Meg Ryan, the renowned romantic-comedy actor, is making a long-awaited comeback to the genre with her latest film What Happens Next. After an eight-year hiatus from acting, Ryan is not only starring in the movie but also taking on the roles of director and co-writer. This marks her first rom-com in over a decade, signaling a fresh take on the beloved genre.
At 61 years old, Ryan has been quite selective with her work in recent years, opting to focus on other aspects of her life. Her last rom-com, Serious Moonlight, was released in 2009 and received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences. Since then, Ryan has been exploring different opportunities and experiences, wanting to develop herself as a human being.
In a recent interview, Ryan expressed her desire to view acting as a job rather than a lifestyle, allowing her to navigate the industry with a newfound perspective. This mindset has given her the freedom to choose projects based on what interests her and whom she wants to collaborate with.
What Happens Next is based on the play Shooting Star by Steven Dietz. Set in an airport during a storm of the century, the film follows the story of ex-lovers Willa (played by Ryan) and Bill (played by David Duchovny) as they find themselves trapped together. Stranded in this confined space, they begin to unravel the reasons behind their failed relationship, leading to introspection and emotional growth.
Ryan credits her former collaborator, Nora Ephron, for inspiring her approach to rom-coms. Ephron, who directed and co-wrote Ryan’s iconic film Sleepless in Seattle, viewed rom-coms as an incredible platform to comment on the times. Ryan aims to continue this tradition with What Happens Next, offering a nuanced exploration of relationships that leaves room for questions and tension.
The film is set to be released in theaters on November 3, promising a refreshing and thought-provoking experience for fans of the rom-com genre. With Meg Ryan’s return and her dedication to delivering compelling stories, audiences eagerly anticipate seeing her unique perspective come to life once again on the big screen.
In conclusion, Meg Ryan’s return to rom-coms with What Happens Next signifies a fresh take on the genre and marks her first movie in over a decade. As the director, co-writer, and lead actress, Ryan brings her years of experience and passion for storytelling to create a captivating film. With its introspective approach and exploration of relationships, What Happens Next is sure to leave audiences longing for more of Ryan’s signature charm.
