The Life List Review – A Predictable Yet Heartfelt Netflix Drama

Netflix‘s The Life List is a sentimental drama that explores themes of grief, love, family, and personal growth. Starring Sofia Carson, the film is based on Lori Nelson Spielman’s bestselling novel and offers an emotional journey filled with life lessons. While it has an interesting premise, the film struggles to create a truly moving experience.

A Story of Loss, Love, and Second Chances

The Life List follows Alex (played by Sofia Carson), a young woman who receives posthumous messages from her mother, guiding her to fulfill a list of childhood dreams. The film draws comparisons to PS I Love You, but instead of a romantic relationship, it focuses on a mother-daughter bond. Alex’s journey to complete the list forces her to step out of her comfort zone, face her fears, and rediscover her passion for life.

A Strong Premise with an Emotional Core

The film’s concept is relatable. Many people struggle with self-doubt, fear of failure, and the pressure of societal expectations. The Life List aims to highlight the importance of chasing dreams and making the most of life. However, the execution falls short in several areas, making it feel more like a formulaic Netflix drama rather than a deeply moving story.

A Lead Performance That Falls Flat

Sofia Carson, best known for Descendants and Carry-On, plays Alex, a messy yet lovable character who is struggling to find her purpose. While Carson is talented, her performance lacks the depth needed for a role filled with emotional turmoil. She still carries traces of her Disney Channel past, making Alex feel too polished and unrealistic.

Her relationship with her mother (played by Connie Britton) is central to the story. While Britton delivers a heartfelt performance, her role as a supportive, wise mother feels repetitive, as she has played similar characters before. The chemistry between Carson and Britton is decent but not strong enough to make the film truly impactful.

A Predictable Journey of Self-Discovery

The film starts with Alex’s chaotic life, working in her mother’s cosmetics company while dating a boyfriend who dreams of designing zombie video games. However, everything changes when her mother reveals she has terminal cancer. Shortly after, Alex is left with a life list she wrote as a child and must complete each goal to receive her inheritance.

Throughout the film, Alex experiences a series of challenges that push her outside her comfort zone. She participates in a mosh pit, performs stand-up comedy, and embarks on a quest for true love. While these moments are meant to be inspiring, they feel too predictable and staged.

A Romance That Overshadows the Real Story

Although The Life List presents itself as a film about self-discovery and family, the plot leans heavily toward Alex’s romantic journey. She meets a charming lawyer (Kyle Allen), and their relationship quickly becomes a central focus. Instead of exploring Alex’s personal growth in depth, the film prioritizes her romantic storyline. This is a common issue in many films featuring female leads—placing more importance on who they end up with rather than who they become.

Lack of Depth in Key Themes

While the film attempts to tackle deep themes like grief and personal growth, it doesn’t explore them in a meaningful way. Alex’s struggle with loss is barely touched upon, and her professional aspirations are introduced but quickly abandoned. The film chooses a lighthearted approach, making it easy to watch but not particularly thought-provoking.

A Visually Appealing but Safe Film

One of The Life List’s strong points is its setting. Filmed in Manhattan and Brooklyn, it showcases real-life locations that add a sense of authenticity. The film has a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of 90s and early 2000s romantic dramas. However, while the visuals are appealing, the storytelling remains safe and predictable.

The film also uses a nostalgic soundtrack, featuring a song by The Ting Tings multiple times. While the music adds to the mood, it doesn’t do much to enhance the emotional weight of the story.

Final Verdict: A Light, Feel-Good Watch

The Life List is a decent watch for those looking for a lighthearted, feel-good movie. It has its emotional moments, but it never fully delivers the depth needed to make a lasting impact. The predictable storyline and lack of character development prevent it from standing out among other emotional dramas.

If you enjoy sentimental, easy-to-watch films with predictable but comforting themes, The Life List might be worth your time. However, if you’re looking for a truly moving and thought-provoking drama, this one might leave you wanting more.

Pros:

✔️ Heartwarming story about family and self-discovery ✔️ Beautiful filming locations in New York City ✔️ Light, easy-to-watch drama

Cons:

❌ Predictable plot with minimal surprises ❌ Weak emotional depth in key themes ❌ Overly focused on romance rather than personal growth

Where to Watch

The Life List is now streaming on Netflix. If you enjoy heartfelt dramas with a touch of nostalgia, give it a try!