“People We Meet on Vacation” is Netflix’s latest attempt to breathe life into the rom-com genre, based on Emily Henry’s popular book. The story features Poppy, a travel writer played by Emily Bader, trying to rediscover her passion. The twist? Her college best friend, Alex (Tom Blyth), holds the key to her heart. Since their fateful summer road trip back to Ohio, they’ve been sharing a vacation every year, yet never quite manage to express their true feelings.
After Alex ends a cycle of dating his high school girlfriend, Poppy decides to skip a work trip to join him at his brother’s wedding in Barcelona. This impulsive move is her shot at confessing her feelings, both to him and herself.
The idea has potential, but the execution falls flat. The film feels like a blend of iconic rom-coms, yet lacks strong characters and depth. Director Brett Haley, known for visually striking and emotional indie dramas, seems to miss the mark here. He opts for wide shots that dilute emotional moments. A close-up could have showcased the nuanced expressions of Blyth, who is otherwise talented.
The script doesn’t do much to develop Poppy’s character. We know she’s a travel writer, but what exactly does she write about? Characters like her boss, played by Jameela Jamil, are too one-dimensional. Poppy’s friend appears only briefly, losing out on what could have added humor and depth to the story.
As for Alex, we learn he abandoned a PhD to teach in his hometown. Yet, the reasoning is shallow. Family dynamics are equally weak. For comparison, look at “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” where character relationships feel authentic and well-defined. Here, time with Alex’s family feels forced, lacking the warmth and familiarity that real friendships portray.
Interestingly, 2023 data shows that 50% of audiences seek strong character development in romantic comedies. Clearly, this film misses the mark. Instead of focusing on their hometown—rich with memories—we’re whisked away to glamorous locations without a true sense of place or belonging.
It’s disheartening to see talented actors like Bader and Blyth caught in such uninspired material. They shine in more indie films like “Fresh Kills” and “Plainclothes,” and one can hope they’ll find scripts worthy of their abilities in the future.
In conclusion, while “People We Meet On Vacation” might attract viewers seeking escapism, it ultimately serves up a bland platter of romance, overshadowed by far more compelling films of the past. To explore more nuanced takes on love and friendship, you might want to check out classics like “When Harry Met Sally…” and new favorites that actually dive deep into what makes relationships work.
