Plot Summary
"The Bucket List" tells the beautiful story of a corporate billionaire and working class mechanic who have nothing in common except for their terminal illnesses. While sharing a hospital room together, they decide to leave it and do all the things they have ever wanted to do before they die according to their bucket lists. In the process, both of them heal each other, become unlikely friends, and ultimately find joy in life.
Film Review
Although the plot is predictable, the film is exceptional. Viewers are effectively introduced to two men and their journey to becoming great friends. The plot moves along smoothly, and the acting is top notch. Emotional parts are done just right, and the comedy is brilliant. Other than the predictable storyline, the movie is exceptional and will receive a four stars from Philosopher’s. We recommend it to anyone looking for a feel-good movie with philosophical insight onto how you should live your life.
Philisophical Insight
‘What is a good life’ and ‘how should one live’ has been a thoroughly debated topic throughout philosophical history, with many people equating both to happiness. A philosophical message on how to have a good life is pervasive throughout the film. In the end, the writers explain how you should live your life to the fullest, how your family is important, and how you should be happy in life. The film does not categorize happiness as a quantifiable measurement. Instead, it analyzes the life of a rich man and how his wealth and power (consumerism) is not making him happy. Then, it dabbles in Hedonism (things that bring pleasure) by executing the bucket list. However, at the end of the day the two men conclude upon a theory like Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics. The good life is not categorical, religious, or materialistic, instead it is up to humans to rationally determine for ourselves what our meanings of life are. Once achieved, people will live good lives.
****
What is the Good Life?
pHILOSOPHER'SfILMS
15
MovieReview