Behind-the-scenes drama overshadows “It Ends with Us” as the film struggles to find its identity
Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni‘s much-anticipated adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestseller hits theaters and home release with mixed reactions and behind-the-scenes controversy.
In what should have been a powerful exploration of domestic abuse and personal growth, “It Ends with Us” finds itself caught between genres, failing to fully commit to either its romantic elements or its serious subject matter.
The film, which received its theatrical release in 2024 and is now available on home video, has sparked discussions not just about its content but about alleged tensions between its leads.
A Story Lost in Translation
The film follows Lily Bloom (Blake Lively), a young entrepreneur opening a flower shop in Boston. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni), a charismatic neurosurgeon. Their romance blossoms against the backdrop of a beautifully shot Boston, but darkness lurks beneath the surface as Ryle’s violent tendencies emerge.
What sets this adaptation apart, and not necessarily in a favorable way, is its conflicting visual language. Barry Peterson’s cinematography, while stunning, creates a warm, romantic comedy atmosphere that clashes with the story’s heavy themes. The film maintains this bright, safe aesthetic even during its most challenging scenes, undermining the gravity of its subject matter.
Production problems surface
Behind the camera, rumors of discord between Baldoni (who both directed and starred) and Lively emerged during promotional activities. This tension, according to industry insiders, may explain the film’s uneven tone and the notable lack of chemistry between the leads.
Critical Response
Reviews consistently point to several key issues:
- Tonal Inconsistency: The film struggles to balance its romantic elements with its serious subject matter.
- Pacing Problems: At times too slow, the story drags where it should move swiftly.
- Chemistry Issues: The lack of spark between Lively and Baldoni contrasts sharply with Lively’s electric scenes with Brandon Sklenar (Atlas).
- Visual Disconnect: The bright, romantic comedy styling clashes with the dark themes.
Home Release Disappointment
The home release, available on multiple formats, notably lacks any bonus features or behind-the-scenes content. This unusual decision has left fans wondering if the reported on-set tensions influenced the bare-bones release.
Impact and Message
Despite its flaws, “It Ends with Us” attempts to tackle important themes about breaking cycles of abuse and finding personal strength. Critics argue that the glossy presentation obscures the film’s message, which illustrates how past trauma can influence present choices.
Looking Forward
While the film may not have lived up to expectations, it has sparked important conversations about how Hollywood handles sensitive topics like domestic abuse. The disconnect between the story’s serious themes and its romantic comedy presentation serves as a lesson for future adaptations of complex narratives.
Fans of the book who were hoping to see Hoover’s powerful story translated to the screen may find the film disappointing. However, it stands as a reminder that sometimes the most important stories are the hardest to tell, especially when trying to balance commercial appeal with meaningful message.