Let’s call a bucket list by any other name like The Life List, for example. But unlike a bucket list, this one is not prepared by an adult reminiscing wistfully about lost aspirations and unfulfilled wishes while standing at precipice of their sunset years. Nope. This life list has been prepared by our protagonist- Alex when she was thirteen years old.
What is so special about this list? First of all, Alex was seriously looking forward to fulfill all these listed aspirations before reaching middle age milestone of her life. Second, this list has been preserved by Alex’s recently deceased mother who has left well before her time because of a mysterious life-threatening illness. That’s why the list becomes her Mother’s last wish to see her youngest daughter- Alex to achieve what she has initially hoped to get from her life in order to become an independent woman in own right.
Thus, begins Alex’s quest to search meaning in her hereto meaningless life. Although she has been working in her mother’s company on a lucrative position, keeping in mind her mother’s wishes she has to hand over that job to her sister-in-law. Instead, her mother wants her to take up teaching opportunities as that was young Alex’s dream job. That opportunity comes knocking at Alex’s door, thereby paving way to ticking off other items on her list.
It’s endearing to watch Alex reconnecting with her Mom albeit virtually but intimately. Their bond still strong beyond all that has happened. It’s heartwarming to see Alex reestablishing her bond with her siblings and their moist eyes to witness their mother’s warmth beyond death. It’s all mushy and cozy to see Alex make the best of her year to fulfill her mother’s quest by putting all her heart.
Indeed, it is her heart which doesn’t allow her to complete the eponymous list. During the course of the year, she manages to take on many challenges and complete them but she is not so successful in the matters of love. Well, her mother knew her better and didn’t expect her to succeed in all items of her wish list. But it’s baffling to everyone when Alex fumbles in making a right decision for her heart even after being in a steady relationship with her co-worker for few months.
Thankfully, Alex is not struggling alone in understanding her true feelings as her struggles are equally reciprocated by Brad- her mother’s lawyer. Together they- Alex and Brad have built a strong bond based on mutual trust, respect and friendship. Throughout the year, they have pushed each other to bring out the best in themselves and face life head on. So, it’s interesting to see how they manage to take the most crucial decision to open a new phase of their relationship.
I have to say that I was a bit skeptical about this movie because it looks unsurprisingly simple with understated plotline. The relationship drama and even the romantic linkages are quite predictable but what makes this an endearing watch is the directorial treatment. Adam Brooks’ screen adaptation of the original novel by Lori Nelson Spielman is pleasantly satisfying. Therefore, I would highly recommend this movie when you need to perk a bit and in need of a solid pick-me-up serotonin dose.