Life Itself (2018 film)

Life Itself is a 2018 American drama film written and directed by Dan Fogelman. The film explores the multi-generational interconnectedness of several characters' lives across different timelines and continents, focusing on themes of love, loss, fate, and the human experience.

Plot

The narrative of Life Itself is presented in a multi-chapter structure, initially centered on a New York couple, Will and Abby Dempsey (Oscar Isaac and Olivia Wilde), as they navigate an unexpected pregnancy and the complexities of their shared history. Their story, however, serves as a point of origin for a broader narrative that expands to encompass characters across generations and geographical locations, including Spain. The film delves into the lives of a Spanish olive farmer (Antonio Banderas) and his family, and other individuals whose paths intersect in profound and often tragic ways, illustrating how seemingly disparate lives are interwoven by circumstance and destiny. A narrator guides the audience through these interconnected tales, emphasizing the unpredictable and often heartbreaking nature of life.

Cast

• Oscar Isaac as Will Dempsey
• Olivia Wilde as Abby Dempsey
• Mandy Patinkin as Irwin Dempsey
• Olivia Cooke as Dylan Dempsey (adult)
• Antonio Banderas as Salinger
• Annette Bening as Dr. Cait Morris
• Laia Costa as Isabel González
• Sergio Peris-Mencheta as Javier González
• Alex Monner as Rodrigo González (adult)
• Isabel Durante as Elena Dempsey
• Lorenza Izzo as Elena Anaya

Themes

The central themes of Life Itself revolve around the profound impact of love and loss, the concept of destiny versus free will, and the idea that all human lives are inextricably linked, often in ways that are not immediately apparent. It delves into the resilience of the human spirit in the face of tragedy and the enduring power of family, both biological and chosen.

Production

The film was produced by Temple Hill Entertainment and distributed by Amazon Studios. It premiered at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival.

Reception

Life Itself received generally negative reviews from critics, who often criticized its overly sentimental approach, perceived emotional manipulation, and complex narrative structure that many found convoluted. While some praised the performances of the ensemble cast, the film's screenplay and direction were widely panned. It also performed poorly at the box office.