Departures (Soundtrack) - 19 Okuribito (Ending)

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to understanding and appreciating the soundtrack of the film "Departures" (Okuribito), composed by Joe Hisaishi. Released in 2008, this soundtrack enhances the emotional depth of the film, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. By breaking down the main tracks, you’ll gain insights into the music's structure and its relationship to the film's themes.

Step 1: Explore the Soundtrack Overview

Familiarize yourself with the complete track listing of the "Departures" soundtrack. Here's the list of all 19 tracks:

1. Shine of Snow I - 1:12
2. Nohkan - 3:10
3. Kaisan - 0:53
4. Good-By Cello - 2:16
5. New Road - 1:15
6. Model - 0:47
7. First Contact - 1:51
8. Washing - 0:34
9. Kizuna I - 1:57
10. Beautiful Dead I - 3:12
11. Okuribito (On Record) - 1:51
12. Gui-Dance - 2:26
13. Shine of Snow II - 2:25
14. Ave Maria (Okuribito) - 5:29
15. Kizuna II - 2:04
16. Beautiful Dead II - 2:36
17. Father - 1:40
18. Okuribito (Memory) - 4:10
19. Okuribito (Ending) - 4:59

Practical Tip

Listen to the soundtrack while following along with the track list. This will help you connect the music to specific scenes in the film.

Step 2: Analyze Key Tracks

Identify and analyze key tracks that significantly contribute to the film's emotional narrative. You might focus on:

• Ave Maria (Okuribito): A powerful piece that underscores pivotal moments in the film.
• Okuribito (Ending): This track wraps up the film’s emotional journey, providing a sense of closure.

Practical Advice

• Play these tracks while reflecting on the scenes they accompany in the film. Consider how the music enhances the storytelling.

Step 3: Understand the Compositional Style

Joe Hisaishi's style combines orchestral elements with traditional Japanese instruments. Explore how these elements create a unique sound landscape.

Key Characteristics

• Use of strings for emotional depth.
• Integration of traditional instruments reflecting Japanese culture.
• Melodic simplicity that allows for emotional resonance.

Common Pitfall to Avoid

Don’t overlook the importance of silence and pauses in Hisaishi's compositions. These moments are often as impactful as the music itself.

Step 4: Connect Music to Themes

Reflect on how the soundtrack ties into the film's themes of life, death, and connection. Consider the following:

• Themes of Farewell: Notice how tracks like "Good-By Cello" evoke feelings of loss and remembrance.
• Life’s Journey: Tracks like "New Road" symbolize new beginnings and transitions.

Real-World Application

Use this understanding to enhance your own storytelling, whether in film, writing, or other creative projects. Music can significantly influence the emotional tone of your work.

Conclusion

The "Departures" soundtrack, composed by Joe Hisaishi, is more than just background music; it's an essential part of the film's narrative. By exploring the tracks, analyzing key pieces, understanding the compositional style, and connecting the music to the film's themes, you can deepen your appreciation for this Oscar-winning work.

Consider revisiting the film with this new perspective or exploring other soundtracks by Joe Hisaishi to further enhance your understanding of his musical artistry.