A scene from 'Reminders of Him'

Reminders of Him review: It takes the spontaneity out of new love

‘Reminders of Him’ follows the formula for romance to a tee as a woman seeking redemption finds love instead.

Reminders of Him is just another notch on the corporate bedpost.

Kenna (Maika Monroe) returns to her hometown after her release from prison. She immediately starts trying to get her life together so she can see her daughter, Diem (Zoe Kosovic). Standing in her way are her deceased boyfriend’s parents (Lauren Graham and Bradley Whitford) and his childhood best friend, Ledger (Tyriq Withers). But Ledger is willing to give her a second chance. As the two grow closer, Ledger is torn between his devotion to Diem and his attraction to Kenna.

The film is based on a novel by Colleen Hoover, whose work also inspired the movies This Ends with Us and Regretting You. While not having read any of the source material, there appears to be a common theme to all three pictures. They feature broken women trying to overcome some form of heartbreak only to discover the key to their recovery is another dreamy man.

The nearly two-hour film hits a narrative beat approximately every 30 minutes, exponentially increasing the story’s predictability.

Part 1: Kenna finds her footing.
Part 2: The two young, attractive characters finally kiss.
Part 3: Reveal the details of Kenna’s past.
Part 4:  Make sure everything works out for everyone.

These aren’t even really spoilers since these pictures recycle the same obvious storylines. If you’ve seen any of these movies over the last few years, you’ve seen them all. Consequently, the most engaging personality in the film is an adorable, scene-stealing kitten that is pushed upon Kenna.

Read my full review of Reminders of Him at thatshelf.com.

Director: Vanessa Caswill
Starring: Maika Monroe, Tyriq Withers and Bradley Whitford

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