Following its Netflix premiere, the adaptation of Emily Henry's 'People We Meet on Vacation' introduced changes from the book, such as a toned-down sex scene and shifted locations. Author Henry and director Brett Haley discussed these in interviews, emphasizing fit for the film's tone and logistics. The movie stars Emily Bader and Tom Blyth as best friends Poppy and Alex.
Directed by Brett Haley from a script by Yulin Kuang, with Henry closely involved, the adaptation made notable adjustments to honor the book's spirit while suiting screen demands.
The most significant was the climactic sex scene, shot as Henry described 'gorgeous and perfect' and akin to 'Titanic's' intensity. Test screenings showed it jarred audiences unfamiliar with the book, feeling like a 'hard right turn.' Henry backed cutting it: 'If it doesn’t fit in the movie, then it doesn’t work. It has to serve the larger movie.' Haley agreed, citing tonal balance for characters aging from youth, inspired by 'When Harry Met Sally' and 'Notting Hill.'
Locations shifted for logistics: Palm Springs wedding moved to Barcelona, combining Spain filming with Tuscany for budget-friendly international flair. Henry, unvisited to Spain, endorsed it for the 'uncomfortably hot' vibe. Haley noted Palm Springs' crew shortages and tax issues, praising Barcelona as stand-in for scenes like the faulty Airbnb and balcony moment.
New Orleans subbed another trip for its cinematic appeal; other spots like Ohio and New York stayed mostly intact. A new baggage claim scene ramps tension over Poppy's Barcelona lie. Henry's reader checklist preserved key plot, jokes, and emotions. Haley prioritized real chemistry and immersive vacations, shunning green screen.
Henry anticipates varied approaches in future adaptations of her works.
