The Bucket List: A Testament to Living in the Moment
For college students in the prime of their lives, how often do we ponder the end of it? We are in what’s often considered the most beautiful phase, tagged with youth, energy, and passion. Death seems a distant concept, yet The Bucket List gently guides us to pursue our innermost desires, to live fully in the present, unburdened by material wealth and external achievements.
The narrative of two elderly men facing cancer and seeking to fulfill their lifelong dreams may appear remote, yet it resonates deeply, often leaving viewers in tears. It’s the courage to do what many only dream of that captivates us. They embody the spirit of seizing the day.
Two Cool Seniors
I’m tempted to call the two protagonists the coolest old guys in the world. Their zest for life, even in the face of mortality, is truly inspiring.
Edward Cole, a haughty and quick-tempered wealthy white man, has a string of four marriages behind him, and a strained relationship with his daughter. During his hospital stay, his only company is his assistant who dutifully delivers gourmet treats and elegant flowers daily.
Carter Chambers, in stark contrast, is a grounded and wise black auto mechanic. A loving father of three with a passion for reading and an optimistic outlook, Carter harbors a quiet desire to break free from a life of selfless dedication.
These characters represent near opposites. Fatefully, these two vastly different men find themselves sharing a hospital room, each learning they have only a year left to live.
Seizing the Day
However, the film doesn’t dwell on sorrow. Instead, echoing the sentiment of cherishing every moment, reminiscent of The Story of My Life, they choose to embrace their true desires in their final chapter. One man yearns to escape the monotony of his 45-year routine, contemplating the better job he once dreamed of, rather than a life as a repairman dedicated to his family. The other, swimming in wealth and material pleasures, finds himself devoid of genuine affection, without a single visitor during his last days.
And so, the two old men decide to be “selfish” for once. Skydiving, race-car driving, tatoos… the more outrageous it is the better. The two men with gray hair found the joy of life on their world trip. After that, they went back home to their warm and complete families.
The Power of Connection
Edward and Carter support each other in their final journey, fulfilling their long-awaited family reunions. The film offers a poignant, albeit idealized, closure. Edward and Carter depart this world without regrets, having embraced life to the fullest and cherished their loved ones.
The Bucket List, with its delicate emotional portrayal and profound introspection, depicts the fragility and strength of life, and the significance of human connection. It urges us to value the present, cherish our families, and pursue our deepest desires. On this short and precious journey of life, we ought to boldly face adversity and yearn for pure and unforgettable happiness.
We are growing up and it is time to spread our wings，But, please don’t forget the true meaning of life while you work , it is love, family, and life.