Life after death

2020, US, Animation
1921, DE, Drama
2013, IE, Drama
2010, BR, Drama
2004, US, Drama
2017, US, Drama
2014, JP, Comedy
2024, IT, Horror

"Life after death" - a concept that has captivated the human imagination for millennia, spawning countless myths, legends, and religions across cultures. Cinema too, has grappled with this elusive mystery through an array of stories that delve into the unknown territory beyond our mortal existence. In this article, we'll traverse a selection of films that explore themes surrounding life after death, uncovering insights about love, loss, and the human condition along the way.

Consider "Here After," where a teenager's near-death experience triggers otherworldly consequences in her life. This thrilling film examines the depths of maternal instinct as our protagonist confronts an unseen evil to protect her child. It raises questions about what happens when we brush with the other side and how such experiences might change us forever.

In contrast, "Destiny" invites us into a labyrinthine realm where Death presents three stories set against global backdrops. Each narrative delves into love lost and the harsh realities of mortality, offering wisdom that guides our protagonist towards understanding the delicate balance between life and death. This captivating tale blends suspense with ethereal beauty, leading us on a powerful emotional journey that forces us to reconsider our perceptions of fate and time.

"Coda," another thought-provoking cinematic journey, follows an aimless man who encounters Death in a city park. Offered redemption through a series of haunting visions exposing the interconnected lives that make up society, he's forced to confront his existence and choices. It prompts viewers to ponder their own impact on the world around them and the hidden connections between individuals shaping humanity.

"The Discovery," set in a future where scientific proof of an afterlife has been confirmed, explores societal implications of such revelation. As some resort to suicide for a fresh start, others question the nature of the afterlife itself. This intriguing film invites audiences to confront unsettling truths about life beyond death.

"Birth," meanwhile, revolves around Anna's struggle with losing her husband and finding love again in Joseph. The unexpected appearance of a young boy claiming to be her late spouse forces her to grapple with profound themes of forgiveness, letting go, and the endurance of love.

Lastly, "Astral City: A Spiritual Journey," tells the transformative story of Dr. André Luiz's journey within an otherworldly realm where he encounters its inhabitants and learns their ways. With stunning visuals capturing the beauty and starkness of this liminal space between worlds, it invites viewers to reflect on our understanding of life beyond death and prompts questions about existence, love, and redemption.

These films remind us that life after death is not just about what happens after we die but also how our mortality shapes our lives while we're alive. They challenge us to ponder our actions, question societal norms, and reflect on the interconnectedness of all living beings. Through their rich narratives and compelling characters, these films offer invaluable insights into our shared human experience.

So as you sip your coffee with a friend discussing cinema, remember these tales - they're more than just movies; they're windows into the depths of existence, inviting us to peer beyond the veil of life towards the mysteries of what comes next.