Scrunchies first rose in popularity in the 80s, but they were further solidified in fashion with the release of the 2018 film “To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before.” Lara Jean Song Covey’s iconic patterned hair accessory inspired fans all over the world to wear one, whether it was in their hair or on their wrist (à la Peter Kavinsky). The movie garnered over 80 million streams the summer it was released and continues to be beloved by Netflix users everywhere. Now, everyone is anxiously awaiting the second installment in the book-to-movie trilogy, “P.S. I Still Love You.” I was delighted to be able to attend an early screening in late January.
I arrived at the scene at 2 PM on the day of the screening to a line of about 6 people already. The event took place at the Netflix-owned Paris Theatre on the Upper East Side of NYC- a very different setting than that of my usual GA concert queue. Despite the chill in the air and the hours before doors opened, the line grew in both size and energy throughout the afternoon. Prior to being let in, we received commemorative movie tickets made custom for the film’s premiere, as well as a holographic notebook inscribed with its title.
After filing in from the cold, free popcorn, soda, and waters were waiting for us. I took my seat, shivering but still incredibly excited to see the newest movie adaptation of one of my favorite book series, and a short while later there was a Q&A with the author, Jenny Han. She talked about everything from her cameo in TATBILB to the Peter Kavinsky vs. John Ambrose debate (“Team Lara Jean!” She exclaimed). The best adaptations are made when the author of the book is involved in the production process, and I love that Han has such a big part in bringing her writing to life.
All of a sudden we hear “Can I ask a question, Jenny?” from the back of the theater. “It can’t be…” I think, turning to face the speaker and… “it is!” Noah Centineo (who plays Peter Kavinsky) started walking towards the stage, followed by Lana Condor (Lara Jean) and Anna Cathcart (Kitty Song Covey). Of course, the audience goes absolutely berserk and camera flashes almost blind my eyesight as the stars wave to us. They introduced the film and it was clear that they were as excited as we were.
While I can’t reveal much about “P.S. I Still Love You,” I can say that it is absolutely perfect. It has the same warm and comforting feel of its predecessor (we see the characters experience Valentine’s Day and it’s possibly the cutest thing ever) and there are baked treats and enviable outfits galore. The music matches it flawlessly. You laugh, cry, and “awww” as LJ navigates her first romantic relationship. One of my favorite parts was Jordan Fisher as John Ambrose McClaren, LJ’s old crush who re enters her life, who is absolutely amazing at everything he does. Something that’s unique about this romcom series is its variety of relationships. From (obviously) romantic to familial and friendly, there is no shortage of representation in that category. This sequel in particular dives into female friendships, especially complicated ones.
I fully recommend checking out “P.S. I Still Love You,” available to stream on Netflix starting February 12 if you’re a fan of the first (or the books) or love feel-good movies with great, well-written characters. If that’s too long of a wait, stream/buy the official soundtrack on listening platforms and shop the new (and adorable) Sephora x P.S. I Still Love You collection online.