Julia Hart to direct 'Netflix’s Better Than the Movies' as YA romance heads to screen

Netflix’s 'Better Than the Movies' adaptation gets Julia Hart as director, filming date and new YA rom-com details

Netflix is moving forward with its highly anticipated adaptation of Lynn Painter’s bestselling young adult novel Better Than the Movies, with filmmaker Julia Hart attached to direct the romantic comedy film.

The upcoming Netflix Original movie will be directed and co-written by Hart, who previously worked on Netflix’s Don’t Say Good Luck. The screenplay is being developed by Hart alongside Jordan Horowitz and Heather Flanders, with production expected to begin in Chicago, Illinois, on September 3, 2026.

Better Than the Movies is based on Painter’s popular YA romance novel, which follows Liz Buxbaum, a hopeless romantic who dreams of having the perfect love story. When her longtime crush Michael returns to town, Liz teams up with her frustrating but charming neighbour Wes Bennet to get his attention and secure a dream prom date.

However, as Liz and Wes spend more time together, she begins questioning whether her idea of a perfect romance matches the reality of their growing connection. The film explores themes of young love, friendship and discovering what true happiness looks like.

The Netflix adaptation is being produced by Shauna Phelan and Jordan Horowitz, with Original Headquarters serving as the production company. No cast members have been officially announced yet, but casting updates are expected ahead of filming.

Production is scheduled to continue through October 21, 2026. While Netflix has not confirmed a release date, the film is expected to arrive on the streaming platform in 2027, following the completion of filming and post-production.

With Julia Hart leading the project and the popularity of Lynn Painter’s novel among YA romance fans, Better Than the Movies is becoming one of Netflix’s most anticipated upcoming romantic comedy adaptations.