The new movie “It Ends With Us,” based on a popular book by Colleen Hoover, tells a complicated story. The movie must show the tough issue of domestic abuse while keeping the romance engaging. This helps viewers understand why the main character, Lily Bloom (played by Blake Lively), might stay in a relationship that includes abuse.
How the Movie Tells Its Story
Director Justin Baldoni and writer Christy Hall manage to handle this tricky subject by mixing serious scenes with lighter moments. The story begins with Lily returning to her hometown in Maine for her father’s funeral. Her father had hurt her mother when Lily was a child. When she returns to her home in Boston, she meets Ryle Kincaid (played by Baldoni), a neurosurgeon with a temper.
Romance and Flashbacks
Lily’s new relationship with Ryle, encouraged by his family, brings back memories of her first big romance with Atlas (played by Alex Neustaedter). Atlas had a tough past too. While Lily and Ryle seem happy at first, Ryle’s occasional anger makes Lily worried about repeating her past.
Handling Serious Topics
The film hints at Lily’s painful past but doesn’t show the abuse in detail, probably to keep a PG-13 rating. Instead, it focuses on the romance between Lily and Ryle, and her earlier relationship with Atlas. When Atlas returns as an adult (played by Brandon Sklenar), it seems like the story might involve a love triangle.
Mixed Emotions
The movie shows Ryle’s outbursts in a way that makes them unclear, mirroring Lily’s confusion about his behavior. This approach helps the audience feel what Lily is going through.
Supportive Side Characters
Comic actors Jenny Slate and Hasan Minhaj play characters who add some humor and support to Lily and Ryle’s story. Even though they don’t change the plot much, they help make the serious moments easier to handle.
Performance and Impact
Blake Lively gives a strong performance, showing she’s great in complex roles. Baldoni, who also acts in the movie, does well in his part. Brandon Sklenar and Isabela Ferrer also deliver good performances.
While the movie’s approach might not fully capture the seriousness of its message, it does make a strong effort. If it helps even one person in a difficult situation, it will have succeeded.