Meg Ryan and David Duchovny Talk About Their Enchanting New Film and Share Beloved Romantic Comedies

Meg Ryan and David Duchovny, co-stars in the movie “What Happens Later,” discussed their favorite romantic comedies after a special screening in New York City.

Duchovny made a joke about the controversial movie “Last Tango in Paris,” while Ryan, known for her roles in romantic comedies like “When Harry Met Sally…,” “Sleepless in Seattle,” and “You’ve Got Mail,” revealed her love for the 1938 film “Bringing Up Baby” with Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant.

During the conversation, Ryan expressed her view that she goes to the movies to experience emotions, not necessarily to learn or be taught. She believes movies are primarily about evoking wonder and are like delicate, ethereal creations. She also touched on her experience as a director and how the magic of cinema happens in the audience’s imagination, as light and sound come together to create something meaningful.

The discussion also delved into “What Happens Later,” a film in which they both starred. The movie revolves around two ex-lovers, Bill and Willa, who unexpectedly meet at an airport, get stranded overnight due to snow, and must spend time together. The Q&A session explored whether the film is more of a romantic comedy or a drama, with Duchovny playfully suggesting the term “rom-dram.”

Ryan discussed the mature theme of two people trying to understand why they didn’t end up together after 20 years, something she believes young people might not typically consider. Duchovny countered that young audiences could still enjoy the movie, and Ryan agreed, suggesting it’s for them as well.

“What Happens Later” was announced by Ryan in 2022, marking her return to directing eight years after her first directorial work in 2015 with “Ithaca.” She described the entire filmmaking experience as “magical.” The movie is set to be released in theaters this Friday.