People We Meet on Vacation

In an era of cynical rom-coms, 'People We Meet on Vacation' arrives as a sun-drenched, heartfelt ode to friendship's slow burn into love. Director Brett Haley, known for his gentle character studies, crafts a film that feels like a warm postcard from a perfect summer. The story follows Poppy (Emily Bader), a vibrant travel writer, and Alex (Tom Blyth), a reserved schoolteacher, whose annual platonic vacations form the backbone of their decade-long bond. When a falling-out threatens their connection, Poppy orchestrates one last trip to Palm Springs, setting the stage for a poignant exploration of timing, vulnerability, and the quiet moments where love silently blooms. The film's non-linear narrative, jumping between their past trips and the present, is handled with a deft touch, allowing the emotional history to accumulate like cherished souvenirs. Haley's direction is intimate and patient, favoring genuine conversation over grand gestures. The chemistry between Bader and Blyth is the film's undeniable engine—their easy banter and palpable comfort make the central 'will-they-won't-they' tension feel earned rather than manufactured. Supporting turns from Sarah Catherine Hook and Jameela Jamil add delightful texture. While the plot occasionally treads familiar ground, the execution is so sincere and the leads so compelling that it feels refreshingly new. The cinematography captures the distinct palette of each vacation locale, from the golden glow of Croatia to the arid beauty of the desert, making the world itself a character in their story.