Production has concluded on M. Night Shyamalan’s cinematic interpretation of Nicholas Sparks’ most recent book, and the renowned author expresses that leads Jake Gyllenhaal and Phoebe Dynevor truly brought the romantic narrative to life.
“They’re both top-notch professionals, and they delivered what I consider the key element in a film like this,” Sparks, 59, shared in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly regarding the adaptation of Remain, which is slated for release next autumn. The corresponding novel was published on Tuesday, October 14. “Chemistry is essential.”
He added: “They both got along splendidly. They’re both skilled artists, but they really have that chemistry, you know?”
The best-selling author, whose works have resonated with millions, spent considerable time on set during the month-long filming in Rhode Island earlier this summer, noting the dynamic between the lead actors was unmistakable.
“Honestly, if you’re Phoebe gazing at Jake, or Jake looking at Phoebe, it’s not hard to see there’s a spark, you know?” Sparks remarked to Us. “That chemistry is utmost because ultimately, this is a love story—a supernatural kind of love story.”
Remain is centered around Tate Donovan, a New York City architect who heads to Cape Cod to construct his best friend’s summer home after facing personal struggles related to his mental health. His life dramatically changes when he encounters a captivating young woman named Wren, leading him into the enigma of her past.
Sparks collaborated with Shyamalan to craft the story before they each set to work developing the novel and the film in their individual formats.
In the film, Gyllenhaal, aged 44, takes on the role of Tate, while Dynevor, aged 30, portrays Wren. The film’s script is written by Shyamalan, while the cast also includes Ashley Walters, Julie Hagerty, Jay O. Sanders, Tracy Ifeachor, and Hannah James.
“I was present on set to do what I do best: stay out of their way and allow the experts to excel,” Sparks told Us about his experience during filming. “It was a delightful experience.”
Sparks is also seeing another of his novels gain new traction with the nationwide tour of the Tony-nominated musical adaptation of The Notebook.
“The musical is stunning. Bekah [Brunstetter] did a fantastic job with the writing, while Michael [Greif] and Schele [Williams] guided it perfectly in their direction,” Sparks shared with Us about the musical based on his 1996 novel, which preceded the film adaptation. “It’s really enchanting, the way they navigate back and forth through time in the show. I found it absolutely remarkable.”
Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams portrayed the leads in the romantic film, which has since gained a cult following since its 2004 release. The musical launched on Broadway in March 2024, featuring music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson. The North American tour commenced in September 2025 and is set to run through August 2026.
“On stage, you can accomplish things that are impossible in books or films,” Sparks remarked to Us regarding the musical. “It’s delightful to see this narrative retold in such an exciting format, complete with music and some truly show-stopping numbers. It’s truly extraordinary.”
