Directed by Yojirō Takita, "Departures" tells the story of Daigo Kobayashi, a young cellist who returns to his hometown after his orchestra is disbanded. He takes a job as an "encoffineur," a traditional Japanese funeral ritual where the deceased are prepared for cremation. The film focuses on Daigo's relationship with his mother, who is struggling to come to terms with her own mortality. The movie explores the theme of filial love and the complexities of the mother-son relationship.