Anthony Hopkins excels....once again

Rating: 8/10 (20 November 2007)

I admit the film is a bit over drawn and there are a few blank moments. However, the performance of Mr. Hopkins adds his charisma and cadence, as when he realizes he is facing his own death, and remembers his deceased wife from twenty years earlier.
Brad Pitt is surprisingly good as 'Death' (Joe Black). Reminiscent of "Death Takes a Holiday" (Gig Young, circa 1965). A beautiful looking man who brings the ultimate horror to us all. It is not a complex plot and has been done.
There are, however, some nuances as the relationship between Marcia Gay Harden, the less favored daughter and Hopkins, a media magnate who is preparing for his final birthday. There are several clichés, but the visuals and performances by Hopkins and Pitt somewhat transcend this.
Occasionally, over-analyzing a film cannot garner further knowledge, accept it at face value and enjoy. It is, after all, only a movie, not a play.
8/10.