Common Sense Media Review
By Renee Schonfeld
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Priceless comedy with a message-rich heart, mild swearing.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Defending Your Life
What's the Story?
As DEFENDING YOUR LIFE opens, Daniel Miller (Albert Brooks in top form) is an ad man who is almost making it. At least, he's successful enough to buy himself a BMW for his birthday. So what if it's not the BMW of his dreams? But the thrill doesn't last long. One misstep at the wheel, and Daniel finds himself in a white gown, on a tram filled with the elderly, in a place he doesn't recognize. When he realizes that he's no longer among the living on Earth, it stuns him, but what a place this Judgment City is -- beautiful and calm, with great food and people taking care of his every whim -- something he never expected! Daniel certainly didn't expect that he'd be teamed up with a "defender" (Rip Torn, enjoying every line) and find himself in a courtroom with judges and a "prosecutor" (the wonderful Lee Grant) where he has to defend his life. Will he move forward to an existence in which brains are fully utilized and citizens reap full happiness and tranquility? Or will he be sent back to give Earth to give it another try? How will all this affect the fact that in Judgment City he's already met Julia (a radiant Meryl Streep), with whom he's fallen instantly in love? Daniel has only a few days to make his case. In that time, his defender will defend his life; film of critical moments over the years will be assessed; and a decision will come down that will change the course of his future.
Is It Any Good?
Watch this ingenious comic gem for the laughs and romance, then let its inspiring, joyful wisdom cast its spell. Albert Brooks has constructed and delivered what may be a perfect combination of humor and commentary on the human condition. Five-star writing, performances, and direction serve the story and the message. Comic highlights include a visit to the "Past Lives Pavilion"; sumptuous, all-you-can-eat festivals of food; and Brooks' canny ability to portray the self-absorbed loser's magnificent awakening. Defending Your Life is an unforgettable movie that gets better with repeat viewings. Great for teens mature enough to get Brooks' premise: that life is at its best when lived bravely, generously, and with gratitude.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Defending Your Life's central message. Does it relate to your life? Think of some experiences in which you might behave differently after having made this journey with Daniel. What do you think writer-director-star Albert Brooks wanted you to take away from his film?
How is this movie an example of "character-based" comedy as opposed to "situation" comedy?
Was Brooks successful in uniting comedy and romance and delivering a meaningful life lesson? Even though the movie is a fantasy, how did he make it seem real to his audience?
How do the characters in Defending Your Life demonstrate courage and integrity? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 5, 1991
- On DVD or streaming : April 3, 2001
- Cast : Albert Brooks , Meryl Streep , Lee Grant
- Director : Albert Brooks
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Warner Bros.
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity
- Run time : 111 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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