The Life List

As Alex Rose faces the heartbreaking reality of her mother Elizabeth’s battle with metastatic cancer, her life is turned upside down. Following Elizabeth’s passing, the family transitions the management of Rose Cosmetics, with Alex’s sister-in-law stepping in as CEO, while Alex herself is left with a challenging inheritance. Her mother has planned ahead, keeping the family home off the market for a year, and stipulating that all but Alex will receive 20% of the company’s shares. The key to Alex’s share lies in fulfilling a series of life tasks that her mother laid out when Alex was just thirteen, designed to guide her towards personal growth and prevent her from becoming stagnant.

Upon reviewing Elizabeth’s final video message, Alex learns she must collaborate with the executor of the estate, a young lawyer named Brad Ackerman, who will oversee her progress in meeting the challenges on the so-called life list. To unlock her inheritance, Alex must conquer her fears and embark on a quest that involves understanding love and its true essence.

The tasks set before her include a true love test, which involves opening her heart to someone in a profound way. To pass this test, the person must exhibit kindness, inspire her to become her best self, and evoke feelings strong enough that she could envision having a family with them. Initially, she shares this list with her boyfriend Finn, who excitedly dreams of a future where they co-run a gaming company. However, disappointed by his lack of seriousness, Alex decides to take on Elizabeth’s challenge with full determination.

During a comedy club open mic night, Alex impressively confronts a heckler, showcasing her newfound confidence. She challenges herself further by volunteering to teach high school students at a local shelter. Struggling with one particular student, she turns to Garrett Taylor, the shelter’s coordinator, for guidance, strengthening their budding connection.

While navigating family dynamics, Alex uncovers more about her father, musician Johnny Alvarez, leading to confrontations with her brothers regarding her desire to find him. As she dives back into music by learning Clair de Lune from her childhood piano teacher, she faces the additional challenge of performing in a group recital—an experience that continues to test her growth.

As her relationship with Garrett deepens, she involves him in various activities to check off her life list, yet they face turbulence due to miscommunication and emotional friction. An important charity event leads to encouraging encounters, including a memorable interaction with basketball star Patrick Ewing, further validating her adventurous spirit.

In a twist of fate, Alex and Brad embark on a road trip to surprise Johnny but encounter emotional turmoil when they find themselves drawn closer together. After a heartfelt night that escalates into a passionate moment, they are confronted with the reality of their choices. Upon learning that Brad ended his previous relationship because of her, Alex feels conflicted and questions her feelings for both him and Garrett.

Lucas, Alex’s brother, tries to bring the siblings together, culminating in a spontaneous campout that fosters a moment of reconciliation and reflection on the love they shared with their mother. With heavy introspection, Alex eventually reconciles with her estranged father Sam, marking a pivotal moment in her journey toward mending family ties.

As December arrives, Alex is surprised to find herself at the law office without Brad present. However, she learns that despite not completing her tasks, she has been granted her inheritance: the deed to the family home. In a touching final video, Elizabeth encourages her to pursue true love, which prompts a heartfelt reunion with Brad. They share an embrace that signifies a hopeful new beginning.

At a festive New Year’s gathering, Alex’s brother Julian expresses gratitude toward their mother for guiding them through the challenges of the past year, symbolizing the enduring impact of love, family, and the powerful legacy of a mother’s dreams.

Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:04