The film is directed by Vanessa Caswill with a script based on Colleen Hoover’s 2022 novel. If someone has already read the novel, they will already know the story. Others who have not yet read the novel can enjoy the story/script of motherhood, forgiveness, and second chances, even if they are not already parents. The latter two themes are key to the film, and the protagonist pursues her goal of reconnecting with someone from her past.
Kenna (Maika Monroe) was driving with her boyfriend as a passenger when they had a car accident. The circumstances resulted in her incarceration. After an early release for good behavior, her goal is to return to the community where her life was forever changed. Her efforts to reconnect with her family are not well-received, and she faces challenges and resistance from the community. While not expecting to form a bond with anyone outside her family, she meets a local bar owner, Ledger (Tyriq Withers).
Maika Monroe’s performance is excellent as she navigates the various stages of her life, and some of those stages are shown in flashbacks to the audience. She is good at interpreting a wide variety of emotions as she takes this journey that is not smooth. The story is not the most original, and thus can come across as predictable, but Monroe and Withers appear to have good chemistry and an emotional connection. Each is deeply connected to her late boyfriend, who perished in a car accident. Monroe’s portrayal of Kenna is compelling.
Supporting Cast: Lauren Graham, Bradley Whitford, and Lainey Wilson (in her film debut), among others. They form a strong ensemble, creating a credible small-town community.
Reminders of Him will likely appeal to fans of the author’s work and to those who enjoy emotional drama featuring a good main character trying to reconnect with family. Although the script may sound similar and predictable to some, it is not enough to detract from enjoying the performances and a shot at redemption.
The film is in theaters on March 13, 2026.
Source: Universal Pictures