"The Life List", a Netflix original, unfortunately falls prey to an awkward combination of two distinct stories - a predictable romantic pursuit and a dramatic narrative about a woman prompted by her deceased mother to find her zest for life to claim her inheritance. Despite these flaws, the movie is not devoid of touching moments and interesting character developments.

Sofia Carson plays Alex, a woman stuck in a mundane life without realizing it. She is living with her idle boyfriend Finn (Michael Rowland), working a job in marketing she doesn't love, and is detached from the dream of having children and a suburban life. However, her life takes a turn when her mother Elizabeth dies of cancer and leaves Alex with a challenge she must fulfil to gain her inheritance.

Based on Lori Nelson Spielman’s novel, director Adam Brooks faces the task of translating characters from novel to screen and maintaining their depth. Narratively, the film stumbles, becoming bogged down with unnecessary sub-plots and redundant elements while failing to engage with Alex's real potential for transformation.

The portrayal of Alex's friends and family is also subpar, mostly appearing uninteresting and one-dimensional. While Alex faces her life's challenges with courage and some relatability, she falls short in many instances which could have been utilised to flesh out her character.

The redeeming quality of the film is mostly found in the aesthetics, superbly handled by Brooks and his team. The intimate visuals during Alex's challenging journey and her uncomfortable encounters create an atmospheric narrative. However, the film’s general lack of depth and resonance is disappointing, as it leans more towards the formulaic rather than truly inspiring audiences to rediscover their own dreams and take risks.