Meg Ryan Returns to Rom-Coms in “What Happens Later” Teaser
Get ready for some rom-com magic as Meg Ryan makes her triumphant comeback in the new film “What Happens Later.” The teaser trailer, released on August 30th, shows that Ryan is still the reigning queen of romantic comedies.
In this feel-good movie, Ryan, aged 61, stars alongside David Duchovny in a film from Bleeker Street. Not only does she act in the film, but she also co-wrote and directed it. Based on the Steven Dietz play “Shooting Star,” the story revolves around ex-lovers Bill (played by Duchovny) and Willa (played by Ryan), who unexpectedly cross paths again while stranded at an airport.
As the first clip unveils, Ryan’s character humorously says, “I’m looking for my connection. We were rerouted through … wherever it is we are.” When she catches sight of her former flame, they exchange an awkward wave. Bill inquires about Willa’s life, and she playfully responds, “Oh, for the last 20 years?”
The duo spends time wandering around the airport, waiting for updates on their flights. Their playful banter includes lines like, “I’ve been 49 forever and ever and ever,” and “I feel like I’ve been in my 50s since my 20s.”
However, the airport holds more surprises than just flight delays. It seems to have a touch of magic, complete with an all-knowing announcer guiding the couple’s path to reconciliation. With time on their hands, Willa and Bill reflect on their relationship, delving into what went wrong and rediscovering why they fell in love.
“What Happens Later” marks Meg Ryan’s return to the big screen, her first film role since 2015’s “Ithaca,” which she also directed. Renowned for her roles in classic rom-coms like “You’ve Got Mail,” “Sleepless in Seattle,” and “When Harry Met Sally,” this film is a true return to her comfort zone.
Speaking about the film’s themes of second chances, Ryan revealed in an interview, “Sometimes there’s a question of: Will they be together? Will they not be together? For that reason, [What Happens Later] sort of evolves the rom-com genre just a little bit. It’s also about old people, and it’s still romantic and sexy.”
Ryan drew inspiration from classic films and the late Nora Ephron, who she collaborated with in the past. According to Ryan, rom-coms are a brilliant way to comment on the times, a sentiment she embraced in “What Happens Later.”
Notably, Ryan praised David Duchovny’s dedication to his role and how he brought his character to life. The film hits theaters on October 13th, promising a heartwarming and witty tale of love, second chances, and the magic of unexpected encounters.