Adapting a beloved novel into a film is an intricate art, and Yulin Kuang understands this well as the screenwriter for the highly anticipated People We Meet on Vacation. With the film recently launched on Netflix, fans of Emily Henry’s original work are eager to learn about the transformation from page to screen. In her reflections, Kuang shares the challenges and joys of bringing this romantic story to life.
Having grown up immersed in the world of fandom, Kuang possesses a deep understanding of the expectations surrounding book-to-screen adaptations. As a teenager, she often recorded her thoughts on how adaptations could preserve the essence of the novels she cherished. Now, as a successful screenwriter, she recognizes that while faithfulness is crucial, the best adaptations often require creative reinterpretation.
The delicate balance of adaptation
While working on People We Meet on Vacation, Kuang confronted the reality that not every scene from the book could be included in the film. “The task of adaptation is not merely a straight translation of the novel,” she explains, emphasizing that film and literature are distinct mediums with unique storytelling capacities. Although some beloved scenes from the book were omitted, new moments were crafted to enhance the film’s narrative.
Kuang fondly recalls a specific scene in the film that book fans might not recognize. This new addition emerged from feedback during the writing process, demonstrating how collaboration can lead to unexpected creativity. She describes this scene as an opportunity to create fan fiction-like moments for the characters, Poppy and Alex, enriching the story in ways that resonate with both new viewers and dedicated readers.
Embracing creative freedom
While the adaptation process can feel daunting, Kuang emphasizes the importance of creative freedom. “I learned that you can’t simply film a book; there are artistic choices to be made,” she states. This realization allows for the introduction of fresh ideas that might not have existed in the original narrative. She hopes that this blend of old and new will delight audiences and provide something unique to both fans of the book and those experiencing the story for the first time.
Kuang’s close collaboration with Emily Henry, the author of the original novel, has been a rewarding aspect of this journey. Henry provided invaluable insights through character maps and discussions about motivations, enabling Kuang to delve deep into the narrative’s heart. This partnership reflects a mutual respect for the source material and a shared vision for its cinematic adaptation.
Looking ahead
As the film continues to gain traction, Kuang expresses hope that audiences will appreciate the love and care that went into its creation. She acknowledges the potential for differing opinions among book purists but emphasizes that the film stands as a love letter to the original work. “Every part of this film was crafted with love and respect for the book,” she asserts, aiming for it to resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
With the film’s release, anticipation for future adaptations, such as Beach Read, also looms large. Kuang is excited about the prospect of adapting yet another of Henry’s works and is eager to continue exploring the depths of romantic narratives. Her journey underscores the evolving landscape of adaptations and the passion that fuels this creative endeavor.
Ultimately, the success of People We Meet on Vacation serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal of romance and the power of storytelling across different mediums. As audiences embrace these adaptations, there is hope that the industry will continue to recognize the significance of the romance genre and its devoted fanbase, paving the way for more heartfelt stories to come.