“What Happens Later”

It may not find complete success in its concept and execution, but “What Happens Later” is a true rarity. Based on the play “Shooting Star” by Steven Dietz, this is a romance-leaning film that refreshingly stars two lead actors that are over 60. It’s not a rom-com per se, but a mature dramedy that combines fantasy elements with themes of aging, middle age angst, regret, and heartache.

Ex-lovers William (David Duchovny) and Willa (Meg Ryan) haven’t seen or spoken to each other in over two decades. As fate would have it, the pair get snowed in at a regional airport overnight. Delayed indefinitely due to the storm of the century, the two begin to have the conversation they should’ve had years ago, unpacking the painful and tender memories of their turbulent past. Sharing their previous and future dreams, conflicting memories, and mutual heartbreak, the two find that even after all these years, they are still just as annoyed by and attracted to each other as they were in their twenties.

Ryan, who also directed and co-wrote the film, has a lovely chemistry with Duchovny that radiates with authenticity. The pair play off each other well, although their characters are flawed and complete opposites (she is spiritual and optimistic, while he is pessimistic and practical). Despite their differences, it isn’t hard to imagine these two being star-crossed lovers that continue to exist together somewhere in the universe.

There are charming romantic comedy elements that are given a fresh angle, with the two characters bringing a wisdom and perspective that can only be gained from life experience (and being older and wiser). Reflecting on the past, Willa and William air grievances that are common with their age group (younger bosses, terrible modern music, and a general feeling that the world is moving on while they remain stationary), until eventually addressing the past trauma that ended their relationship. The two learn that their breakup was one based on misunderstandings, and now is their chance to finally clear the air. There are things that have been left unsaid for far too long, and this opportunity could be a result of divine intervention.

The story includes elements of fantasy that are jolting but also make the film feel unique and different. The airport becomes a sort of living, breathing character in the movie too, which helps mask the more draggy and artificial parts of the script. The dialogue and banter is mostly bland, but Duchovny and Ryan elevate the material in a way that never feels too forced for too long.

It’s always a pleasure when a film as interesting as “What Happens Later” is made, and it’s easy to be charmed by the distinct, unconventional flair of this modern love story. This is a movie that takes viewers along on the journey as a former couple relives the joy and pain of their choppy, messy relationship, while also providing a dose of optimism on the side.

By: Louisa Moore