Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Departures

film

Departures

2008

Daigo, a cellist, is laid off from his orchestra and moves with his wife back to his small hometown where the living is cheaper. Thinking he’s applying for a job at a travel agency he finds he’s being interviewed for work with departures of a more permanent nature – as an undertaker’s assistant.

Ages 13+Source checked

Why this age? Frequent focus on dead bodies, funerals, grief, and emotionally difficult family situations; some material may be disturbing, though violence and sexual content are limited. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age13+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character5/5
  • Religious themes3/5
  • Graphic injury2/5

Strongest positives

  • Kindness & empathy5/5
  • Good role models4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character5/5
Why this rating?

Death is the central theme, as the protagonist works as a mortician. It is handled with deep respect and emotional weight.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

The film shows bodies being prepared for funerals, which includes washing and dressing; it is respectful and clinical, not gratuitous.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language throughout the film.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

There is one character who identifies as transgender, treated with respect within the narrative.

Religious themes3/5
Why this rating?

Explores Japanese cultural and spiritual traditions regarding the afterlife and burial rites.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Features a supportive marriage between the protagonist and his wife, which is a key emotional thread in the story.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

Funeral settings, corpses and emotionally difficult encounters with death may unsettle some viewers, but there are no horror scares, monsters or sustained frightening sequences.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild, brief marital intimacy or suggestive conversation.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional social drinking typical of adult characters in the setting.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Characters confront death, shame, loss, and family pain with increasing honesty and compassion.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Promotes appreciation for music and the artistry of ritual.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Features an authentic Japanese ensemble cast; includes a notable transgender character.

Educational value3/5
Why this rating?

Provides insight into Japanese mortuary practices and cultural attitudes toward death.

Kindness & empathy5/5
Why this rating?

Kindness is the core of the film, exemplified by the professional care given to the deceased.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes of empathy, reconciliation, the dignity of work, and finding purpose in life through serving others.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist demonstrates growth, professional dedication, and deep kindness.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. Where did a character show kindness or empathy, and what changed because of it?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in Departures would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Departures, and what caused that change?
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