a really beautiful movie. it's been a while since i've cried like that. it makes you wonder about the importance (and beauty) of ceremonies and why people still hold onto it, and about loving and treasuring life and those around you. with situations and characters that are so real and life, this movie definitely has the ability to make you laugh and cry. a very good and beautiful portrayal of the art of encoffinment in japan.

i love the pacing and directing of this movie, esp the way the director showed the passing of time and the protagonist's growth as an okuribito and person (i.e. the playing-the-cello-on-a-hill part). the music is reallyreally good. kudos to joe hisaishi! very good arrangement. not too overbearing, just smooth notes that will hit your heart. every piece has a story.

the oscar is well deserved, definitely.