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The Book of Life (1998) | Criteria

Still from The Book of Life — The Book of Life (1998) — Hal HartleyPhotographed by Jim Denault

Poster for The Book of Life

Hal Hartley

The Book of Life

English / 1998 / 1h 3m

Not streamingNot currently on the Criterion Channel.

Letterboxd: 3.37/5·3K ratings·947 reviewson Letterboxd
Connections: View Connections

Synopsis

New Year's Eve takes on new meaning when the Devil, Jesus Christ, and Christ's assistant Magdalena discuss and debate the End of the World.

Included in
Hal Hartley: A Retrospective
Position 8
Included in
September 2023
Position 13

Credits

Crew

DirectorHal Hartley

WriterHal Hartley

CinematographerJim Denault

Editor

ProducerCarole Scotta, Pierre Chevalier, Thierry Cagianut, Matthew Myers, Caroline Benjo

Cast

Martin Donovanas Jesus Christ

PJ Harveyas Magdalena

Dave Simondsas Dave

Thomas Jay Ryanas Satan

Miho Nikaidoas Edie

D.J. Mendelas Lawyer

Katreen Hardtas Receptionist

James Urbaniakas True Believer

Anna Köhleras Hotel Clerk

Martin Pfefferkornas Martyr

Layla Alexanderas Waitress

Michael Ornsteinas Computer Wizard

Paul Albeas Mormon Thug #1

Don Creechas Mormon Thug #2

Joseph McKennaas Man at Airport

Abby Royleas Woman at Airport

Georgia Hubleyas The Salvation Army Band

Ira Kaplanas The Salvation Army Band

James McNewas The Salvation Army Band

William S. Burroughsas Preacher on Radio (voice)