 Departures received mixed to positive reviews , with aggregator Rotten Tomatoes indicating an 81 % approval rating from 103 reviews . Critics praised the film 's humour , the beauty of the encoffining ceremony , and the quality of the acting , but took issue with its predictability and overt sentimentality . Reviewers highlighted a variety of themes , but focused mainly on the humanity which death brings to the surface and how it strengthens family bonds . The success of Departures led to the establishment of tourist attractions at sites connected to the film and increased interest in encoffining ceremonies , as well as adaptation of the story for various media , including manga and a stage play . 
