The 30 Best Movies About Immortality
Immortality has always fascinated storytellers, offering a lens to explore what it means to live forever. From ancient warriors to modern-day wanderers, movies about eternal life dig into the joys and burdens of never aging, often revealing deep truths about love, loss, and human nature.
These films span genres like action, drama, and fantasy, each bringing a unique spin on the concept. Whether it’s a curse, a gift, or a mix of both, the idea of living forever challenges characters in ways that captivate audiences. Below, I break down 30 standout movies that tackle immortality, highlighting what makes each one special.
30. ‘The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus’ (2009)
A mystic named Doctor Parnassus, played by Christopher Plummer, made a deal with the Devil for eternal life centuries ago. Now, he’s a weary showman trying to save his daughter’s soul from that same bargain.
The film’s wild visuals and surreal storytelling, directed by Terry Gilliam, make immortality feel like a haunting, endless stage act. Plummer’s performance shows a man tired of eternity, grappling with the cost of his choices.
29. ‘Dracula Untold’ (2014)
Vlad Tepes, portrayed by Luke Evans, becomes a vampire to save his family, gaining near-immortal power at a steep price. The film blends historical drama with supernatural action.
It’s a gritty origin story for Dracula, showing immortality as a double-edged sword. Evans carries the weight of a man torn between duty and damnation, making it a solid watch for vampire fans.
28. ‘The Collector’ (2004)
In this lesser-known Canadian film, a man who’s lived for over 600 years collects souls for the Devil to save others from the same fate. It’s a quiet, reflective drama with a supernatural edge.
The movie dives into the moral toll of immortality, as the protagonist wrestles with guilt and purpose. Its low-key vibe makes it a hidden gem for those who like thoughtful storytelling.
27. ‘Immortals’ (2011)
Directed by Tarsem Singh, this visually stunning film follows Theseus, a mortal chosen by Zeus to battle a king seeking a weapon to destroy humanity. The gods of Olympus, immortal and aloof, loom large.
The movie’s vibrant style and epic fights overshadow its thin plot, but the gods’ eternal boredom adds a layer of intrigue. It’s a feast for the eyes, even if the story doesn’t linger.
26. ‘Zardoz’ (1974)
In a bizarre future, Sean Connery plays a savage who infiltrates a society of bored immortals preserving humanity’s knowledge. Directed by John Boorman, it’s a trippy sci-fi ride.
The film’s oddball energy and bold visuals make immortality feel like a sterile trap. Connery’s raw performance grounds the weirdness, though it’s not for everyone.
25. ‘Peter Pan’ (2003)
P.J. Hogan’s take on the classic sees Peter Pan, played by Jeremy Sumpter, as a boy who never grows up, living in Neverland’s eternal youth. His battles with Captain Hook add adventure.
The film captures the magic and tragedy of staying young forever. Peter’s refusal to age feels both freeing and lonely, making it a poignant family watch.
24. ‘In Time’ (2011)
In a world where time is currency and people stop aging at 25, Justin Timberlake’s Will Salas fights a system that keeps the poor mortal. Andrew Niccol directs this sleek sci-fi thriller.
The movie’s concept is sharp, showing immortality as a privilege for the rich. Timberlake and Amanda Seyfried bring urgency to a story about defying a rigged world.
23. ‘He Never Died’ (2015)
Henry Rollins stars as Jack, an immortal loner who hunts demons while grappling with his endless existence. This dark, gritty film mixes horror and deadpan humor.
Jack’s weary outlook makes immortality feel like a grind, with Rollins’ intense performance stealing the show. It’s a cult favorite for its raw, unconventional take.
22. ‘The Mummy’ (1999)
Brendan Fraser battles an immortal Egyptian priest brought back from the dead in this action-packed adventure. The priest’s cursed eternal life fuels the chaos.
Directed by Stephen Sommers, the film’s blend of humor and thrills makes it a fun ride. The immortality angle adds stakes, showing the horror of an unnatural existence.
21. ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl’ (2003)
Captain Barbossa and his crew, cursed by Aztec gold, live forever but can’t enjoy life’s pleasures. Johnny Depp’s Jack Sparrow adds flair to this swashbuckling tale.
The curse’s downside—living without taste or touch—makes immortality a nightmare. The film’s mix of action and wit keeps it a timeless blockbuster.
20. ‘Hancock’ (2008)
Will Smith plays a flawed superhero who’s immortal but struggles with his public image and personal demons. Peter Berg directs this action-comedy with heart.
Hancock’s immortality feels isolating until he finds purpose through connection. Smith’s charisma carries the film, making it a fresh spin on the superhero genre.
19. ‘Only Lovers Left Alive’ (2013)
Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton star as vampire lovers navigating centuries of life in Jim Jarmusch’s moody drama. Their immortality is both a gift and a burden.
The film’s slow pace and rich atmosphere highlight the vampires’ love for art and each other. It’s a quiet, beautiful look at finding meaning in eternity.
18. ‘Van Helsing’ (2004)
Hugh Jackman’s monster hunter faces Dracula and other immortal creatures in this action-packed horror romp. The film leans hard into gothic spectacle.
Immortality here is tied to supernatural evil, with Dracula’s eternal life fueling his menace. Jackman’s charm and the film’s over-the-top energy make it a guilty pleasure.
17. ‘Blade of the Immortal’ (2017)
Based on Hiroaki Samura’s manga, this Japanese film follows Manji, an immortal samurai protecting a girl seeking revenge. Directed by Takashi Miike, it’s bloody and intense.
Manji’s curse of eternal life drives his quest for redemption. The film’s brutal action and emotional depth make it a standout for fans of samurai epics.
16. ‘The Matrix’ (1999)
Keanu Reeves’ Neo discovers a simulated reality where immortality is possible but comes at the cost of freedom. The Wachowskis’ sci-fi classic redefined the genre.
The film’s philosophical core questions whether eternal life in a fake world is worth living. Its groundbreaking action and ideas still resonate today.
15. ‘Twilight’ (2008)
Bella Swan, played by Kristen Stewart, falls for Edward Cullen, a 108-year-old vampire, in this romantic drama. Their love story grapples with his eternal life.
Immortality is both romantic and tragic as Edward faces a world without Bella. The film’s emotional pull made it a cultural phenomenon despite mixed reviews.
14. ‘Beetlejuice’ (1988)
Tim Burton’s dark comedy features Betelgeuse, an immortal ghost causing chaos for a deceased couple. Michael Keaton’s wild performance steals the show.
The afterlife’s endlessness feels like a quirky burden here, with Betelgeuse’s antics highlighting the absurdity of eternity. It’s a cult classic with timeless charm.
13. ‘Orlando’ (1992)
Based on Virginia Woolf’s novel, Tilda Swinton’s Orlando lives for centuries, switching genders midway through. Sally Potter directs this bold, poetic film.
Immortality lets Orlando explore identity and love across time. Swinton’s magnetic performance makes this a unique, thought-provoking gem.
12. ‘Dorian Gray’ (2009)
In this adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s novel, Dorian Gray, played by Ben Barnes, stays young while his portrait ages. His immortality leads to moral decay.
The film’s dark tone shows eternal youth as a path to corruption. Barnes captures Dorian’s descent, making it a chilling take on vanity and time.
11. ‘Forever’ (2014-2015)
This TV series follows Dr. Henry Morgan, a 200-year-old medical examiner played by Ioan Gruffudd, solving crimes while seeking answers to his immortality.
The show blends mystery with emotional depth, showing Henry’s struggle to connect in an endless life. It’s a shame it only lasted one season.
10. ‘New Amsterdam’ (2008)
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau stars as John Amsterdam, an immortal detective cursed to live until he finds true love. The series mixes crime drama with romance.
John’s long life is both a gift and a curse as he navigates modern New York. The show’s unique premise deserved more than one season.
9. ‘Mr. Nobody’ (2009)
Jared Leto plays Nemo, a 118-year-old man reflecting on his life and choices in a sci-fi tale of immortality and the multiverse. Jaco Van Dormael directs.
The film’s nonlinear story explores how eternal life shapes identity. Leto’s heartfelt performance ties together its complex, mind-bending narrative.
8. ‘Wings of Desire’ (1987)
In this German fantasy, angels observe humanity, with one choosing to give up immortality for love. Wim Wenders crafts a poetic, monochromatic masterpiece.
The film contrasts eternal detachment with human emotion, making immortality feel hollow. Its tender story and visuals leave a lasting impact.
7. ‘Death Becomes Her’ (1992)
Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn play rivals who drink a potion for eternal youth, leading to darkly funny chaos. Robert Zemeckis directs this campy comedy.
Immortality here is a hilarious curse, with physical decay defying their beauty. The stellar cast and sharp humor make it a cult favorite.
6. ‘Tuck Everlasting’ (2002)
Winnie Foster, played by Alexis Bledel, meets a family who drank from a spring granting eternal life. This gentle fantasy explores love and choice.
The film’s quiet tone highlights the bittersweet nature of immortality. Bledel’s performance grounds a story that’s both tender and profound.
5. ‘The Fountain’ (2006)
Hugh Jackman stars in Darren Aronofsky’s ambitious film, playing three men across time seeking to defy death for love. It’s a visual and emotional journey.
Immortality is framed as a desperate quest, blending sci-fi and romance. The film’s bold storytelling and Jackman’s raw performance make it unforgettable.
4. ‘Interview with the Vampire’ (1994)
Brad Pitt’s Louis, a 200-year-old vampire, shares his tormented life with a reporter. Neil Jordan’s gothic drama dives deep into eternal despair.
Immortality is a curse for Louis, marked by loss and guilt. Pitt and Tom Cruise’s dynamic performances elevate this haunting classic.
3. ‘Highlander’ (1986)
Christopher Lambert plays Connor MacLeod, an immortal swordsman battling others for a mystical prize. Russell Mulcahy’s film is a cult action epic.
The film balances thrilling swordfights with the loneliness of outliving loved ones. Its iconic Queen soundtrack and ‘80s vibe make it a fan favorite.
2. ‘The Old Guard’ (2020)
Charlize Theron leads a group of immortal mercenaries protecting humanity in Gina Prince-Bythewood’s action-packed drama. Their gift comes with heavy burdens.
The film explores the toll of endless wars and lost connections. Theron’s fierce performance and tight pacing make it a modern standout.
1. ‘The Man from Earth’ (2007)
David Lee Smith stars as John Oldman, a professor claiming to be 14,000 years old, sparking debate among colleagues. Richard Schenkman’s film is a dialogue-driven gem.
Set in one room, it probes immortality’s philosophical weight with gripping intensity. Smith’s calm delivery makes this low-budget sci-fi a must-watch.
Which immortality movie resonates with you, or did I miss a hidden gem? Share your thoughts in the comments!