It's important to note that while death can be a difficult topic to discuss, it is also a universal experience that we all will experience. By exploring death through art and media, we can learn to embrace this aspect of life and find ways to celebrate the memories of those who have passed long after their funeral or memorial service.
We've compiled 10 Netflix shows on death, grief and the afterlife that tackle the concept in different ways, inviting viewers to look at death with curiosity and even humor. We think these shows are a great compliment to your end of life planning.
"The Good Place" is a comedy that explores the afterlife. The show follows Eleanor Shellstrop (Kristen Bell), a woman who dies and is sent to the "good place" by mistake. The show deals with moral philosophy, ethics, and the concept of redemption. (This is a team favorite because our owner, Jordan, was a professor of philosophy.)
"Russian Doll" is a dark comedy that explores the concept of death and rebirth. The show follows Nadia Vulvokov (Natasha Lyonne), a woman who dies and finds herself stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again.
"After Life" is a comedy-drama that explores the grieving process. The show follows Tony Johnson (Ricky Gervais), a man who is struggling to cope with the death of his wife.
"Black Mirror" is an anthology series that explores the consequences of technology. In the episode "San Junipero," the show explores the idea of a simulated afterlife, where people can choose to spend eternity in a virtual reality world.
"The OA" is a science fiction drama that explores the concept of death and the afterlife. The show follows Prairie Johnson (Brit Marling), a woman who returns after being missing for seven years with the ability to see.
"The Haunting of Hill House""The Haunting of Hill House" is a horror series that explores the trauma of death and grief. The show follows the Crain family, who are haunted by the memories of their past after moving into Hill House.
"Bojack Horseman" is an animated series that explores the concept of mortality. The show follows Bojack Horseman (Will Arnett), a washed-up actor struggling to come to terms with his own mortality.
"Dead Like Me" is a comedy-drama that explores the afterlife. The show follows Georgia Lass (Ellen Muth), a woman who dies and becomes a grim reaper, tasked with helping souls transition to the afterlife.
"The Returned" is a supernatural drama that explores the idea of the dead coming back to life. The show takes place in a small French town, where deceased residents begin to reappear, causing chaos and confusion.
"The Discovery" is a science fiction film that explores the concept of an afterlife. The movie takes place in a world where the afterlife has been scientifically proven, causing people to commit suicide to get there.
These shows on grief and death offer a unique perspective on mortality and the human experience, opening up conversations about death and the ways in which we can process it.
More Resources
How To Write A Heartfelt Obituary - 9 Helpful Steps For Grieving Families