Despite a slight resemblance to established romantic comedies, “People We Meet on Vacation” largely stands apart, offering a familiar exploration of the age-old question of platonic relationships between men and women. It doesn’t necessarily introduce a fresh, modern outlook on whether such friendships can truly exist without romantic entanglement – the answer, predictably, remains a resounding “no” within this genre. the narrative employs a clever structure, seamlessly shifting between the present day, where the two central characters are estranged in their early thirties, and a series of flashbacks that chart their evolving connection.
After initially forging a platonic bond during a post-college trip to Linfield, Poppy and Alex establish a tradition of annual summer vacations together. Their lives diverge substantially – Poppy becomes a prosperous travel writer based in New York City, while Alex remains a grounded academic in Ohio. The flashbacks, set in locations like New Orleans, Tuscany, and the Canadian wilderness, consistently highlight their undeniable compatibility, even amidst other romantic pursuits. Currently, they find themselves awkwardly reunited at Alex’s brother’s destination wedding in Barcelona, following a two-year period of silence. The reason for their estrangement is revealed later, but the film trusts the audience to anticipate the underlying issues.
The film’s appeal rests on the genuine, though carefully measured, chemistry between the lead actors. One delivers a charming and proactive performance, while the other embodies a more reserved and intriguing presence. Amidst the expected grand gestures, actress Hadley Bader imbues Poppy with a subtle wistfulness that feels surprisingly authentic, sparking curiosity about her future roles. Actor Mason Blyth, known for his work in more challenging self-reliant films like “Plainclothes,” “Wasteman,” and Claire Denis’s “The Fence,” brings a quiet vulnerability to Alex, making him a relatable character despite being described as somewhat unassertive.
Did You Know? The romantic comedy genre experienced a resurgence in popularity in 2023 and 2024, with streaming services investing heavily in new content, according to a recent report by Nielsen (December 2023).
One of the film’s most memorable lines delivers a sharp observation, reflecting a trend in contemporary romantic comedies that prioritize romance over humor. The screenplay, credited to a team of three writers, maintains a generally upbeat tone to compensate for a lack of substantial comedic moments.A especially amusing scene involving an impromptu, slightly inebriated dance to Paula abdul’s “forever Your Girl” provides a rare instance of overt farce. Director Brett Haley, following his critically acclaimed indie film “I’ll See You in My Dreams,” adopts a more polished, though less distinctive, approach.Cinematographer Rob C. Givens embraces a vibrant aesthetic, saturating the film with warm, sun-drenched visuals.
The Allure of the “Friends to Lovers” Trope
The enduring popularity of the friends to lovers
trope, as seen in “People We Meet on vacation,” stems from its relatable foundation. Many viewers can identify with the complexities of navigating close friendships that harbor unspoken romantic feelings. I’ve found that this trope resonates becuase it allows for a gradual unfolding of emotions, building tension and anticipation in a way that instant attraction often doesn’t. Its a narrative structure that allows for deeper character development and exploration of vulnerability.
