P.S. I Love You (2007)

P.S. I Love You is a romantic drama directed by Richard LaGravenese and based on the novel by Cecelia Ahern. It’s a film that explores love, grief, and rediscovery through an unusual story structure where a deceased husband continues to guide his wife from beyond the grave. Below you’ll find a full exploration of the film, its themes, production, and more.

Detailed Summary

Holly and Gerry’s Love Story

Holly Kennedy (Hilary Swank) is a woman whose life revolves around her husband, Gerry (Gerard Butler). The opening establishes their passionate but sometimes fiery relationship. Despite their arguments, it’s clear that their bond is deeply loving.

Gerry’s Death and Holly’s Grief

Tragedy strikes when Gerry dies suddenly from a brain tumor, leaving Holly devastated. She falls into deep grief, isolating herself from her friends and family. Her world is shattered until something unexpected happens: on her 30th birthday, she receives a letter from Gerry.

The Letters Begin

The letter tells Holly to go out, buy herself a lamp, and start living again. This becomes the first of several letters Gerry arranged to be delivered after his death. Each ends with the phrase “P.S. I love you.” These messages encourage her to heal, rediscover her independence, and take new steps in life.

The Trip to Ireland

Gerry arranges for Holly and her two best friends to visit Ireland, his homeland. The trip allows Holly to reconnect with Gerry’s roots and brings her closer to the man he once was before they met. There, she meets William (Jeffrey Dean Morgan), a charming Irishman who not only knew Gerry but also seems to have a genuine interest in Holly.

Healing Through Letters

The letters help Holly navigate grief while also pushing her toward self-growth. Some are playful, others deeply emotional, but all of them are designed to help her face her fears and rebuild her identity without Gerry.

Movie Ending

The film closes on a poignant note. Holly finally receives Gerry’s last letter, which tells her it’s time to let go of him and start her own life again. He assures her that their love will always remain a part of her but insists that she deserves happiness, laughter, and love beyond him.

In the final scenes, Holly has taken visible steps toward healing. She rekindles her passion for fashion design, begins to reconnect with her mother (played by Kathy Bates), and hints at a possible new chapter with William, though the film wisely avoids forcing her into another relationship too quickly. Instead, it emphasizes personal growth and the acceptance of grief. The closing message is clear: Gerry gave her a push, but it’s Holly herself who must create a new future.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No. P.S. I Love You does not include any post-credits scenes. Once the film ends, it concludes Holly’s journey without additional teasers or extended moments.

Type of Movie

Romantic drama with elements of tragedy, healing, and light-hearted moments. It’s not a typical rom-com; instead, it blends heartbreak with humor and warmth.

Cast

• Hilary Swank as Holly Kennedy
• Gerard Butler as Gerry Kennedy
• Lisa Kudrow as Denise
• Gina Gershon as Sharon
• Harry Connick Jr. as Daniel
• Jeffrey Dean Morgan as William
• Kathy Bates as Patricia (Holly’s mother)

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by John Powell, blending heartfelt orchestral themes with intimate melodies. The soundtrack also features well-known songs that enhance the emotional tone, including Flogging Molly’s “If I Ever Leave This World Alive” and James Blunt’s “Same Mistake.”

Filming Locations

The film was shot both in New York City (to capture Holly’s modern urban life) and Ireland (for Gerry’s homeland and Holly’s journey of healing). The Irish countryside provides a sharp contrast to New York, symbolizing peace, reflection, and emotional rebirth.

Awards and Nominations

The film didn’t win major awards but received recognition for its soundtrack and performances. It was primarily noted for its emotional impact rather than critical acclaim.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Hilary Swank actually injured herself during one scene where she’s struck by suspenders that snap back unexpectedly.
• Gerard Butler admitted that the singing scene was one of the most nerve-wracking moments of his career.
• Director Richard LaGravenese wanted to balance grief and comedy carefully to avoid the film feeling overly heavy.

Inspirations and References

The film is adapted from the bestselling novel P.S. I Love You by Cecelia Ahern, which was published in 2004. While the core premise remains the same (a husband leaving letters after death), the film alters several plot details and settings.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The movie doesn’t have a widely known alternate ending, but some deleted scenes provide more comedic moments with Holly’s friends, particularly Denise (Lisa Kudrow). These were cut to keep the story focused on Holly’s emotional journey.

Book Adaptations and Differences

• In the novel, the story is set in Ireland, not New York.
• Holly is younger in the book than in the movie.
• The book explores Holly’s family life in more depth, particularly her siblings.
• The film streamlines characters and events, focusing more on Holly’s romantic rediscovery.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Gerry singing “The Galway Girl” to Holly during their date night.
• Holly receiving the first letter on her 30th birthday.
• The emotional revelation of the final letter and Holly’s acceptance of moving forward.
• Holly and William’s conversation in Ireland about love and second chances.

Iconic Quotes

• Gerry: “Don’t be afraid to fall in love again. Watch out for that signal when life as you know it ends.”
• Holly: “Sometimes there’s only one thing left to say.”
• P.S. I Love You (letter ending): “P.S. I love you.”

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• Holly’s profession as a shoe designer ties back to Gerry’s constant encouragement for her to follow her dreams—an element symbolizing her journey of self-reliance.
• The letters are often delivered with small gifts or instructions, each symbolizing the specific step in her healing process.

Trivia

• The film was Cecelia Ahern’s debut novel, written when she was just 21.
• Gerard Butler filmed 300 around the same time; audiences were surprised by the contrast between his roles.
• Hilary Swank prepared for the role by studying the psychology of grief.

Why Watch?

If you’re looking for a heartfelt film about love, loss, and rediscovery, P.S. I Love You strikes a balance between raw emotion and light touches of humor. It’s both heartbreaking and hopeful, making it a memorable story about moving forward after devastating loss.

Director’s Other Movies

• Freedom Writers (2007)
• Beautiful Creatures (2013)
• The Fisher King (1991) – as screenwriter

Recommended Films for Fans

• Me Before You (2016)
• One Day (2011)
• The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
• Remember Me (2010)
• Sweet November (2001)