Insights from the Director and Author of ‘People We Meet on Vacation’ About Iconic Scene Inspirations and Fun Behind-the-Scenes Moments

Spoiler Alert: This article contains plot details from the Netflix film People We Meet on Vacation, adapted from Emily Henry’s best-selling novel.

When the first images inspired by the People We Meet on Vacation book cover surfaced online, director Brett Haley expressed disappointment at losing an intended surprise element. The movie’s key scene underwent several revisions before reaching its final version.

Now streaming, the film, produced by Netflix and Sony, features two significant nods to the book’s cover, which is fully recreated at the movie’s conclusion.

Initially, the pivotal moment was scripted as a minor reference within the film. “It used to be in the middle — just when they were on their trip at some point next to a pool,” Haley explained. He later conceptualized an opening scene that allowed fans of the book to recognize how something vital was missing when the character Poppy appears alone.

Emily Bader as Poppy in ‘People We Meet on Vacation’
Daniel Escale/Netflix

In an interview, both Henry and Haley shared insights about the film’s creative decisions, including the importance of the recreation of the cover and how the iconic film When Harry Met Sally influenced their narrative approach, as well as how Paula Abdul’s "Forever Your Girl" shaped a key dance sequence at Bamboula’s Bar.

DEADLINE: Could you discuss the film’s opening and its connection to the ending through the book cover recreation?

EMILY HENRY: I think that was Brett’s idea.

BRETT HALEY: We always knew that we would recreate the book cover in the film at some point.

HENRY: I remember discussing this aspect because there’s a voiceover where Poppy writes her article. Parts of it are lifted directly from the book, but then it diverges. I think that was your idea, Brett.

HALEY: It should convey that she’s in these beautiful places, yet something feels off. The missing element is Alex, which quickly immerses viewers in her feelings about vacation, her job, and her life.

HENRY: The script was initially much more talkative, but when Brett started working with the actors, he realized we could simplify many explanations.

DEADLINE: You both mentioned When Harry Met Sally as an inspiration. How did you trace the evolution of the relationship from them initially disliking each other to ending up together?

HENRY: The question of "Can a woman and a man be friends?" wasn’t a focus for me while writing. In my experience, it’s entirely possible. My friendships with my brothers’ friends illustrate that point.

HENRY: It’s almost like asking, “Can dogs and cats be friends?” Alex and Poppy seem mismatched, yet they complement each other. Their contrasting personalities bring out the best in one another, demonstrating that opposites can indeed attract.

Tom Blyth as Alex in ‘People We Meet on Vacation’
Daniel Escale/Netflix

HALEY: I agree. The film explores the idea that sometimes the person you think you need isn’t the one who truly complements you.

HENRY: It poses a compelling question: what happens when you already love someone as a friend before romantic feelings develop? Many might assume it’s straightforward to pursue a romantic relationship, but the reality can be fraught with the risk of losing that cherished friendship.

DEADLINE: The theme evokes Taylor Swift’s “Ruin the Friendship.” How did you choose to include the Paula Abdul song?

HALEY: I envisioned a saxophone-heavy track that would resonate with Alex, and Paula Abdul’s song fit the bill. It’s a classic that people might have forgotten, but it’s undeniably catchy.

HENRY: I recall you were searching for the right saxophone songs.

HALEY: Yes, I was specifically looking for sax songs.

HENRY: The song fits thematically as well.

HALEY: “Forever Your Girl” helped me design the dance scene. Once I linked the scene concept with the song, everything fell into place beautifully.