10 Movies and Shows Similar to Heaven Can Wait (1978)

Description: As the original inspiration for 'Heaven Can Wait', this film features a similar plot about a man who dies prematurely and is given a second chance at life in another body. Both films mix comedy with philosophical questions about life and destiny.

Fact: Won two Academy Awards including Best Original Story. Was remade twice, as 'Heaven Can Wait' (1978) and 'Down to Earth' (2001). The film was added to the National Film Registry in

Description: As the original film that inspired 'Always' (which shares themes with 'Heaven Can Wait'), this movie features a deceased pilot who watches over his girlfriend and the new pilot in her life. Both films explore love and sacrifice beyond death.

Fact: Stars Spencer Tracy and Irene Dunne. Was remade by Spielberg as 'Always' in

Description: This film shares a supernatural romance theme with 'Heaven Can Wait', where a ghostly presence interacts with the living in a meaningful way. Both films explore love that transcends the physical world, blending fantasy with heartfelt emotion.

Fact: The film is based on a 1945 novel by R.A. Dick. It was remade as a television series in

Description: This film shares with 'Heaven Can Wait' the concept of a spirit returning to Earth to complete unfinished business, with comedic and romantic elements. Both films explore themes of redemption and second chances.

Fact: Features an early role for Jason Gedrick. The soundtrack includes 1980s pop hits. Was marketed as a teen comedy with supernatural elements.

Description: This film shares with 'Heaven Can Wait' the theme of souls meeting in the afterlife and then finding each other again on Earth. Both films explore destiny and soulmates through a romantic fantasy lens.

Fact: Features early performances by Timothy Hutton and Kelly McGillis. Includes cameos by numerous celebrities as heaven residents. The soundtrack features original songs by various artists.

Description: Steven Spielberg's romantic fantasy shares with 'Heaven Can Wait' the concept of a deceased lover returning as a spirit to guide and protect his beloved. Both films blend supernatural elements with heartfelt romance.

Fact: A remake of 1943's 'A Guy Named Joe'. Stars Richard Dreyfuss and Holly Hunter. Features spectacular aerial sequences directed by Spielberg.

Description: Like 'Heaven Can Wait', this film involves reincarnation and romantic complications, with a deceased man returning in a new body and falling in love with his former wife. Both films blend romance with supernatural comedy.

Fact: Stars Cybill Shepherd and Robert Downey Jr. Features a young Ryan O'Neal in a supporting role. The film's plot involves complex romantic entanglements.

Description: Like 'Heaven Can Wait', this film explores the afterlife with humor and warmth, focusing on a protagonist who must justify his earthly life in a celestial court. Both films use the afterlife setting to examine human relationships and personal growth.

Fact: Albert Brooks both wrote and directed the film. Meryl Streep and Brooks play the lead roles. The film's depiction of the afterlife includes unlimited food that doesn't make you gain weight.

Description: This visually stunning film shares with 'Heaven Can Wait' a theme of love transcending death, with a protagonist navigating the afterlife to reunite with his soulmate. Both films blend fantasy elements with deep emotional storytelling.

Fact: Won the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. Based on the 1978 novel by Richard Matheson. Robin Williams stars as the lead character Chris Nielsen.

Description: A direct remake of 'Here Comes Mr. Jordan' (which inspired 'Heaven Can Wait'), this film follows the same premise of a wrongly taken soul getting a second chance at life. Both films combine romantic comedy with supernatural elements.

Fact: Stars Chris Rock in the lead role. Features cameos by several famous comedians. The soundtrack includes music by R&B artist Brian McKnight.