Let's Chat About: Regretting You Movie Adaptation
I think there’s nothing more exciting for a book enthusiast than seeing beloved characters come to life on screen. Now, not every time do we get the outcome we hope for—and other times, though rare, I’ve actually found myself saying the movie was better than the book. By now, many of us know that when a story is adapted for the screen, changes are inevitable. Screenwriters and directors have to remember that an adaptation isn’t made only for those who’ve read the book, and it’s simply impossible to fit an entire novel into a two-hour movie.
In my experience, the book is almost always better—but there have been a couple of times when I enjoyed the movie more. With that being said, let’s chat about the new film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s 2019 novel, Regretting You.
I discovered Colleen Hoover’s books back in 2021, and Regretting You was actually the fifth one I read that year. Compared to the other four (Ugly Love, It Ends With Us, Confess, and November 9), this one was my least favorite of the bunch—not because I didn’t like it, but simply because the others stood out a little more for me. Still, I enjoyed it nonetheless.
The story centers around Morgan and her teenage daughter Clara. After becoming a teen mom, Morgan has spent her entire adult life prioritizing Clara—often being a bit overprotective. She’s always tried to be a good wife to Chris (Clara’s father), a good mother to Clara, and a good sister to Jenny, whom she also helped raise. From a very young age, Morgan has always put everyone else’s needs before her own dreams. Also in the mix is Miller, Morgan’s best friend from high school and Jenny’s boyfriend—and the father of her child.
Morgan and Clara’s relationship is put to the ultimate test after a tragic event upends their lives and reveals a cascade of secrets they never saw coming. In the middle of her grief, Clara must adjust to a new reality while also experiencing love for the first time. Meanwhile, Morgan is forced to rebuild her life while mourning and facing the painful truth that the life she thought she had was built on lies. The story weaves together themes of fractured relationships, grief, hidden truths, and the sweetness of new love.
So, how did the adaptation fare compared to the book? I have to say—this is the first time I can’t pick a favorite between the two. The movie did a great job of staying true to the heart of the story, keeping most of the original plot intact. There are only a few differences I noticed from what I remember of the book. In the end, I think it all comes down to personal preference. For some, the story may feel a bit slow or a little sad, but to me, it’s ultimately about finding your way again after loss, grief, and heartbreak. I truly enjoyed my time at the theater and loved spending a few peaceful hours immersed in this emotional journey.
If you’ve watched it, read the book, or both—let’s chat about it in the comments!
Like always, thank you so much for stopping by, and let’s keep the conversation going over on socials. You can find me at @moodvibesbooks.
Until the next chapter,
– M.
Get you copy of Regretting You HERE
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