Meet Joe Black

Bill Parrish has it all - success, wealth and power. Days before his 65th birthday, he receives a visit from a mysterious stranger, Joe Black, who soon reveals himself as Death. In exchange for extra time, Bill agrees to serve as Joe's earthly guide. But will he regret his choice when Joe unexpectedly falls in love with Bill's beautiful daughter Susan?

Critics found Meet Joe Black a frustrating near-miss: Hopkins' performance was almost universally admired, but Pitt's work divided opinion sharply, and the three-hour runtime, sluggish pacing, and underdeveloped supporting characters tested patience well beyond what the film's genuine pleasures could justify. Audience enthusiasm ran considerably warmer than critics allowed, a gap that has only grown over time.