Movie Review: Meg Ryan delivers delightful rom-com throwback with What Happens Later

Meg Ryan's new film "What Happens Later" brings the relatable fantasy of a chance encounter with an ex-lover at an airport to life. Ryan and David Duchovny star as former college sweethearts who reconnect after 25 years. The film, which pays tribute to the rom-coms of the past, is heartfelt and beautifully performed.

Running into your biggest heartbreak in an airport is a common daydream that many people can relate to. The sheer randomness of the encounter, the forced closeness, and the ticking clock of a departing flight all create a perfect backdrop for a romantic reunion or, more likely, a cathartic closure. In her second feature film, the beloved actress Meg Ryan brings this specific fantasy to life in "What Happens Later," a charming exploration of lost love and rediscovery, if only for one night.

Known as the queen of romantic comedies, Ryan, who starred in iconic films such as "When Harry Met Sally," "You've Got Mail," and "Sleepless in Seattle," makes her debut as a screenwriter for this project. She shares writing credits with Steven Dietz and Kirk Lynn in the adaptation of Dietz's play, "Shooting Star."

The story revolves around Willa (played by Ryan) and Bill (played by David Duchovny), former college sweethearts who share a complicated romantic history and the same name: W. Davis. After not seeing each other for 25 years, they coincidentally find themselves stranded in the same airport during a snowstorm while attempting to travel between Austin, Texas, and Boston. A lot has changed since their college days, and without wasting time on small talk, Willa and Bill engage in deep conversations throughout the night they spend alone in the airport.

Willa is a spiritual wellness practitioner, while Bill is a buttoned-up businessman. Despite their differences, they effortlessly engage in witty and intelligent banter, transitioning from lighthearted generational jokes to addressing old wounds. This type of dialogue evokes memories of the romantic comedies Ryan starred in, many of which were written and directed by the late Nora Ephron. The film concludes with a dedication "for Nora," as Ryan pays tribute to her collaborator and inspiration.

"What Happens Later" truly feels like a throwback to the romantic comedies of the past, thanks to its reliance on a simple yet fantastical concept and the undeniable chemistry between Ryan and Duchovny, which constantly threatens to ignite.

One particularly captivating scene showcases Willa and Bill attempting to say goodbye for the first time. They refer to it as a "bad bye," an emotionally charged and unfinished interaction. The scene involves a mesmerizing display of hand acting that leaves the audience intrigued. Both characters stumble through the farewell, with Bill kissing Willa's hand only for her to pull away. He then tries to draw her closer, but she resists, opting for a small wave instead of a hug. This brief interaction speaks volumes about their desires and needs: Bill's desire to connect and comfort, and Willa's need to protect herself.

This captivating moment exemplifies the missed connection expressed purely through physical actions, highlighting the natural instincts that Ryan and Duchovny possess. The audience witnesses their emotional journey through their bodies and facial expressions, from a gentle touch to a wild and uninhibited dance party, capturing the electric chemistry between them without relying on words alone.

Working alongside cinematographer Bartosz Nalazek, Ryan brings a sense of elegance to the otherwise mundane airport setting. The color palette is limited to blacks, whites, grays, and honey blondes, creating a visually appealing atmosphere that never feels as dull as a real airport. Ryan's staging of the action activates the space, utilizing beautiful compositions and lighting. The falling snow seen through the glass adds to the surreal but beautiful snow globe-like isolation that the characters find themselves in.

There is an undeniable sense of magic in the air at this snowbound airport, and it extends beyond the rain stick that Willa carries with her. The sentient announcement voice (voiced by Hal Liggett) seems to read their minds and interacts with them, directing their movements and even controlling the lighting, ultimately bringing them closer together. The airport also serves as a metaphorical backdrop, offering opportunities for connections and the regaining of power, symbolized by a phone charger.

While there are a few moments in the screenplay that may come across as cheesy (jokes about pronouns are best left in the past), and some of the revelations may feel slightly contrived, "What Happens Later" is a deeply heartfelt film that is elevated by the exceptional performances of its cast. It evokes a sense of hope within the audience, not necessarily for an airport rendezvous, but for a moment of healing that everyone desires and deserves.

Share With Others