Monarch Media has acquired the rights to reboot the beloved romantic drama "A Walk To Remember," bringing Nicholas Sparks' touching story to a new generation of viewers. The production company plans to develop a fresh adaptation of the 1999 bestselling novel, collaborating with the original film's producers.
The 2002 film adaptation, which launched the careers of Mandy Moore and Shane West, has maintained a devoted following despite modest box office returns. While the original earned under $48 million in theaters, it has become a modern romantic comedy classic.
The reboot will reunite original producers Denise Di Novi and Hunt Lowry with an expanded production team including Steve Barnett, Alan Powell and Vicky Patel from Monarch Media. For Barnett, this project holds special meaning as he previously contributed to the 2002 film while working with Di Novi.
The story follows a rebellious high school senior who unexpectedly falls in love with a reserved, faith-driven classmate after being forced to participate in a school play. Their relationship explores themes of love, forgiveness and living life purposefully.
"We could not be more excited to bring a new version of Nicholas Sparks' timeless story to audiences," said Barnett, highlighting the enduring appeal of the coming-of-age drama.
Di Novi expressed enthusiasm about introducing the story's messages of faith, hope and love to contemporary viewers. "These are qualities we need now more than ever," she noted.
No casting decisions have been announced yet for the reboot. The rights deal was finalized through negotiations between Monarch Media, HighPoint Media Advisors, and Shamrock Capitol representatives.
The original novel is part of Sparks' impressive literary catalogue, which includes over 130 million copies sold worldwide in more than 50 languages. His works have consistently reached the New York Times bestseller list, with "The Notebook" being another notably successful film adaptation.