The latest film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s popular novel, “Regretting You,” directed by Josh Boone, has sparked a mix of emotions among audiences. Released by Paramount Pictures on March 10, 2024, the film features a blend of tragedy and romance but struggles to maintain a cohesive narrative throughout its 117-minute runtime.
The story centers on Morgan, portrayed by Allison Williams, and Jonah, played by Dave Franco. Their journey begins in high school, where they share undeniable chemistry, despite being in relationships with their respective siblings. The film opens with a beach gathering that introduces the main characters and hints at Morgan’s unexpected pregnancy, a revelation that adds a layer of complexity to their intertwined lives.
As the film progresses, audiences are transported 17 years into the future. Morgan has married Chris, Jonah’s friend, while Jonah is now co-parenting a child with Morgan’s sister, Jenny. The plot thickens with the introduction of Morgan’s daughter, Clara, played by Mckenna Grace, who aspires to pursue drama school. Tension arises between Clara and her mother, although the portrayal of this conflict sometimes feels forced and unconvincing.
In a pivotal moment, a tragic event disrupts the family’s dynamic, altering relationships and prompting a reevaluation of priorities. While fans of Hoover’s work may already be familiar with the upcoming turmoil, the film’s execution lacks suspense. The emotional stakes are heightened, but the narrative often falls into a predictable rhythm, leaving viewers yearning for deeper engagement.
The introduction of Miller, a character Clara encounters, adds another layer to the story. Portrayed by Mason Thames, Miller is depicted as the “cool guy” at school, yet his character raises questions about authenticity and believability. His romantic entanglements with Clara follow a familiar pattern, lacking the complexity that could elevate the storyline.
Despite these shortcomings, moments of humor punctuate the film, including an amusing scene where Jonah’s infant finds himself on a shopping cart surrounded by bottles of wine, highlighting the struggles of adulthood. The film does have its light-hearted moments, but they often feel overshadowed by the heavier themes it attempts to tackle.
Critics have noted that “Regretting You” falls short of the emotional weight carried by Boone’s previous adaptation, “The Fault in Our Stars.” The film’s attempts at humor and romance sometimes come off as awkward, with some scenes eliciting more eye-rolls than heartfelt reactions. The conclusion, meant to tie up loose ends, veers into cliché territory, leaving some viewers blushing in their seats.
With its PG-13 rating for sexual content, teen drug and alcohol use, and brief strong language, “Regretting You” aims to appeal to a broad audience. Yet, while the film features commendable performances, particularly from Williams, the overall execution may leave fans of the original novel feeling underwhelmed.
In summary, while “Regretting You” attempts to capture the essence of Hoover’s storytelling, it ultimately delivers a mixed bag of emotions that may resonate differently with viewers. As the film navigates through love, loss, and family dynamics, it serves as a reminder that not every adaptation can perfectly translate the complexities of a beloved book onto the screen.
