By Demelza Desforges - MIN Ambassador, 16.11.2024

'It Ends With Us' - Film review

The film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel It Ends With Us brings a deeply personal and heart-wrenching story to the screen, exploring the complexities of love, abuse, and resilience. The book, rooted in Hoover’s own experiences with an abusive father, resonated with millions of readers, and its transition to film has been met with both anticipation and high expectations. 

A Story Inspired by Real Life

At its core, It Ends With Us is a tale of survival and self-discovery. The story follows Lily Bloom, a young woman who falls in love with a charismatic and ambitious neurosurgeon, Ryle Kincaid. Their romance begins as a whirlwind, but cracks soon emerge as Ryle’s abusive tendencies surface. Interwoven with flashbacks to Lily’s first love, Atlas Corrigan, the narrative paints a vivid picture of the enduring scars left by abuse and the courage it takes to break free.

Colleen Hoover’s personal connection to the story adds a layer of authenticity. Inspired by her mother’s strength in leaving an abusive relationship, Hoover’s narrative is both a tribute and a raw examination of the complexities surrounding domestic violence.

The Film’s Strengths

The film does a commendable job of capturing the emotional weight of Lily’s journey. Visually, it is stunning—vibrant cinematography reflects Lily’s dreams and optimism, while darker, chaotic scenes mirror the turbulence in her life. Blake Lively, the actress portraying Lily, delivers a compelling performance, skillfully balancing vulnerability and strength as her character grapples with love, loyalty, and self-preservation.

A particularly striking moment occurs when Lily asks her mother, “Why didn’t you leave?” Her mother’s reply—“It would have been harder to”—is a poignant nod to the real-life challenges survivors face. Though the film doesn’t delve deeply into these complexities, this scene serves as a critical reminder of how difficult it is to leave an abusive relationship.

The film also employs Lily as an unreliable narrator, a creative choice that highlights how victims of abuse often struggle to see their situations for what they really are.  For instance, Lily initially interprets a violent incident with Ryle as an accident, reflecting the way survivors may downplay or rationalize harmful behavior. It isn't until later in the film that we see the true violent nature of what had happened. This narrative device adds depth, offering viewers a glimpse into the psychological impacts of abuse.

Where the Film Falls Short

While the film has its emotional highs, it falters in fully exploring the nuances of abuse and its aftermath. Key themes, such as the psychological manipulation that keeps survivors tethered to their abusers or the cycle of post-separation abuse, are only lightly touched upon. These omissions might leave viewers craving a deeper understanding of the realities many survivors face.

Additionally, the pacing of the film feels uneven. Some scenes are given the space to breathe, allowing for emotional resonance, while others feel rushed, missing opportunities for further character development.

A Worthwhile Watch

Despite its shortcomings, It Ends With Us is a powerful exploration of love, resilience, and the courage it takes to break free from cycles of abuse. The director Justin Baldoni (who also acts in the role of Ryle) brings a sensitive touch to the material, ensuring that the story resonates on multiple levels. While the film may not fully capture the depth of Hoover’s novel, it remains a poignant and visually striking adaptation that will linger with viewers long after the credits roll.

Ultimately, It Ends With Us succeeds in sparking important conversations about abuse, boundaries, and self-worth, making it a film worth watching for its emotional depth and powerful message.

For anyone affected by the themes of this film, know that support is available. Reach out to local organisations like Mums In Need, Vida, Women's Aid or hotlines for help, and remember—you are not alone.