Sofia Carson was a big part of my childhood media consumption. I watched her in all of the “Descendants” movies and the rest of her films in her Disney era.
When I found out that she would be starring in a rom-com, I was thrilled. My childhood and favorite movie genre were coming together, and I was curious on how it would turn out.
Released March 28 to Netflix, “The Life List” follows Alex (Carson), who’s grappling with the death of her mother. When going to collect her inheritance, she finds out her mom had something else in mind: she must complete her teenage bucket list by New Years. In the process of crossing off the items on the list, Alex finds journeys through self-discovery and unexpected love.
Right off the bat, the chemistry between the lead characters is what makes the movie work. Alex, played with vulnerability and humor, meets Brad (Kyle Allen), the executor of her mother’s estate, and their banter is a delightful mix of wit and awkwardness all rom-com fans will love. Their connection feels genuine, and had me rooting for them the entire time. The love story isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s sweet enough to satisfy fans of the genre.
From a rom-com perspective, “The Life List” is exactly what I was hoping for — there’s plenty of lighthearted banter, adorable moments and those classic “will they/won’t they” sparks that make the genre so irresistible.
What sets the movie apart from typical rom-coms is its emotional depth. While there’s no shortage of the usual romantic tropes — awkward first dates, misunderstandings and grand gestures — this film takes the time to explore grief, healing and personal growth. Alex’s journey is not just about finding love, but about learning to live fully and embrace new possibilities. That layer of introspection gives the film a refreshing edge, making it more than just a typical love story.
The film is not without its flaws. The plot feels predictable and some of the secondary characters could have been given more depth. There’s a tendency to fall into typical rom-com tropes, and while that’s not something I mind, it does mean some of the twists feel less impactful. The pacing also slows down in the middle, but it picks up toward the end, leading to a satisfying, heartwarming conclusion.
If you’re looking for something that’s lighthearted with emotional depth, “The Life List” is a solid pick. It may not be the most innovative rom-com, but it delivers the heartwarming and feel-good moments that make the genre so lovable.
