Warning: This article contains significant spoilers regarding The Life List!
Netflix’s The Life List invites viewers into an engaging journey where the protagonist, Alex, revisits and attempts to fulfill twelve aspirations she penned down at the age of 13. Known for its repertoire of quality romantic comedies, the streaming platform successfully melds elements of drama with lighthearted moments in this Sofia Carson-led film. The resulting dramedy exhibits warmth, sentimentality, and motivation, making it a heartfelt viewing experience.
Adapted from Lori Nelson Spielman’s 2013 novel, the film chronicles the life of Alex Rose as she embarks on a self-discovery mission inspired by her childhood goals. Through this emotional quest, Alex recruits various characters who are pivotal in guiding her towards personal insights she never anticipated gaining.
12. Be A Great Teacher
Alex’s Lifelong Dream of Teaching
Among the aspirations on her list, teaching was a dream Alex nearly fulfilled before her mother passed away. Despite briefly working as an educator in her twenties, a wrongful termination forced her to abandon that path in favor of a marketing role at her mother’s cosmetics company.
11. Make Peace, Not War, With Dad
Alex’s Closer Bond with Her Mother
In this segment, Alex discloses that her mother yearned for her to reconcile with her father, laying the groundwork for this particular goal. Unfortunately, both Alex and her dad struggle with their mutual resentment, complicating any potential healing.
10. Learn To Play Clair De Lune So Mom Will Finally Shut Up About It
Alex’s Reluctance in Music Lessons
Alex discusses how she discontinued piano lessons before mastering this piece. Requiring assistance, she reaches out to her old teacher, who agrees to help her learn Clair de Lune—on the condition she follows through with regular practice and participates in a recital.
9. Help People And Make A Difference
A Vaguely Defined Goal
This particular aspiration might be the most ambiguous on Alex’s list, leaving much to interpretation and personal reflection.
8. Do Stand Up For Once In My Life! I’m Funny
Prepared and Ready for Comedy
Interestingly, this is the first goal Alex tackles, as she has prepared her comedic material in advance. Her performance demonstrates her ability to handle challenges effortlessly, even when faced with hecklers.
7. Get A Tattoo
Exploring Tattoo Possibilities
Although Alex’s mother suggested skipping this item, it remains non-negotiable for her inheritance. After getting a tattoo on her wrist, the specifics of which are somewhat obscured on screen, she shares the experience with her siblings.
6. Camp Under A Full Moon
Siblings to the Rescue
This aspiration, reminiscent of youthful dreams, is simple yet delightful. Alex’s brothers lovingly orchestrate a backyard camp-out as a way to help her fulfill this goal.
5. Play One-On-One with a New York Knick
A Fan’s Dream Come True
In a surprising twist, Alex meets fellow New York Knicks player, Patrick Ewing, through her boyfriend Garrett, leading to an incredible one-on-one basketball game during a charity event, thus fulfilling yet another life list item.
4. Go All Out In A Mosh Pit
Rocking Out with Brad
Despite her mother’s apprehensions, Alex embraces the exhilarating experience of attending a concert and diving into a mosh pit, promoting bonding time with her friend Brad.
3. Read Moby Dick. Every Word. If Julian Can Do It, So Can I
An Encounter with Garrett
Among the list’s most relatable ambitions is the challenge of reading Herman Melville’s classic, Moby Dick. The film captures the struggle, humorously depicting both Alex and Garrett’s battles with the daunting text.
2. Learn To Drive
Navigating Life Without Driving Skills
For many, the notion of a New Yorker not knowing how to drive might seem strange. Yet, Alex’s urban lifestyle reflects a common reality for many who rely on extensive public transit systems, even as her driving skills remain unrefined.
1. Find True Love
The Quest for Genuine Connection
The journey to uncover what “true”love means plays a critical role for Alex throughout the course of The Life List. As she navigates relationships, she learns to discern between fleeting attraction and profound affection.