Life in a Year (2020) is a poignant romantic drama that explores love, mortality, and the urgency of living fully. The film follows 17-year-old Daryn (Jaden Smith), who discovers his girlfriend Isabelle (Cara Delevingne) has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and may only have one year left to live. Determined to make every moment count, Daryn embarks on an ambitious mission to compress an entire lifetime of experiences—first loves, adventures, milestones, and dreams—into their final year together.

The film's strength lies in its heartfelt performances. Jaden Smith brings a raw, earnest vulnerability to Daryn, portraying his transition from a carefree teenager to a young man grappling with profound loss. Cara Delevingne delivers a nuanced performance as Isabelle, balancing fragility with a fierce determination to live on her own terms. Their chemistry feels authentic, making their journey emotionally resonant.

Director Mitja Okorn handles the delicate subject matter with sensitivity, avoiding excessive melodrama while still delivering tearful moments. The narrative balances bittersweet romance with themes of growth, family dynamics, and the importance of presence. While some plot points follow familiar coming-of-age tropes, the film's emotional core remains compelling.

Viewers should watch Life in a Year for its touching portrayal of love against the clock. It's a reminder to cherish every moment and find beauty in impermanence. Perfect for fans of emotional dramas like The Fault in Our Stars or Five Feet Apart, this film offers a heartfelt, if sometimes predictable, exploration of living fully when time is limited.