One of the first things my 18-year-old son noticed as we entered the theater was that he was one of the youngest ones there. Later, as the theater filled up, he was one of several less than 20 years of age. In front of me were an 85-year-old-lady and her family. I would overhear them say it was the first time she had been to a movie in years. Of course a movie featuring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman and dealing with terminal illness in the later stages of life was something that would appeal to an older crowd. The direction provided by Rob Reiner and a wonderful script provided by Justin Zackham would provide a story of excellence for any age.

From the outset it was obvious this project was close to the hearts of Director Reiner and actors Freeman and Nicholson. The production, shooting locations, music, editing, and so forth brings the complete package. There is not an ounce of wasted film. Not only are we treated with these wonderful components but a script that knows exactly how to blend comedy with the pairing of Nicholson and Freeman, two of our most brilliant actors; but it also knows how to bring out the drama as we see these two face death. While dealing with serious subject matter, Reiner comes through with his best work since the early 1990s. We see a story we think we know the answers to from the opening narration. The twist at the end brings us back to reality and forces us to think even more about the story we have just seen.

The Bucket List starts off with two individuals facing the reality of death. Mechanic Carter Chambers (played by Morgan Freeman) and billionaire Edward Cole (played by Jack Nicholson) end up sharing a hospital room. Here Reiner brings these two contrasting characters together and shows the audience that not only are there the obvious differences, such as race, social economic status, and more, but there are also similarities. While each character may not recognize the similarities at first, they build a bond and friendship that moves them to the point of trying to achieve a few of their life dreams and desires before they kick the bucket—thus the creation of the bucket list. What transpires is not only heart-inspiring, but laugh-out-loud funny, featuring some of the best lines ever and a tear-jerking conclusion that will require a Kleenex or two.

Along the journey we see a deeply spiritual man, Carter Chambers, who is loyal to his wife of over 40 years. He is unapologetic about his faith, and recognizes his life will not end with his death. He shares those attributes, hopes, and dreams with his new-found friend Edward Cole. Unfortunately, Cole is a man of science, not of faith. He is also a man who has lost a great deal of purpose. As these two live life to the fullest, they learn to love each other, and Cole sees a sermon of living, life, and faith lived out before him.

The Bucket List is in many ways a sermon, a sermon not just for Cole, but for each of us observing this wonderful portrayal of friendship and love. The sermon starts as we see a man who loves and gives to his children be consistent in his faith and willingness to share that love with others. While we see his faith and practice in various areas, we also see the struggle of Cole. Cole, while he is praying to Jesus, is so caught up in his own lack of belief that he refuses to recognize his own prayers, even to the point where he states he is talking to himself.

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