Best-selling author Colleen Hoover’s 2022 novel “Reminders of Him” has been adapted for the big screen by Universal Pictures. The film is directed by Vanessa Caswill, with a script co-written by Hoover and Lauren Levin.
The story begins with Kenna Rowan (played by Maika Monroe), who returns to her hometown after serving seven years in prison for vehicular manslaughter that resulted in the death of her ex-boyfriend and the father of her daughter, Scotty (Rudy Pankow). Kenna and Scotty’s daughter, Diem (Zoe Kosovic), is being raised by Scotty’s parents, Grace (Lauren Graham) and Patrick (Bradley Whitford). Scotty’s best friend, former football player Ledger (Tyriq Withers), also cares for Diem.
Unbeknownst to each other and their shared connection, Kenna and Ledger cross paths, and Ledger is immediately drawn to her. Meanwhile, Kenna begins her healing process and hopes to improve herself so she can eventually meet Diem. Complications arise when Kenna starts to develop feelings for Ledger as well.
As Nicholas Sparks’ novels cater to a specific demographic in their film adaptations, Colleen Hoover has now captured that market. I enjoyed “It Ends with Us” and “Regretting You,” so I approached “Reminders of Him” with anticipation. While I’ve typically seen Maika Monroe in horror roles, it was refreshing to see her in something lighter.
Monroe effectively portrays Kenna’s remorseful journey without falling into melodrama. Kenna acknowledges her mistakes, and the script ensures she is not portrayed as a victim, a point that Monroe successfully conveys. Graham and Whitford lend their usual gravitas to the roles of grieving parents and overprotective grandparents. While they could have easily become judgmental caricatures, the film avoids that route, which I appreciated. Additionally, Zoe Kosovic is absolutely charming and steals every scene she occupies.
As for the male lead, Tyriq Withers continues to impress with his natural charisma and screen presence. The character of Ledger doesn’t demand too much range from Withers, as he fits the role of an appealing everyman perfectly. However, it seems that Withers may be opting for safer commercial roles like this one while also taking risks in projects such as “Him.”
“Reminders of Him” does fall into some clichés, but thanks to a strong cast, I can overlook them. When the film reaches its happy ending, it doesn’t tie everything up neatly; instead, it presents a loose ending that reflects the reality that healing is often a gradual process.
Final Grade: B
“Reminders of Him” is currently in theaters.
