Netflix’s The Life List is a heartwarming romantic dramedy that follows Alex, a woman determined to fulfill her late mother’s final wish, completing a “life list” she made at 13. Adapted from Lori Nelson Spielman’s novel, the film takes audiences on a journey of personal growth, love, and self-discovery. But does Alex complete her list before the New Year?
Alex’s Journey: Completing the Life List
Alex’s life list contains twelve tasks, ranging from simple adventures like getting a tattoo to more complex emotional challenges like reconciling with her father. Some items prove straightforward, but others test her resilience and courage.
Fortunately, Alex isn’t alone. Brad, the lawyer managing her mother’s will, plays a crucial role in supporting her. He helps her land a teaching job at a women’s shelter, tracks down her biological father, and encourages her through personal struggles. Her brothers also step up, creating a heartwarming backyard camping experience under a full moon, an item from her list that ultimately leads to a reconciliation with their father.
Despite obstacles, Alex successfully checks off each item, except for one, finding true love. However, her mother anticipated this challenge and ensured that Alex would still receive her inheritance if she completed everything else.
The Love Story: Why Alex & Brad End Up Together
At the beginning of The Life List, Alex is in a relationship with Finn, a charming but self-centered gamer. Their relationship lacks depth, and Alex ultimately realizes he doesn’t support her dreams.
By contrast, Brad embodies everything Alex’s mother defined as true love. He meets all four of her criteria:
- Kindness – Brad consistently prioritizes Alex’s happiness and well-being.
- Emotional Connection – Alex feels comfortable sharing everything with him.
- Encouragement – Brad pushes her to become the best version of herself.
- Long-Term Potential – He genuinely cares about her future and family.
Unlike Finn, who expects Alex to fit into his life, Brad supports her aspirations and even uses his own money to help her reconnect with her biological father. In the end, Alex realizes she has unknowingly fallen in love with Brad, completing the final item on her list.
The Inheritance: A Sentimental Gift from Her Mother
When Alex finally opens the envelope containing her inheritance, she discovers that her mother has left her the family home, along with a trust to cover expenses. This thoughtful gesture highlights how deeply her mother understood her, knowing Alex’s sentimental nature and desire to hold on to memories.
By making Alex complete the life list before receiving the house, her mother ensured she wouldn’t shut herself off in grief but instead live a full, meaningful life.
Rebuilding Family Bonds: Alex’s Relationship with Her Father & Brother
Alex initially resents her father, blaming him for her parents’ divorce. Over time, however, she gains new perspective through conversations with her biological father and brothers. She ultimately realizes her dad wasn’t the villain she believed him to be and reconciles with him.
Understanding Her Brother Julian’s Resentment
Julian’s distant and dismissive attitude toward Alex is revealed to be rooted in childhood jealousy. He always felt excluded from the close bond Alex shared with their mother. Their emotional conversation under the full moon allows them to reconnect and heal.
The True Meaning of The Life List
At its core, The Life List is about more than just checking off goals, it’s a story of self-growth, resilience, and rediscovering passion. Alex starts the film as someone who has given up on her dreams, weighed down by life’s hardships. Through her journey, she regains her confidence, embraces love, and finds true happiness.
By the end, Alex realizes that some of the best things in life, love, success, and fulfillment, require effort and perseverance. And in doing so, she honors her mother’s legacy in the most meaningful way possible.
