Ratings: 3/5
Sofia Carson leads a soul-searching story of ‘The Life List’ that aims for the heart, but doesn’t always hit the mark, says ABHI SINGHAL
Some films don’t just entertain they gently guide you towards becoming a better version of yourself. The Life List, now streaming on Netflix, is one such film. With a heart-warming tale and subtle life lessons, it reminds viewers of the importance of keeping your inner child alive and embracing joy in everyday moments.
The story begins with the family gathering to learn how their late mother dying through cancer, Catherine (played by Rachel Zeiger-Haag), has divided her inheritance. Alex, portrayed by Sofia Carson, is devastated to find she hasn’t been left anything — at least, not in material terms. However, it soon becomes clear that Catherine had something far more meaningful planned for her most beloved child. And that’s exactly where the emotional journey begins.
Sofia Carson leads the cast with a sincere performance as Alex, alongside Kyle Allen as Brad and Sebastian De Souza as Garrett, who play her romantic interests. Supporting roles by Dario Ladani Sanchez (Lucas), Federico Rodriguez (Julian), Marianne Rendón (Joe), and Chelsea Frei (Megan) are well-placed and never feel unnecessary or forced.
As Alex begins to check off items from a childhood ‘To-Do List,’ her perspective on life starts to shift. What follows is a charming exploration of rediscovery, healing, and emotional growth. The film delicately illustrates how returning to one’s roots and revisiting long-forgotten dreams can reignite the soul and change you as a person in all sorts of betterment.
That said, the pacing of the film does waver at times. There are moments when the narrative feels flat, only to pick up again, creating a loop that might test the patience of some viewers. Still, the curiosity of whether Alex will eventually receive her share - and in what form — keeps the audience engaged.
The more of a roller coaster part will also be the romantic life of Alex with Garrett and Brad. The way she goes all in to find true love and later the movie comes up with the most appropriate message that true love is not something you can find so easily with just a click. The movie also takes you through the ups and downs of a relationship with how understanding the originality of both the sides carries importance to be authentic.
Coming to the major analysing part, the storyline could have been better and streamlined with a more happening and twisted way of telling. Alex could have been more sorted in herself and the recorded life lessons kinda make it boring than emotional. The film did okay but has failed to touch the emotional part of the viewers. Intertwined with subplots involving her parents, The Life List tries to add emotional layers, which work moderately well in the film’s first half. The romantic storyline unfolds gently, with two back-to-back love interests adding complexity to Alex’s personal growth.
The Life List is a sweet, thoughtful watch with the charm to make it worth your time. It may not be a fast-paced thrill ride, but it quietly nudges you to reflect on your own life, childhood dreams, and what truly brings happiness.
