Emily Henry, the popular author of contemporary romance novels, is seeing her work rapidly transition to the screen. Several of her titles are currently in development or production for major streaming and production companies, signaling a broader trend of book-to-film adaptations in the romance genre. Here’s an overview of the projects:
People We Meet on Vacation – Now Streaming 🍿
The adaptation of People We Meet on Vacation premiered on Netflix on January 9th, starring Tom Blyth (Hunger Games ) and Emily Bader. The story follows two former best friends, Alex and Poppy, who revisit a shared vacation spot in Palm Springs years after a falling out. As tensions rise and old feelings resurface, they grapple with the possibility of a relationship beyond friendship. The film is directed by Brett Haley with a screenplay by Yulin Kuang.
Beach Read – Script in Progress ✍️
Yulin Kuang, who also penned People We Meet on Vacation, is confirmed to write the script for Beach Read. This 2023 announcement from Deadline indicates that 20th Century Studios and Original Film will produce. Casting is underway, with fan favorites Ayo Edebiri and Paul Mescal being discussed for lead roles. The story centers on two writers, Augustus and January, who challenge each other to write outside their comfort zones to overcome writer’s block.
Book Lovers – Rights Acquired 📚
Tango acquired the rights to adapt Book Lovers in March 2023. Sarah Heyward, known for her work on Girls, will write the screenplay. As of early 2026, further details remain unreleased. The plot follows Nora, a literary agent, who unexpectedly finds herself falling for a brooding editor while on a forced vacation with her sister.
Happy Place – From Series to Film 🔄
Jennifer Lopez’s Nuyorican Productions initially optioned Happy Place for a TV series in June 2024, but Netflix has since shifted it to a film adaptation. Notably, Emily Henry herself will write the script. The story explores Harriet and Wyn, a couple pretending to still be together for their friend group, as they confront their true feelings during a getaway.
Funny Story – Revenge and Romance 😈
Emily Henry is also writing the screenplay for Funny Story, confirmed in July 2024. Netflix picked up the adaptation on January 8th. The story follows Daphne, who moves to a small town after being left by her boyfriend for her best friend. She ends up rooming with her ex’s former partner, Miles, and together they plot revenge.
Key Takeaway: Emily Henry’s novels are proving popular for adaptation, indicating a growing demand for romance stories in film and streaming. The involvement of established writers and producers ensures that these projects will likely maintain the appeal of the original books while reaching wider audiences.
