21 Best Movies About Reincarnation & Coming Back to Life
Jessa Pangilinan
Do you believe in reincarnation? Whether you do or not, this list of the best movies about reincarnation and coming back to life can help you understand more about it!
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Do you believe in life after death?

Is reincarnation something you think about often?

Reincarnation is the rebirth of the soul into a new form or body after death. It doesn’t have to be human-to-human or animal-to-animal. Sometimes, humans can get reincarnated into an animal, a spirit, or a being that is far superior.

There is no clear and convincing evidence that reincarnation is real. However, this doesn’t automatically mean that it isn’t true. Many religious groups believe that it does occur.

In this article, we share with you a list of the best movies about reincarnation and coming back to life.

Regardless of the plot, these movies help you understand this esoteric concept. Let’s get to it!

1. Heaven Can Wait

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Heaven Can Wait (1978) is the second film adaptation of Harry Segall’s play that bears the same name. The first one is Here Comes Mr. Jordan, released in 1941, and the third is Down to Earth, recently released in 2001. It is the story of a quarterback who accidentally dies. Although it is not yet his time, he can’t go back to his body because it has already been cremated.

Starring Warren Beatty as Joe Pendleton, this feel-good fantasy-comedy film makes a great choice for a fun Friday night with your friends or family. How do you accept the fact that you have died by mistake? Is heaven real, and do we all really have a destined time of death? If we want to live more and do the things that we have yet to accomplish, can heaven wait?

This movie, and especially its ending, will leave you with so many questions. But I guess that’s what makes it so good! We highly suggest you check this film out to understand more about the topic of reincarnation and coming back to life.

2. Dead Again

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If you are in for a suspenseful and thrilling night, Dead Again is the right reincarnation movie to add to your list. Kenneth Branagh and Emma Thompson star as the main characters, and Robin Williams is in a supporting role.

Dead Again is the story of two people trapped in the cycle of murder, passion, and reincarnation. Branagh plays detective Mike Church in the present time, and Roman Strauss, a European composer, in the past. Thompson plays Grace, a woman who seems to have lost her memory at present, and Margaret Strauss, the victim of a 1948 murder case.

As the movie progresses, both characters discover that they are the reincarnated Strauss couple. Unresolved issues that happened in 1948 are relived, and Grace tries to prevent another murder. This movie will take you on a roller coaster of emotions—fear, excitement, and even a bit of anxious romance.

3. I Origins

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I Origins will open your eyes to the limits of what science can’t control and religion can’t explain. It will make you wonder if the two can intersect, but will also leave you with questions, such as how you arrive at that specific intersection.

Starring Michael Pitt as a scientist focused on the evolution of the eye, I Origins tells the story of how humans are perhaps reincarnated. The evidence Pitt seeks to prove this is through the biometrics of our unique eyes. Many religions believe that the eye is the window to the soul. What if science could actually prove it?

4. Cloud Atlas

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Movie expert Roger Ebert says that Cloud Atlas is “one of the most ambitious films ever made.” The storyline is exceptional and the production budget was huge. In fact, the film was one of the most expensive independent movies ever made.

The movie has multiple plots that occur in six different timelines. The cast includes Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, and Jim Broadbent playing multiple roles, and what is rather noteworthy is how their appearances in each timeline vary. Cloud Atlas even won the Best Editing and Best Make-Up Awards during the Saturn Awards.

In addition to exploring reincarnation, the main lesson that this movie teaches us is that we all thirst for true freedom. No matter how many times we live and reincarnate, we will always keep looking.

5. Chances Are

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Chances Are stars Cybill Shepherd, Robert Downey, Jr., Ryan O'Neal, and Mary Stuart Masterson. It is a feel-good film that has a twist of romance, comedy, and drama.

Robert Downey Jr.’s exceptional performance as Louie Jeffries and Alex Finch really make the movie. The way he brings life to the character of a reincarnated dead husband and a young district attorney in this film is really phenomenal.

We recommend this film for those who want to share a good laugh with their friends, family, or special someone.

6. The Reincarnation of Peter Proud

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The Reincarnation of Peter Proud is a psychological horror film that stars Michael Sarrazin, Margot Kidder, and Jennifer O’Neill. It is based on a novel (of the same name) written by Max Ehrlich. He was also the one who adapted it into a screenplay.

The movie tells the story of a university professor, Peter Proud, who is in search of the man in his dreams and nightmares. He keeps seeing the memory of a man with who he feels he has a deep connection. He eventually finds out that the man in his dreams is Jeff, a former tennis pro who was murdered by his wife, Marcia, after discovering that he has an affair with another woman.

We recommend this movie if you are looking for something classic that never gets old. While it has the theme of reincarnation, it is more focused on exploring what the human mind is capable of when trapped in difficult situations.

7. Birth

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What would you do if a 10-year-old boy suddenly showed up saying that he was the reincarnation of your dead husband?

That is the plot of this psychological thriller. Sean, a 10-year-old boy, suddenly shows up at the engagement party of Anna and Joseph and claims that he is “Sean,” Anna’s dead husband.

If you are ready for a dark, brooding film, you might want to include this one on your list.

8. The Fountain

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At first glance, this movie appears to be about reincarnation and coming back to life. But it might be more accurate to say that the movie tackles immortality—a life that never ends. We included it on this list to help demonstrate the difference between the two.

9. Madhumati

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Madhumati is the oldest film on this list. Released in 1958, it still remains as one of the best Bollywood films of all time, so this black-and-white film is definitely worth a watch.

The movie’s plot is simple. Madhumati is a tribal woman who falls in love with the artist Anand. She dies at the hands of a bad man, Ugra Narain, but then reincarnates as Madhavi—a woman who Anand meets accidentally. Many centuries later, Anand and Madhumati are reincarnated into Devendra and Radha (husband and wife).

Of course, there is more to the story than that. The film portrays how Madhumati and Anand suffered at the hands of Ugra Narain’s, and how they eventually got their revenge.

10. A Dog’s Journey

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A Dog’s Journey shows us that reincarnation doesn’t apply to humans alone. Even animals get reincarnated. Just look at Bailey the dog, who becomes Ellie, Tino, and eventually Buddy. His soul lived in different bodies, getting reincarnated every time he dies.

What we love about this film is that the main character finds a purpose in each lifetime it lives. It always discovers something new and learns important lessons.

Watch this film with your pet dogs and the whole family. We guarantee that you will love them even more after.

11. What Dreams May Come

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Of course, a list of the best films (no matter the genre) is incomplete without a Robin Williams movie.

Although this movie does tackle reincarnation, the plot focuses more on heaven and hell and what they both encompass. Heaven, as it is portrayed, is a place where you can be who and what you want to be, while hell is a place for those who don’t know or can’t accept that they are dead.

The movie is quite emotional, thanks to the performances of Robin Williams and Anabella Sciorra.

12. Audrey Rose

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Audrey Rose is a psychological thriller about a young girl experiencing terrifying episodes. Her parents are approached by a stranger who suggests that she is the reincarnation of his deceased daughter, Audrey Rose.

The movie uses the concept of reincarnation as a central plot device, exploring the emotional and psychological impacts of past life memories on the present. The story raises questions about the existence of the soul and its journey beyond death. The intense drama unfolds as the two families grapple with the possibility of the young girl’s past life.

This film stands out for its unique approach to reincarnation, blending horror elements with a deeply emotional narrative. It challenges viewers to think about the nature of the soul and the bonds that transcend lifetimes.

13. Little Buddha

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Little Buddha tells the story of a young American boy who is believed to be the reincarnation of a revered Buddhist lama. The film intertwines his story with a retelling of the life of Prince Siddhartha, who becomes the Buddha. This spiritual journey takes viewers from Seattle to Bhutan.

The film beautifully illustrates Buddhist beliefs in reincarnation and enlightenment. It depicts how the young boy’s life is transformed by discovering his possible past life. The parallel narrative of Siddhartha’s path to becoming the Buddha enhances the theme of spiritual awakening.

Little Buddha is a visually stunning film that offers a gentle introduction to Buddhist philosophy. Its unique narrative structure provides a thoughtful exploration of spiritual themes, making it a captivating watch for those interested in philosophy and spirituality.

14. Fluke

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Fluke is a family drama film about a man who dies in a car accident and is reincarnated as a dog. As a dog, he sets out to reconnect with his family, remembering snippets of his past life. The film follows his journey to protect and reunite with his loved ones.

The movie uses reincarnation to explore themes of love, redemption, and unbreakable family bonds. It portrays the idea that love transcends physical form and life itself. Fluke’s journey highlights the enduring nature of relationships beyond a single lifetime.

If you want a movie that combines heartwarming storytelling with a unique perspective on life and death, this is a great choice. It’s a touching film that appeals to children and adults alike, offering a moving narrative about love’s power to transcend different forms of existence.

15. Made in Heaven

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Made in Heaven is a romantic fantasy about two souls, Mike and Annie, who meet and fall in love in heaven. Tragically, they are separated when Annie is sent back to Earth. Mike is given a chance to find her on Earth before he forgets his past life.

The film delves into themes of soulmates and destiny, suggesting that true love transcends the boundaries of heaven and Earth. It portrays reincarnation as a second chance for love and fulfillment, reinforcing the idea that love can endure through different lifetimes.

This film offers a whimsical yet profound exploration of love and destiny. Its imaginative portrayal of heaven and the enduring power of love makes it a uniquely uplifting, romantic film.

16. My Reincarnation

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This documentary chronicles the life of Tibetan Buddhist master Chögyal Namkhai Norbu and his Italian-born son, Yeshi. The film spans more than 20 years, capturing Yeshi’s reluctance and gradual acceptance of his destiny as his father’s spiritual heir. It offers an intimate look into the lives of a master and his successor.

Focusing on the Buddhist belief of reincarnation and the passing of wisdom and spiritual leadership across generations, the film highlights Yeshi’s struggle to come to terms with his supposed past life connections. It provides real-world insights into how reincarnation is perceived and embraced in Tibetan Buddhism.

As a documentary, My Reincarnation offers a rare and authentic glimpse into the spiritual journey of a Tibetan Buddhist family. It’s a good movie for anyone interested in understanding the real-life implications of reincarnation in a spiritual context.

17. Down to Earth

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Down to Earth is a comedy about a struggling comedian, Lance Barton, who is taken to heaven prematurely. To rectify this mistake, he’s reincarnated in the body of a wealthy but unlikeable businessman. Lance tries to reconcile his new identity with his dreams and values.

The film humorously explores the idea of reincarnation and second chances. Lance’s journey in a new body highlights the comical and often challenging aspects of adapting to a completely different life. The movie uses the concept of reincarnation to explore themes of identity and purpose.

Lighthearted and entertaining, this film offers a comedic take on reincarnation. Its humorous approach to serious themes makes it an enjoyable watch for those looking for both laughs and a touch of depth.

18. Defending Your Life

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In this film, Daniel Miller finds himself in the afterlife after dying in a car accident. In a purgatory-style place called Judgment City, he must defend his life in a court-like setting to progress to the next stage of existence. The film follows his trial and his growing relationship with another soul, Julia.

The movie uses a unique understanding of the afterlife to explore the idea of reincarnation as a process of continual learning and evolving. It suggests that one’s fears and actions are examined to determine spiritual progress. The theme of reincarnation is cleverly woven into the narrative about self-discovery and personal growth.

Defending Your Life is both thought-provoking and amusing, offering a fresh perspective on what happens after death. Its blend of humor and existentialism makes it a standout film.

19. Being Human

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Being Human follows the story of a man named Hector through various incarnations, from ancient times to the 20th century. In each life, Hector faces similar struggles and searches for the meaning of life.

The film explores the concept of reincarnation through the experiences of a single soul in different historical periods. It portrays how specific themes and struggles recur in different lifetimes. The movie suggests that each life is an opportunity to learn and grow.

If you want a unique cinematic journey through time with existential themes, you are in for a treat with this film. Its exploration of the human condition across different eras offers a profound and introspective viewing experience, making it a must-watch for those who enjoy philosophical storytelling.

20. Om Shanti Om

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Om Shanti Om is a Bollywood film blending romance, drama, and comedy. It tells the story of a junior film artist named Om in the 1970s who was murdered after saving the life of actress Shanti. He is reincarnated and returns in the 2000s as a famous actor, aiming to avenge the death of his past life.

The movie uses reincarnation as a key plot element, intertwining past and present storylines. It showcases how past life events influence the present, leading to a dramatic resolution of unresolved conflicts. The themes of love, betrayal, and revenge are magnified through the lens of reincarnation.

This is a vibrant and entertaining film that masterfully combines elements of drama, romance, and humor. Its extravagant production, catchy music, and engaging storyline make it an essential watch for fans of Bollywood cinema.

21. Switch

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Switch is a comedy film about a chauvinistic man named Steve Brooks who is killed by three of his ex-girlfriends. He is reincarnated as a woman, and must find a female who likes him in order to enter heaven. The film follows his journey as he experiences life from a woman’s perspective.

This film uses reincarnation to address themes of gender, identity, and empathy. Steve’s transformation into a woman forces him to confront his previous life’s misdeeds and understand the female experience firsthand. The comedic elements highlight the profound changes in perspective brought about by this reincarnation.

Switch offers a humorous yet insightful look at gender roles and stereotypes. Its unique premise and the subsequent journey of self-discovery make it an intriguing and entertaining film, especially for those interested in themes of gender and transformation.

Final Thoughts on Movies About Reincarnation

With this list, we hope we were able to help you understand more about reincarnation and the afterlife. You may or may not believe in it, but either way, we hope that you were reminded that life is too precious for us to waste.

We do not have to wait for reincarnation to happen. We are living this life today, and we should find our happiness right now, in this moment.

And if you're looking for more informative and inspirational movies, be sure to check out these blog posts: