Meet Joe Black (1998) is a romantic fantasy drama directed by Martin Brest, featuring a unique premise where the character of Death takes human form and experiences life as a mortal. The film explores themes of life, love, mortality, and the relationships we form in our limited time on Earth.

The story revolves around Bill Parrish (Anthony Hopkins), a wealthy and successful media mogul who is nearing the end of his life. One day, he encounters a mysterious figure who introduces himself as “Joe Black” (Brad Pitt). Joe is, in fact, Death personified, who has come to claim Bill’s life. However, instead of taking Bill immediately, Joe strikes a deal with him: he will allow Bill to live for a little longer, in exchange for Bill’s guidance and experience of life before his passing. In the process, Joe begins to learn about the complexities of human emotion, especially love and mortality.

Bill’s daughter, Susan (Claire Forlani), becomes involved with Joe, unaware that he is not the man he appears to be. As Joe experiences life through human senses, he begins to form a deep and genuine emotional bond with Susan, complicating his mission to take Bill’s life. The story then delves into the nature of relationships, sacrifice, and the transient beauty of life itself.