Aug 30, 2024 | 18:06 EST
Cast: Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, Jenny Slate, Hasan Minhaj, Brandon Sklenar
Director: Justin Baldoni
Genre: Drama
Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes
It Ends With Us, based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling 2016 novel, is a poignant exploration of love, trauma, and the complexities of abusive relationships. Directed by and starring Justin Baldoni, the film takes viewers on an emotional journey that uncovers the dark realities often hidden beneath the surface of seemingly perfect relationships. While the film has its formulaic moments, Blake Lively’s compelling performance as Lily Bloom anchors the story, making it a moving and memorable experience.
Plot Overview: A Love Story with Dark Undercurrents
At the heart of It Ends With Us is Lily Bloom (Blake Lively), a woman who appears to have everything—a successful career, a handsome and accomplished husband, Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni), and a supportive best friend, Allysa (Jenny Slate). However, beneath the surface of her seemingly ideal life, Lily struggles with the trauma of her past and the painful reality of her abusive marriage.
The film opens with Lily navigating the emotional aftermath of her father’s death, a man who was also abusive. This sets the stage for her complicated relationship with Ryle, a neurosurgeon who, despite his charming exterior, exhibits controlling and violent tendencies. As their relationship deteriorates, Lily reconnects with her childhood sweetheart, Atlas (Brandon Sklenar), who represents a stark contrast to Ryle’s toxicity.
The film’s most powerful moments come from Lily’s internal struggle and the difficult choices she must make. The pivotal scene where she questions Ryle about pushing her down the stairs—framing it as an “accident”—serves as a harrowing reminder of the excuses victims often make for their abusers. This moment, among others, underscores the film’s central theme: the importance of self-acceptance and the courage to break free from cycles of abuse.
Performances: Blake Lively’s Captivating Portrayal
Blake Lively’s portrayal of Lily Bloom is the beating heart of It Ends With Us. She brings a warmth and depth to the character that elevates the film beyond its soap opera-like tendencies. Lively’s ability to convey Lily’s vulnerability and strength makes her journey resonate deeply with viewers. Her chemistry with Justin Baldoni’s Ryle and Brandon Sklenar’s Atlas adds layers to her character, making her internal conflicts feel all the more real.
Justin Baldoni, who also directs the film, plays the role of Ryle with a mix of charm and menace, effectively capturing the duality of an abuser who is both loving and dangerous. Brandon Sklenar’s Atlas provides a gentle counterpoint to Ryle’s volatility, and his scenes with Lively are filled with an understated tenderness that contrasts sharply with the tension in Lily’s marriage.
Jenny Slate, as Lily’s best friend Allysa, adds warmth and humor to the film, though her character’s arc feels underdeveloped. Despite being Ryle’s sister, Allysa’s absence during key moments, such as Lily’s childbirth, and her lack of confrontation with her brother about his abusive behavior, feels like a missed opportunity in the narrative.
Direction and Screenplay: A Mix of Strengths and Shortcomings
Justin Baldoni’s direction brings out the emotional core of the story, but the film occasionally falters under the weight of its familiar tropes and somewhat simplistic dialogue. The screenplay, while effective in capturing the essence of Hoover’s novel, could have delved deeper into Lily’s internal struggles and the complexities of her relationships. The film touches on important themes of abuse and self-empowerment but sometimes opts for predictability over exploration.
The flashbacks featuring the younger versions of Lily (Isabela Ferrer) and Atlas (Alex Neustaedter) are particularly well-cast, with Ferrer uncannily resembling a young Blake Lively. These scenes effectively build the backstory of Lily and Atlas’s bond, providing context for their connection in the present.
Final Thoughts: A Moving Drama Despite Its Flaws
It Ends With Us is a film that tackles difficult subject matter with sincerity and heart. While it may rely on some predictable storytelling devices, the strength of its performances—especially Blake Lively’s—ensures that the film’s message against abuse is delivered with impact. The film serves as a reminder of the importance of self-worth and the courage required to break free from harmful relationships.
For fans of the novel and newcomers alike, It Ends With Us offers a compelling and emotional viewing experience. It may not be a perfect adaptation, but it succeeds in bringing the core of Hoover’s story to life, thanks largely to its talented cast. Watch it for its heartfelt performances and its earnest portrayal of the difficult choices faced by those in abusive relationships.