Afterlife of the Party 2021

Cassie and Lisa have been inseparable best friends since they were in first grade, navigating the ups and downs of life together. Now, as adults, their paths have taken quite different directions, creating a chasm in their once-similar lives. Cassie, a vibrant and fun-loving party planner, thrives on social gatherings, while Lisa has retreated into a quieter existence as an archeologist, preferring the company of ancient artifacts over lively crowds.

As Cassie’s 25th birthday approaches, she persuades Lisa to step out of her comfort zone and join her at a party. It’s during this outing that they encounter Max, who has just moved in next door and shares a similar introverted flair to Lisa. The chemistry between Lisa and Max is palpable, igniting a hopeful spark in both of them.

However, the night takes a turn for the worse when Cassie and Lisa find themselves embroiled in a heated argument at the club, spurred on by Cassie’s friends wishing to explore other parties. In the heat of the moment, Lisa astutely points out the changes in their friendship, lamenting how Cassie often puts on a facade, leading them to realize that their bond has weakened over time. Feeling the strain, they part ways, leading Cassie to return home in a state of despair, eventually passing out in her room.

In a shocking twist, Cassie awakens to find that she is no longer alive, having died from a freak accident involving a bathroom mishap. She meets Val, an angel handler who reveals that more than a year has passed since her death. Before she is allowed to enjoy the “Afterlife party in Heaven,” Cassie learns she must assist three people as their guardian angel: her best friend Lisa, her father Howie, and her mother Sofia. Time is of the essence; she has just five days to guide them or risk being condemned to the “below.”

Cassie witnesses her father’s mourning, noticing how he has neglected his health. Lisa is entirely consumed by her work at the museum, whilst Sofia has a young daughter, Morgan, who she has yet to meet. Though Cassie cannot make her presence known to them, she is determined to mend the fragmented connections and provide support.

During her first day of watching over Lisa, Cassie observes how her friend struggles with self-doubt, especially when an opportunity arises at a local bakery that opened shortly after Cassie’s passing. After a series of humorous incidents, Cassie finds that she can finally be seen by Lisa due to their deep connection as true soulmates. As they embark on a fun puzzle-making session, Cassie introduces Max into the mix, subtly orchestrating a meeting between the two that leads to a shared intimate moment.

With newfound determination, Lisa makes headway in uncovering Cassie’s unresolved issues with her mother. Together, they navigate this delicate relationship, with Cassie guiding Lisa’s words to foster healing and regret. Meanwhile, Cassie orchestrates a heartfelt encounter between her father and the bakery owner, Emme, who holds significance for Howie.

The emotional climax comes when Lisa gathers everyone to release wish lanterns in honor of Cassie, giving her loved ones a chance to honor her memory. In a triumphant moment, Howie begins to sing “God Only Knows,” and in a serendipitous turn, Cassie becomes visible to him, allowing for a long-overdue embrace filled with love and assurance.

Despite breaking some heavenly rules along the way, Cassie ultimately earns her place in paradise. As she heads towards the afterlife, she shares a moment with Kooper Keene, a fellow soul who has recently passed away. Together, they step into the blissful unknown, hand in hand, ready to embark on their next great adventure.