The Life List –
A Journey of Love, Loss, and Rediscovery
In a world brimming with distractions and obligations, we often forget the dreams we once held close. The Life List, a film adaptation of Lori Nelson Spielman's bestselling novel of the same name, is a poignant reminder of the promises we make to our younger selves—and how life has a strange way of bringing us back to them. Directed with emotional depth and heartwarming finesse, The Life List is more than just a tale of self-discovery; it's a soulful journey that delves into familial love, personal ambition, and the importance of living with intention.
Plot Summary
The Life List follows the story of Brett Bohlinger, a thirty-something woman whose life is seemingly perfect. She has a high-profile job in her family's multimillion-dollar cosmetic company, a handsome boyfriend, and a comfortable lifestyle in Chicago. But Brett's world shatters when her beloved mother, Elizabeth, dies after battling cancer. To her shock, Brett discovers that she won't be inheriting the company or any of the expected assets. Instead, Elizabeth has left her something far more unconventional—a sealed letter and a copy of a list Brett wrote when she was 14 years old.
This “life list” includes dreams that now seem naive or completely irrelevant to her adult self: become a teacher, have a baby (preferably twins), fall in love, help someone in need, buy a dog, and more. The will specifies that Brett must complete each of the goals on the list within a year in order to receive her inheritance.
Confused, resistant, and emotionally raw, Brett reluctantly agrees. As she embarks on this unexpected quest, she begins to unearth parts of herself she had long buried beneath career obligations and societal expectations. Along the way, she encounters people who challenge, guide, and change her—eventually leading her to a more meaningful and authentic life.
Themes Explored
1. The Power of Childhood Dreams
At the heart of The Life List lies the idea that our childhood dreams carry profound truth. The goals Brett set as a young girl were pure, untouched by the cynicism of adulthood. The movie cleverly explores how we often lose sight of our real desires while trying to conform to societal norms or please others. Brett’s journey becomes a metaphor for everyone who has let go of their dreams in pursuit of something that seemed more "practical."
2. Love in All Forms
From romantic love to familial bonds and the friendship between unlikely companions, The Life List beautifully portrays different shades of love. The story reflects on how love isn’t always found where we expect it and how opening up to vulnerability can lead to transformative relationships. Brett’s evolving connections with people like her assistant Brad, the troubled teenage girl she mentors, and even her late mother—whose presence is felt throughout the film—form the emotional backbone of the narrative.
3. Loss and Healing
Grief is a dominant undercurrent in The Life List. Brett is not only dealing with the loss of her mother but also the loss of a life she thought she wanted. The movie handles grief with sensitivity, showing how it's not just about mourning someone’s absence but also rediscovering one’s self in the process.
4. The Unpredictability of Life
One of the most compelling aspects of the film is how it celebrates life's unexpected turns. Brett's initial resistance to the list gradually morphs into curiosity and eventually joy. The narrative teaches us that the most fulfilling moments are often the ones we never plan for.
Character Development
Brett Bohlinger
Played with sincerity and emotional depth, Brett is a relatable protagonist. Initially portrayed as someone who seems to have everything, her character arc is one of the most rewarding aspects of the film. As she navigates the list, Brett transitions from a corporate-driven, emotionally distant woman to someone who finds joy in teaching, compassion in helping others, and ultimately, love where she least expects it.
Elizabeth Bohlinger
Although Elizabeth is never seen alive in the film, her presence is deeply felt. Through letters, flashbacks, and Brett’s memories, Elizabeth becomes a guiding light for her daughter. Her unconventional will is not just a legal document—it’s a final act of love and wisdom from a mother who knew her daughter better than anyone.
Brad Midar
Initially introduced as Brett’s new assistant, Brad is instrumental in her transformation. His quirky, optimistic, and supportive personality provides a nice counterbalance to Brett’s initial skepticism. Their evolving relationship adds warmth and humor to the film, culminating in a tender subplot that highlights the importance of genuine connections.
Supporting Cast
The film benefits from a rich supporting cast. From Brett’s entitled boyfriend Andrew to her ambitious yet emotionally distant siblings, each character serves to reflect the superficial world Brett has outgrown. Characters like Sanquita (a teenager from a troubled background whom Brett mentors) offer powerful subplots that echo the film’s core messages.
Cinematic Strengths
1. Direction and Screenplay
The direction in The Life List is elegant and subtle. The film avoids melodrama and instead opts for a grounded, character-driven approach. The screenplay, adapted with care from the novel, preserves the emotional essence of the story while translating it effectively to the screen. The dialogue feels natural and meaningful, allowing viewers to truly invest in Brett’s journey.
2. Cinematography
Visually, the film employs a warm and inviting color palette that mirrors Brett's internal evolution. As the movie progresses, the visuals become increasingly vibrant—a subtle nod to Brett’s growing zest for life. From the cold, sterile settings of the corporate world to the cozy, chaotic classrooms and neighborhood shelters, each location tells a story of its own.
3. Music and Score
The musical score is understated yet effective. It enhances the emotional moments without overwhelming them. The soundtrack features a blend of soulful acoustic numbers and uplifting tracks that align perfectly with Brett’s shifting moods and experiences.
4. Pacing and Structure
At just under two hours, the movie maintains a steady pace. Each item on Brett’s list is given enough screen time to feel significant, but none of the subplots drag or feel unnecessary. The filmmakers skillfully interweave flashbacks and letters from Elizabeth to maintain emotional continuity.
Comparison to the Book
Lori Nelson Spielman’s The Life List was praised for its heartfelt prose and relatable characters, and the movie does justice to its literary origin. While there are some minor changes to accommodate cinematic storytelling—such as compressing timelines and modifying secondary character arcs—the film remains faithful to the novel’s spirit. Fans of the book will likely appreciate the care taken to preserve the emotional weight and message of the original story.
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Impact and Reception
The Life List has resonated deeply with audiences seeking meaningful cinema. It appeals particularly to viewers who enjoy stories about self-growth, healing, and emotional introspection. While not a blockbuster in the traditional sense, it has found success through word-of-mouth and streaming platforms, where its uplifting and motivational themes continue to strike a chord with a wide audience.
Critics have noted the film’s heartfelt performances, especially by the lead actress portraying Brett. The screenplay has been lauded for avoiding cliché-ridden pitfalls common in transformation narratives. While some may argue that the film is overly sentimental at times, most agree that it delivers a genuinely inspiring message that lingers long after the credits roll.
Why You Should Watch It
The Life List is more than a movie; it’s a call to reflection. In our busy lives, we often forget to ask ourselves if we’re truly happy or just going through the motions. This film invites us to pause and reconsider the path we’re on—and perhaps revisit the forgotten dreams we once held dear. Whether you're at a crossroads in your life or simply in need of a feel-good story that inspires hope and courage, The Life List delivers.
Final Thoughts
In a genre often dominated by formulaic narratives, The Life List stands out as a film with genuine heart. It reminds us that happiness doesn’t always come from climbing the corporate ladder or securing status—it often lies in the little things we once wished for but were too afraid to chase.
With powerful performances, thoughtful direction, and a story that speaks to the child in all of us, The Life List is a cinematic gem. It’s a love letter to second chances, a tribute to maternal wisdom, and a touching exploration of what it truly means to live a fulfilled life.
