“Life or Something Like It,” a romantic comedy released in 2002, caught my attention with its intriguing concept. And let’s face it, Angelina Jolie’s presence on screen is captivating, especially during what seemed to be the peak of her popularity in films at that time. Portraying the main character, Jolie brings depth to the role that makes it understandable why she would take it on.
The film begins by introducing Lanie, played by Jolie, a determined career woman with ambitious plans for her future. As a news reporter, she dreams of transitioning to network television from her current position in local news. This aspiration resonates with the zeitgeist of the early 2000s, as many movies of that era explored the lives of news reporters and the industry’s dynamics.
At first glance, Lanie appears to be living the dream. Her career is promising, poised for success, and everyone sees her as destined for greatness. She’s engaged to a professional baseball player for her hometown team, exudes undeniable beauty, and basks in the adoration of those around her.
However, as the movie progresses, cracks in her facade begin to surface. It becomes apparent that this polished exterior is merely a front she’s maintained to propel herself toward her ultimate goal of becoming a network reporter. Everything is put to the test when she’s assigned to cover a news story about a homeless man who seemingly possesses the ability to foresee the future. This encounter challenges her perception of herself and forces her to confront the authenticity of her aspirations.
The homeless man’s prediction that Lanie will die within a week initially seems absurd, casting doubt on his credibility. However, as his other predictions unfold with startling accuracy, Lanie’s skepticism gives way to fear. With her seemingly perfect life hanging in the balance, she grapples with the unsettling possibility of losing everything she holds dear. The looming threat of her own mortality forces her to confront the fragility of her existence and reevaluate what truly matters to her.
The decision for Lanie and her cameraman to deconstruct her life in order to assess her authenticity is indeed a compelling concept. However, the execution of this idea in the movie could have benefited from some refinement. While the exploration of self-discovery and reflection is intriguing, the pacing of the film may have felt uneven to some viewers. Tightening the pacing and refining the execution could have enhanced the overall impact of the storyline, allowing for a more seamless and engaging viewing experience.