Character Reactions
A fleeting moment of charm in People We Meet on Vacation often passes unnoticed. As Poppy Wright (Emily Bader) makes her way into the wedding reception in Barcelona, seeking to mend her strained friendship with Alex Nilsen (Tom Blyth), an unintentional expression flickers across Alex’s face—his jaw tightening in a subtle, involuntary gesture. This minor reaction hints at deeper feelings, reminiscent of Matthew Macfadyen’s subtle expressions in Pride & Prejudice. Interestingly, author Emily Henry, who penned the 2021 novel that inspired the film and also served as executive producer, appreciated this nuance.
Blyth shared with Tudum that such reactions come naturally to him. Henry encouraged him to trust his instincts and keep the jaw clenched during filming, emphasizing that sometimes, letting the body express itself authentically can enhance a performance. Reflecting on his training, Blyth explained that acting classes often aim to eliminate tension, believing it hinders authenticity. He finds it rewarding when instinctual gestures like this are validated, showing that genuine physical moments can add depth to characters.
Crafting Romance on the Silver Screen: A New Chapter in Romantic Comedy
Emily Bader and Tom Blyth bring fresh energy to the beloved romantic comedy genre in their latest film adaptation. While Blyth found himself unexpectedly channeling the spirit of Mr. Darcy, Bader drew inspiration from her romantic comedy idols Meg Ryan and Julia Roberts.
"That's the dream, right?" Bader confesses with genuine enthusiasm. "I'm such a fan of all those movies." With her character's adventurous nature and quick wit, Bader now stands alongside her heroes in the romantic comedy hall of fame.
The casting journey itself mirrored a romantic comedy plot. Blyth initially declined the role, immersed in more dramatic projects. "I'd said no, because I wasn't ready. I was doing all this serious stuff. Then they sent it again — and it was time," he explains. The search for his perfect counterpart began with director Brett Haley.
Meanwhile, Bader was auditioning from a random house in Sweden. "I was really, really nervous. But Tom was so present and so supportive," she recalls. "I felt like everyone involved wanted me to succeed." This supportive atmosphere reflected her character's approach to life, perhaps foreshadowing their perfect match.
Though Bader remained uncertain about landing the role, Blyth and Haley were immediately convinced. "Emily just brought it from day one. It was so clear," Blyth remembers. The director agreed, calling the decision "a no-brainer."
The film's success hinges on the chemistry between these two characters, with Haley noting their "electric" connection. "They capture that opposites-attract dynamic in a way that feels effortless and true."
The author of the source material concurs, praising how Bader embodies the character who "feels like someone you want to be best friends with," while Blyth masterfully balances his character's reserved nature with moments of vulnerability.
Their dynamic shines particularly bright during a New Orleans sequence. While Blyth's character prefers simple pleasures like hurricane cocktails and beignets, Bader's character orchestrates an elaborate charade, complete with a wig and an accent inspired by Marisa Tomei. Their fake honeymoon story culminates in an impromptu dance to Paula Abdul's "Forever Your Girl," featuring moves borrowed from "Dirty Dancing" and Sam Rockwell, demonstrating how these actors aren't just paying homage to romantic comedies of the past—they're creating something entirely new.
Dance and Romance Journeys
Blyth proudly admits, "I can perform the worm," though he confesses that he only masters the move facing forward and struggles with the reverse. His fascination with breakdancing began at age ten, motivated by a desire to impress a girl who was enamored with a classmate's dance skills. "It’s always about trying to impress the girl," he reflects.
Meanwhile, Blyth’s newfound confidence on the dance floor served as inspiration for Bader, who secretly admits to being "terrified" of dancing. "Filming that scene involved a lot of sticky floors and aching ankles, but it was honestly one of the best experiences of my life," she shares. "Tom is such a talented dancer that I felt comfortable not being perfect. Plus, it’s amusing to see Alex’s character, who’s usually reserved, dancing so well. Nothing else could have better helped me overcome my dance fears."
In New Orleans, the chemistry between Poppy and Alex is palpable, hinting at a deeper connection that has yet to fully blossom. The pair share several summers together— from a cozy staycation in New York City to a tense double-date trip to Tuscany, followed by two years of silence that leave their relationship in limbo. Their feelings culminate on a rainy Barcelona night after a wedding rehearsal dinner, when they finally give in to their mutual attraction.
Filming this story felt like summer camp, with scenes filled with excitement and camaraderie. Yet, the actual shoot was often chilly and damp, as Blyth recalls: "Much of that day was spent wrapped in blankets. You’d never guess it from how it looks." Despite the cold, the cast kept their energy up, rushing between takes in wet clothes, driven by the presence of a fantastic scene partner like Emily Bader, who made the process seamless.
Following their emotional night in Barcelona, Poppy and Alex’s relationship intensifies. Poppy returns to her apartment only to realize it feels empty without him. She then heads to Ohio, where she does something unexpected—she runs after Alex, eager to confess her love and her desire for commitment.
“Poppy is finally taking action,” Bader explains. “She’s someone who usually avoids deep feelings and fears being truly seen. But stepping off that plane marks a turning point—she’s embracing the moment, saying ‘now or never.’”
Ending of Romantic Journey
In the final moments of the romantic journey, we witness the culmination of mutual sacrifices beyond that memorable cardio-intensive declaration of love. The following summer reveals our beloved pair sharing a home in New York City, with one partner having left their Midwestern roots to embrace urban life and secure a position at the prestigious Sarah Lawrence College nearby.
"Their shared space reflects their growth together—an organized home, a pet dog, and even the simple act of opening mail promptly," notes the creator. "The essence of enduring romance lies not just in the falling, but in the staying—through continuous compromise and dedicated effort."
Experience this touching story of love and adaptation for yourself by viewing or revisiting the performances. And don't forget to stay connected for additional insights from the actors, plus exciting upcoming developments from this beloved fictional universe.
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