23 Films About Life, Death, and Reincarnation That You Won't Want to Miss
As a passionate explorer of consciousness, philosophy, and what it means to be alive — I am frequently asked for recommendations on movies that delve deeper into this subject matter.
I take absolute joy in sharing works of art that brilliantly capture the essence of the human experience through the imaginative medium of cinema.
Below, you will find a list of my top 23 favorite films, in no particular order, that cover themes of life, death, and reincarnation.
23 Films About Life, Death, and Reincarnation
1) Magnolia
"Magnolia" (1999), directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, is a complex and emotionally charged film that weaves together the lives of multiple characters in the San Fernando Valley over one day. Through a mosaic of interconnected stories, the film explores themes of chance, redemption, and the search for meaning amidst the chaos of existence. With an ensemble cast including Tom Cruise, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and many others, "Magnolia" delves deep into the pain, loss, and moments of connection that define the human experience.
The film is notable for its rich use of symbolism, including references to Masonic imagery such as the square and compass, most notably seen in the game show "What Do Kids Know?" These symbols, traditionally associated with Masonic principles of morality and knowledge, add layers of meaning to the narrative, hinting at the search for truth and the all-seeing eye of “The Creator.”
The ending of "Magnolia," featuring a rain of frogs, is deeply symbolic and serves as a meaningful conclusion to the film's exploration of chance, fate, and the search for redemption. By invoking the biblical plague from Exodus 8:2, the film elevates its themes to a cosmic or divine level, suggesting that the characters are part of a larger, inscrutable plan beyond their understanding or control. This event acts as a catalyst for change and reflection among the characters, forcing them to confront their lives, mistakes, and relationships in new ways.
The rain of frogs can be interpreted as a form of divine intervention or a metaphor for the extraordinary and inexplicable moments that disrupt our lives and challenge our perceptions. It relates to the film's recurrent theme that "strange things happen all the time.” It underscores the interconnectedness of the characters' stories, suggesting that there are forces at work beyond what can be easily explained or rationalized using logic alone.
2) I Origins
"I Origins" (2014), directed by Mike Cahill, is a sci-fi drama that delves into the intersection of science and spirituality. The plot centers around molecular biologist Dr. Ian Gray, played by Michael Pitt, who is obsessed with the evolution of the human eye as a way to disprove the existence of a higher power or intelligent design. His research takes a personal turn when he becomes romantically involved with a mysterious woman named Sofi, played by Astrid Bergès-Frisbey, whose unique eyes captivate him.
After a tragic event, Ian's scientific journey takes on a more profound existential quest when he, along with his lab partner Karen, played by Brit Marling, stumbles upon startling discoveries that challenge his atheistic views.
Their research leads them to explore the possibility of reincarnation and the interconnectedness of all life, prompted by the identification of identical eye patterns in people born in different parts of the world and at different times.
3) The Breadwinner
"The Breadwinner" (2017) is an animated film directed by Nora Twomey and based on the novel by Deborah Ellis. It is set in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
It tells the story of Parvana, an 11-year-old girl who, after her father is unjustly arrested, disguises herself as a boy to become the breadwinner for her family. Parvana's bold decision allows her to seek work and provide for her mother, sister, and baby brother in a society where women are severely restricted and have no independence.
Alongside her friend Shauzia, Parvana navigates the dangerous streets of Kabul, risking everything to ensure her family's survival. The film beautifully interweaves Parvana's courage with the magical storytelling she uses to escape the harsh realities of her world, offering a poignant tale of resilience, hope, and the power of stories to sustain the human spirit in the face of oppression.
4) Antonia’s Line
"Antonia's Line" (1995), directed by Marleen Gorris, is a Dutch film that unfolds in a post-World War II rural village. The story centers around Antonia, a strong-willed woman who, after returning to her ancestral home, decides to establish a matriarchal community.
Over the course of several decades, the film traces the lives of Antonia, her daughter, and a host of other characters who become part of their extended family. These characters, each with their unique quirks and stories, contribute to the creation of a vibrant, unconventional community that challenges traditional societal norms.
"Antonia's Line" is celebrated for its feminist themes, exploring issues of independence, sexuality, and the strength of women. It combines elements of magic realism with sharp wit and deep emotion, painting a portrait of a matriarchal utopia where women are empowered to lead lives of their choosing.
5) The Cube
"The Cube" (1966), conceived by Jim Henson and Jerry Juhl, is a surrealistic comedy that delves into the existential and often absurd experience of a man trapped in a mysterious, doorless, white cube.
Throughout the hour-long film, the protagonist is visited by a series of diverse guests, each bringing their own peculiar perspectives, behaviors, and interactions into the confined space. These visitors range from the mundane to the bizarre, challenging the man's understanding of reality, identity, and freedom.
The film's minimalist setting focuses the audience's attention on the dialogue and the philosophical underpinnings of the encounters, exploring themes of human existence, the nature of reality, and the quest for meaning within an incomprehensible world.
6) Gandahar
“Gandahar" (1987), directed by René Laloux and based on the novel by Jean-Pierre Andrevon, is a captivating French animated science fiction film celebrated for its unique storytelling and distinctive visual style. Set in the utopian world of Gandahar, where harmony and nature prevail, the peaceful existence of its inhabitants is threatened by an enigmatic force known as the Men of Metal, who are turning living beings into stone.
The protagonist, Sylvain, is dispatched on a mission to investigate and ultimately confront this formidable enemy. Throughout his journey, Sylvain explores diverse landscapes, encounters terrifying creatures, and unveils the complex origins of the Men of Metal, leading to revelations about time, evolution, and the cyclical nature of life and conflict.
"Gandahar" blends themes of environmentalism, technology's impact on society, and the resilience of life. The film delves into philosophical questions about the balance between nature and technology, the ethics of creation, and the possibility of redemption for those who have caused harm.
7) Orlando
“Orlando" (1992), directed by Sally Potter and based on the novel by Virginia Woolf, is a visually striking and intellectually stimulating film that explores themes of gender, identity, and the fluidity of time. It stars Tilda Swinton as Orlando, a young nobleman in the court of Queen Elizabeth I, whom the queen commands never to grow old.
Miraculously, Orlando obeys, living through several centuries without aging, and midway through the journey, Orlando undergoes a gender transformation, becoming a woman. This transformation allows Orlando to experience life from different gender perspectives, challenging the societal norms and restrictions placed on men and women throughout different historical periods.
Swinton's compelling performance captures the essence of Orlando's quest for love, meaning, and a sense of self that transcends the boundaries of time and gender. "Orlando" deftly combines historical drama with elements of fantasy, making it a unique and enduring work that resonates with contemporary discussions about gender identity and social roles.
8) The Fountain
"The Fountain" (2006), directed by Darren Aronofsky, is a haunting film that intertwines narratives across three time periods, exploring themes of love, death, and the quest for eternal life.
The film, featuring Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz, subtly incorporates Kabbalistic themes, most notably the concept of the Tree of Life, which symbolizes the interconnectedness of all forms of creation and the path to enlightenment and immortality. Aronofsky alludes to these concepts through the film's visual and narrative structure, reflecting on the soul's journey, the cycles of life and death, and the pursuit of eternal truth.
"The Fountain" presents a meditation on the eternal struggle between life and decay, echoing Kabbalistic insights into the nature of the universe and the human soul's place within it, making it a unique exploration of spiritual transcendence and the boundless force of true love.
9) Being Human
"Being Human" (1994), directed by Bill Forsyth and starring Robin Williams, is a little known film that explores the existential and philosophical aspects of the human condition through five vignettes set in different historical periods.
Each segment features Williams as Hector, a character who navigates the universal challenges of love, loss, and the search for meaning.
Hector’s cinematic journey reflects on the enduring nature of human experiences across time, suggesting that despite historical and cultural differences, the fundamental questions and struggles of existence remain constant. "Being Human" offers a meditative look at life's cyclical patterns and the timeless quest for personal identity and happiness, making it a thoughtful examination of what it means to be human.
10) Fluke
"Fluke" (1995), starring Matthew Modine, Nancy Travis, and Eric Stoltz, is a touching film that explores the themes of reincarnation, love, and redemption.
Modine's character, after dying in a car accident, finds himself reincarnated as a dog named Fluke. With memories of his past life, Fluke seeks out his former family, embarking on a journey that allows viewers to contemplate the idea of reincarnation through a unique lens.
The film weaves together the human and animal experiences, highlighting the deep connections that exist beyond our physical forms. Through Fluke's quest to understand his past and protect his loved ones, the movie invites audiences to reflect on the cycles of life, the essence of who we are, and the enduring nature of love beyond our mortal coil.
11) The Namesake
"The Namesake" (2006), directed by Mira Nair and based on Jhumpa Lahiri's novel, stars Kal Penn in a compelling narrative about identity, tradition, and modernity. The film chronicles the life of Gogol Ganguli, who navigates the complexities of his Indian heritage and American upbringing, underscored by the symbolic weight of his name, given in honor of Russian author Nikolai Gogol. This name reflects the blending of cultures and the enduring impact of the past, highlighting the intricacies of identity and the role of literature in shaping our lives.
"The Namesake" offers an insightful look at the immigrant experience and the journey toward self-definition against a backdrop of tradition and modernity. The film is further enriched by a beautiful performance by Irrfan Khan, whose portrayal of Gogol's father adds depth and emotional resonance, capturing the heartaches and joys of the immigrant experience and familial bonds.
12) Cloud Atlas
"Cloud Atlas" is a movie directed by Lana and Lilly Wachowski and Tom Tykwer that was released in 2012. It explores the idea of how human lives are interconnected across time, ranging from the 19th century to a post-apocalyptic future.
The movie has an ensemble cast including Tom Hanks and Halle Berry, and it presents a variety of stories and lifetimes. Through its complex narrative, "Cloud Atlas" delves into the concept of time repeating itself and humans being connected through various lives "from womb to tomb."
This film is based on the novel by David Mitchell, and it encourages viewers to reflect on the cyclical nature of existence and the unseen connections that tie us together with the people we meet throughout our lives.
13) Little Buddha
"Little Buddha" (1993), directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, intertwines two narrative threads. One is the historical account of Prince Siddhartha's (played by Keanu Reeves) journey to enlightenment, becoming the Buddha, portrayed with rich detail and deep reverence. The other, a contemporary story, follows a young American boy named Jesse Conrad, who Tibetan monks believe to be the reincarnation of a revered Buddhist lama. As the monks invite Jesse and his parents to Bhutan to confirm his identity, the film explores themes of faith, reincarnation, and the quest for spiritual understanding.
Through the parallel stories, "Little Buddha" seeks to bridge the gap between ancient Buddhist teachings and the modern world, presenting Siddhartha's life and teachings in a way that is accessible to a contemporary audience.
14) Slumdog Millionaire
"Slumdog Millionaire" (2008), directed by Danny Boyle, tells the story of Jamal Malik, a young man from the slums of Mumbai, who becomes a contestant on the Indian version of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks triggered by the questions asked on the show, revealing Jamal's life story filled with love, loss, and survival against the odds. Each flashback not only provides the answer to the quiz show's questions but also pieces together the puzzle of Jamal's life, highlighting the themes of fate, karma, and destiny that guide his journey.
The film's portrayal of Jamal's experiences, from the hardships of his childhood to the moments of joy and synchronicity, suggests the idea of karmic forces at work, where every event in his life leads him inexorably to the game show and, ultimately, to a reunion with his long-lost love, Latika. This narrative structure showcases the idea that nothing in Jamal's life is coincidental; instead, it emphasizes the belief in a predestined path shaped by the choices we make and the moral integrity we maintain even in moments of chaos, loss and severe adversity.
15) Enter the Void
"Enter the Void" (2009), directed by Gaspar Noé, offers a modern commentary on the Bardo Thodol, also known as the Tibetan Book of the Dead. The story follows Oscar, a young American drug dealer living in Tokyo, who is shot and killed in a nightclub, triggering an out-of-body experience that reflects the intermediate state (bardo) described in the Bardo Thodol. Through Oscar's eyes, the viewer embarks on a hallucinatory journey through his past, present, and potential futures as his spirit navigates the afterlife, observing the impact of his death on his sister and the world around him.
Noé's film is remarkable for its continuous first-person perspective, neon-lit visual style, and exploration of themes such as reincarnation, karma, and the cycle of life and death. By drawing parallels between Oscar's post-mortem odyssey and the stages of the bardo, "Enter the Void" serves as a contemporary cinematic interpretation of the Tibetan Book of the Dead’s teachings on the transitions between death and rebirth. The film challenges viewers to confront their own perceptions of consciousness, mortality, and the possibility of an afterlife, making it a compelling and often unsettling meditation on the human condition.
16) Arrival
"Arrival" (2016), directed by Denis Villeneuve, is a profound science fiction film based on the novella "Story of Your Life" by Ted Chiang. The film explores themes of communication, time, and the human condition through the lens of linguistics, following Louise Banks (played by Amy Adams), a linguist recruited to communicate with extraterrestrial beings known as heptapods who have arrived on Earth.
The heptapods' appearance and the complex language they introduce, which has the power to alter human perception of time, echo the concept of language as a transformative force, reminiscent of the idea that language can act like a virus — a notion popularized by William S. Burroughs. This metaphor suggests that language, much like a virus, can infect and radically change our perception of reality.
The film's depiction of the heptapods, with their seven-limbed radial symmetry resembling microscopic viruses, subtly nods to this concept, underscoring the transformative power of language. Additionally, the design of their spacecraft, resembling giant, monolithic blood platelets, further enriches this imagery, suggesting a biological connection and the idea of the extraterrestrials' arrival as an infusion into the human 'body' that catalyzes a profound change in understanding and perception.
In today's world, effective communication is crucial. "Arrival" reminds us of language's ability to bridge divides and expand our understanding of the universe and each other, when used as a tool instead of a weapon.
17) Melancholia
"Melancholia" (2011) is a visually arresting and emotionally charged film directed by Lars von Trier. It tells the story of two sisters, Justine (played by Kirsten Dunst) and Claire (played by Charlotte Gainsbourg), against the backdrop of an impending cataclysmic event: the collision of Earth with a rogue planet named Melancholia. The film is divided into two parts, focusing on each sister respectively, exploring their psychological states and differing reactions to the impending doom.
Justine, who is struggling with severe depression, finds a peculiar solace in the looming disaster, while Claire, who initially seems more stable, becomes increasingly anxious and fearful. "Melancholia" delves deep into themes of despair, existential dread, and the human psyche's complex layers, using the metaphor of the end of the world to explore personal and collective melancholy.
The film is particularly resonant in the context of contemporary global challenges and anxieties, making it a hauntingly relevant watch. Von Trier's use of visual storytelling, including surreal and dreamlike images of the approaching planet, combined with profound performances from the cast, crafts a masterpiece that is both a reflection on human emotion and a commentary on the end times. "Melancholia" provokes deep reflection on the nature of despair and the search for meaning in the face of oblivion.
18) A.I. Artificial Intelligence
"A.I. Artificial Intelligence" (2001) is a visionary science fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg, a project initially started by Stanley Kubrick, blending Kubrick's thematic depth with Spielberg's emotive storytelling. The film tells the story of David, played by Haley Joel Osment, a highly advanced robotic boy designed with the ability to love, as he embarks on a journey to become a "real" boy in order to regain the affection of his human mother. Set in a future where climate change has submerged many coastal cities and advancements in robotics challenge the boundaries of human relationships, the film explores themes of love, abandonment, the quest for identity, and ethical questions around A.I.
The portrayal of David's journey and the complex interactions between humans and advanced A.I. highlight the ethical dilemmas and emotional complexities that come with technological advancement.
This film is remarkably prescient to rewatch today, as the impact of artificial intelligence on the world is evolving at a lightning-fast pace. The film's exploration of the blurring lines between human and machine and the moral implications of creating machines capable of emotion resonate deeply in an era where AI's role in society, ethics, and the future of human relationships is increasingly at the forefront of public discourse.
Spielberg's film, with its hauntingly beautiful visuals and profound narrative, stands as a poignant reflection on humanity's relationship with technology and a compelling watch in light of current times.
19) Contact
"Contact" (1997) is a thought-provoking science fiction film directed by Robert Zemeckis, based on the novel of the same name by Carl Sagan. The film stars Jodie Foster as Dr. Ellie Arroway, a passionate and determined astronomer who discovers a radio signal sent from extraterrestrial intelligence, leading to the creation of a machine designed to transport a human to meet these distant beings. Said machine is remarkably similar in its appearance to the Ophanim, or Thrones, which are believed to be God’s Chariot in mystical Jewish texts such as the Merkabah literature and the Book of Ezekiel. These texts describe the Ophanim as a complex, eye-covered wheel within a wheel, symbolizing the omnipresence and mobility of the divine, echoing the film’s intertwining of scientific discovery with profound spiritual symbolism.
The film explores profound themes such as the conflict between science and religion, the human desire for connection and understanding in the vast — infinite — cosmic sea, and the complex relationship between faith, belief, time, and evolved consciousness.
Matthew McConaughey co-stars as Palmer Joss, a religious scholar and love interest of Ellie, adding depth to the film's exploration of faith versus science. "Contact" is celebrated for its realistic depiction of the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), its impressive visual effects, and Foster's compelling performance.
20) Moonlight
"Moonlight" (2016) is a profoundly moving and visually striking A24 film directed by Barry Jenkins, chronicling the life of Chiron, a young Black man grappling with his identity and sexuality while growing up in a rough neighborhood of Miami. The choice of the name "Chiron" is particularly interesting, serving as a double entendre that reflects the protagonist's journey of pain and healing—akin to the wounded healer archetype in astrology, signifying the dual capacity to endure personal wounds while still finding paths to recovery.
The narrative unfolds in three acts, each focusing on a different stage of Chiron's life from childhood to adulthood. Mahershala Ali delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Juan, a drug dealer who becomes a father figure to the young Chiron, offering moments of tenderness and wisdom that leave a lasting impact on him.
Ali's portrayal earned widespread acclaim, culminating in an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. "Moonlight" highlights themes of masculinity, vulnerability, and the quest for self-discovery, making it a landmark film in exploring LGBTQ+ and Black experiences.
21) Interstellar
"Interstellar" (2014), directed by Christopher Nolan, is a sweeping science fiction epic that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the survival of the human race. The film follows a group of astronauts, led by Matthew McConaughey's character Cooper, as they travel through a wormhole in search of a new home for humanity, facing dwindling resources on Earth. Alongside a talented cast, including Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain, the film delves into complex concepts of time, space, and relativity, underscored by Hans Zimmer's powerful score. "Interstellar" is celebrated for its ambitious storytelling, groundbreaking visual effects, and emotional depth — examining love as a force of metaphysical gravity that transcends time and space.
22) What Dreams May Come
"What Dreams May Come" (1998) is a visually stunning and emotionally gripping film directed by Vincent Ward. It stars Robin Williams as Chris Nielsen, a man who dies in a car accident and finds himself in a heaven that reflects his own imagination and desires. When he learns that his wife, devastated by his death, has committed suicide and is trapped in hell, Chris embarks on a perilous journey to save her. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the afterlife, blending breathtaking visuals with a deep exploration of the bonds that transcend death. It won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, and Werner Herzog makes an unexpected cameo — blink and you’ll miss it!
23) Life is Beautiful
"Life is Beautiful" (1998) is a poignant Italian film directed by and starring Roberto Benigni. It tells the story of Guido, a Jewish Italian bookshop owner, who uses his fertile imagination to shield his son from the horrors of internment in a Nazi concentration camp. The film masterfully blends comedy and tragedy, exploring themes of love, family, and the resilience of the human spirit amidst the atrocities of World War II. It won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Benigni and Best Foreign Language Film.
