@paulpeterson4216 its an inversion and an accent; Parish already knew the meaning of love, but had lost great one and thus perspective. Losing touch with his family and even his business. But this old woman. A grandmother. She had her feet planted firmly in what was good in the world. Likely because she suffered more loss than Bill the millionaire. But rather than being "magical" as the trope tends to obscure, she merely retains her center. What she truly loves. What she believes in. It's worth pointing out that there is that magical negro sense in that she recognizes death immediately, but if you had never seen a man as youthfully beautiful as Pitt, but with the cold eyes of an ancient one, that only the old can empathize with, it still makes some kind of sense. And I think it remains an inversion because she does not give him an answer, or even advice, she admonishes him for neglect. She is suffering and wishes for him to do his job. He is playing at life while not being alive. She tells him simply that he is being selfish and causing suffering. Where death, as she knows it, should mean peace.
The score really gives the romantic scenes a simultaneous sense of depth, beauty and impending loss which otherwise I don't think is really earned by either the plot or the performances. Definitely a case of the music elevating the movie.
3 Points I'd like to make: 1: I fell in love with this movie just before I became a father to two daughters. It hits me harder now. 2: Clair Forlani is amazing, and it is a shame that she did not become a major star. 3: "Should I be Afraid"..."Not a man like you" is the exchange every man hopes for. And we're all scared we're going to fall short. But oh, my God do we hope.
In the scene where Pitt removes his shirt, there was an collective audible 'Ahhhhhhhh' from around +100 females in the audience, back when I saw this in a theater. I'll never forget that moment. :)
I first watched Meet Joe Black because it was the premiere of the at-the-time much awaited Star Wars: The Phantom Menace trailer. I waited in line for 2 hours to finally enter the theater and 3/4 of the audience left after the trailer package concluded. I stayed unlike most of my friends and watched a moving, thoughtful meditation on life featuring great performances from Marcia Gay Harden (The Spitfire Grill), Claire Forlani (Kevin Smith's Mallrats), Brad Pitt and of course Anthony Hopkins (Shadowlands, The Remains of the Day). I loved this movie!
3/4 of the audience were idiots then. I mean, I'm a huge Star Wars fan... But I am also a fan of film in general, and there's just no way I would buy a ticket to a movie, watch the trailer preceeding it and then insult the entire work of art by LEAVING before it even starts... That's just ignorant, and definately their loss.
Where on earth do you live? That is the first time I've heard of people waiting in line to buy tickets to see a movie, paying hard earned money (either theirs or daddy's) and then just watching the previews and leaving. You must live on the rich side of the tracks because down here, if we want to see a movie enough to pay to see it, we're going to watch it.
I was about to write that... She's NEVER been more sweet, wonderful, beautiful or charming than in this movie.... I fall in love wit her everytime I see this movie. And that smile... just heaven (pun intended)
The actress is Claire Forlani and she has had a pretty lengthy career though she was kind of a staple of the 90s. Two other films I've seen her in are Mallrats and Mystery Men. In fact I had no idea she was actually English until much later after seeing her in this and the other two films I've mentioned.
You know what I’ve learned from these reaction videos? I’ve watched way to many movies all these people react to movies I’ve seen. But I like your attention to things most people over look
This movie screams integrity. I'm a movie freak and it's on my top 5. For the writing alone it's fantastic. Add in the heavenly soundtrack... (Thomas Newman) then the cast. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Anthony Hopkins nailed this role. And the beautiful, willowy Claire Forlani is breathtaking.
Love that you enjoyed this film! Underrated and mostly misunderstood movie that I quite enjoyed despite it's runtime. Mostly because it's such a strange/unique film. Stuck in my memory for years.
Just a really unique film, Shan. I’ve seen gritty corporate dramas, and I’ve seen inspirational love stories, and I’ve seen films where death is pending and a character faces it head on. However, I’ve never seen a film where all three factors are woven together like this. So seamless is the amalgamation as well, I feel. As for the daughter, she is so unintentionally spellbinding, even Death is driven to walk amongst us to experience her. I surmise that, once her time to cross over comes, Death will find quite an emotional struggle within himself to let her slip away.
It's a whole different interpretation. He plays the embodiment of Death in human form. He takes the form of his host's foreign guest who died in an accident before arrival. He's somewhat sinister and fascinating to the heroine. He's curious about humans and decides to have a holiday to check them out. Nobody dies while he's on Earth. He's nothing like Pitt. It's really hard to explain the whole thing in a couple of paragraphs. :) There was also a remake for TV around 1972 that was kinda meh. Death was one cheerful dude! LOL The March one can be seen in bits and pieces on YT. The tv movie is also on YT.
@@lynng9618 Thanks for the info. Watching the movie I won't need YT for. There are sites for old movies, downloading but also just local library likely. So it's like with City of Angels then. Totally different between German one - Der Himmel über Berlin - which is more philosophical and contemplating and Nicolas Cage take on it? Though that's doing Brad Pitt and this director a disservice ^^
@@embran8486 This is 1934 stereotype of Death. He comes in hooded, faceless and a scythe. He's got a Bela Lugosi accent LOL When he turns into a human he looks kinda creepy and peeps are nervous around him. He's kinda unearthly. Brad Pitt is doing his own modern take of Death for 1998. It's a 64 year enlightened difference :)
Terry Pratchett had a pretty famous interpretation of Death in his books. He spoke in, ALL CAPS, and was even Humanized a great deal in Pratchett's typically ridiculous and wonderous style. I'd recommended watching an adaptation of the Hogfather to see what I mean.
I thought of Pratchett right from the opening scene, when we hear the clear cut "YES" whispered... A lot of Deaths reaction to- and interraction with humanity feel lifted almost directly from 'Reaper Man'. -Oh how I miss Terry Pratchett!
Anthony Hopkins’ best performances are in Titus, Remains of the Day & Silence of the Lambs. His anguish in the scene on the road in Titus is gut-wrenching. The pain of his restraint in Remains of the Day is also breathtaking. These are must-see movies now that you’ve reviewed Silence of the Lambs.
I will say though that in reality Anthony Hopkins' body is lying dead just over that bridge while Brad and Claire just walk back to enjoy the party. Kind of weird. lol
@@outdoorolli5754 "I'm quite sure, that Joe arranged Bills dead body in his bed to be found in the next morning." 2 months later? Really? May I ask how you are quite sure of this? I think you just would like a more ideal end for Bill. People pass away outdoors everyday, "Outdoor" Ollie. It doesn't have to be terrible or morbid. He told his daughter "I'm just going to go catch my breath". Going across a bridge and passing away with Joe standing next to him is much more likely than him teleporting to his house, putting on his pjs and being found in bed the next morning.
For an example of a great Hopkins performance, not to mention the titans that are Peter O'Toole and Katherine Hepburn, is the 1968 film The Lion In Winter.
Spectacular movie IMHO. The lingering, trailing/exiting shots, the storytelling is fantastic, and I like how the script "ties a bow" to wrap up each character. I believe it is loose based on a previous work called, "Death takes a holiday", or "Death takes a Vacation". This movie stood out to me 20+ years ago when I initially saw it at the theater because of the strange dynamic that exists at the end. Yes, it is a "sad" ending. However, it is also hopeful, uncertain, but has an underlying message of faith. An example I could say would be, ".... we'll figure it out". That line demonstrates uncertainty about what's going to happen in the future, but also indicates confidence that the characters can identify, analyze and overcome any unknown challenges in, what is maybe the most unique interpersonal relationship imaginable. Great reaction! 👍👏👏👏
I think that is one of this movies where we saw a today well known visual effect 5:30 for the first time, it was a big surprise. I saw this movie in the cinema and at this moment you can imagine the big "¡OUUUUUUUUCH!" that crossed the theater
Shan, i like this film very much. Covers every important life topic in such a beautiful and relatable way for such a fantastical plot. Even the very notion that Death himself is lonely in his job/world... and to find himself relating to all the loneliness within humanity too was so endearing and heartbreaking too. The settings, acting, music and silenced all deliver emotion throughout. It's an amazing ride through the complexities of life and humanity, thanks so much for your enthusiastic reaction. Another must watch to react to from Martin Brest, "Midnight Run"!!!!
My favorite Anthony Hopkins movie Worlds Fastest Indian ( 2005 ) A must see feel good movie... Based on real life story 😆🏁 please watch it on the channel, the viewers will love it ! It's the classic sleeper movie.( A great movie a lot of people missed ) Now for Meet Joe Black... Its a(loose)remake of... Death Takes A Holiday from the 30's ! I knew it felt familiar 📽 🎬
Between Mallrats and Basquiat, I had such a huge crush on Claire Forlani in high school. I never saw her in this until about five years ago, and it's good for my own health I didn't. Whew!
Shan I have been waiting for so long for you to see this film. Absolutely love it. By the way, where do you take recommendations for films to watch? Here or somewhere else? So glad you could appreciate this film.
Death is sitting like an outsider away from the festivities. He sees the bright fireworks that are actually Bill's life shining at its brighest before death. Death finds it hard to accept that he has to leave this world, but Bill is ready to "let go". Death lives for the first and last time, so when he leaves with Bill they both essentially "die".
You definitely understand films and there’s no spoon feeding necessary either. I love that so much and I’ll be watching more for sure! You’re a great reactor! Keep it up good sir ☺️
I don't know if the director or Pitt intended to do this but Joe's sort of there but not completely there demeanor when speaking with people, especially Susan make me think he is constantly slipping off to take care of the dying around the world. This for me works with Joe's sort of awkward, emotionally-controlled politeness that reflects someone who deals in death. It reminds me of the calmness I've encountered with funeral directors at funerals. They see the parts of death that we don't get or want to see but can emotionally detach themselves from the experience to be calm and comfort people in intensely sad situations. Pitt's portrayal also shows me a being that deals with people everyday but has never bothered to connect with them. He speaks very well, is very intelligent, has good manners, but the actual interactions show someone experiencing life for the first time after viewing it from afar for billions of years.
This is the most modern rendition of these: Death Takes a Holiday 1934 With Fredric March & Death Takes a Holiday 1971 -TV Movie Yvette Mimieux, Monte Markham, Myrna Loy, Melvyn Douglas I found the 1934 edition has a more supernatural feel and the 1971 version clearly a romance.
Hey Shan! Great reaction! If you want what is, in my opinion, not only one of the best movies ever, but best Anthony Hopkins performances, check out The Edge, from 1997. Also stars Alec Baldwin. Incredibly powerful film, with beautiful cinematography and music. The acting, however, is just stellar.
I was so fortunate to have seen this in a theater. It was my turn to pick the movie amidst my friends. I might have been the only who was tearing during this movie I think the scenes were held longer BECAUSE of Joe Black. Death being a character is not a new thing amongst stories and movies, however, in my opinion this version cannot be easily matched, much less surpassed. A shorter run time would make it easier for people with shorter attention spans to watch, but those long moment holds for scenes are allowing US, the audience , mortals whose life spans do not often last for even a century much less for the eternity that just IS for Death. The long moments not only allow a viewer to not just understand the dialogue, allow forBill Parrish to begin the journey to see and understand Death as more than just a period. A period, without the context of eras divided by wars, by rulers, centuries or evolutionary divides. A period as in the end of a sentence, or just an end. The run time allows for Bill Parrish to begin to attempt to understand Death as more than just a cessation of life, but also allows the audience to consider the possibilities. Grr, lol. I'm explaining this poorly. Another good one with Hopkins, and one not often mentioned 84 Charring Cross Road.
Aldrich Mansion, Warwick The Aldrich Mansion, off Warwick Neck Avenue in Warwick, was used extensively for "Meet Joe Black," a 1998 fantasy/romance movie starring Brad Pitt. Built for Rhode Island Sen. Nelson W. Aldrich, construction began in 1896 and was finished 16 years later.Nov 11, 2016
This film is an amazing story and highly underrated, but I understand why it's not for everyone. It has a lot of very long moments between characters, but I personally love those moments. And the music by Thomas Newman is my favorite film score of all time. I've listened to it easily thousands of times and I never ever get tired of it. The story itself seems a bit farfetched, but I feel it's a lovely way to view some amazing human emotions as well as having a dash of a fantasy styled universe in a "every day" setting. They don't really make films like this anymore and it's a shame. I watch this film often and never get tired of it. It was lovely to watch someone enjoying it for the first time. Take care!
The actress who plays Susan Parrish Joe's love interest is Claire Forlani a British actress from London who is married to Scottish actor Dougray Scott who you may know either from Enigma or Mission Impossible 2.
Hey! Great reaction and review, as always. Since you enjoyed Silence of the lambs and you like Anthony Hopkins as an actor, why don't you watch Red Dragon?
What is happening?!?! Wow (yeah, I like this flick). Shan, sincerely... THANK you. When jokingly asked if he hasn't had enough of his family, the way Hopkins chews out his "mmmm...nnnno." is just a beauty to watch. This beauty falls under the category of not even going to bother asking, as in, why would anyone bother, except... but but but! There are flicks everyone does for the clicks, then there are flicks that one hopes would be done as they are widely known but may not get the votes (Moonstruck, Remains of the Day, Life of Pi, Layer Cake, Cinema Paradiso (not the director's cut)). Then, a few piles over/away, there are movies like this that I would recommend and just say "you don't even have to do it for 'work', just y'now, if you just want to sit back and watch a film by people that know their craft". Kinda...ish. Here is an example of those: Local Hero Shirley Valentine 84 Charring Cross Sleepers Murder By Death Sense and Sensibility Breaking Away Coal Miners Daughter The Commitments Defending Your Life Fly Away Home Tampopo A Good Year The Way Bridget Jones Diary Withnail and I The Sting Day of the Jackal (1973) Working Girl Again.... THANK you, Shan.
@@outdoorolli5754 Right and as they head back to the party, everybody's going to be calling him Joe and acting like they've known him quite a while and he isn't going to know WTH is going on...
I rewatched this review today... reminded me why you were/are my favorite reviewer and the best on UA-cam by far might sound ridiculous but I miss you..I hope this message finds you and your family well.
I only recently watched this movie and cried so much! Now I am watching all the reaction videos, and cry every time. Hard to believe this movie wasn't a smash hit. Brad Pitt's performance was amazing.
One of my favorite films…it’s just got it all. A bit of this and that all blended together so well. If you just saw the coffee shop scene you’d think “RomCom” if you just saw the introduction scene between Bill and Death you’d think “Horror”. It just ticks off the boxes down the list
This movie touches me every time I see it and sits in my top 10 of all time. Even though it is long, it holds me emotionally throughout. The movie was shot on location, across the bay from my home in Warwick, RI. My understanding is that the frequent late night filming and fireworks prompted some law suits,from their immediate neighbors.
Thanks for doing this; the first reaction I've seen. It's one of my favourite romantic films, up there with "Somewhere in Time" (1980). Claire Forlani is absolutely stunning in this film; her voice and her eyes cut deep into my soul. I disagree about the run time; I think it's sumptuous. The music makes me weep for joy. If you want to see the greatest scene of unrestrained joy ever put to film, check out "That Thing You Do!" (1996) starring, written and directed by Tom Hanks, which tells the story of the rise and fall of a fictional 1960s one-hit wonder pop band.
This was a nice surprise as I haven't seen anyone else react to this film and it seems to be a largely unknown film. I saw this at 12 years old when it came out and really liked it and still like it as an adult, though I understand why it isn't for everyone. Thought Brad Pitt did well in this as he's technically playing 2 different characters.
I'll recommend Somewhere in Time starring Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeve of Superman fame. I won't spoil it for you but the movie is very unique as it is set on Mackinac Island where no cars are allowed. It makes for a great setting for a movie.
A great early Hopkins performance (amid a sea of incredible actors) is 1968's 'The Lion in Winter'. Hopkins as Richard the Lionheart (before he was King), Nigel Terry as Prince John, Nick Castle as Prince Geoffrey, Peter O'Toole as King Henry II and the incomparable Katherine Hepburn as Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Usually it's hard to decide what gets into your top 10 films of all time, even harder to say what get's into your top 5 or 3, but it's very easy for me to say this is in my top 3 if not the top spot.
Brad Pitt's greatest performance was in The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, an overlooked classic. Also stars Sam Rockwell. Highly recommended.
This is one of my favorite movies. I never realized it was 3 hours long. This is probably my favorite Anthony Hopkins acting roles. Hannibal was an amazing role but this role shows multiple sets and levels of emotion that he expertly maneuvers. He was great at portraying the kind of person Death would want as it's guide to humanity. A movie with what I believe was a good performance from an actor not known for dramatic roles was Adam Sandler is Spanglish. A good movie that shows the lives of different people in a family slowly falling apart.
Wow, watching a Meet Joe Black reaction throughout my smoking breaks at work: not a good idea. Here I am, in the company's parking garage, crying. Even more so because we lost a dear colleague to cancer, a week ago.... Thank you for your kind reaction to this wonderful movie
Awesome choice and reaction! Nobody has reacted to this one yet. We recommend 'The Player' (1992); a 'who dun it' amongst studio producers---all star cast--insane amount of cameos
My favorite Anthony Hopkins movies....Legends Of The Fall also with Brad Pitt, music by James Horner, The Edge with Alec Baldwin music by Jerry Goldsmith, The Bounty with Mel Gibson, music by Vangelis. All BIG recommendations here. I really didn't get into this movie and stopped it when a certain character got hit by a car. I don't know why, but I should try this movie again. Oh, I was one who did love Hannibal, the sequel to Silence Of The Lambs. Just loved. Hannibal even has Hannibal do a little cooking in this. I was a fan of Anthony Hopkins way way before people became a fan with his iconic Hannibal Lecter. Two TV movies come to mind, one was Dark Victory (1976) with Elizabeth Montgomery and The Lindbergh Kidnapping Case (1976). Hopkins played Bruno Hauptmann, the one accused of the kidnapping. More recommendations.
I haven't seen this film in such a long time I almost forgot how good it is. Great reaction and review. I would love to see your reaction and review of Immortal Beloved (1994 Gary Oldman & Jeroen Krabbe).
I legit spent the first two hours laughing at this film and then the final hour crying about it. Because that's the power of the Hopkins. 😂 And to answer your question, my favourite role of his so far is "Remains of the Day" which is SO underrated.
My favourite Anthony Hopkins' performance would be in the great TV show Westworld, absolutely worth a reaction if it's something that might interest you Shan. I also remember a fantastic performance in the great movie (when doesn't he choose great movies?) also with Brad Pitt: Legends of the Fall.
Little correction/addition - the song during the credits isn't "Somewhere over the Rainbow", but Iz's amazing mix of "Somewhere over the Rainbow" and "What a Wonderful World" 🥰
At times, early in the film, I hear echoes and refelections of "Being There." Death learns a thing or two about dealing with Life and Human Feelings. He's a changed demon because of his finding ... love.
anthony hopkins film "remains of the day" is quite a story brad pitt got this movie because tom cruise changed his mind even though he got it started if i remember correctly
Hopkins is great in The World's Fastest Indian. Great feel-good movie about the motorcycle speed record. He also raises the bar in the Westworld series.
Marcia Gay Harden is an excellent actress who has been in numerous movies and TV shows. She is so good that she is practically immersed in each role, often so much that she is unrecognizable from one role to the next.
The scene with the Brad and the old Jamaican woman is one of my favorite scenes in any film. She understood life and death more than Death itself.
That is one of the few scenes I remember the most of the film. :)
It reminded me of several scenes involving the character Death from Neil Gaiman's "Sandman" comic.
This is one of the few times that Hollywood trots out the "magical black person" trope and it really lands.
@paulpeterson4216 its an inversion and an accent; Parish already knew the meaning of love, but had lost great one and thus perspective. Losing touch with his family and even his business.
But this old woman. A grandmother. She had her feet planted firmly in what was good in the world. Likely because she suffered more loss than Bill the millionaire.
But rather than being "magical" as the trope tends to obscure, she merely retains her center. What she truly loves. What she believes in.
It's worth pointing out that there is that magical negro sense in that she recognizes death immediately, but if you had never seen a man as youthfully beautiful as Pitt, but with the cold eyes of an ancient one, that only the old can empathize with, it still makes some kind of sense.
And I think it remains an inversion because she does not give him an answer, or even advice, she admonishes him for neglect. She is suffering and wishes for him to do his job.
He is playing at life while not being alive.
She tells him simply that he is being selfish and causing suffering. Where death, as she knows it, should mean peace.
She's good isn't she?
Forces Death to be realistic.
I also love Bill's wee speech when he tells Joe/Death to reveal who he really is to Susan.
Thomas Newman's moving score on top of the great performances from the whole cast made this a often overlooked gem.
I'm glad you named him I was thinking James Horner the whole time.
The score really gives the romantic scenes a simultaneous sense of depth, beauty and impending loss which otherwise I don't think is really earned by either the plot or the performances. Definitely a case of the music elevating the movie.
By introducing him to peanut butter, that chef likely bought at least a decade of life.
You can't fool wit da way things got to be.
That's so sweet, right near the end how Joe whispers to Susan that she will always have what she found in the Coffee shop 🥰😭😊👍👏🤝
Very underrated movie that sets a vibe. If you watch it at night in the dark and just immerse yourself in it, you'll get what I'm saying
Some people need the dark of night to get the vibe, surely one day you can enjoy it in the light as well.
You should check out What Dreams May Come.. one of Robin Williams best movies and a visual beauty
Yes please!!!!
Omg it's so good.
Great movie, What Dreams May Come. It stuck with me for a long time.
That movie is an emotional roller coaster
@@timc9789 Mostly a 90 degree plummet 😭
3 Points I'd like to make:
1: I fell in love with this movie just before I became a father to two daughters. It hits me harder now.
2: Clair Forlani is amazing, and it is a shame that she did not become a major star.
3: "Should I be Afraid"..."Not a man like you" is the exchange every man hopes for. And we're all scared we're going to fall short. But oh, my God do we hope.
Joe's interaction with the old lady in the hospital might be one of my favorites
In the scene where Pitt removes his shirt, there was an collective audible 'Ahhhhhhhh' from around +100 females in the audience, back when I saw this in a theater. I'll never forget that moment. :)
Were you addrdessed as soreness by a drill instructor?..
One of my favorite movies. No one has ever heard of this movie, despite the cast.
Probably because the movie is crap.
@@CreepyNeighbor666 thanks for your opinion
@@CreepyNeighbor666 Wrong.
@@CreepyNeighbor666 thanks NPC
I first watched Meet Joe Black because it was the premiere of the at-the-time much awaited Star Wars: The Phantom Menace trailer. I waited in line for 2 hours to finally enter the theater and 3/4 of the audience left after the trailer package concluded. I stayed unlike most of my friends and watched a moving, thoughtful meditation on life featuring great performances from Marcia Gay Harden (The Spitfire Grill), Claire Forlani (Kevin Smith's Mallrats), Brad Pitt and of course Anthony Hopkins (Shadowlands, The Remains of the Day). I loved this movie!
3/4 of the audience were idiots then.
I mean, I'm a huge Star Wars fan... But I am also a fan of film in general, and there's just no way I would buy a ticket to a movie, watch the trailer preceeding it and then insult the entire work of art by LEAVING before it even starts... That's just ignorant, and definately their loss.
Where on earth do you live? That is the first time I've heard of people waiting in line to buy tickets to see a movie, paying hard earned money (either theirs or daddy's) and then just watching the previews and leaving. You must live on the rich side of the tracks because down here, if we want to see a movie enough to pay to see it, we're going to watch it.
The chemistry between Claire Forlani and Brad Pitt is better than most love stories. This is Claire's best movie.
I was about to write that... She's NEVER been more sweet, wonderful, beautiful or charming than in this movie.... I fall in love wit her everytime I see this movie.
And that smile... just heaven (pun intended)
The actress is Claire Forlani and she has had a pretty lengthy career though she was kind of a staple of the 90s. Two other films I've seen her in are Mallrats and Mystery Men. In fact I had no idea she was actually English until much later after seeing her in this and the other two films I've mentioned.
Thank you for reminding me how much I enjoyed my first time watching this. I first appreciated Claire Forlani's charm through watching this.
She is absolutely enchanting in this film.
Mallrats was my first Forlani film.
@@duaneswab3420 I saw Mall Rats long first also, but this is what I remembered Ms. Forlani from.
You know what I’ve learned from these reaction videos? I’ve watched way to many movies all these people react to movies I’ve seen. But I like your attention to things most people over look
This movie screams integrity. I'm a movie freak and it's on my top 5. For the writing alone it's fantastic. Add in the heavenly soundtrack... (Thomas Newman) then the cast. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Anthony Hopkins nailed this role. And the beautiful, willowy Claire Forlani is breathtaking.
Love that you enjoyed this film! Underrated and mostly misunderstood movie that I quite enjoyed despite it's runtime. Mostly because it's such a strange/unique film. Stuck in my memory for years.
Just a really unique film, Shan. I’ve seen gritty corporate dramas, and I’ve seen inspirational love stories, and I’ve seen films where death is pending and a character faces it head on. However, I’ve never seen a film where all three factors are woven together like this. So seamless is the amalgamation as well, I feel. As for the daughter, she is so unintentionally spellbinding, even Death is driven to walk amongst us to experience her.
I surmise that, once her time to cross over comes, Death will find quite an emotional struggle within himself to let her slip away.
A loose remake of a 1934 movie called "Death Takes a Holiday" starring Fredric March, which itself was based on the Broadway play of the same name.
Haven't seen that March one yet, but does he portray it as sensitive and innocent like Brad Pitt? Genuinely curious.
It's a whole different interpretation. He plays the embodiment of Death in human form. He takes the form of his host's foreign guest who died in an accident before arrival. He's somewhat sinister and fascinating to the heroine. He's curious about humans and decides to have a holiday to check them out. Nobody dies while he's on Earth. He's nothing like Pitt. It's really hard to explain the whole thing in a couple of paragraphs. :)
There was also a remake for TV around 1972 that was kinda meh. Death was one cheerful dude! LOL
The March one can be seen in bits and pieces on YT. The tv movie is also on YT.
@@lynng9618 favorite scene is the race where Death is getting infuriated he can't take anyone.
@@lynng9618 Thanks for the info. Watching the movie I won't need YT for. There are sites for old movies, downloading but also just local library likely. So it's like with City of Angels then. Totally different between German one - Der Himmel über Berlin - which is more philosophical and contemplating and Nicolas Cage take on it? Though that's doing Brad Pitt and this director a disservice ^^
@@embran8486 This is 1934 stereotype of Death. He comes in hooded, faceless and a scythe. He's got a Bela Lugosi accent LOL When he turns into a human he looks kinda creepy and peeps are nervous around him. He's kinda unearthly. Brad Pitt is doing his own modern take of Death for 1998. It's a 64 year enlightened difference :)
This movie is criminally underrated, great review!!!
Terry Pratchett had a pretty famous interpretation of Death in his books. He spoke in, ALL CAPS, and was even Humanized a great deal in Pratchett's typically ridiculous and wonderous style.
I'd recommended watching an adaptation of the Hogfather to see what I mean.
"I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT" Death said with a voice that sounded like nails being pounded into a coffin.
I thought of Pratchett right from the opening scene, when we hear the clear cut "YES" whispered...
A lot of Deaths reaction to- and interraction with humanity feel lifted almost directly from 'Reaper Man'.
-Oh how I miss Terry Pratchett!
Anthony Hopkins’ best performances are in Titus, Remains of the Day & Silence of the Lambs. His anguish in the scene on the road in Titus is gut-wrenching. The pain of his restraint in Remains of the Day is also breathtaking. These are must-see movies now that you’ve reviewed Silence of the Lambs.
I will say though that in reality Anthony Hopkins' body is lying dead just over that bridge while Brad and Claire just walk back to enjoy the party. Kind of weird. lol
I'm quite sure, that Joe arranged Bills dead body in his bed to be found in the next morning.
@@outdoorolli5754 Yeah if it was some kind of teleportation trick. lol
i iwish the ending they could met again in the coffee shop
@@steven2640 if you see such a problem in a fantasy film, I don't want to know, what real life makes you see.
@@outdoorolli5754 "I'm quite sure, that Joe arranged Bills dead body in his bed to be found in the next morning."
2 months later? Really? May I ask how you are quite sure of this? I think you just would like a more ideal end for Bill. People pass away outdoors everyday, "Outdoor" Ollie. It doesn't have to be terrible or morbid. He told his daughter "I'm just going to go catch my breath". Going across a bridge and passing away with Joe standing next to him is much more likely than him teleporting to his house, putting on his pjs and being found in bed the next morning.
For an example of a great Hopkins performance, not to mention the titans that are Peter O'Toole and Katherine Hepburn, is the 1968 film The Lion In Winter.
Love this movie. And it made me fall in love with Claire.
And gorgeous music as well.
This is my favorite romantic movie. Claire Forlani is just so beautiful in it.
Please react to Gran Torino starring Clint Eastwood (produced & directed too by Eastwood). Thanks!
Omg i love this movie so much
I wouldn’t call this movie a rom com.
@@taoist32 Idk it is kinda funny. I guess it's a rom-DRAMA?? :/
Spectacular movie IMHO. The lingering, trailing/exiting shots, the storytelling is fantastic, and I like how the script "ties a bow" to wrap up each character. I believe it is loose based on a previous work called, "Death takes a holiday", or "Death takes a Vacation". This movie stood out to me 20+ years ago when I initially saw it at the theater because of the strange dynamic that exists at the end. Yes, it is a "sad" ending. However, it is also hopeful, uncertain, but has an underlying message of faith. An example I could say would be, ".... we'll figure it out". That line demonstrates uncertainty about what's going to happen in the future, but also indicates confidence that the characters can identify, analyze and overcome any unknown challenges in, what is maybe the most unique interpersonal relationship imaginable. Great reaction! 👍👏👏👏
I think that is one of this movies where we saw a today well known visual effect 5:30 for the first time, it was a big surprise. I saw this movie in the cinema and at this moment you can imagine the big "¡OUUUUUUUUCH!" that crossed the theater
Shan, i like this film very much. Covers every important life topic in such a beautiful and relatable way for such a fantastical plot.
Even the very notion that Death himself is lonely in his job/world... and to find himself relating to all the loneliness within humanity too was so endearing and heartbreaking too.
The settings, acting, music and silenced all deliver emotion throughout. It's an amazing ride through the complexities of life and humanity, thanks so much for your enthusiastic reaction.
Another must watch to react to from Martin Brest, "Midnight Run"!!!!
When Brad Pitt broke into the Jamaican patois it totally shocked me. One of his best roles. IMHO
Oh, my--I'd almost forgotten about this film! Thank you for your reaction, which is wonderful, as usual
My favorite Anthony Hopkins movie
Worlds Fastest Indian ( 2005 )
A must see feel good movie...
Based on real life story 😆🏁
please watch it on the channel, the viewers will love it !
It's the classic sleeper movie.( A great movie a lot of people missed )
Now for Meet Joe Black...
Its a(loose)remake of...
Death Takes A Holiday from the 30's !
I knew it felt familiar 📽 🎬
World’s Fastest Indian is so good I agree. Please review this!
My favorite Hopkins performances are this movie, Remains of the day and The Bounty. Silence is in the fourth place.
Remains is my favourite out of the ones I've seen. It's SO GOOD.
Between Mallrats and Basquiat, I had such a huge crush on Claire Forlani in high school. I never saw her in this until about five years ago, and it's good for my own health I didn't. Whew!
Bicentennial Man is a movie I would recommend. I personally think it's a beautiful film.
Shan I have been waiting for so long for you to see this film. Absolutely love it.
By the way, where do you take recommendations for films to watch? Here or somewhere else?
So glad you could appreciate this film.
Death is sitting like an outsider away from the festivities. He sees the bright fireworks that are actually Bill's life shining at its brighest before death. Death finds it hard to accept that he has to leave this world, but Bill is ready to "let go". Death lives for the first and last time, so when he leaves with Bill they both essentially "die".
Have a look at "Legends of the Fall". It's another Sir Anthony Hopkins and Brad Pitt masterpiece.
YES!!!
You definitely understand films and there’s no spoon feeding necessary either. I love that so much and I’ll be watching more for sure! You’re a great reactor! Keep it up good sir ☺️
I don't know if the director or Pitt intended to do this but Joe's sort of there but not completely there demeanor when speaking with people, especially Susan make me think he is constantly slipping off to take care of the dying around the world. This for me works with Joe's sort of awkward, emotionally-controlled politeness that reflects someone who deals in death. It reminds me of the calmness I've encountered with funeral directors at funerals. They see the parts of death that we don't get or want to see but can emotionally detach themselves from the experience to be calm and comfort people in intensely sad situations. Pitt's portrayal also shows me a being that deals with people everyday but has never bothered to connect with them. He speaks very well, is very intelligent, has good manners, but the actual interactions show someone experiencing life for the first time after viewing it from afar for billions of years.
Watch “Legends of the Fall.” Starring Brad Pitt and Sir Anthony Hopkins.
This is the most modern rendition of these:
Death Takes a Holiday 1934
With Fredric March
&
Death Takes a Holiday 1971 -TV Movie
Yvette Mimieux, Monte Markham, Myrna Loy, Melvyn Douglas
I found the 1934 edition has a more supernatural feel and the 1971 version clearly a romance.
Hey Shan! Great reaction! If you want what is, in my opinion, not only one of the best movies ever, but best Anthony Hopkins performances, check out The Edge, from 1997. Also stars Alec Baldwin. Incredibly powerful film, with beautiful cinematography and music. The acting, however, is just stellar.
I was so fortunate to have seen this in a theater. It was my turn to pick the movie amidst my friends.
I might have been the only who was tearing during this movie
I think the scenes were held longer BECAUSE of Joe Black.
Death being a character is not a new thing amongst stories and movies, however, in my opinion this version cannot be easily matched, much less surpassed.
A shorter run time would make it easier for people with shorter attention spans to watch, but those long moment holds for scenes are allowing US, the audience , mortals whose life spans do not often last for even a century much less for the eternity that just IS for Death. The long moments not only allow a viewer to not just understand the dialogue, allow forBill Parrish to begin the journey to see and understand Death as more than just a period.
A period, without the context of eras divided by wars, by rulers, centuries or evolutionary divides. A period as in the end of a sentence, or just an end.
The run time allows for Bill Parrish to begin to attempt to understand Death as more than just a cessation of life, but also allows the audience to consider the possibilities.
Grr, lol. I'm explaining this poorly.
Another good one with Hopkins, and one not often mentioned 84 Charring Cross Road.
84 Charing Cross Road broke me. That movie is so sad.
Another great Brad Pitt movie is Legends of the Fall
Hopkins in it as well...
Am I the only one that fell in love with Claire Forlani 😍
No. Myself and Death included...
She is beautiful to start, but she is just captivating in this film.
Me too, when I saw her in Mallrats 3 years earlier. 😉
She had that classic beauty, like Audrey Hepburn. You can't stop looking at her. 😊
love this movie.. the calm way Joe speaks and acts are just so intriguing
Try 'Magic ' one of my favorite Anthony Hopkins movie
Aldrich Mansion, Warwick
The Aldrich Mansion, off Warwick Neck Avenue in Warwick, was used extensively for "Meet Joe Black," a 1998 fantasy/romance movie starring Brad Pitt. Built for Rhode Island Sen. Nelson W. Aldrich, construction began in 1896 and was finished 16 years later.Nov 11, 2016
This film is an amazing story and highly underrated, but I understand why it's not for everyone. It has a lot of very long moments between characters, but I personally love those moments. And the music by Thomas Newman is my favorite film score of all time. I've listened to it easily thousands of times and I never ever get tired of it. The story itself seems a bit farfetched, but I feel it's a lovely way to view some amazing human emotions as well as having a dash of a fantasy styled universe in a "every day" setting. They don't really make films like this anymore and it's a shame. I watch this film often and never get tired of it. It was lovely to watch someone enjoying it for the first time. Take care!
The actress who plays Susan Parrish Joe's love interest is Claire Forlani a British actress from London who is married to Scottish actor Dougray Scott who you may know either from Enigma or Mission Impossible 2.
RE: Sir Anthony Hopkins' Best Work: "The Remains of the Day"..."Shadowlands"...and, yes, "Silence of the Lambs".
Hey! Great reaction and review, as always. Since you enjoyed Silence of the lambs and you like Anthony Hopkins as an actor, why don't you watch Red Dragon?
What is happening?!?! Wow (yeah, I like this flick).
Shan, sincerely... THANK you.
When jokingly asked if he hasn't had enough of his family, the way Hopkins chews out his "mmmm...nnnno." is just a beauty to watch.
This beauty falls under the category of not even going to bother asking, as in, why would anyone bother, except... but but but!
There are flicks everyone does for the clicks, then there are flicks that one hopes would be done as they are widely known but may not get the votes (Moonstruck, Remains of the Day, Life of Pi, Layer Cake, Cinema Paradiso (not the director's cut)). Then, a few piles over/away, there are movies like this that I would recommend and just say "you don't even have to do it for 'work', just y'now, if you just want to sit back and watch a film by people that know their craft". Kinda...ish.
Here is an example of those:
Local Hero
Shirley Valentine
84 Charring Cross
Sleepers
Murder By Death
Sense and Sensibility
Breaking Away
Coal Miners Daughter
The Commitments
Defending Your Life
Fly Away Home
Tampopo
A Good Year
The Way
Bridget Jones Diary
Withnail and I
The Sting
Day of the Jackal (1973)
Working Girl
Again.... THANK you, Shan.
She's going to have a heck of a time explaining to everyone this Joe isn't Joe...
"Joe" was just a camouflage of an IRS undercover agent...
@@outdoorolli5754 Right and as they head back to the party, everybody's going to be calling him Joe and acting like they've known him quite a while and he isn't going to know WTH is going on...
I rewatched this review today... reminded me why you were/are my favorite reviewer and the best on UA-cam by far might sound ridiculous but I miss you..I hope this message finds you and your family well.
You should also see Anthony Hopkins' performance in The World's Fastest Indian. Very different from this, it is based on true events.
I was about to say and yes excellent movie and The Bounty good also
Yes please!!
If you haven't seen it, you should watch The Elephant Man. Great film featuring brilliant acting by Anthony Hopkins and John Hurt.
That movie always makes me cry. Such great performances. 😊
this is top 5 fav movies. I love the acting and the score. Thank you for a cool reaction to this. Ezy new sub.
I only recently watched this movie and cried so much! Now I am watching all the reaction videos, and cry every time. Hard to believe this movie wasn't a smash hit. Brad Pitt's performance was amazing.
One of my favorite films…it’s just got it all. A bit of this and that all blended together so well. If you just saw the coffee shop scene you’d think “RomCom” if you just saw the introduction scene between Bill and Death you’d think “Horror”. It just ticks off the boxes down the list
To Shan, you must also consider watching and reacting to 'The Talented Mr.Ripley'. You'll love it........
This movie touches me every time I see it and sits in my top 10 of all time. Even though it is long, it holds me emotionally throughout. The movie was shot on location, across the bay from my home in Warwick, RI. My understanding is that the frequent late night filming and fireworks prompted some law suits,from their immediate neighbors.
Sir Anthony Hopkins's favourite movie.. Shadowlands for me.
"Mask of Zorro" is one of my favorite movies with Anthony Hopkins.
Thanks for doing this; the first reaction I've seen. It's one of my favourite romantic films, up there with "Somewhere in Time" (1980). Claire Forlani is absolutely stunning in this film; her voice and her eyes cut deep into my soul. I disagree about the run time; I think it's sumptuous. The music makes me weep for joy.
If you want to see the greatest scene of unrestrained joy ever put to film, check out "That Thing You Do!" (1996) starring, written and directed by Tom Hanks, which tells the story of the rise and fall of a fictional 1960s one-hit wonder pop band.
This was a nice surprise as I haven't seen anyone else react to this film and it seems to be a largely unknown film. I saw this at 12 years old when it came out and really liked it and still like it as an adult, though I understand why it isn't for everyone. Thought Brad Pitt did well in this as he's technically playing 2 different characters.
Yes I am so happy you did this. This is my favourite Love Story Movie of all time. It just has everything and its soooo good.
I'll recommend Somewhere in Time starring Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeve of Superman fame. I won't spoil it for you but the movie is very unique as it is set on Mackinac Island where no cars are allowed. It makes for a great setting for a movie.
A great early Hopkins performance (amid a sea of incredible actors) is 1968's 'The Lion in Winter'. Hopkins as Richard the Lionheart (before he was King), Nigel Terry as Prince John, Nick Castle as Prince Geoffrey, Peter O'Toole as King Henry II and the incomparable Katherine Hepburn as Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Love this one too Shan! ❤️❤️
Usually it's hard to decide what gets into your top 10 films of all time, even harder to say what get's into your top 5 or 3, but it's very easy for me to say this is in my top 3 if not the top spot.
My favorite performances by Anthony Hopkins include "The Elephant Man" by David Lynch and "Amistad" by Steven Spielberg. Highly recommended.
A great Anthony Hopkins film you would probably enjoy is "When Eight Bells Toll" an action thriller from 1971.
Brest also directed Midnight Run, a terrific buddy film with DeNiro and Charles Grodin, who died just last week.
He was awesome in the very old movie “The elephant man”
Brad Pitt's greatest performance was in The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, an overlooked classic. Also stars Sam Rockwell. Highly recommended.
This is one of my favorite movies. I never realized it was 3 hours long. This is probably my favorite Anthony Hopkins acting roles. Hannibal was an amazing role but this role shows multiple sets and levels of emotion that he expertly maneuvers. He was great at portraying the kind of person Death would want as it's guide to humanity. A movie with what I believe was a good performance from an actor not known for dramatic roles was Adam Sandler is Spanglish. A good movie that shows the lives of different people in a family slowly falling apart.
Wow, watching a Meet Joe Black reaction throughout my smoking breaks at work: not a good idea. Here I am, in the company's parking garage, crying. Even more so because we lost a dear colleague to cancer, a week ago....
Thank you for your kind reaction to this wonderful movie
Awesome choice and reaction! Nobody has reacted to this one yet. We recommend 'The Player' (1992); a 'who dun it' amongst studio producers---all star cast--insane amount of cameos
My favorite Anthony Hopkins movies....Legends Of The Fall also with Brad Pitt, music by James Horner, The Edge with Alec Baldwin music by Jerry Goldsmith, The Bounty with Mel Gibson, music by Vangelis. All BIG recommendations here. I really didn't get into this movie and stopped it when a certain character got hit by a car. I don't know why, but I should try this movie again. Oh, I was one who did love Hannibal, the sequel to Silence Of The Lambs. Just loved. Hannibal even has Hannibal do a little cooking in this.
I was a fan of Anthony Hopkins way way before people became a fan with his iconic Hannibal Lecter. Two TV movies come to mind, one was Dark Victory (1976) with Elizabeth Montgomery and The Lindbergh Kidnapping Case (1976). Hopkins played Bruno Hauptmann, the one accused of the kidnapping. More recommendations.
I haven't seen this film in such a long time I almost forgot how good it is. Great reaction and review.
I would love to see your reaction and review of Immortal Beloved (1994 Gary Oldman & Jeroen Krabbe).
Worlds Fastest Indian was my favorite Hopkins performance.
I legit spent the first two hours laughing at this film and then the final hour crying about it. Because that's the power of the Hopkins. 😂 And to answer your question, my favourite role of his so far is "Remains of the Day" which is SO underrated.
Claire Forlani is perfect in the role of Claire. Lovely, bright, vulnerable and warm all wrapped up in a beautiful woman.
My favourite Anthony Hopkins' performance would be in the great TV show Westworld, absolutely worth a reaction if it's something that might interest you Shan. I also remember a fantastic performance in the great movie (when doesn't he choose great movies?) also with Brad Pitt: Legends of the Fall.
The actress is Claire Forlani. You may want to watch "Antritrust" from 2001.
high level analysis as usual -- lenses, direction, plot, writing, excellent.
It's amazing the waterworks that result from that last scene, even the 17th time I've seen it. I love this movie.
Thank you for reacting to this movie. It's a gem!
Little correction/addition - the song during the credits isn't "Somewhere over the Rainbow", but Iz's amazing mix of "Somewhere over the Rainbow" and "What a Wonderful World" 🥰
My favorite Hopkins: "The Lion In Winter" (1968)
You want his expressive eyes? Check out "The Remains Of The Day" (1993)
Interesting pick. I like this one.
At times, early in the film, I hear echoes and refelections of "Being There." Death learns a thing or two about dealing with Life and Human Feelings. He's a changed demon because of his finding ... love.
This is based on or a remake of an older film from 1934, Death Takes a Holiday.
anthony hopkins film
"remains of the day"
is quite a story
brad pitt got this movie because
tom cruise changed his mind
even though he got it started
if i remember correctly
Hopkins is great in The World's Fastest Indian. Great feel-good movie about the motorcycle speed record.
He also raises the bar in the Westworld series.
Oh Ya. Now I remember the movie. It was good...
The World's Fastest Indian for another interesting Anthony Hopkins performance
Marcia Gay Harden is an excellent actress who has been in numerous movies and TV shows. She is so good that she is practically immersed in each role, often so much that she is unrecognizable from one role to the next.