Leave your cynicism in the theatre lobby

Rating: 8/10 (14 November 1998)

The mere sight of Brad Pitt caused a movie audience full of women to gasp aloud. That doesn't make "Meet Joe Black" a bad movie, but it sure makes it harder to concentrate on the man's acting ability. The fact is however, that this film directed by Martin Brest (Scent of a Woman, Midnight Run) is full of passion, romance, drama, and great bursts of humour.
In "Meet Joe Black" William Parrish (Anthony Hopkins) begins to suspect his mortality during an episode of crushing chest pains. Death comes for Parrish having manifested itself in the form of a mysterious and engaging young man, Joe Black (Pitt). Black decides to put off the inevitable journey for a few days so he can learn more about life from the human perspective. He chooses to experience life with the family of this extremely wealthy, highly successful businessman who is just days away from his 65th birthday. A gala birthday party fit for a king is being prepared by one of Parrish's daughters, Allison (Marcia Gay Harden). Her role as the fussing, detail driven party organizer is a moving one as she comes to understand that despite her overwhelming love for her father, she will never be his favourite. The role of favourite daughter is left to Susan (Clair Forlani) and Joe Black learns his most important life lessons as he and Susan fall in love.
The story unfolds naturally at a leisurely pace using up every moment of the 3-hour length without ever losing the audience. Anthony Hopkins, plays the role of powerful patriarch and business mogul with a strong dignified presence and says more with a raised eyebrow and half smile than any dialogue could impart.
It is interesting to watch Pitt as death, ageless by any standard, wise beyond comprehension stumble confused in his new human form. Pitt plays with this role and is not afraid to show an insecure almost goofy persona as Joe Black begins to experience life as a man. In the course of his activities with Parrish's life, Joe learns the human pain of "letting go" experiencing the greatest lessons as his love for Susan grows. Joe Black's slow awakening to love and the physical realities of expressed love are a pleasure to watch.
The theme is clear: Life can be endured if there is love, and love can only be sustained on a foundation of truth. And it's the truth that ultimately undoes Joe Black, the man.
Highly recommended. **** 4 STAR RATING ON A 5 STAR SCALE