Heaven Can Wait

Newly deceased playboy Henry Van Cleve (Don Ameche) presents himself to the outer offices of Hades, where he asks a bemused Satan for permission to enter the gates of hell. Though the Devil doubts Henry’s sins will qualify him for eternal damnation, Henry proceeds to recount a lifetime spent wooing and pursuing women, his long, happy marriage to Martha (Gene Tierney) not withstanding. Nominated for Academy Awards for best picture and director, Heaven Can Wait is an enduring classic that showcases director Ernst Lubitsch’s trademark blend of wit, urbanity, and grace.