The pages of a classic Romcom-style novel always have a talent of pulling audiences in, whether through slow-burning tension, an enemies-to-lovers classic, or even the inevitable happily-ever-after. But when those familiar and perfectly imaginative words on paper transform into a new world of lights, cameras, and action, different feelings are brought up.
With each new Romcom book adaptation emerging in today’s film industry, many conversations are brought with it, each time raising the question: can these movies ever truly do the stories justice?
To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before
“Personally, my all-time favorite romcom is To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before. I didn’t even know it was a book first until recently,” Sophomore Juana Hoyos states. “I still think that the movie is better. It’s just so perfect.”
In April of 2014, American author and screenwriter Jenny Han published her new book To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before. The novel was quickly well-loved by many teen audiences due to its relatable and heartfelt storyline.
Over time, new books were released in the franchise, completing a fan-favorite trilogy from Han. Years later, in 2018, the stories were brought to life, with Netflix releasing its own film adaptation, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before. The movie was a complete hit, striking the audiences and helping define the late 2010’s romcom culture.
Personally, the movie has been and should continue to be recognized as one of the best romcoms to come out of that era, especially relating to audiences of my generation, with its charming coming-of-age aspect and a classic, slightly fantasized, representation of what a teenage girl’s love life is really like.
I even read the books, but, as rare as it is, I can still say I prefer the movies. This is, in my opinion, a perfect example of what a successful romcom movie adaptation is.
The Summer I turned Pretty
In true Jenny Han fashion, this isn’t the only hit to come out of her novels. Early in her career, Han published the first book in her first trilogy, The Summer I Turned Pretty. Though the novels were quite successful, it was nothing compared to the widespread attention and obsession that the series adaptation with the same name attracted when it was first released.
A wide-ranging audience, myself included, was quickly enamored by the angsty love triangle, dreamy summer aesthetic, and classic “will they, won’t they?” trope that kept viewers on their toes and firmly seated for every episode.
This series holds a special place in my heart, one that I have watched and rewatched, frankly, an embarrassing number of times. My love for the series encouraged me to read the books, which I also fell in love with. With this, I can confidently state that the series adaptation did the original novels justice and much more.
People We Meet On Vacation
“I’m such a big fan of Emily Henry’s books, especially People We Meet On Vacation, which is my favorite. I was so excited when I found out a movie was coming out,” Freshman Kayleigh Willoughby comments. “Although it was cute, I really thought that a bunch of big points were missed, ones that make the book so good. I wish it was executed a bit better.”
One of the first movies of 2026, People We Meet on Vacation, had a lot of buzz surrounding it when it was released. Some audiences on the internet shared pure joy and praise for the movie, stating it was one of the best romcoms to come out as of recently, but some others shared contrasting ideas, especially lovers of the original book.
Many online posts, while acknowledging the charming vibe and chemistry between the main actors, struggled to enjoy what seemed to be lacking a lot of emotional depth and extra details that make the book what it is. I share these beliefs, wishing there was more of a slow-burn aspect, and mourning a few critical plot points that didn’t seem to translate.
While the movie was still enjoyable for me, it serves as an example of how some adaptations don’t always hit the mark when it comes to perfectly representing what the original novels often provide.
On the other hand, the continuing popularity of each romcom adaptation shows just how alive this branch of the film industry really is, always proving that, whether it’s a hit or a flop, audiences always come back for a good love story.
