a beautiful movie, I only accidently discovered that the cello solo could soothe my anxiety and allow me to relax enough to enter a meditative state for the first time in my life! I have since downloaded several more collections by Joe Hisaishi. Buy this - and also see the movie - it is unforgettable.

A great story about death and life and how this process is perceived in a non-western culture. The music is superb on this CD. After watching the DVD, this CD was a must have for my collection. The music is uplifting and revitalizing every time I listen to it.