Entertainment Blog #298 | It Ends with Us [2024] : The Affect of Childhood Trauma on Romance...

It Ends with Us offers a storyline that echoes the complexities of real life, blending love, trauma, and the cyclical nature of domestic abuse. The movie, adapted from Colleen Hoover's 2016 novel, touches on themes that can feel deeply familiar to anyone who has witnessed or experienced toxic relationships and family trauma. Lily Bloom, the protagonist, mirrors the internal struggles many face in their personal lives—battling between love, loyalty, and the need for self-preservation.

Directed by Justin Baldoni and starring Blake Lively as Lily Bloom, the film was released on August 9, 2024, by Sony Pictures Releasing. Co-starring Brandon Sklenar as Atlas Corrigan, and Justin Baldoni himself playing the complex role of Ryle Kincaid, the film boasts a talented cast that does justice to the emotionally charged source material. With a screenplay by Christy Hall, It Ends with Us promised a faithful adaptation of the beloved novel, though it stirred up controversy during production due to rumored tensions between Lively and Baldoni.

Lily Bloom returns to her small hometown in Maine for her father’s funeral, but the event is far from sentimental. Her complicated relationship with her abusive father looms over her, and Lily struggles to find closure. Back in Boston, she starts a new chapter by opening her own flower shop. Life takes an unexpected turn when she meets the charming and successful neurosurgeon, Ryle Kincaid. Their initial connection is electric, but Ryle’s commitment to his career and reluctance toward serious relationships set the stage for emotional conflict.

As Lily’s relationship with Ryle deepens, shadows from her past resurface in the form of her high school love, Atlas Corrigan. A chance encounter with Atlas reignites old feelings and leaves Lily torn between two worlds: the promise of a passionate but flawed relationship with Ryle and the unresolved love she shared with Atlas. The tension between her present and past only grows when Ryle’s temper flares, revealing a darker, more troubling side to him. Lily is left navigating the emotional trauma of abuse, similar to what her mother endured, and must confront painful choices.

The story builds to a gripping climax as Lily finds herself at a crossroads—faced with an impossible decision that could shape the rest of her life. As Ryle’s behavior becomes increasingly volatile, Lily’s loyalty to herself and her unborn child is put to the test. With her high school sweetheart, Atlas, back in her life and Ryle desperate to make amends, Lily must choose whether to continue the cycle of abuse or to break free once and for all. The film’s emotional weight crescendos as it explores themes of love, trauma, and self-worth, leaving viewers eager to see how Lily’s story concludes.

What sets It Ends with Us apart from other romantic dramas is its unflinching portrayal of domestic violence. While many films in the genre idealize love, this one presents its darker, more complex sides. It doesn't shy away from the hard truths about relationships that turn toxic and the emotional toll it takes on both the victim and the abuser. With Baldoni’s direction and Lively’s deeply nuanced performance, the movie challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable realities without glamorizing them.

Critically, the film has seen a mixed reception. It earned a 57% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its raw performances but pointing out the clunky dialogue and uneven pacing. Despite this, audience reactions were much more favorable, with an “A-” CinemaScore and an 85% positive PostTrak score. Many viewers found themselves emotionally invested in Lily’s journey, even if the film didn’t quite reach the heights of its potential. Still, the film's themes of love, abuse, and resilience struck a chord with fans of the novel.

With a budget of $25 million, It Ends with Us became a box office hit, grossing over $335 million worldwide. Its financial success is a testament to the power of its story and the massive following the book had built over the years. In conclusion, while the film isn’t without its flaws, its emotional depth, strong performances, and courageous tackling of difficult subject matter make it worth watching. Whether you are familiar with the book or not, It Ends with Us leaves a lasting impression that will stay with audiences long after the credits roll.