The Life List (2025) is one of the most anticipated Netflix romantic‑comedy drama films of the year, blending heartfelt romance, comedic warmth, self‑discovery, and aspirational journeys. Directed by Adam Brooks, and starring Sofia Carson, Kyle Allen, and Connie Britton, this English‑language film was released on Netflix on March 28, 2025.
Movie Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | The Life List |
| Genre | Romantic Comedy Drama |
| Language | English |
| Release Date | March 28, 2025 |
| Director | Adam Brooks |
| Writer | Adam Brooks (screenplay, based on novel by Lori Nelson Spielman) |
Overview and Context
The Life List (2025) is an American romantic comedy‑drama film directed and written by Adam Brooks, adapted from the best‑selling novel by Lori Nelson Spielman :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}. The story centers on Alex, played by Sofia Carson, who, after her mother’s passing, receives a set of tasks drawn from a childhood “life list” — a heartfelt challenge to live authentically and defy complacency :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Cast & Characters
- Sofia Carson as Alexandra “Alex” Rose, a young woman rediscovering her aspirations after personal loss :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
- Kyle Allen as Brad, the earnest lawyer helping Alex fulfill her mother’s challenge :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
- Connie Britton as Elizabeth Rose, Alex’s late mother, whose recorded messages guide the journey :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
- Additional cast includes Sebastian de Souza (Garrett), José Zúñiga (Samuel), Jordi Mollà (Johnny), Marianne Rendón (Zoe), and more enriching the emotional and comedic tones of the story :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
Plot & Themes
When her mother Elizabeth dies of cancer, Alex discovers her home will remain unsold for a year. In the meantime, she must fulfill childhood dreams listed in her “life list” to claim her inheritance — a series of assignments designed to push her beyond routine and into growth :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
As Alex steps out of her comfort zone—facing hecklers at open‑mic nights, volunteering, reconnecting with estranged family members, and even pursuing a tentative romance—she navigates identity, love, and loss. Her journey includes emotional confrontations and unexpected connections, culminating in a resolution that emphasizes love, self‑acceptance, and the courage to pursue authenticity :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
Production & Filming
Written and directed by Adam Brooks, the film is based on Lori Nelson Spielman’s novel and produced by Liza Chasin under 3dot Productions, with Netflix distributing the final cut :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}. Sofia Carson was confirmed as the lead in March 2024, with the ensemble cast finalized shortly after :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
Principal photography took place in September 2024, primarily in Nyack, New York, which doubled for the story’s varied backdrop from suburban comfort zones to transformative vistas :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
Release & Reception
Released on Netflix on March 28, 2025, The Life List quickly found its audience, rising to #1 on Netflix’s Most Popular Movies list in the United States by the week of April 8, 2025 :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}. Early reviews offered mixed commentary — some praised its inspirational premise and performances, while others found its romantic tropes familiar. Nonetheless, it established a strong presence in streaming charts :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
Why It Matters
The Life List resonates for its uplifting exploration of grief, purpose, and rediscovery. With a relatable narrative anchored in emotional realism and humor, it invites viewers to reflect on their unfulfilled dreams and the potency of deliberate living. The film’s star-studded cast, charming tone, and Netflix platform give it broad appeal for fans of romantic dramedy and self‑reinvention stories alike.
Summary
The Life List (2025) is a heartfelt, beautifully-crafted Netflix film that blends romance, life-affirming challenges, and emotional growth into a warm and engaging narrative. Led by a compelling performance from Sofia Carson and sustained by authentic supporting roles, it’s a compelling story about unlocking your true potential. Released on March 28 2025 and quickly ascending Netflix’s global charts, this film offers both inspiration and comfort — a charming reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
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