Netflix has released some incredible new films and television shows this year, and To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before will certainly be another favourite for many!
Based on the young adult novel by New York Times Bestselling Author, Jenny Han, To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before follows Lara Jean Song Covey whose love life goes from imaginary to out of control when the love letters for every boy she’s ever loved—five in all– are mysteriously mailed out.
Director Susan Johnson says the film is filled with love, family, vulnerability, and trust. When asked about why she wanted to tell this story, Johnson said, “I found Jenny’s book to be the ultimate “feel-good” story. There is so much angst in the world right now, and hatred, and distrust, and this movie is sweet, and joyful, and optimistic.”
Author Jenny Han was adamant on ensuring Lara Jean was played by an Asian actress, “…it took almost five years to actually get made. One of the sticking points was people didn’t understand why the main character needed to be Asian. I explained to them that it wasn’t that she needed to be Asian, it’s that she was.”
Both Johnson and Han frequently had discussions with one another about bringing the book to life. “She and I had long conversations about the story and the characters,” said Han. “I also gave notes on the script, I created mood boards for Lara Jean’s wardrobe, her bedroom, I talked to Lana about her character in-depth. I weighed in on set design. One of my requests was a rice cooker for the kitchen. Pretty much every Asian household has a rice cooker!”
What do they hope for viewers to take away? “I heard Lana say in an interview early on that she hopes everyone will come away from this movie encouraged to live their best lives,” says Johnson. “It’s such a beautiful statement, and she nailed my sentiments exactly. Look, obviously everyone’s journey is unique, but the things that bond us as humans are identical. Love, friendship, family, trust…kindness. A little more of each of those things, every day, will make the world a better place.”
The film stars Lana Condor as Lara Jean (X-Men: Apocalypse), Noah Centineo as Peter (The Fosters), Israel Broussard as Josh (Happy Death Day), Emilija Baranac as Genevieve (Riverdale), Janel Parrish as Margot (Pretty Little Liars), John Corbett as Dr Dan (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), and Andrew Bachelor as Gabe (The Babysitter).
If you want to read the book first (or afterwards), you can find it on Book Depository, Amazon, and other book retailers.
To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before hits Netflix internationally on August 17th.
