Death takes on a new and stylish face

Rating: 8/10 (15 November 1998)

"Meet Joe Black," is one of those movies whose plot and cinematic beauty will keep you watching, even for three hours. Brad Pitt is interestingly reserved in his portrayal of Death in the guise of Joe Black. Death has taken the body of this handsome man to learn more about the other side; life. In the process he discovers love with Susan Parrish, played by Clair Forlani. Susan happens to be the daughter of rich tycoon William Parrish, played by Anthony Hopkins. Death/Joe Black is giving Parrish a few extra days on earth while he explores life and all things human. The cimematography is exquisite, the sound track memorable and haunting, especially the melody the comes up each time Joe and Susan are alone together. The love scene between Susan and Joe is stylishly sensual; the fireworks scene outdoes Hitchcock's from "To Catch A Thief." In all the film, though at times slow to move, is nonetheless a feast for the eyes and mind as Death takes on a new and stylish face in "Meet Joe Black."