In the beginning Life Itself appears confusing, frantic, and uneven, but by the time Chapter One ends, we see a script that deals with the balance and non-control which humans have in their lives.
Will (Oscar Isaac) finds himself attempting to brush off questions from an appointed shrink played by Annette Bening. Director, Dan Fogleman purposely confuses the story line early on by bringing images from Will’s confused memory about his wife Abby played by Olivia Wilde. From that point we travel through time and different locations to reach a conclusion that is effective and enjoyable to experience. Life Itself brings us through a number of generations, romances, children, tragedies all which lead to what should be an unexpected ending.
This is not a 3D spectacular with guns and or super beings. Life enforces the idea that chance brings opportunity and tragedy in the existence of the lives of folks particularly here for the main players in the film. It is about the strengths and weaknesses which occur when a significant tragedy imprints on many lives. It also pulls the various players into cohesive relationships which they can’t imagine as the film begins.
As the script moves the characters each become more and more interesting and we find ourselves drawn to each one. Even when crisis arrive the players all contribute in positive ways.
The connection from the early dark scenes which effect the main characters to the warmth that permeates the over all story, is impressive. It is a narrative that is compelling and riveting to watch