Deacon Phillippe and Judy Greer join the cast of Netflix's Better Than The Movies adaptation
TV & Film

Netflix’s 'Better Than The Movies' Adaptation Casts Deacon Phillippe, Judy Greer & More as Production Begins

Nepo baby royalty and rom-com icons unite as Ryan Phillippe and Reese Witherspoon's son joins the Netflix adaptation of Lynn Painter's viral bestseller.

By Nina BrooksPublished Updated 2 min read

Netflix is officially bringing one of BookTok's biggest romantic obsessions to the screen, and the production team is stacking up a starry ensemble. Filming for the movie adaptation of author Lynn Painter's smash bestseller *Better Than the Movies* has officially kicked off in Chicago, and eight new actors have joined the project. Leading the hype among the fresh casting updates is Deacon Phillippe. The 21-year-old musician and actor, who is the son of Hollywood stars Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe, is making major strides in his screen career. Having previously landed a role in the upcoming series *Motorheads*, the celebrity offspring is now taking on a prime role in Netflix's high-profile young adult adaptation.

Who is in the Better Than The Movies Netflix cast?

Phillippe won't be the only high-profile face arriving on set in Illinois. Fan-favorite character actress Judy Greer has signed on for the movie, bringing her legendary romantic comedy credentials to the streamer's production. Joining her is Emmy winner Luke Kirby, widely praised for his role as Lenny Bruce in *The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel*. The new casting wave also features Nicole Bruner, who recently appeared in *High Potential*, along with *Grimm* actress Claire Coffee. In total, eight new performers have officially been added to the call sheet as principal photography begins.

Deacon Phillippe and Judy Greer join the cast of Netflix's Better Than The Movies adaptation
Deacon Phillippe and Judy Greer join the cast of Netflix's Better Than The Movies adaptation

What is Netflix's Better Than The Movies about?

The original novel by Lynn Painter captured a massive reader base, earning a #1 spot on the New York Times bestseller list and generating massive traction across online book communities. The storyline follows rom-com obsessed teenager Liz Buxbaum, who reluctantly teams up with her annoying next-door neighbor in a bid to capture the attention of her longtime crush, only to find her feelings getting far more complicated than any scripted movie plot. Cameras officially began rolling on location in Chicago today, confirming that the adaptation is moving quickly through production. While Netflix has not yet locked in an official premiere date, shooting is now actively underway. With a mix of industry veterans and rising Hollywood talent on board, the streaming giant is leaning heavily into the ongoing rom-com resurgence. Fans following the production can expect additional behind-the-scenes updates and potential release announcements as filming continues in the Windy City.

More like this

Get the pop news brief

One daily email. The biggest celebrity, music and TV stories, no filler.

Reader reaction

Loading comments…

People also ask

Who is starring in the Netflix film Better Than The Movies?
The newly announced cast members include Deacon Phillippe, Judy Greer, Luke Kirby, Nicole Bruner, and Claire Coffee, alongside three additional fresh faces.
Where is Better Than The Movies filming?
Production on the Netflix film adaptation officially commenced in Chicago.
Is Better Than The Movies based on a book?
Yes, the movie is based on Lynn Painter's #1 New York Times bestselling young adult novel of the same name.