Defending Your Life

"The first true story of what happens after you die."

Apr 5 1991 PG 1h 52m
Comedy, Drama, Fantasy

Is there love after death? After he dies suddenly, the hapless advertising executive Daniel Miller finds himself in Judgment City, a gleaming way station where the newly deceased must prove they lived a life of sufficient courage to advance in their journey through the universe. As the self-doubting Daniel struggles to make his case, a budding relationship with the uninhibited Julia offers him a chance to finally feel alive.

Plot

Just after being killed in a car crash, Daniel Miller finds himself in Judgment City, a waiting area for the newly deceased. While there, one must prove in a courtroom-style process that he successfully overcame his fears. Daniel meets Julia in an afterlife comedy club, and falls in love with her. Julia seems to have what it takes to move to the 'next stage' of existence, but Daniel's worried he'll be sent back - and lose the one person he loves so much.

Written by

Albert Brooks

Directed by

Albert Brooks

Cast

Albert Brooks, Meryl Streep, Rip Torn

Crew

View crew

Production Countries

United States of America

Production Companies

Warner Bros. Pictures, Geffen Pictures

Languages

English

Awards

5 nominations total

Trailers
Defending Your Life (1991) | Official Trailer
Scores
# of Votes
23,170
Average Rating
7.2 out of 10
Metascore
63
Popularity
NA