“Love at First Sight” Takes Flight: Jennifer E. Smith Talks About Her Book Turned Netflix Hit

Grab some popcorn and clear your Friday night. Jennifer E. Smith’s heartwarming novel “Love at First Sight” has been adapted into a Netflix film, and it’s a dream come true for the author.

A Story Soars to New Heights

The movie dives into the lives of two strangers, brilliantly portrayed by Haley Lu Richardson and Ben Hardy, who find love during a transatlantic flight to London. Remember that near-kiss moment next to the airplane restrooms? Well, Smith was blown away by how the actors nailed it.

“I teared up when I saw that scene,” Smith recalls. “I had chills. It wasn’t just close to what I’d envisioned; it was better.”

The Anxiety of Adaptation

Smith is no rookie when it comes to book-to-screen transformations. Her 2022 film adaptation, “Hello, Goodbye, and Everything in Between,” also garnered attention. But the process never gets easier.

“Adaptations always give me butterflies,” she admits. “You’re constantly mindful of the readers who adore the original story. But I’ve been lucky—both projects had teams passionate about staying true to the books.”

A Camo Cameo

Smith had a cameo role in the film where she was supposed to act like a frustrated customer at an airline counter. But she was just too giddy about her book getting the Hollywood treatment.

“I couldn’t stop smiling,” she said. “The director had to call me back. She said, ‘You’re too happy,’ and I thought, ‘Of course I’m happy. This is a pinch-me moment!'”

Lessons and Takeaways

• Be Genuine: Your joy and passion are your biggest assets. Smith couldn’t help but be thrilled, even when she was supposed to act otherwise.

• Trust the Process: With the right team, your vision can be realized in ways you never imagined.

• Enjoy the Ride: Whether it’s your first adaptation or your tenth, relish the moment. It’s a rare and beautiful thing to see your words transform into living, breathing cinema.

So, are you ready to jet-set into this romantic tale? “Love at First Sight” promises a heartfelt journey, both in the air and on the ground. Smith’s journey teaches us that when the right elements align, magic really can happen—sometimes even better than we dare to dream.