Meg Ryan is set to direct and star in the upcoming romantic-comedy feature film What Happens Later, alongside The X-Files actor David Duchovny. Based on the play “Shooting Star” by American playwright Steven Dietz, who also co-wrote the screenplay with playwright and novelist Kirk Lynn, and Ryan, the story of What Happens Later centers around ex-lovers Willa (Ryan) and Bill (Duchovny) as they are reunited for the first time in decades since their split when they find themselves snowed in at an airport overnight.
Now, it's been confirmed (via Variety) that Meg Ryan will take on actor/director duties for What Happens Later with production company Bleecker Street capturing the U.S. rights. A planned theatrical release is set for 2023. The film is produced by Independent Spirit Award winners Jonathan Duffy and Kelly Williams (Sorry To Bother You) through their Ten Acre Films, Laura D. Smith and Kristin Mann. While further cast members are yet to be announced, production on the film is expected to begin in Bentonville, Arkansas, later this year.
With starring roles in iconic films like When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless In Seattle, and You've Got Mail, to mention a few, Ryan established herself as a prominent actress in the rom-com genre. What Happens Later marks Ryan's sophomore feature film at the helm after making her directorial debut with the 2015 drama film Ithaca, where she also starred alongside Tom Hanks and her son Jack Quaid (The Boys). Fans of the Golden Globe-nominated actress will undoubtedly be pleased with the announcement of her onscreen return, as What Happens Later looks to add another title to an impressive list of credits in the genre.
Source: Variety