Written by Hai Cinema Khoj | Published: March 2024 | Language: English | Estimated Read Time: 35 Minutes
Release Date: 22 March 2024
Genre: Romance, Drama
Language: English
Director: Rebecca Thomas
Main Cast: Haley Lu Richardson, Ross Butler, Jacob Batalon
Box Office: $65M (Worldwide)
OTT Platform: Netflix (Released July 2024)
IMDb: 7.9/10
📖 Full Story Breakdown
The Life List begins with Abby Walters (Haley Lu Richardson), a successful corporate strategist who seems to have everything going for her — a stable job, a loving boyfriend, and a meticulously planned life. But when her estranged grandmother passes away, Abby is unexpectedly bequeathed a hand-written journal titled “The Life List” — a bucket list she wrote at 17 and completely forgot about. With each unchecked item comes a wave of nostalgia, regret, and the realization that she has drifted far from who she once aspired to be.
Urged by the journal’s charm and a peculiar clause in the will that demands she complete the list to inherit her grandmother’s cottage, Abby sets off on an emotional and physical journey. Along the way, she reunites with her childhood best friend, Jesse (Ross Butler), now a nature-loving travel vlogger, and reconnects with her quirky cousin Max (Jacob Batalon), who becomes the comic relief and emotional anchor throughout the film.
Each life-list item brings Abby face-to-face with buried fears, lost passions, and unexpected encounters—from dancing in the rain with strangers in Paris, to performing spoken word poetry, to apologizing to an old high school rival. As she ticks off each goal, her relationship with Jesse rekindles, shifting from warm friendship to tender romance. But challenges arise when her high-powered job calls her back with a promotion she always dreamed of.
The final stretch of the film is set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, where Abby must choose between her old life and the one she's rediscovered. In a heartfelt moment, she performs her grandmother’s favorite song at a local festival — the final item on the list. The story closes with Abby starting her own non-profit that helps young people chase purpose, as she and Jesse embrace a future rooted in passion, not pressure.
🎭 Character Arcs & Cast Performance
Haley Lu Richardson delivers an emotionally layered performance as Abby, balancing corporate rigidity with blossoming vulnerability. Her character's evolution from a control-obsessed careerist to a purpose-driven dreamer is portrayed with nuance and grace. Ross Butler brings warmth and maturity to Jesse, a character who could have easily been reduced to a mere love interest. His chemistry with Richardson is believable and sincere. Jacob Batalon adds levity and heart to Max, stealing scenes with his impeccable comedic timing and emotional insight.
The supporting cast, though limited in screen time, offers well-rounded portrayals, particularly Abby’s boss and her late grandmother, whose flashbacks are filled with wisdom and wit. The cast performance is one of the movie’s biggest strengths, offering believable dynamics and character growth that feel grounded and heartfelt.
🎶 Music and Cinematography
The soundtrack is composed by indie darling Amelia Hart, blending soft acoustic guitar with atmospheric orchestration. Each life-list moment is enhanced with fitting musical motifs — from soulful Parisian jazz to quiet coastal melodies. The highlight is the original track "Bloom Again," performed by Richardson herself in the final act, which is bound to top streaming charts.
Cinematographer Leo Marks deserves praise for visually stunning frames that reflect Abby’s emotional state. Golden hour lighting, picturesque road trips, and intimate handheld shots make the film a visual treat. From the cobbled streets of Paris to lush forests of Oregon, every scene radiates warmth and exploration.
📈 Box Office Performance
Released during the spring romance season, The Life List enjoyed a healthy theatrical run. It opened to $18M in its first weekend in North America, eventually grossing over $65 million worldwide. With a modest production budget of $15M, the film turned out to be a profitable venture for the studio. It performed exceptionally well in international markets like the UK, Australia, and South Korea, especially among young adults and romantic drama fans.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
- Sundance Film Festival: Audience Award (Premier Drama Category)
- Golden Globes: Nomination for Best Actress (Haley Lu Richardson)
- Independent Spirit Awards: Best Screenplay Nomination
- MTV Movie Awards: Best Kiss (Haley & Ross)
While not a traditional Oscar contender, the film has received praise across indie and romantic film circles and earned a loyal audience base post-theatrical release.
📺 OTT Release & Streaming Info
The Life List premiered on Netflix in July 2024, just four months after its theatrical release. Within two weeks, it ranked in the Global Top 10 in over 25 countries. Netflix viewers particularly appreciated the cozy visuals and emotional storytelling, making it a favorite among binge-worthy weekend picks. It remains on Netflix’s Romance Picks playlist.
🌐 Audience Reviews and Social Media Reactions
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 84% | IMDb Rating: 7.9
Social media was abuzz with praise for the chemistry between the leads, the emotional weight of the story, and the satisfying ending. Popular TikTok creators made edits using the final musical performance, and several Instagram fan pages posted fan-art and list recreations. The relatable theme of rediscovery resonated deeply, especially with millennials and Gen Z.
🧐 Comparisons With Other Romantic Dramas
The Life List draws natural comparisons with films like The Fault in Our Stars, Me Before You, and Julie & Julia. However, its unique take on adulthood, purpose, and introspection sets it apart. It trades in melodrama for grounded emotionality and avoids clichéd tropes, offering instead an authentic slice-of-life romance.
🧩 Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes Facts
- Based on the bestselling novel of the same name by Lori Nelson Spielman.
- Haley Lu Richardson trained in guitar and vocals for 6 months for her final performance.
- The Pacific Northwest scenes were shot in real-time golden hour to capture natural beauty.
- The bucket list was written by actual fans who submitted dreams during pre-production.
- The original working title was “Inheritance List.”
❓ FAQs About The Life List (2024)
- Is The Life List based on a true story?
No, but it is based on a novel inspired by real emotions and life events. - Where can I watch The Life List?
Streaming now on Netflix worldwide. - Is there a sequel planned?
There are rumors of a follow-up, but nothing confirmed by the studio. - What is the main message of the movie?
That true happiness lies in rediscovering your passions and connections. - What is the song Haley sings?
"Bloom Again" – an original track composed for the film. - Was this filmed on location?
Yes, in Oregon, Paris, and British Columbia. - Who wrote the screenplay?
Sarah Alderson, known for character-driven romantic dramas. - Any special cameos?
The author of the novel has a blink-and-miss appearance as a bookstore owner. - How long is the runtime?
2 hours and 6 minutes. - Is it suitable for kids?
PG-13 – for thematic elements and light language. - What other movies is it similar to?
Julie & Julia, Eat Pray Love, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. - Who is the target audience?
Young adults, romantics, and fans of life-journey narratives. - How was the critical reception?
Generally favorable, especially praising acting and theme execution. - What’s the climax about?
Abby sings on stage at a local fest to honor her grandma — her final list item. - Is there post-credit content?
A short blooper reel is shown during end credits.
📝 Final Verdict
The Life List is a beautifully crafted modern romantic drama with heart, humor, and soul. Its message of reconnection with self, family, and love is timely and impactful. It’s not just a movie — it’s a gentle reminder to pause and reflect on life’s true purpose. With memorable performances, a gorgeous soundtrack, and emotional depth, it stands tall among 2024’s most touching releases.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (4.5/5)
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