The Life List (2025): A Heartfelt and Uplifting Film

This is a map towards your best self.

The Life List is a 2025 Netflix film. After losing her mother, Alex revisits a list of goals she made when she was thirteen. She has to pursue each goal to get her inheritance. In this journey, Alex discovers dreams, secrets, and romance.

This is the motivational film we all need to sit down and think about our lives. The Life List made me smile. These are the movies I enjoy watching for their heartfelt messages. Creating lists is more beneficial than you think, helping you find your happiness.

Sophia Carson is wonderful in her character’s emotional journey. Alex grows as a person, becoming more free-spirited and open to change. Carson felt awakened by the character. Alex does things she never expected to, and it helps her see a new direction in life.

Connie Britton plays Alex’s mother, Elizabeth. You may have seen Britton in other media, where she’s played an assortment of key supporting roles. She deserves more recognition as an actress, particularly with how she makes small roles stand out.

This is my favorite performance by Britton, who captures her character’s big heart, funny attitude, and makes the audience connect with her. Although typecast, Britton always finds new dynamics to implement. I was initially disappointed by how small her part seemed, but her character returns in these touching video messages to Alex.

Credits include Kyle Allen, Sebastian De Souza, Jose Zuniga, Jordi Molla, and more. The cast was drawn to the script, feeling connected. Supporting characters are integral in this film. Initially, I thought the film would have predictable characters and storylines.

Kyle Allen plays Brad, a kind and somewhat awkward lawyer. Allen and Carson have rich chemistry. The romantic subplot between Alex and Garrett (De Souza) was an essential part of the story. You have to experiment with more than one relationship, encouraging viewers to think about romance.

The Life List is based on a novel by Lori Nelson Spielman. I want to read it now. Adam Brooks adapted a heartwarming film adaptation, paying specific attention to the moral. No matter who we are, someone tends to feel stuck in life. This is one of those films to help give us a push.

Films are therapy in disguise. My favorite part about movies is how they help us discuss relatable topics. This is a film that younger generations need. Who says life is ever easy? We’re never alone in figuring out our lives.

The messages in the film may seem straightforward, but they’re necessary. Happiness is an essential part of life. Write down your goals, no matter how silly or out there they sound. Alex would never have done any of these if she hadn’t tried.

Alex checks goals off like performing at a comedy show, reconciling with her dad, and playing the piano. Fun fact: Carson learned how to play the tune Clair de lune for the film. The goals don’t go as Alex expects, but they open new doors.

Filming transpired in New York City. Another part of Alex’s journey is traveling the city. You can’t stay in one place your whole life. Locations are used heavily throughout the film as Alex travels to restaurants, job opportunities, and other places that reflect the list.

The Life List has had more audience appeal than expected. Based on comments from Carson and Brooks, they’ve met viewers who have ended dead-end relationships or jobs.

Although it’s somewhat predictable, The Life List is a beautiful story. It’s one of my new favorites of this year.