What's going to happen when you die???
If you honestly ponder this question, you may envision anything from ethereal paradise, utter nothingness, rebirth on earth, or (if you are a masochist) eternal torment with very unpleasant gnashing of the teeth. At any rate, it is safe to assume that SOMETHING comes to mind as nearly 85% of the American population believes that at least "something" will indeed happen when we "check out".
Albert Brooks's 1991 film, Defending Your Life, attempts to take a fresh look at the hereafter and in doing so, creates a film that is truly funny (in a gratifyingly fuzzy sort of way) and has a completely satisfactory ending (a rarity in any Brooks film).
The film opens with Daniel Miller (Brooks) picking up a new BMW from a dealership and subsequently dying in a car crash while attempting to change a cd. From there, he finds himself in a "purgatory-like" place called Judgement City that looks more like the bland, office complexes and hotels that are usually found near airports. All temporary inhabitants (those recently deceased) of the city are dressed in white robes and are constantly shuttled from point to point in large, mass-transit buses. They are also told that all of the food in Judgement City will be the best they've ever had, and it won't cause them to gain any weight...which is obviously the way to keep masses of human beings happy and content during the stay.
Each day, Daniel is required to meet with his psuedo-lawyer (Rip Torn) and represent himself to a panel of two judges (who look like standard, black-robed judges...ironic, I know). This is done by the defense and prosecutor showing actual clips of Daniel's life on a large viewing screen that either reveals instances where he succumbed to fear or times when he seemed to capitalize on opportunities. In typical Albert Brooks style, his explanations are often awkward and reveal deep insecurities.
While undergoing the process of his "trial", Daniel meets a sweet and serene woman named Julia (Meryl Streep) and almost instantly falls in love with her. As they spend more time together, Daniel begins to realize that while he lived an existence wrapped in fear and self-doubt, Julia lived with assurance and confidence. It is this realization that prompts him to wonder if they could really even be together (she move on to the next destination and him reborn on Earth to "try it again).
Even though the concept of a "Business-professional Purgatory" is by far the most unique aspect of the film, it is the warm exchanges between Daniel and Julia that truly elevate Defending Your Life to a higher plain. The movie is funny and never choked by the persistent sweetness, and consistently rewards the viewer for the time invested. This film is a personal favorite of mine, and it is recommendable for any and all audiences. In summation, watch Streep shine...watch Brooks worry....watch your life be enriched. **An obvious exaggeration...but it really is a great film**
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