Leah McKendrick, the writer, director, and a star of the newly released Netflix rom-com "Voicemails for Isabelle," has expressed joy and surprise at the film's overwhelmingly positive reception, including viral online reactions. McKendrick noted that she particularly enjoys seeing videos of husbands and boyfriends crying while watching the movie, stating, "I love the husbands crying." She explained that while her work is often "for the girls and the gays," it is deeply meaningful when straight men also connect with the film's emotional core.
The film, which follows Jill (Zoey Deutch) as she leaves voicemails for her deceased sister Izzy (Ciara Bravo), only for them to be unintentionally received by a Texas real estate agent (Nick Robinson), has resonated with audiences for its blend of classic rom-com elements and its exploration of non-romantic love between sisters and friends. McKendrick described the film's success as "a dream" and "everything that we hoped for," acknowledging the collaborative effort involved in its creation.
McKendrick highlighted the integral role of music in her creative process, often curating playlists before writing begins, with songs inspiring scenes rather than the other way around. She cited Robyn and Taylor Swift as significant influences, noting the inclusion of two Swift songs in the film, a fact she found remarkable given licensing complexities. The score was also composed by Este Haim and Amanda Yamate, who McKendrick felt deeply connected with the film's themes.
Central to "Voicemails for Isabelle" is the theme of non-romantic love, a concept McKendrick explored due to her own deep bond with her sister. She wrote the script eight years prior, aiming to capture the profound connection she shared with her sister, which she felt surpassed many romantic relationships she experienced in her twenties. McKendrick emphasized the importance of not settling in romantic partnerships and the belief that a true partner will offer unconditional love similar to that of family.
The film's ending, featuring Izzy dancing behind Jill, was a moment McKendrick fought to include, despite scheduling challenges. She felt the scene was crucial for conveying the sisterly bond, and it was ultimately captured in a single, spontaneous take as the sun set.
McKendrick also touched upon the film's Easter eggs, revealing that one specific detail related to Wes's running sequence during the Benson Boone song has yet to be discovered by audiences. She also discussed how her relationships, including with her brother, inspire her storytelling, noting that while "Voicemails for Isabelle" is an ode to her sister, other projects explore father-daughter and mother-daughter dynamics.
Looking ahead, McKendrick expressed her desire to continue telling stories and to collaborate with others, moving beyond solitary work on her laptop. She has a Shania Twain film and a horror movie with James Wan and Jason Blum in development, and she feels fortunate to reach a point where her work is being seen globally, stating, "Y’all are stuck with me now."