Meet Joe Black: More Than Just a Three-Hour Brad Pitt Stare-Off
“Meet Joe Black,” released in 1998, stars Brad Pitt as Death. This film often receives criticism. Is it slow? Yes. Is it long? Absolutely, almost three hours. This runtime offers time for reflection on mortality. Yet, beneath the slow pace lies a film that provokes thought. Let's view this movie closely and see if there's more beyond Brad Pitt's brooding presence.
Decoding the Plot and its Meaning
"Meet Joe Black" is not an action-packed thriller. It's a philosophical journey with Death, who takes human form to experience life before ending it for someone else. The premise is straightforward: Death, or Joe Black, makes a deal with media mogul Bill Parrish (Anthony Hopkins). Bill gets a temporary reprieve in exchange for teaching Joe about humanity. Essentially, Bill guides Death through the human experience. The film's essence revolves around a wealthy man confronting his end, a woman enamored with an idea, and, let's face it, showcasing Brad Pitt’s unique charm.
The ending can confuse viewers, yet it holds significance. Bill, aware of his impending end, urges Joe to grasp true love's profound nature. He tells Joe not to deprive Susan (Claire Forlani), his daughter, of life. At Bill's birthday party, a bittersweet goodbye occurs as he bids farewell to his daughters. Susan reveals her love for Joe, stating she has been captivated since their first meeting at a café – a point we will revisit. In a compassionate move, Joe lets Susan live, allowing her to have a full life. Later, Susan realizes that the man before her isn’t the intense Joe Black she fell for, but the charming young man from the café, the original body Death once inhabited. Death has left, offering Susan a second chance at love with a different Joe.
The moral of "Meet Joe Black" emphasizes cherishing fleeting moments in life. It nudges viewers to consider legacies and appreciate what truly matters before time slips away. The focus shifts from fearing death to embracing life, love, and connection amid mortality. Joe Black embodies Death in a young man tragically killed in an accident. Bill Parrish stands as the bridge between life and death, teaching Death about humanity and confronting his own mortality. This role is hefty for Anthony Hopkins, but he carries it well.
Critical Scrutiny: Why the Mixed Reactions?
Critics did not universally praise "Meet Joe Black." Responses were mixed. Praise often went to performances, particularly those of Hopkins and Pitt (though Pitt's performance is debated). However, the film's long runtime of three hours sparked criticism. Many felt the story doesn't justify such length. Honestly, spending three hours watching Brad Pitt eat peanut butter can test patience.
Complaints extended beyond length. The film's slow pacing became a frequent point of contention. In an era of rapid editing and quick satisfaction, "Meet Joe Black" chooses a slower path, perhaps too slow for some. The screenplay also faced scrutiny. Critics deemed it melodramatic and lacking actual depth, flirting with excessive sentimentality. Dialogue meant to be profound sometimes felt unnatural, sounding more scripted than spontaneous. While the premise intrigues – Death taking a human vacation – some regarded its execution as shallow and overly sentimental. It attempts to blend romance with heavy thoughts on life and death, occasionally feeling unfocused.
The Cast: Performances in the Spotlight
Despite critical pushback against the film, the cast received acclaim for their work. Brad Pitt's portrayal of Joe Black is polarizing. Some viewers found it captivatingly otherworldly, while others described it as rigid, mistaking stoicism for coldness. Pitt's choice remains debated. Conversely, Anthony Hopkins gained recognition for his role as Bill Parrish. He delivers a striking performance as a man confronting his mortality and negotiating with Death. Hopkins adds emotional depth and gravitas to the role, grounding the film.
Claire Forlani, then 26, portrayed Susan Parrish, the woman captured by both versions of Joe. She exudes an ethereal quality, suitable for someone entangled with the abstract notion of Death. Lois Kelly Miller, despite her minor role, makes an impression during her hospital scene with Brad Pitt – a moment that has gained attention online.
Patois and "Rahtid": A Linguistic Detour
Regarding Jamaican Patois, yes, Brad Pitt does speak it in "Meet Joe Black." In an unexpected moment, Death interacts with a patient in the hospital and seamlessly shifts to Patois. This scene has surprisingly turned into a viral sensation decades later. Perhaps it's due to the unexpected nature of Brad Pitt using Jamaican dialect or the coolness of Patois. Whatever the case, Pitt's Patois moment has become a memorable highlight.
The word he employs, "Rahtid," serves as an interjection expressing slight surprise or irritation in Jamaican Patois. It's a versatile term, giving a touch of Jamaican flair to Death's otherwise ethereal persona. In essence, Death expresses, "Well, rahtid, this human experience holds surprises."
Behind the Scenes: Production and Locations
While ostensibly set in New York City, much of "Meet Joe Black" was filmed in Manhattan and nearby locales. The stunning mansion scenes were shot at Rhode Island's Aldrich Mansion. This historic residence, owned by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence, provided an elegant backdrop for Bill Parrish's lavish lifestyle. Aldrich Mansion has appeared in numerous films and shows. Built in 1896 by Senator Nelson Aldrich, it showcases Gilded Age opulence crafted by over two hundred artisans. Today, it operates as a non-profit organization under the Diocese. So Death visited not just Bill Parrish but a piece of cinematic history.
The score by Thomas Newman contributes greatly to the film's atmosphere. Newman, a renowned composer, created some evocative melodies for "Meet Joe Black." His music enhances the film's melancholic tone, adding emotional depth. Newman's score stands as one of the film's key strengths, elevating moments with its beauty and sensitivity.
Romance off-Screen: Cast Relationships
Life imitating art? In 1998, Brad Pitt and Claire Forlani dated briefly while the film was released. A fleeting love story that mirrored their on-screen connection. However, it didn't last long. Claire also had ties to Keanu Reeves. Rumors circulated about their engagement, but Reeves cleared it up, stating they were merely "good friends." Claire ultimately found love with Scottish actor Dougray Scott, marrying him in Italy in 2007.
"Inspired By" or Remake? The Film's Lineage
"Meet Joe Black" occupies an unclear space between being a remake and being “inspired by” Mitchell Leisen's 1934 film "Death Takes a Holiday." Both films share a similar premise – Death personifying himself and taking a leave from his duties to
Experience the human world. "Meet Joe Black" adds romance, family drama, and existential reflection. It becomes a sprawling and ponderous take on the original concept.
The Infamous Car Accident Scene
This film is often criticized for being slow. Yet, the car accident scene stands out. It features Brad Pitt humorously tossed between two vehicles. This moment has drawn amusement and ridicule. A clip went viral on social media, for all the wrong reasons. It is unintentional slapstick. This scene shifts the tone and leaves viewers confused about the genre.
Age is Just a Number (or is it, in Hollywood?)
During filming, Claire Forlani was 26. She played a character who seemed closer to that age. For context, Brad Pitt was 40 when he played Achilles in "Troy" (2004). Hollywood has a skewed perception of age. This age trivia makes you ponder time, mortality, and themes central to "Meet Joe Black."
Is "Meet Joe Black" a masterpiece? Probably not. Is it a flawed yet fascinating exploration of life and death? Perhaps. Is it worth watching for Brad Pitt’s Jamaican Patois? Yes. The film invites discussion about pacing and the car accident. It is memorable, which is more than many movies can claim.
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