Now playing at a theater near you, “It Ends With Us,” directed by Justin Baldoni and starring Justin himself alongside Blake Lively, Brandon Sklenar, Isabela Ferrer, and Alex Neustaedter. Check out our review.
Name: It Ends With Us
Director: Justin Baldoni
Cast: Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, Brandon Sklenar, Isabela Ferrer, Alex Neustaedter, Jenny Slate, Hasan Minhaj
Writers: Colleen Hoover, Christy Hall
Rating: 3/5
Plot: “It Ends With Us” shifts between past and present, following the life of Lily Blossom Bloom (Blake Lively). The film opens with Lily attending her father’s funeral, where her disdain for him becomes clear. Shortly after, she meets Ryle (Justin Baldoni), a charming yet short-tempered neurosurgeon, with whom she shares personal details, including her first love. Despite Ryle’s flirtatious advances, Lily insists on being just friends, knowing he isn’t looking for a serious relationship. However, Ryle’s feelings deepen, and they begin dating.
During a dinner with her mother, Lily unexpectedly reunites with her former lover, Atlas (Brandon Sklenar). Their brief interaction stirs old memories. Later, Ryle’s temper surfaces when he pushes Lily during a heated moment, reminding her of her father’s abusive behavior. Though she initially dismisses it, Atlas grows concerned and provides Lily with his contact information in case she ever needs help.
The film poses critical questions: Will Lily stay in an abusive relationship, or will she find the strength to leave? Can Ryle change, and will it be enough? Will Lily and Atlas rekindle their romance? These answers unfold as you watch “It Ends With Us.”
What Works: “It Ends With Us” faithfully adapts the novel, handling its sensitive subject matter with care. The film has the potential to empower victims of domestic abuse to take decisive action. Blake Lively delivers a strong performance, carrying the film with grace. Justin Baldoni convincingly portrays the complex character of Ryle, blending charm with menace. The mother-daughter relationship is depicted in a raw, emotionally resonant manner.
What Doesn’t Work: At 2 hours, the film feels overly long and could benefit from tighter pacing and deeper character development. The treatment could have been darker to reflect the gravity of the story. The older Atlas character is not convincingly written, and it’s puzzling why Lily entertains Ryle for so long, especially after discovering her pregnancy.
Performances: Blake Lively shines as Lily, capturing the character’s nuances perfectly. Justin Baldoni fits the role of Ryle well, delivering a believable performance. Jenny Slate and Hasan Minhaj add enjoyable moments to the film. Brandon Sklenar’s portrayal of Atlas is hindered by weak writing, but the younger versions of Lily and Atlas, played by Isabela Ferrer and Alex Neustaedter, are impressive. The supporting cast also delivers solid performances.
Final Verdict: “It Ends With Us” may have its flaws, but it remains a compelling film with an important message. It’s a movie that could inspire silent victims of domestic abuse to take meaningful action. Don’t miss it at a theater near you.
