I haven’t read any of Colleen Hoover’s books, but the new film Regretting You, based on her 2019 novel, is quite the rollercoaster. The film showcases the talents of the cast, especially Allison Williams, who brings a wonderfully quirky edge as a lead. Her ability to convey emotions with a simple stare makes her a standout. You can see she’s having fun with this role, and it’s refreshing.
The film begins in 2006, setting up a group of mismatched teens. Morgan (Williams) is dating Chris (Scott Eastwood), while her sister Jenny (Willa Fitzgerald) is with Jonah (Dave Franco). A surprise pregnancy complicates Morgan’s future with Chris. Fast forward 17 years, and we find Morgan and Chris still together, but a tragic accident shakes their world.
This pivotal moment, when Chris and Jenny die in a car crash, uncovers hidden secrets. Audiences are left to grapple with the fallout of their spouses’ affair. Amidst the chaos, Morgan turns into a “wine mom,” drowning in grief while her daughter, Clara (Mckenna Grace), struggles with guilt over the accident.
Clara’s emotional turmoil contrasts sharply with Morgan and Jonah’s subdued responses. There’s a noticeable difference between Clara’s raw feelings and the adult characters’ restrained despair. This juxtaposition could highlight the struggle to articulate grief, though it sometimes feels off-balance.
The film also creatively uses text messaging sequences, visually showcasing dialogue as characters talk over each other. It’s a fun stylistic choice that keeps the narrative engaging.
However, the film falls into familiar romance tropes. Viewers often cheer for moments when characters kiss because they’re expecting the pair’s inevitable union. These predictable arcs can be comforting for fans of romance but might alienate those seeking something more unpredictable.
In recent years, films like this have gained mixed reactions on social media, often being dubbed “guilty pleasures.” Viewers seem to enjoy the melodrama, even if it dips into absurdity. Critics argue that this balance between humor and serious themes can sometimes miss the mark, leaving audiences unsure of how to feel.
It’s curious how films tackle emotional topics. A recent study found that audiences appreciate humor within heavy narratives. It suggests that laughter can be a coping mechanism, allowing viewers to reconcile complex emotions.
In the end, Regretting You may not be groundbreaking, but it does offer a glimpse into the chaos of love and loss. While the film hits familiar notes, its quirky characters and stylized storytelling provide moments of both laughter and introspection.
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movie review, review, movies, regretting you, colleen hoover, mason thames, allison williams, scott eastwood, dave franco, mckenna grace, josh boone, vulture homepage lede, vulture section lede
