Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth Strike Up a Sunny Romance in "Lonely Planet" Trailer (Exclusive)

09/12/2024 07:00 AM

Laura Dern teases taht the Netflix film is "a romance of self-discovery"

Sparks fly between Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth in a picturesque new romance. 

Lonely Planet is the story of a novelist (Dern) on a Moroccan writer's retreat whose acquaintanceship with a young man (Hemsworth) "evolves into an intoxicating, life-altering love affair," according to a synopsis.

In the first trailer, shared exclusively with PEOPLE, Dern, 57, experiences a personal renaissance in beautiful Morocco, working through her writer's block.

"I love that the story focuses on connection and intimacy and feeling truly seen," Dern tells PEOPLE. "It's a romance of self-discovery as much as it is deeply knowing another person."

Hemsworth, 34, agrees. "The story is not just about the romance between two people; it's about personal growth, self-discovery and the complexities of relationships. The characters are relatable, flawed and navigating the beauty and challenges of love in a setting that's visually stunning and culturally rich."

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The Australian star also calls Dern "incredibly grounded and generous" as a costar and friend, adding, "She has this incredible ability to elevate every scene with her emotional depth, and at the same time she makes the entire set feel collaborative and supportive."

Lonely Planet "reminded me why I love making films," he adds. "It's not just for the work itself, but for the bonds you form with people you share that journey with."

As for a favorite memory from the set, Dern points to "Liam feeding me 87 olives and riding on the back of his motorbike." The Oscar winner says during filming, Hemsworth was "such a protective champion and partner to me."

In an interview with Netflix's Tudum, Dern also called her onscreen love interest "pure magic." Hemsworth "became not only a buddy and a confidant through our Moroccan adventure, but our shared longing [for] honesty and intimacy in all relationships was very moving to me."

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Lonely Planet is written and directed by Susannah Grant (writer of Erin Brockovich) and costars Diana Silvers, Younès Boucif, Adriano Giannini and Rachida Brakni. 

Hemsworth starred earlier this year in action-thriller Land of Bad. Among his upcoming roles is leading Netflix's dramaThe Witcher, replacing Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia. Dern, fresh off starring in and executive producing Apple TV+ comedyPalm Royale, will next appear in a Noah Baumbachmovie starringGeorge Clooney and Adam Sandler.

Lonely Planet is on Netflix Oct. 11.

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