Review of Defending Your Life (1991) by Mike C — 17 Nov 2011

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.