Defending Your Life Reviews
September 13, 2009
Fantastically funny with lots of unique gags. Streep really does a terrific job of keeping the emotional nature of the relationship going while Albert Brooks brings the funny.
PatLongworth
April 13, 2012
Starring Albert Brooks and Meryl Streep, this is a wonderful and tear inspiring look at two people facing judgement on how they lived their lives and the decision to face (or not) and overcome (or not) one's fears in desperate situations. A unique film with an unusual impressionistic depiction of life after death. 10/10
March 23, 2012
Immensely watchable and hilarious, Albert Brooks carries the film like dynamite. When he and Meryl Streep meet, the screen explodes. But you have to give credit to Rip Torn and Lee Grant because they are excellent as well. This is just a fun film that makes you think, too, about fear and consequences. Definitely a must-watch!
March 10, 2012
Daniel Miller (Albert Brooks), an advertising executive, dies in a fatal crash and is whisked away to "Judgement City' where the recently dead are put on trial to decide their fate. Albert Brooks wrote, directed, and starred in this fantastic comedy that is very well written, charming and just has a lot of heart. Brooks has created this interesting, fun interpretation of the Afterlife where people are judged on their abilities to concur their fears. The film is full of great comedic moments and Brooks himself is just so witty and charming in the role. To be fair, the entire cast is really great from top to bottom and besides, Brooks, I felt that Rip Torn really stole the show as Daniel's lawyer in his trial. I think this film succeeds in everything it sets out to do because it's dramatic message never feels overbearing or forced. I'm really ashamed I never saw this until now.
richard g.
March 8, 2012
it was really cool. a comedy that also makes you think??? what a refreshing change to most of the slapstick that gets made now
February 28, 2012
It's a funny & good looking comedy. I like the idea of afterlife existence but the Judgment City people weren't smart as they called themselves the big brain. Albert Brooks, also as screenwriter & director, and Meryl Streep just did no wrong in their performances.
February 5, 2012
Loved this when I was younger, thanks to my dad for introducing me to the brilliance of Albert Brooks. Definitely a good watch.
February 2, 2012
A nice take on the afterlife. Aside from the idea, which is great, it's a funny and clever movie.
January 11, 2012
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this movie. I had never expected to even watch it, but one day, it was all that was on cable. I fell in love with this film. It is an "original" story. It is funny, dramatic, and sweet. I highly recommend this movie!
January 2, 2012
Albert Brooks has many similarities as Woody Allen (just not as many great movies). His delivery is perfect and Meryl Streep is luminescent throughout. The film has some funny bits and it's quite touching. Unique concept too.
December 5, 2011
'Defending Your Life' is such an amazing movie. I don't know what I was expecting before watching it, but it definitely exceeded my expectations. The whole concept of the world in the movie is so unique, and you just fall in love with all of the characters.
December 1, 2011
Defending your life is such a great movie. Besides having the wonderful Meryl Streep and Albert Brooks at its forefront. even today the humor is spot on and the film is truly creative and unforgettable. You can't help but to appreciate films like these that make us wish fr the times when they used to make them.
November 19, 2011
This was a rather weird movie...Even the concept was a little out there for me. Albert Brooks is not on list of fvorites as far as acting goes, but Meryl Streep is and she was the main draw to this one, but once viewed it wasn't enough.
November 17, 2011
Albert Brooks (Daniel) is the mild mannered if a little sleazy middle management kinda guy, not inherently brave or cowardly but maybe lacking the real drive that makes some one a success at whatever they choose to do. After an accident which he brought about himself he finds himself in Judgement City awaiting his "trial" which will consider 9 days of his life and determine his courage and he ability to face fear and make decisions worthy of becoming a true citizen of the universe and all the wonders it contains. They say everyone has a soul mate and this is where Daniel meets Julia wonderfully played by Meryl Streep who I have to say looks delightful and we follow their budding relationship in the few days they will have together before judgement.
Now the movie isn't a comedy but certainly has plenty of laughs mostly derived from the reactions to situations and events Daniel has to handle especially when dealing with his "lawyer" played wonderfully over the top by Rip Torn but it also has a lot of heart as we see the reality of Daniels existence especially compared to Julias.
Well worth a watch and I hate to say it but perhaps and ideal movie for a named star promotional vehicle remake.
Defending Your Life has been out 20 years but this was my first viewing, infact before it was discussed on a recent podcast I'd never even heard of the movie. The premise is a nice idea that after your life on Earth ends you stop off at an intermediate way point where your experience on the planet is judged and the decision to move you on or try again is made.
Albert Brooks (Daniel) is the mild mannered if a little sleazy middle management kinda guy, not inherently brave or cowardly but maybe lacking the real drive that makes some one a success at whatever they choose to do. After an accident which he brought about himself he finds himself in Judgement City awaiting his "trial" which will consider 9 days of his life and determine his courage and he ability to face fear and make decisions worthy of becoming a true citizen of the universe and all the wonders it contains. They say everyone has a soul mate and this is where Daniel meets Julia wonderfully played by Meryl Streep who I have to say looks delightful and we follow their budding relationship in the few days they will have together before judgement.
Now the movie isn't a comedy but certainly has plenty of laughs mostly derived from the reactions to situations and events Daniel has to handle especially when dealing with his "lawyer" played wonderfully over the top by Rip Torn but it also has a lot of heart as we see the reality of Daniels existence especially compared to Julias.
Well worth a watch and I hate to say it but perhaps and ideal movie for a named star promotional vehicle remake.
