It Ends With Us Review
While this year has brought audiences some interesting romance stories with films like Challengers and The Idea of You, most have been incredibly lighthearted. Although it has been nice to see such films released, the space for deeper and mature stories within the genre is seemingly decreasing. In fact, not that many romance films this year have covered hard-hitting topics to talk about like abusive relationships and mental issues. With Justin Baldoni’s adaptation of It Ends With Us, however, it fills that void with a touching story about passion, family, and boundaries.
Based on Colleen Hoover’s 2016 novel, It Ends WIth Us follows Lily Bloom (Blake Lively), an aspiring flower shop owner, with her familial struggles after moving into a new town. Though she’s conflicted in her romantic life because of her previous lover Atlas (Brandon Sklenar), she meets Ryle (Justin Baldoni), a neurosurgeon, who wants to keep things casual. However, as their relationship grows, Lily and Ryle’s personal problems become much more noticeable as their traumas slowly, yet inevitably, take over their lives.
Firstly, it should go without saying that Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni are absolutely captivating in this heart-wrenching adaptation. Though the two have been involved with more comedic, action-packed films, with Lively in Deadpool & Wolverine and Baldoni producing The Garfield Movie, this film truly highlights their emotional range. Lively captures Lily’s optimism and worry with this sweet subtlety that perfectly brings the novel’s version to life. Her performance shows that Lily wants to see the best out of everyone, but her need for love blinds her to that truth as she, like the audience, may not initially see through the cracks.
On the other hand, Baldoni is essentially the foundation of It Ends With Us. His performance as Ryle can go from being rationally calming to a fiery rage in just a few seconds in specific scenes. This is heavily felt once the downward spiral begins in the second act, where Ryle’s true personality begins to show after he puts on this “cool guy” facade. However, Baldoni treats and adapts Ryle with bits of sympathy that shows that even the most troubled people are capable of that emotional purity.
Secondly, the love triangle between Lily, Ryle, and Brandon Sklenar’s Atlas felt very refreshing to watch. Instead of this dynamic fully leaning one way or the other, the film gives enough time for viewers to understand both Ryle and Atlas’s perspectives through Lily. Both of these characters are developed with such complexity, whether through flashbacks or moments in the present, that make them feel realistic thanks to the actors that portray them. Even moreso, the actors who play the younger versions of Lily and Atlas respectively, Isabela Ferrer and Alex Neustaedter, perfectly reflect Lively and Sklenar in those flashbacks.
Baldoni also takes so much respect when weaving his adaptation around those serious themes in It Ends With Us. Those who may be triggered by domestic abuse and psychological ideas may want to avoid this movie, but it is Baldoni’s handling of those ideas, with Christy Hall’s screenplay, that can temper those worries. The narrative progression of Lily’s confidence lends its honesty by making it clear that there is a support system that exists, but it is only by one’s action that peace can be achieved. Baldoni takes this into account by nailing in how Lily is pushing through and surviving that abuse, both in her past with her family and present with Ryle. In his own way, Baldoni does a great job formulating his take on Hoover’s story without making it feel like a retread of other romantic stories.
It Ends With Us is an emotionally powerful film that truly blossoms into something greater. With compelling performances, intricately balanced narrative dynamics, and a fitting soundtrack and score, this film confidently tackles incredibly mature themes in the best ways possible. It is ultimately perfect for both intellectual and emotional romantics who want to understand how personalities and people collide. As such, Justin Baldoni’s adaptation of this celebrated story is a needed breath of fresh air for romance films.
It Ends With Us arrives in theaters August 9.
Rating
★★★★☆
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Christopher Gallardo is a freelance entertainment writer and critic. While not running The Reel Roller, Chris can be found writing reviews and breakdowns on all things films and TV. Outside of entertainment writing, he’s currently taking classes for a Bachelor’s of Science with a minor in Digital Media & Journalism. Plus, he loves Percy Jackson, animated films and shows, and Fallout! Follow Christopher on Instagram & X.