In theaters January 11th 2008

language, including a sexual reference
Run Time: 97 min
Matt's rating - 4

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Review by Matt Mungle

  In the movie, Carter Chambers (Morgan Freeman) is dying of cancer. He has entered the harsh reality of knowing approximately when he is going to die. He is an intelligent but simple man with grown kids and a wife from whom he has grown apart. A mechanic who skipped his dream of college and worked hard so his kids could have a better life. His room mate at the hospital is also battling a terminal illness. Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson) is a man in drastic contrast to Chambers. Three times divorced and with more money than one can imagine. A lifelong business man with everything at his fingertips. He has never given life or others a second thought on his way to the top. And now that he is faced with the end he decides to make the best of it. For himself and Chambers.

  The Bucket List is an itemization of things you would like to do before you kick the bucket. Chambers has a list and Cole has the money, so off they go. Along the way they experience an understanding for each other and although Cole thinks he is benefiting Chambers he finds out that his life is drastically changed. That is one thing about this film I thought was so meaningful. How the death of a person can actually save the life of another. Also, it was a rude awakening to how fleeting life really is. A few times the characters make reference to how fast time has gone. Maybe the fact that both actors are getting into later years helped them to understand their characters and add to the realness.

Also, the film handles the subject of the afterlife nicely without being preachy or one sided. It does so with natural dialogue that doesn't seem scripted or agenda driven. Chambers, the man of faith and hope deals well with Cole's skepticism and refusal to give thought to any form of belief or doctrine. Cole's world is what he has made it and that is all that matters. There is a line where Edward says that he has no faith because he has never been able to wrap his head around it. Carter smiles and in that classic Freeman delivery says, "maybe your head is in the way".

  Two men. Strangers a week ago. Now bonded together by tragedy. Making the most out of their last days. That is the premise of The Bucket List. But its depth is much larger. It is a stark look at death but with the focus on living. Living each day with joy. The film is rated PG-13 for language, including a sexual reference. Though safe for your teenager this is not the movie for them. I think they would be bored with the subject matter and though there is quite a bit of humor throughout they may find it dull and unable to relate. All other age groups should find meaning in this film and for some it may be the last chance to make your final days count. For others maybe a reminder to live a life of meaning from the start. But everyone will find moments to laugh out loud and moments to quietly reflect. This is a film that is well cast and expertly acted. Rob Reiner directs another classic to add to his list of achievements. I give it a strong 4 out of 5, but only for those ready to deal with the issues within.