Meet Joe Black Ending Explained: Joe Makes a Return

The ending of Meet Joe Black can be a bit confusing, so let us break it down for you. This film, directed by Martin Brest, was released in 1998 and combines elements of romance and fantasy. The lead role is played by the talented Brad Pitt, who portrays a character named Joe Black, also known as the Young Man in the Coffee Shop. The plot of the film is inspired by the 1934 movie Death Takes a Holiday. In Meet Joe Black, Pitt’s character is actually Death itself. The story begins with Anthony Hopkins playing the role of Bill Parrish, a media personality and owner of a media house. Parrish aims to expand his business and arranges a meeting with another influential figure in the industry.

Bill’s upcoming 65th birthday has prompted his daughter Alison to organize a party for him. To add to the celebration, Alison has enlisted the talented actress Marcia Gay Harden to portray her part. Additionally, the film features Susan Parrish, Alison’s sister, played by Claire Forlani. Susan’s character is involved with Drew, one of Bill’s fellow board members. Bill contemplates the idea of Susan marrying Drew but senses that her love for him may not be as strong. As the company helicopter descends, Bill’s attention is captivated by a peculiar and enigmatic voice.

Upon returning to his office, a sudden pain pierces through his chest, accompanied by a resounding voice affirming “Yes.” Bill had once uttered the phrase “Lightning May Strike” to Susan. Coincidentally, while Susan is at a coffee shop, she encounters a young man who echoes the very same phrase. Overwhelmed by surprise, Susan departs without even learning his name. Later that evening, Bill is startled to hear the familiar voice once more, compelling him to gather his courage and meet the mysterious caller as they beckon him.

Meet Joe Black Ending Explained

The film begins as Death manifests in the form of a young man, and he has a private meeting with Bill. Death expresses his curiosity about the way Bill spoke to his daughter, leading to a deal being proposed. In exchange for guiding Death on Earth, Bill will be spared from Death’s wrath. Awkwardly, Bill introduces Death to his family as Joe Black. As Joe is not human, he lacks sophistication and manners, leaving Susan to grapple with comprehending this unfamiliar being.

Next, we encounter Bill, who struggles to maintain control over everything. Meanwhile, Drew strategically reveals his cards to the rest of the board members with the intention of removing Bill from his position as chairperson. Additionally, despite initially supporting the merger, Bill now opposes it. Unexpectedly, Susan develops feelings for Joe, who inhabits a human body and possesses human desires. Their connection deepens, leading them to have an intimate encounter. Witnessing this, Bill becomes enraged. Joe expresses his desire to take Susan with him.

Who Was The Young Coffee Shop Guy?

At the hospital where Susan is employed, Joe encounters a frail elderly woman who uncovers his true identity. Engaging in a meaningful conversation, they delve into the complexities of life and how Joe’s actions are causing disruption in both worlds. As Bill approaches his 65th birthday and feels the weight of aging, he implores Joe to grasp the significance of life and embrace the values of sacrifice and honesty. Reflecting on his own desires, Joe acknowledges the consequences and agrees to refrain from involving Susan, understanding that it would jeopardize her wellbeing. Furthermore, Joe exposes Drew’s true intentions and assists Bill in reclaiming control over his company.

At Bill’s 65th birthday celebration, it becomes evident that he has come to terms with his mortality. He reconciles with his daughters, finding inner peace. Meanwhile, Susan confides in Joe, admitting her love for him since the day they first met at the coffee shop. However, Joe reveals that he is not the person she believes him to be, causing Susan great distress. She realizes that on that fateful day, it was just an unrelated stranger who passed away, and Death has taken on his appearance. Despite this revelation, Joe assures Susan that she will always cherish the memories they shared in the coffee shop and expresses gratitude for her deep affection. As Joe and Bill bid farewell, Susan watches them depart, left to contemplate their encounter.

Eventually, Death brings back the actual Joe from the coffee shop, who suddenly emerges in front of Susan. They both rejoin the gathering, making their way back to the party as a pair.

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