Masterful Nancy Meyers

The set of "The Intern"

I recently went to see the movie "The Intern" starring Anne Hathaway and Robert De Niro. I have long vowed to see any movie by Nancy Meyers and waited with unbridled anticipation. I do love her lighthearted and mature story lines, but I'm not ashamed to admit that the interiors are also a draw for me.  Someone once said that the city of New York is an additional character in most of Woody Allen's movies. I would argue that Nancy Meyers' additional characters are her interiors.

I dragged my poor husband kicking and screaming, fully aware that the new "Mad Max" was the last movie he saw. He did everything but feigned a heart attack. But after being married for 15 years, I've perfected the art of guilt. Needless to say, the poor guy didn't stand a chance. Consequently, and in genuine "Kyle" fashion, he liked the movie too. Why do we do this dance?  I have no idea. But this supports my theory of her talent and appeal.

I have been a huge fan of Nancy Meyers ever since "Private Benjamin" which is code for a very long time. You know, the movie were Goldie Hawn joins the army. These are followed by the movies "Protocol" and "Baby Boom."

However, now Nancy Meyers is becoming just as known for the set designs in her movies. You can see it starting on the set of "Baby Boom" and developing in the movie "The Parent Trap." By the time she made "What Women Want," she hit her stride. The sets say so much about a character and their environment.

The set of "What Women Want"

Nancy's most popular interior is the set of "Something's Gotta Give" starring Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson. It was featured in countless magazines and set a standard for classic design everywhere.

The set of "Something's Gotta Give"

  
One of my personal favorites is the set of "It's Complicated." The relaxed Malibu design with pops of orange is classic, relaxed, yet still interesting. French design mixes so well with natural elements to create a comfortable home that isn't fussy.  I can see myself having a glass of wine, listening to music, and lounging for hours in this room.

Living room of "It's Complicated"

Kitchen of "It's Complicated"

Her latest movie "The Intern" is about a woman in her early thirties who is the founder and CEO of a startup company. The interiors in both her home and company are young and fresh with a little quirkiness. Look at the artwork above the fireplace.

"The Intern" Jules' kitchen

And yes, in real life your child's "stuff" would be strewn throughout the house. Look at the miniature table and chair set in the kitchen. Yet, this mix of industrial, classic, and the realistic hits the nail on the head. It looks and feels like someone lives there.

Finally, the main character's office... Oh, come on!  This is a movie after all.

"The Intern" Jules' company

If you ever have a chance to binge watch, try curling up with a big bowl of popcorn and renting several of Nancy Meyer's movies. You will not only see films full of wit and charm, but also marvel at the beautiful interiors.  She gives us something to dream about.