Emily Henry, a Cincinnati native and best-selling author, is inviting audiences to join her on a cinematic escape with the film adaptation of her popular 2021 novel, “People We Meet on Vacation,” which is set to premiere on Netflix on January 9. This romantic comedy is being described by Henry as a millennial gender-swap version of the beloved classic “When Harry Met Sally…,” a film she holds dear.
“People We Meet on Vacation” follows the story of two best friends and opposites: Poppy, a New York travel writer with a flair for adventure, and Alex, a grounded small-town teacher from Ohio. Despite their contrasting personalities, the duo has vacationed together every summer for a decade. However, an incident during a trip to Croatia two years ago strained their friendship, leading to an extended silence. Now, Poppy proposes one last getaway to mend their relationship.
In conversations about her work, Henry has noted that she wanted to create a character dynamic that defied expectations, with Poppy being the more whimsical and spontaneous one, challenging the traditional narrative structure. Her inspiration was partially drawn from her own experiences, as she expressed a desire to explore the imperfections in her characters, making them relatable and engaging.
Henry, who grew up in Northern Kentucky and now resides in Cincinnati, integrated elements of her local experience into the novel. The fictional towns within the book mirror the suburbs of Cincinnati, illustrating a common feeling among young people who wish to explore a world beyond their hometowns. The author shared that her narratives often reflect an escapist vibe, which has resonated deeply with readers looking for comfort and enjoyment amidst the travel restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite initial concerns that readers might find travel-centered themes frustrating during lockdown, the release of her novel coincided with a resurgence of social interactions as vaccinations became widespread. Henry celebrates the work as a relief and a source of joy for those yearning for vacation experiences, akin to the local enthusiasm for beach culture often associated with Cincinnati’s own love for Jimmy Buffett.
As “People We Meet on Vacation” prepares to take flight on the big screen, Henry hopes the film will invite viewers to enjoy a delightful escape and remind them of the beauty of friendship and adventure.