Netflix’s latest heartfelt drama, The Life List, is already making waves. Directed by Adam Brooks, this touching film follows Sofia Carson as Alex Rose, a woman who, after receiving unexpected news, creates a bucket list of dreams she never pursued. Along the way, she reconnects with her estranged sibling, finds a surprising romance, and learns to embrace life’s unpredictability. The film is a moving blend of humor, grief, love, and self-discovery, making it a perfect pick for anyone looking for a deeply emotional yet uplifting watch. If The Life List left you feeling inspired, some films explore similar themes of love, loss, and second chances.
1. The Bucket List (2007) – Directed by Rob Reiner
PHOTOGRAPHS TO BE USED SOLELY FOR ADVERTISING, PROMOTION, PUBLICITY OR REVIEWS OF THIS SPECIFIC MOTION PICTURE AND TO REMAIN THE PROPERTY OF THE STUDIO. NOT FOR SALE OR REDISTRIBUTION.
If there’s one movie that perfectly captures the essence of The Life List, it’s The Bucket List. Like The Life List, it follows characters facing mortality who decide to live life to the fullest before it’s too late. Both films mix humor with heavy emotions, showing that even in the face of death, there’s still joy to be found.
Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman play two terminally ill men who escape their hospital beds and set off on a global adventure to complete their bucket list. It’s a heartwarming and sometimes heartbreaking film that reminds us to cherish every moment. If The Life List made you reflect on what truly matters, this one will do the same.
2. Clouds (2020) – Directed by Justin Baldoni
Clouds and The Life List share a profound message—living without regrets. Both feature protagonists who turn their diagnosis into an opportunity to inspire those around them. Where The Life List follows a woman fulfilling dreams, Clouds tells the true story of Zach Sobiech, a teenager with terminal cancer who writes music to leave behind a legacy.
This Disney+ film is as uplifting as it is devastating. It’s a celebration of love, friendship, and music, with a powerful soundtrack that will stay with you long after the credits roll. If you loved the emotional depth of The Life List, Clouds will definitely resonate with you.
3. Eat Pray Love (2010) – Directed by Ryan Murphy
Both The Life List and Eat Pray Love explore self-discovery, travel, and finding joy after loss. If you were drawn to the idea of stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing life’s adventures, this one’s for you.
Julia Roberts stars as a woman who, after a painful divorce, embarks on a year-long journey across Italy, India, and Bali. It’s a visually stunning and deeply personal film about healing, personal growth, and discovering new paths in life. Much like The Life List, it reminds us that sometimes, the best way to move forward is to take a leap of faith.
4. The Skeleton Twins (2014) – Directed by Craig Johnson
Sibling relationships play a crucial role in both The Life List and The Skeleton Twins. Both films explore complicated, yet deeply loving, brother-sister dynamics and how past wounds can shape our present.
Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader star as estranged twins who reunite after a near-tragic event. It’s funny, dark, and incredibly moving, proving that sometimes, family is the best support system, even when things get messy. If you loved the emotional depth of The Life List, you’ll appreciate the raw, heartfelt storytelling here.
5. The Descendants (2011) – Directed by Alexander Payne
Like The Life List, The Descendants is about grief, family, and rediscovering love in unexpected places. Both films tackle the complexities of loss and the way it reshapes our relationships.
George Clooney delivers one of his best performances as a father trying to reconnect with his daughters after his wife’s accident. The film is a delicate balance of comedy and tragedy, offering a deeply human look at how we cope with heartbreak. If The Life List moved you, The Descendants will too.
6. The Farewell (2019) – Directed by Lulu Wang
The Life List and The Farewell share a common theme—how we handle difficult truths while holding onto hope. Both movies explore familial love, cultural expectations, and saying goodbye.
Awkwafina stars as a woman who travels to China to say farewell to her terminally ill grandmother—without actually telling her she’s sick. The film is tender, thought-provoking, and deeply emotional. If you connected with The Life List’s themes of love and loss, The Farewell will feel just as personal.
7. Life as a House (2001) – Directed by Irwin Winkler
8. Begin Again (2013) – Directed by John Carney
Business and romance intertwine in both The Life List and Begin Again. If you loved how The Life List showed unexpected relationships blossoming through shared passion, this is a must-watch.
Keira Knightley and Mark Ruffalo star in this musical drama about a struggling songwriter and a washed-up producer who collaborate to make an album. It’s a feel-good story about second chances, redemption, and the power of music. If you’re looking for something uplifting after The Life List, this one delivers.
9. Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (2015) – Directed by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon
Like The Life List, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl tackles illness, friendship, and finding joy in difficult times. Both films mix humor with heavy emotions, creating a story that is both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
The film follows a socially awkward teen who befriends a classmate diagnosed with leukemia. It’s quirky, heartfelt, and filled with creative filmmaking. If The Life List made you laugh and cry in equal measure, this indie gem will do the same.
10. Lady Bird (2017) – Directed by Greta Gerwig
Like The Life List, Lady Bird beautifully captures the deep yet complicated bond between a mother and daughter. The film follows Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson (Saoirse Ronan), a high school senior longing for independence while clashing with her strong-willed mother, Marion (Laurie Metcalf). At its heart, it’s a touching coming-of-age story about love, misunderstandings, and the unspoken sacrifices parents make.
If you loved the emotional depth of The Life List, this one is a must-watch. It balances heartfelt moments with humor, making it an honest portrayal of the push-and-pull dynamic between a mother and daughter. Ronan and Metcalf deliver powerhouse performances, and by the end, you’ll want to call your mom.
These films, like The Life List, remind us that life is messy, beautiful, and unpredictable. Whether you’re looking for stories about bucket lists, sibling bonds, unexpected romance, or overcoming grief, these movies are the perfect next watch.
