(Spoiler Alert)
On March 13, 2026, “Reminders of Him,” a movie adaptation based on the bestselling novel written by Colleen Hoover, was released into theaters nationwide. Directed by Vanessa Caswill, this romantic drama brings Hoover’s bestseller to life, capturing the book’s heartfelt and emotional tone.
The movie follows Kenna Rowan, played by Maika Monroe, a young mother who returns from being in prison to finally meet her daughter. For seven years, she served time in prison due to a tragic accident with her boyfriend, Scotty Landry, played by Rudy Pankow. He was killed in a car crash while they were both under the influence, with her being the only survivor. When she attempts to reconnect with her daughter, people from her past forbid her because they are still holding a grudge from that fateful night.
On the night that she returns, she visits an old bookstore that was transformed into a bar. In that place, she meets Ledger Ward, played by Tyriq Withers, who she doesn’t recognize but was her past lover’s best friend. Gradually, they fall in love with each other, with Ledger fearing that Scotty’s family will disapprove.
Ultimately, Scotty’s parents find out about her return and their relationship, but they choose to learn to forgive her. This film truly highlights how forgiveness is not always so simple and that you have to earn it in time. With the time it took for his parents to finally understand that it wasn’t her fault, it allowed her to form a special connection with them and her daughter. It explores the idea of how a person is more than their worst mistakes.
One of the details that was so heartfelt was when we learned that while Kenna is feeling lonely, she writes letters to Scotty in her notebook. However, after her relationship with Ledger occurs, she stops writing letters so often because she begins to feel true happiness.
Monroe delivered a powerful performance, showing an inspiring process of a person healing from the loss of their loved one. Her vulnerability and determination throughout the movie is incredible to watch.
I would rate this movie a four out of five stars because I loved the storyline, but I wish we got more flashbacks of Kenna and Scotty’s life before the accident. Despite that, everything else lived up to my expectations.
Overall, this film was so incredible, showcasing a story of overcoming guilt, earning forgiveness from others and how holding onto the reminders of loved ones can help them move forward.
