The Bucket List Reviews

• How do you measure a man's life?

  
  By A3AVJCB1ZD6ZY5 on 2008-01-21
  By what they've accomplished? According to soft-spoken cancer patient, Carter (Freeman), you measure a man's life by who measures their lives by yours.
  
  Edward Cole probably was a lot of people's yardstick. He was wealthy, powerful, and he ran hospitals.
  
  "We run hospitals--not resorts!" E. Cole (Nicholson)
  
  If Cole hadn't been so mercenary, he'd never have been stuck with another patient in his hospital room. At first, the very wealthy Cole doesn't care for the soft-spoken auto mechanic, but as time goes on the two develop a friendship--and Cole begins to both share food and care for Carter.
  
  When Edward sees Carter's 'Bucket List,'(a list of items he wants to accomplish before he kicks the bucket) he realizes it's something the two of them can do--and says they should. That's when the two cancer patients break out of the hospital and go on a world tour. Together, they write out a new bucket list and work to make each other's dreams come true.
  
  "Bucket List" is sentimental, predictable, and yet more than my words can encompass. The film's not just about dying, but friendship, and finding joy to spread to others--even at the worst times in a person's life.
  
  In my opinion, the three best aspects of this film were Morgan Freeman's outstanding narration and Sean Hayes' well-done portrayal of Cole's ever-present assistant (Thomas). Another nod goes to actress Beverly Todd, who played Virginia Chambers. Even the young girls in the film were exclaiming how amazing she looked and acted.
  
  Warnings:
  
  Bring tissue
  If 'laugh til you cry' is on your 'Bucket List,' you can check this item off
  
  
  
  

• A Bucket, Brimming Over, of Life

  
  By A328S9RN3U5M68 on 2008-06-15
  Selecting a category for this very fine film results in the all-encompassing label 'mixed media', for lack of a better term. It is smart (with an excellent script by Justin Zackham), addresses some important social issues, and it has moments of touching tenderness and equal moments of very sold comedy. AND it greatly benefits from the casting of Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, two consummate actors playing out a theme that is unexpectedly a solid study of friendship and love.
  
  Carter (Morgan Freeman) narrates the story: Carter gave up his dreams for a college education and major career to support his surprise child from his wife Virginia (Beverly Todd) and has worked as a mechanic to support his own family, including his son Roger (Alfonso Freeman, Morgan's son in real life also!). After his children have all become successful, Carter is suddenly diagnosed with terminal cancer. He is hospitalized for chemotherapy, only to be placed in the same room with the wealthy and cantankerous owner of the hospital, Edward (Jack Nicholson) who also has been diagnosed with terminal cancer and is also in the hospital for chemotherapy. Edward's only 'friend' (he has basically alienated the world through his behavior) is his assistant Thomas (an excellent Sean Hayes) who tends to his every need. Gradually the two disparate men grow into a friendship united by the common bond that they both must face impending death. Together they create 'the bucket list' - things they want to do before dying, and because of Edward's wealth, they leave the hospital on a worldwide adventure of skydiving, racing cars, visiting the pyramids, etc. The manner in which these two elderly men bond casts a warm glow over the film without ever touching on the maudlin risk of communication. They simply grow in their appreciation of life as they learn from each other.
  
  Freeman and Nicholson are in peak form here and the supporting cast is very fine. But special credit must go to director Rob Reiner for giving us yet another film about humanism that would enrich the lives of anyone who takes the time to watch this very fine film. Grady Harp, June 08
  
  

• Live Like You Were Dying

  
  By A18G7GG53G2X8A on 2008-01-13
  Rob Reiner's "The Bucket List" functions with a strong sense of What If: What if you discovered you were terminally ill? What if you finally decided to live your remaining days to the fullest? What if you discovered more in those remaining days than you ever discovered before? Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson) and Carter Chambers (Morgan Freeman) are faced with scores of What Ifs when both are diagnosed with cancer and given a finite number of days to live--with Cole's help, Chambers uses that precious time to see the world and experience things he had previously only dreamed of. This is obviously not a new idea for a story like this, and the reality is that most of the film is unrealistic and cliché. But it's also touching and meaningful, so I have to give credit where credit is due. Simply put, "The Bucket List" is an unabashed tearjerker, a film that's simultaneously witty and sentimental for maximum effect.
  
  The film opens with one of Freeman's voiceover narrations, and that in and of itself is a cliché: consider "The Shawshank Redemption" and "Million Dollar Baby" and "War of the Worlds" and "March of the Penguins" and "Feast of Love" and "The Hunting of the President" and ... I think you get the idea. Anyway, his character's narration acts as a framing device, one that will be filled with the events of the main story. The first character to be established is Chambers, who has worked as a mechanic for the past forty-five years. He's knowledgeable about many things, which is why he's able to watch "Jeopardy!" and answer virtually every question. We first see him in his auto shop, answering trivia questions with his co-worker; at that point, he receives a devastating phone call from his wife, one that forces him to drop his cigarette and walk away in a daze. Apparently, the test results from his latest medical exam paint a grim picture for his future.
  
  Soon after, Cole is introduced. A multimillionaire, Cole is savvy and inflexible, with a dry and completely off-putting sense of humor. He also has an affinity for Kopi Luwak coffee, the world's most expensive (and most disgusting--if you really must know why, look it up on your own). He owns a hospital in Los Angeles, and he has a strict policy when it comes to patient lodging: Two beds to a room, no exceptions. Private rooms aren't allowed because, as he puts it, "I run hospitals, not health spas." Upon his cancer diagnosis, he's taken in for emergency surgery, after which he's wheeled into the same hospital room occupied by Chambers; at that point, Cole pleads to be given his own room, and never mind the bad PR.
  
  Before long, Cole and Chambers form a companionship of sorts. It would be too much to say that they become fast friends--Cole's personality would make that virtually impossible, especially so soon after they meet. But they definitely tolerate each other, which is probably why Cole is willing to indulge Chambers in his last days. You see, Chambers begins writing what his old history professor called a Bucket List, which is a list of things one wants to do before dying (also known as kicking the bucket); Cole gets a hold of it and convinces Chambers to not only follow the list, but also to add a few exciting things, like skydiving and racecar driving and seeing sights all over the world. Cole would tag along, but merely as a financier and a motivator, not as a confidant. Not at first, anyway.
  
  All this comes as a surprise to Chambers' wife, Virginia (Beverly Todd), who feels that Cole is stealing her husband away during his final days. Chambers would like nothing more than for his wife to understand where he's coming from: he devoted years of his life to her and their children, and now that he's dying, he feels he's earned a little time for himself. Much to Virginia's chagrin, Chambers and Cole set off on their journey, and as you've probably guessed, this journey will be profound, revealing many things about both characters. For one thing, we learn that Chambers had once hoped to be a history professor. We also learn that Cole has endured four failed marriages, one of which introduced his daughter into the world. For reasons I won't reveal, the two haven't spoken in years--this is a golden opportunity for Chambers, who tries to use his knowledge and philosophical wisdoms to urge Cole towards reconciling.
  
  If these themes of self-discovery, friendship, and family seem routine, that's because they are. "The Bucket List" doesn't really give us anything new, especially when it comes to the obligatory epiphanies; in stories like this, a character's impending death always makes him or her appreciate life, usually for the first time. But I have to be honest--it's still an effective movie, if not for the story, then for reaffirming our emotions. This applies to both ends of the scale: parts of the film are incredibly funny while other parts are incredibly sad. One of the funnier moments occurs when Cole and Chambers visit the Taj Mahal in India: Cole can't decide on his funeral arrangements. An ordinary burial makes him feel claustrophobic. Cremation is risky because the person may not be completely dead when it happens.
  
  The sadder moments are mostly reserved for the end, and while I won't say what happens, I think you have a pretty good idea. "The Bucket List" is not a perfect film, but it's still poignant and endearing, and its sense of humor is generally well placed. There's also a decent performance by Sean Hayes as Thomas, Cole's personal assistant (his real name is Matthew, but Cole found that too Biblical). I'm recommending this film mostly for its well-established but important message of living life to the fullest. Why? Let me answer that with another question: What if?
  
  

• The Bucket List

  
  By AW99SBGWEXP0J on 2008-01-31
  Edward Cole (Nicholson) and Carter Chambers (Freeman) have terminal cancer. They are opposites, with Edward being a rich CEO and Carter being a car mechanic. They are sharing a room at the hospital, and share the same diagnosis: six months to a year. Carter begins making a "bucket list" - things to do before he dies. Edward gets in on the list, and having the money funds their attempt to cross everything off that list. They see the Pyramids of Egypt, the Taj Mahal, and the Great Wall of China. The skydive and drive race cars. They share their stories and become good friends. Soon they realize returning home will help them more than traveling the world.
  
  Nicholson and Freeman are always good, and "The Bucket List" is no exception. They give their usual standout performances. On the downside, this is a movie that sets out to make views shed a few tears. This gives the film a feeling of trying to be more important than it really is. If that could somehow be toned down, this would be a better movie. There are some good laughs though, and that is the films saving grace. As it is, it is a harmless diversion for just over two hours. I would probably recommend this one for DVD viewing.
  
  
  

• Good idea, come to think of it

  
  By A3NH7PYU4AD5GA on 2008-02-03
  Finally a really good educational movie for us guys over 50. Girls over 50 may also benefit.
  Amazon should open a new listmania category for bucket lists. One of my AFs already sent me his and I gave him my comments.
  Others, i.e. the young crowd, shouldn't bother with the movie, unless they are keen to watch Nicholson being sick and Freeman with a complete haircut.
  Maybe it is time to raise minimum age levels for some categories of films?
  P.S. a concern has been raised that Freeman, due to his elevated status in movie history, may be unable to embody mortality convincingly. It is true. The producers have realized the problem and have found a smart solution. They have separated the body from the voice and given them different things to do. Anyway, MF's voice is his main contribution to Western civilization.
  
  
• Worthy 'List'
  By A3EE0H0NWQ9QVL on 2008-06-18
  (3.5 *`s) You've probably seen the previews, so much elaboration isn't needed, but `Bucket List' is still a worthy journey even if the plot is laid out for you already. Sweet, sage, and funny, Rob Reiner delivers another heartwarming gem that's rejuvenating to watch.
  
  They couldn't be more opposite. Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson) is a wealthy owner of hospitals where the frills are fleeting at best. "We run hospitals, not health spas," Edward brashly tells his potential clients. "Two guests to a room, no exceptions." Carter Chambers (Morgan Freeman) is mild and wise. He is a mechanic at a garage supporting his family, but is an academic at heart and a trivia expert who would make Cliff Claven blush. A fellow colleague is always trying to stump him with questions from a trivia book, and Carter's favorite past time is to blurt out the answers (questions really) while watching 'Jeopardy'.
  
  You guessed it. They both have cancer and have to share a room in one of his hospitals. Thomas* (whose real name is Matthew, but is too hard for Edward to keep track of) is his assistant. He can't have his own room because it would be bad PR not to follow his own rules. Edward does get top service by his doctor (Rob Morrow who plays a far different MD than he did on `Northern Exposure'.) The odd couple take a while to warm up to each other. Each is absorbed in his own interests, and each has foibles that would annoy anyone.
  
  As their prospects both turn terminal, Edward comes across Carter's "bucket list". Meant to be a whimsical exercise from Carter's philosophy professor, it gets them thinking about using their precious last moments to do what they haven't done before. Edward has the money but Carter has the wisdom, so sorting out their priorities turns from a final blessing to a final battle. Carter, who always wanted to be a history professor, decides to take up Edward's offer to take a whirlwind tour of the world and discover the joys of skydiving and race car driving to name just two. ("You gonna drive it or give it a dress?" asks an impatient Edward to Carter the mechanic who would truly appreciate the opportunity.)
  
  This is all to the chagrin of Virginia, (also Ginny)[Beverly Todd], Carter's devoted nurse wife. ("You're a fool who's figured out a way not have cancer," she chides her husband. And to Edward: "My husband is not for sale.") Carter rekindles Edward's ability to think deeply. He offers Edward the challenge that below the surface relationships and getting one's house in order really matter. It's not just about the fun.
  
  Once they're on the road, they have several disagreements. One of the best merits of the movie is how it can transition from fun and funny to philosophical. Some may find the whole affair ponderous, but I loved the way both grapple emotionally, physically, and intellectually to the challenges that death provides. If you liked books and movies like 'Tuesdays with Morrie,' then surely 'Bucket List' should appeal to you.
  
  We've all seen "The Little Old Lady from Pasadena" routine so often: Gramps or granny is in a hot rod, saying displaced things like "cool" and "far out." It usually is funny and offensive at the same time. This factor couldn't be more remote from the film. There's never a bitter aftertaste when watching the elderly men doing young things. It's all done thoughtfully and tastefully. The dialogue is excellent. The jokes are funny; the questions posed are interesting, but without the dead ends, for they provide some thoughtful answers as well.
  
  Watching this film reminds me that watching a three-and-a-half-star film can sometimes be more rewarding than watching a five-star film. In the end, 'The Bucket List' is a feel good movie with some substance that should be put on your movie "list".
  
  (*Sean Hayes whom I recognized, but didn't figure out 'til late to be the 'Will and Grace' star in a far different role.)
  
  
• how DO you understand the measure of a life ???
  By A2R6RA8FRBS608 on 2008-04-23
  The Bucket List tells the sensitive and well thought-out story of two older men who are diagnosed with cancer so severe that they have six months to live--or maybe a year if they're lucky. Look for stunning performances from both Morgan Freeman as Carter Chambers and Jack Nicholson as Edward Cole. Beverly Todd also acts her heart out as Beverly Chambers, Carter's wife.
  
  The action begins when Carter Chambers, a working class black man, and Edward Cole, super-wealthy self-made rich white guy who actually owns the hospital they're in become roommates in the oncology ward of the hospital. At first Carter and Edward don't exactly hit it off but it isn't long before they forge a friendship. When they each learn that by coincidence they have six months to a year to live, they embark on a trip to accomplish certain lifelong dreams and personal goals before they die. The list of things to do is called The Bucket List because it's a list of things to do before they "kick the bucket."
  
  Of course, because Edward Cole is wealthy many scenes in this movie become almost miraculously possible. They travel the world by private corporate jet; and they live more in just a few weeks than most people ever do in a lifetime.
  
  Of course, life has its ways of surprising just about any of us; so still the plot could go just about anywhere. How will Beverly, Carter's wife, react to all this? Will she understand and remain patient while Carter lives out a few lifelong dreams or will she want her husband home NOW? Will Carter and Edward be able to keep their cool when they are stranded in Asia during a monstrous snowstorm and they are not allowed to fly? What happens if one of them gets very sick along the way? What about Edward's refusal to make up with his daughter who disowned him long ago--will he ever decide to approach her or will he remain obstinate in his refusal to even meet with her? The results may surprise you. No plot spoilers here, folks--you'll just have to watch the movie to find out!
  
  As a cancer survivor who is finishing my own chemotherapy soon, I will add that some of the side-effects of the chemotherapy they receive are exaggerated. However, I think director Rob Reiner added these elements to the film to make it somewhat more dramatic.
  
  Overall, The Bucket List is an excellent movie; and I couldn't have enjoyed it more. Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman turn in superlative performances that proves these guys can still act better than the vast majority of actors ever could. Beverly Todd does a great job as Carter's wife; and Sean Hayes also does well as Edward Cole's personal assistant Thomas. I highly recommend this film for fans of these terrific actors; and people comfortable with the subject matter will appreciate this motion picture as well.
  
  
  
• Have you ever asked yourself: Is this as good as it gets? ...
  By A10C5CJK1YKGV0 on 2008-04-24
  
  
  I've taken baths deeper than this movie ...
  
  It's pretty sad that so many of the exterior shots were done in the studio and in front of a green screen. Maybe the target audience for this melodramatic drivel wouldn't be expecting it or even notice it. It probably had a lot to do with the Director believing that they could get away with it. I don't think, for a moment that is what the writer intended. This film would've been really great if they had actually filmed it 'in the real world' and not on a green screen. But, oh ... I forgot, this generation that is ogling over this detritus is the generation responsible for blighting out most of the places that it's showcasing. Laughable.
  
  I'm all for warm and heartfelt cinema, but this was not it. It's pandering at the most base level, and hardened fromage to boot. It's a shame to watch so many of the aging greats phoning it in in the last few years. GQ printed an article warning us of just this type of behaviour from these same people, all the way back in the summer of 2004. Now it seems that Nicholson, Pacino and even Morgan Freeman took GQ's advice and thought how easy it would be to just collect fat paychecks for sub-standard work for a few years.
  
  Maybe it's a formula of attrition? They might just firmly believe that if they do enough stinkers that even mediocre films, quite possibly like this one, will look brilliant in comparison.
  
  Aging Baby Boomers identify with this film in packs larger than lemmings near high cliffs. It also seems from reading most of the reviews on Amazon that this film is being used as a vehicle to start a very ungraceful and loud campaign of reminiscence, selfish indulgence and life-ending grandstanding. I don't think film critiquing has reached such lows since 'Cocoon II' and 'On Golden Pond'. Please, people -- get a grip!
  
  The problem with most of these people is that they all believe that they're original in thinking that this movie actually applies to them and their horribly misspent and sold-out lives and that only an aging 'World Killer' could truly understand it, except for the simple fact that it was written by thirty-something, Justin Zackham.
  
  I think 'The Bucket List' is just the first movie in a string of many movies to come, where aging trash-generating, world-killing, Baby-Boomers want to glorify themselves with a community swan song and we're going to be subjected to much more of this kind of thing as time passes. Maybe, some people will be looking forward to that, I know for sure that I won't, and I can bet that I'm not alone in that sentiment.
  
  What a shame. Cancer? This movie is a cancer. Shame on you Rob Reiner for stooping into the gutter of pomposity to Direct this green screen monstrosity. (No more rhymes now I mean it! ... Anybody want a peanut?) As for the screenplay, it's well-written. Too bad it wasn't well acted. This would've made for an interesting novel or short-story.
  
  I'll try not to think of this next time I watch Five Easy Pieces.
  
  
• A bucket full of suck
  By A3HBNOC6ANFNSK on 2008-06-12
  Sweet, a movie about 2 old fossils who decide to do some crazy stuff before they die. What a novel and brilliant concept! I bet it'll make for some hilarious hijinks: like old guys doing activities that they are clearly too old for! Maybe they'll even go skydiving. Haha, it'll be histerical! Those guys can't do that, they're too old! Hahaha, I'm still laughing over it. Bleh...
  Nicholson is the same character he is in every movie he makes: loud, abbrasive, and unnecesarily aggressive. Morgan Freeman I actually like, but the movie was such a giant dose of suck that even he shouldn't be forgiven. Don't waste your time with with disaster.
  
  
• The Worst Film of 2007...?
  By A1OSWSG4YXN8KJ on 2008-01-09
  Easily, this would have topped my list of the Worst Films of 2007 had I seen it a mere 2 weeks ago. Nevertheless, this could still be the worst movie-going experience of the New Year. It's a cloying, manipulative, overacted, shameless piece of over-sentimental drivel. Nicholson portrays yet another typical Nicholson role - a grotesque, exaggerated caricature of every performance he's given the past 2 decades or so, and Morgan Freeman resurrects his usual take on the everyman, cashing yet another easy paycheck. Rob Reiner, with more hits than misses under his expanding belt, has directed a horror show more frightening in its audacity than his own "Misery". My grade: D
  
  
• Kicking the Bucket
  By A3EBHHCZO6V2A4 on 2008-05-24
  "The Bucket List" can be best summed up as "Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman pose for green screen postcards." Freeman and Nicholson open the movie enjoying their favorite vices;for Freeman,it's a cigarette,while Nicholson drinks in the scent of rare coffee. Both are stricken with cancer. They find themselves in the same cancer ward.
  
  Carter Chambers (Morgan Freeman) suffers from lung cancer,as if it's divine retribution. He's surrounded by his devoted family. Alone, gazillionaire Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson) suffers from brain cancer. Rob Morrow,the policeman from CBS' "Numbers",stars as his joking doctor. Both Cole and Chambers learn they have only a year to live, so they live it up. There's TONS of exposition looong before they go on their Epic Journey.
  
  With green screens as their backdrop, Cole and Chambers enjoy skydiving, racing on the Great Wall of China, seeing the Taj Mahal and the pyramids of Egypt. (Why not Junction City,Oregon,home of the Scandinavian Festival,or Hobbiton USA in the Northern California redwoods?) It's very cliched.
  
  "Bucket List" is,despite the leading actors' talents,and Freeman's omnipresent narration,deadly dull.
  
  
• Anticipating Mortality in a Pile of Clichés Driven by a Couple of Predictable Star Turns
  By A13E0ARAXI6KJW on 2008-06-19
  Film master Akira Kurosawa made one of his most quietly powerful films in 1952's Ikiru about a government paper-pusher who learns he has six months to live and takes stock of all the things he has not done with his life. By comparison, Rob Reiner's output as a director has been less than stellar for well over a decade (consider Alex & Emma and Rumor Has It...). This time, he appears to be going for a partial remake of "Ikiru" times two with this lugubrious, feel-good 2007 dramedy with components of Terms of Endearment and Grumpy Old Men thrown in for good measure. The chief problem is that Justin Zackham's debut big-screen screenplay is predicated on so many live-before-dying clichés that the entire venture doesn't feel honest despite the star presence of Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. Zackham's everything-but-the-kitchen-sink approach is much too manipulative to be affecting, and the roles he provides the two veteran actors don't allow them to leverage their talents to build believable characters. Can you tell I didn't like the movie much?
  
  The plot concerns itself with pompous health-care billionaire Edward Cole, who finds himself in his own hospital sharing a room with trivia-obsessed mechanic Carter Chambers. Ironically, Edward is the one who insists upon two patients to each room to cut overhead costs. Both are terminal cases there to receive cancer treatments with little if any chance of survival. Unsurprisingly, they enact their own version of The Odd Couple until they bond over a list Carter is compiling of little things he wants to do before he does. Edward naturally has more grandiose ideas of what his "bucket list" would be, and off they go on a series of predictably drawn adventures like skydiving, race-car driving and traveling to exotic places around the world. I find the travel sequences particularly amusing since it's obvious the actors were edited into travelogue footage. Deep-seeded regrets come to the surface on their journey - Edward's estrangement from his daughter and Carter's look back on an academic life unfulfilled and a marriage that has grown stale. There's no point in describing anything further since the whole point of the film is dealing with the inevitable.
  
  As Edward, Nicholson comes across as oddly schizophrenic. The actor's typically excessive moments are followed by surprisingly understated ones, and as a whole, his performance never connects the dots. Freeman fares marginally better as Carter, but his work here feels more like retread. Again, he provides the stoic voiceover and wizened wisdom he has been providing since The Shawshank Redemption. And why cast an actor as exuberantly animated as Sean Hayes (the indefatigable Jack on Will & Grace for eight seasons) in such an impassive role as Edward's officious factotum Thomas? He is so uncharacteristically restrained and non-committal in the role that the coda has little emotional impact. Relegated even further to the sidelines are Beverly Todd as Carter's wife, Rob Morrow as Edward's doctor, and in a silly bit part, Rowena King as a chic woman drawn to Carter in a bar. I'm not surprised that the 2008 DVD is bereft of significant extras - no commentary track, no making-of featurette, just a five-minute short, "Writing a Bucket List" with Zackham explaining the genesis of the movie's concept, plus a disposable John Mayer video for the closing credits song, "Say", which is, by the way, a typical John Meyer song. I suggest renting "Ikiru" instead.
  
  
• You might enter the theater with a closed head, but you'll leave it with an open heart.
  By A319Y83RT0MRVR on 2007-12-06
  With strong performances from both Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, this movie will be a shoo-in for numerous awards. The drama never becomes melodramatic; the movie never drags on or drags you down. There is a pureness of heart and a beauty in the script. There is friendships between the two characters that clearly stems from the actors respect of each other. The script is well done, but so is the direction. The movie is as funny as it poignant, as philosophical as it is perpetual. The movie's message might not be all too different from many other movies - find the joy in your life, seek your family, enjoy your last days to the fullest. Yet, the message is delivered in a wonderful way. The movie relies on Jack Nicholson's performance (more of the same unlikable, filthy rich grumpy old man, we've become accustomed to), but the unsung hero is Morgan Freeman - he brings humanity and humility to the movie and to his character.
  
  
• A Universal DVD
  By A1RLCTTMK0OAOF on 2008-06-14
  The Bucket List
  
  A Universal DVD
  
  This is a story that coveys the close relationship that develops between two utterly different men that must share the same hospital room after being both diagnosed with advanced terminal cancer. The first, Edward Cole- Jack Nicholson- is the CEO that runs the hospital and is a ruthless persona and the second is a mechanic, Carter- Morgan Freeman-, who wanted in his youth to be a history teacher but life circumstances did not allow him to do so. They share the common adversities of the infirmity and they, ant the same time, share a long trip that will tie the relationship even further.
  
  One day, Carter starts to write a "Bucket List" containing all the things that he would like to do before he dies and Cole finds it out. Afterward, they decide to write the "Bucket List" together and start going on marvelous trips around the world and sharing precious moments and becoming the best of friends. Two utterly different persons become the closest friends ever in the last months of their lives.
  
  What really stroke me about this DVD was that it not only applies to two terminal cancer patients: What stroke me the most is its universality. If we think a little deeper, it could apply to two or more persons sharing similar adversities- or joyfulness for that matter- and relying on each other for comfort, understanding, and the sharing of knowledge and experiences.
  
  The performances of the two principal actors are outstanding and make you laugh and cry at different times during the performance.
  
  Highly recommended!!!
  
  
  
• Be prepared to cry... and to think.
  By ASJLXOX1VD4DF on 2008-07-28
  This movie made me cry so much and was so sad that it is really difficult to understand how I could recommend it so strongly.
  
  The chemistry between Nicholson and Freeman was incredible and they played off each other beautifully. The humor was a welcome relief to the immense emotional subject matter.
  
  This movie really made me think about what is important in life. I found several of the key themes in the movie something to think about and consider with respect to my own life. I loved the questions from the pyramids:
  
  1. Did you find joy in your life?
  2. Did you bring joy to others lives?
  
  This movie probably isn't the one to reach for when you are in the mood for something light-hearted and funny. However, if you want to regain some perspective about what is important in life, this movie does a good job of making you think about what you want to accomplish in life -- particularly without being preachy.
  
  
• Did you experience joy in your lifetime?
  By A2E7E9EWADK4S6 on 2008-01-31
  Morgan Freeman plays a brainiac, a highly intellectual, intelligent man who, as he says, "spent 45 years greased up under the hood of a car" so that his children would have the kind of life he'd always dreamt about for himself.
  
  As was true for many men of his generation, he wanted to be sure that his children "would never want for anything and they didn't." He sacrificed and worked and toiled for a lifetime, always putting his family's needs ahead of his own long-cherished dream to get a college degree and become a history professor. And his lifetime of self-sacrifice bore much fruit: His three children went to college and became successful professionals.
  
  Nicholson and Freeman forged a bond, and became friends despite the fact that the two men were complete opposites and would never have crossed paths in day-to-day life, were it not for their illness.
  
  Nicholson lived an life that was the diametrical opposite of Freeman's character; a life which was characterized by debauchery, lasciviousness and general over-indulgence, always keeping a keen eye open, looking out for Number One. His legacy is a business, which has made him a multi-millionaire.
  
  In the few weeks the men have left, Freeman gives Nicholoson a few life lessons about real success and love and the joy that can be found in self-sacrifice and Freeman shows Nicholson that the love we leave behind and the life example we leave behind can be our most enduring and important life legacy.
  
  And Nicholson gives Freeman an extraordinary gift. Nicholson shows Freeman the world that he's spent decades reading about in books.
  
  My favorite line in the movie: According to Egyptian lore, you're asked two questions at the gates of heaven: First, Did you experience joy in your lifetime? And two, did you bring joy to someone else in your lifetime?
  
  Those two questions can leave a soul with a lot to think about.
  
  The Bucket List is one those unusual movies that leaves you with an intellectual and spiritual aftertaste, where you go away pondering the many layers of messages contained in the rich, thoughtful dialogue. The metaphysical riches to the side, it's also a funny movie and Nicholson is in fine form.
  
  I would highly recommend The Bucket List. Well worth your time and money.
  
  
• GREAT ACTORS, LOUSY MATERIAL
  By A1JVSIWDF0WT22 on 2008-04-05
  Just about everybody I know who watched this movie really loved it. I know I'm going to get clobbered for this review but......
  It's not like I have anything against THE BUCKET LIST premise but really, what is so exciting about these characters jumping out of a plane, racing cars and being digitally imposed into the world's most famous landmarks ? Obviously Nicholson and Freeman have great chemistry but it's not like this movie is a lot more exciting than showing them playing cards or something. I love Freeman's narrations but: a) I don't think the Nicholson character earns his and b) enough is enough of them.
  On my personal bucket list, missing this DVD will be item #1.
  
  
  
• deeply flawed, but worth watching
  By A15J07RXB3W0YX on 2008-06-07
  This is a painfully sentimental movie about love and death. You would be a hard soul indeed if you could sit through this without choking just a little. What makes it worth watching is that it calls the question of the bucket list: just what would you do if you knew your time was limited?
  
  If you're willing to stay with it, it also calls for two more reflections:
  
  *What sort of things are on your list? Is it mostly a check-off of things that other people agree are important or are they things that really, deeply matter to you?
  
  *Your time is limited whether you know it or not, so what's stopping you from doing what's on your list?
  
  The movie itself requires that you drift off a little: the outside shots are so artificial that you feel like you're watching a car commercial or the weather report on TV.
  The acting consists mostly of Nicholson and Freeman being themselves-or at least the screen versions. On two occasions, they try to expand their range and the results are disastrous. Freeman tries to express fear when he's about to jump from an airplane. Nicholson goes for deep emotion when he delivers a eulogy at Freeman's funeral.
  There are two cameos worth mentioning: Beverly Todd as Freeman's wife is so beautiful that you can barely notice the fine job she does. Rowena King as the young woman sent to tempt Freeman has that rare combination of screen-shattering beauty and intelligent portrayal that should lead to brilliant career.
  
  
• White, Black, Death, Life, Perfect
  By A1S8AJIUIO6M9K on 2008-07-01
  Jack Nicholson is as good as it gets for crazy in love with life, and Morgan Freeman is as good as it gets for smart, thoughtful, and good to the core.
  
  This movie is one that I got, skimmed through, dismissed, and then sat down and watched all the way through.
  
  It is NOT a depressing movie, nor is it a "joy" movie. It is a lovely mix of suffering, love, fulfillment, discovery, and reconciliation.
  
  BRAVO.
  
  See also:
  Joyeux Noel (Widescreen)
  Bonhoeffer
  Sabrina
  One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
  
  
  
• The Bucket List Movie Review
  By A2MYUI8IT6UBUU on 2007-12-25
  One of the most fun and uplifting films of the year, Rob Reiner's The Bucket List is also a likely contender for Academy Award nominations. Wonderfully sarcastic dialogue, poignant exchanges between excellently crafted characters, and an overall beautiful tale of mortality and morality, The Bucket List is an excellent opportunity for two of the greatest actors of our time to show off their inimitable techniques. Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman have a chemistry that will have you laughing until you cry and crying at the sight of something truly majestic.
  
  Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson) is an incredibly wealthy hospital owner who firmly believes that he's running infirmaries instead of health spas, and therefore demands that each room contain two beds and two patients. When a twist of fate lands him in his own hospital, he's stuck sharing a room with Carter Chambers (Morgan Freeman). Both men are dying of cancer, and the doctors give each of them only a few months left to live. The two slowly but surely realize how much they enjoy each other's company, so when Carter begins writing a "bucket list", Jack prompts him to see it through. The "bucket list" is a list of all the things both Edward and Carter would like to accomplish in their remaining months (before they kick the bucket) and with Cole's wealth, the two end up touring the world, skydiving and racecar driving. As their list of goals begins to come to an end, they realize how much they've truly lived just in the last few months alone, and how much their short friendship has impacted their lives.
  
  Jack Nicholson's performance is excellent as the curmudgeonly Ebenezer character that receives a change of heart and a change of view with Carter's friendship. Little character development is necessary as we have come to recognize Jack's style over the years. We're already familiar with his character and relate to him in much the same way we feel about all of his recent projects. He's attained a level of recognition that allows us to acknowledge him simply as Jack. Regardless of his role, he's still Jack, and he doesn't disappoint.
  
  The same can be said for Morgan Freeman who continues to play roles that accentuate his knack for worldly, wise and good-natured characters that can make us laugh and cry from moment to moment. Rarely do we see two actors work so well together - this odd couple appears to have been destined for these roles. The chemistry between these veterans is pleasantly refreshing, and because of it, The Bucket List is one of the most entertaining films of the year.
  
  Another aspect, which is a great credit to screenwriter Justin Zackham, is the dialogue, which is continually hilarious even while it borders on heartbreaking. Sarcasm and cynicism are proudly worn by Jack, and the conversations conducted between the two are never dull. Meaningful, affecting and downright funny, the script is amazingly well paced and flows more naturally than anything in recent memory.
  
  Nearly everything is likable about The Bucket List, except the tone of the film, which many awards voters and critics may feel is too repetitious of late. The film is uplifting and heartwarming, and while the conclusion strives for unpredictability, comparisons may be drawn to similarly crafted works. "Driving Miss Daisy" and "As Good as it Gets" are immediately brought to mind, especially because these include the same actors, although the morals of "A Christmas Carol" and "It's A Wonderful Life" are clearly beneath the surface of this feel-good comedy. Despite these comparisons, The Bucket List is wholesome entertainment that will certainly bring director Rob Reiner back into the spotlight, especially after his unpropitious previous project, "Rumor Has It...".
  
  - Mike Massie
  
  
  
  
• Finding Eternity
  By A1JV4QKTEB7QBL on 2008-02-03
  Rob Reiner directs "The Bucket List," a little film with a big message that boasts two mega stars who only epitomize in these roles that for which they have become noted and respected in countless others.
  
  Jack Nicholson plays Edward Cole, the quintessentially cynical billionaire with the same world-weary ennui and uncertainty that he brought to the character of Warren Schmidt in the 2002 film "About Schmidt." For years he wheels and deals as one of the big movers and shakers in the health care industry. As his collapsible morality and an inflexible adherence to his people-unfriendly hospital policies transmutes handsomely into a larger bank account but yields scant personal relationships, Cole thinks himself far too savvy to believe in a higher being yet preens with self-satisfaction regarding his sophisticated tastes and appreciation of the best of the material things the world has to offer. Vintage Nicholson.
  
  Enter the perfect foil, the wonderfully elegant Morgan Freeman. He imbues the character of Carter Chambers, a wisdom-seeking egghead auto mechanic who sacrificed an education and a more promising future for the sake of his growing family with his ever-present serenity in the face of any adversity and nobility that any knight of Arthur's legendary Round Table would be proud to possess. Think the stoically patient and hopeful Red in "The Shawshank Redemption" tempered to a rich patina where a look conveys a multitude of emotions and elicits immediate audience response.
  
  When cancer strikes both Cole and Chambers, both men's very different lifestyles hover in a holding pattern that targets death within six months. Unlikely companions, they compose a list of "things to do before kicking the bucket" and embark on a journey stocked with once-in-a-lifetime experiences and friendship-forging moments where each man's perspective is explored through their lives' mistakes and triumphs. Of course, lessons are learned and thankfully, the audience is allowed a happy, albeit tearful, ending of sorts where this meeting of two opposites produces a pleasant mellow glow that is meant to initiate reflection and illuminate one's own legacy.
  
  Bottom line? "The Bucket List" may be a comedy that laughs in the face of death, but more so, it evokes a bittersweet reaction that begs the audience to look within and define the importance of life. Some may argue that some of the film's adventure sequences seem a bit overly sentimental and overstocked with big questions that cannot be answered during a two-hour time frame. Maybe the lessons seem to be learned too fast. In the same respect, it could be said that Nicholson and Freeman may just be portraying themselves without the need for character definition, but honestly, I don't think any of this really matters. The film captures the essence of Reiner's purpose; the audience definitely empathizes with both of these esteemed actors. Not for a moment was I bored by their performances. Rather, I was amazed at how effortless both of these American institutions make their craft seem. Happily, "The Bucket List" fully delivers what it intends: a satisfying film fraught with life and death, friendship and family, laughter and tears. Recommended with the caveat that for those who have lost someone to cancer, the hospital sequences will serve as a sad reminder of this experience.
  Diana Faillace Von Behren
  "reneofc"
  
  
  
  
  
  
• A good but not great movie
  By A1IFXDWGBSA7CF on 2008-04-26
  After reading other reviews, I went to the theater. Jack Nicholson was his usual self, sometimes streaching the boundaries of credulity - especially with a manic-depressive persona. Morgan Freeman is a very good actor and turns in a respectable, if predictable performance. One star was taken away for using stock footage of famous places. eg The scene in Africa with wildabeast crossing a river is a favorite of tourists with cameras. The one in Egypt was also hard on the eyes. The other star deduction was for the inability of the director/editor to make the story flow.
  While I actually enjoyed the story line, the movie never made it to where I was able to suspend my disbelief and become involved with the characters. It could have been a great film, if all the people working on it had spent a little more time making the movie instead of rushing it into the theaters.
  Unfortunately, because of the flaws, the DVD is not one I would buy and keep.
  
  
  
• Funny and moving and everything in between :-)
  By A24ZFFRQ4MG3XL on 2008-06-03
  At first, I wasn't sure if I really wanted to see this. I almost don't know anyone who's not affected by cancer in some form or another and the reality of making a list of what you'd like to do before you die is depressing, yet somehow moving and touching. I really like Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman and ultimately, I think that's what sold me about seeing this and now I'm glad that I did.
  The chemistry between Morgan and Jack was amazing. This is definately one of the most fun and uplifting movies I'd seen in a while and yes I cried in it, but also there were moments of laughter too. Edward Cole (Nicholson) is wealthy and through his money, he and Carter Chambers (Freeman) do things like touring the world, race car driving and skydiving.
  Other than the cheesy dialogue and some predictability, I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. It's a feel good movie with a lesson that you shouldn't need to have a death sentance over you to start living. Also being faced with death doesn't mean you can't live out the rest of your time rather than fall into depression and accept your fate. I cannot say enough about how good this film is and I hope you will to. It's definately worth watching for sure.
  
  
• Just a Great Movie
  By A27VY7BUVD09I2 on 2008-06-09
  Two men, an auto mechanic by the name of Carter Chambers (Morgan Freeman) and Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson), a Fortune 500 company owner, are both diagnosed with cancer and told they have six months to live. The two men, mere opposites are now hospital roommates. Carter decideds to take some advice a teacher once gave him and compile a bucket list before he "kicks the bucket". Ed Cole has a better idea, they create one together. The two vow to achieve as many goals as possible before the inevitable happens.
  
  A story of friendship and of courage, Rob Reiner's "The Bucket List" is the most emotional movie I have ever seen. Sad, heartwarming, touching and at times humorous, "The Bucket List" is a must see movie and is great to watch with the family. Don't forget to keep a box of Kleenex handy, you may need it for this film.
  
  
• Moving
  By A3HETHW2XD3DWH on 2008-06-11
  With two heartfelt performances by a pair of personal favorites, Nicholson and Freeman offer us the perfect glimpse into the despair, hope, sadness, and a host of other deeply felt emotions that go along with a terminal illness, in this case, cancer. To know that these chaps will most likely die by the end makes it all the more important to see how they decide to enjoy their last months on Earth and accomplish all the things they never got around to or never had the courage to in their lives. There is no more time to procrastinate, as it's now or never for both Carter (Freeman) and Edward (Nicholson). The fine performances of the supporting cast, namely Sean Hayes as Edward's personal assistant and Carter's wife, make the viewer see the illness from all sides, not just from the eyes of the patient, but also from the family who wants to nurture and protect till the very end, but needs to learn to let go in these final months in order for the men to fulfil their life long dreams. The concept of a Bucket List is easily applied to anyone, and hopefully you will not be faced with the grave diagnoses that these characters must deal with; don't put off till tomorrow what you can reach for today, and while you have the time on this Earth, grab your life and LIVE IT, don't die with regrets and unreached dreams, for this will only make for a lonely end. A tearjerker with a great John Mayer song, SAY, which captures the essence of the entire film's message. Extras include a brief interview with the writer about how the idea of The Bucket List came about plus Language selection for viewing the film in English, French or Spanish. The Mayer music Video for SAY is also included. The single disc can play both widescreen or full screen versions.
  
  
• "Surrender To The Void!" ~ Pea Soup, Egyptian Heaven And Finding The Joy In Your Life
  By A141HP4LYPWMSR on 2008-06-21
  The '07 release `The Bucket List' is one of those films that become more meaningful the older you are. A young audience will for the most part find this to be silly, irrelevent and unrelated to where they are at the present time in life, while the older, fifty-five plus viewer (like myself) will view this as a wake-up call and cause one to re-evaluate what one deems important and worthwhile. This film is truly a reflection of real life, the young unconcerned with the inevitable and the questions it posits, the aging begrudgingly accepting and learning to deal with the allotment of time remaining.
  
  Yes this is a film designed to draw a specific audience and stars two of Hollywood's most respected senior actors to attract that target group. Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman are superb and play off each others strengths magnificently. If you're looking for something a little bittersweet and thoughtful populated with some of the most breathtaking scenic landscapes on the planet why not give this one a try. Who knows, it might just inspire you to compose your own bucket list.
  
  
• Real fun. Great actors. Good story
  By A1CTE945S0UXQ5 on 2008-04-12
  I had to see this movie just because of Jack and Morgan. I laughed all the way through it. There was a serious undertone to it, especially with Morgan's character, and later on Jack's. Some of it was kind of formulaic, but I did expect that. What made the movie was the subtle moments between the two leads. The nuances of their banter, the crazy humor in the most awful times of the characters experiences, the total hilarity infused in these scenes had me busting a gut. So damn funny. Good messages too. I like Morgan in everything I've ever seen him in, he's one of the best. But Jack really stole the show. He totally nailed this role. I think this is the funniest, most honest performance I've seen, not only from him, but in a long time. I can't stress enough - see this movie just for Jack and consider everything else a bonus. Having acknowledged the formulaic parts, things that could have been deeper, more fleshed out, I really dug the ending. That's where the movie, in my opinion, shed the formula. A great ending to a quality film.
  
  
• rent, dont buy
  By A1JL2D7OD9ZHBB on 2008-05-16
  I was disappointed that this movie despite having great potential was not deep enough in both meaning and story line. The movie was slow to start with and then became so rushed with not enough 'adventure' and dialogue between the two of them (morgan and jack) for you to really feel and understand how these men have affected one another and what they mean to each other, so on that point it is a disappointment. However it is a movie to pass time by and it has some of its funny moments, overall ok but i wouldn't want to watch it again. Rent, don't buy.
  
  
• We've Seen This Already...But...
  By A185QFJRTB5W93 on 2008-06-04
  We have seen everything in this film before. It is the same as every other "what-to-do-when-you-know-you're-going-to-die" movie. Nicholson seems to be trying to recreate his "As Good As It Gets" character. All these things aside, this really is a good movie at it's core. It is still well done and worth watching. Anyone who has lost someone to the scourge of cancer will be touched. Don't expect anything drastically new, but do expect a quality film.
  
  
• Don't Hold Back!
  By A3M8R4JD1SIS76 on 2008-06-10
  Go ahead and get this movie. You'll find yourself watching Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman in this brilliant performance over and over. Jack Nicholson's movies are always the kind that you want to watch more than once. This one is no exception.
  
  As these two characters in the movie face dying from cancer, they tell the audience something about what is important in life. And it's all done in an entertaining fashion.
  
  

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