Netflix’s latest original movie, “The Life List”, tries to follow in the footsteps of Lifetime classics but ultimately feels like a dull romantic tearjerker. Based on Lori Nelson Spielman’s 2013 novel, the film follows Alex (Sofia Carson), a 30-something daughter who must complete her mother’s ambitious life list after she passes away.
The movie features a predictable plot that revolves around a love triangle between Alex and two men: Garrett (Sebastian de Souza) and Brad (Kyle Allen). While writer/director Adam Brooks has shown promise in his previous work, “Definitely, Maybe”, this film struggles to elevate familiar tropes into something unique and human.
The budget constraints are evident, with poor shot compositions and a hollow opening act that relies on master shots rather than actual storytelling. The two-hour runtime is also overlong, filled with subplots that muddy the waters. Despite these issues, Connie Britton shines as Alex’s mother, delivering wistful advice from beyond the grave.
The movie has its moments, particularly in the third act where Sofia Carson and Kyle Allen develop a nice chemistry. However, for viewers who crave quality filmmaking, “The Life List” is a disappointment. It’s a cathartic tearjerker that will resonate with fans of life-affirming stories but may not appeal to skeptics.
Source: https://www.avclub.com/the-life-list-review