Director Adam Brooks, known for Definitely, Maybe, returns with a new film adapted from Lori Nelson Spielman’s novel The Life List.

Alex, a woman who has never truly lived for herself, finds her life upended after her mother’s passing. In her mother’s will, she’s asked to complete a “life list” she wrote as a child — a set of dreams and goals she has long since abandoned. This journey leads her to confront the ghosts of her past and slowly rediscover her passions and her identity, opening the door to a completely new beginning.

The Life List isn’t the best of its genre — mainly because it tries to blend too many — but it definitely qualifies as a feel-good movie. Especially in times like these, where an entire generation feels lost and disconnected, it offers a gentle reminder of hope. It teaches us that what matters most isn’t when we start, but that we start at all. It speaks to the toxic relationships that drag us down, and the power of choosing to rise. Becoming a better version of ourselves is sometimes as simple as taking the first step.

While Alex initially seems content with everything she has, it’s clear she’s uncertain about what she’s truly living for. This confusion makes her relatable to the audience, but emotionally, the character doesn’t fully resonate. This seems to be a result of both the underwhelming script and a somewhat lackluster performance by the lead actress.

Overall, the film is superficial and doesn’t require much thought — which isn’t always a bad thing. Still, it could have delved deeper. For instance, the interactions between Alex and her student, Ezra, felt flat and unnatural, leaving viewers wondering how their relationship actually evolved.

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If you’re feeling a little lost or in need of a motivational boost, The Life List might be just what you need — a temporary but comforting reminder that it’s okay to stumble while figuring things out.