CineFlixReviews

Movie Details

Genre: Drama, Romance
Release Date: 9 August 2024
Cast: Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, Brandon Sklenar
Director: Justin Baldoni
Production Company: Wayfarer Studios

IMDb Scorecard

IMDb Rating: 7/10

Is This Flick for You? (No Spoilers)

“It Ends With Us” is an emotionally charged drama based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel of the same name. Directed by Justin Baldoni, this movie delves into the complexities of love, relationships, and the difficult choices that define our lives. The story follows Lily Bloom (played by Blake Lively), a woman who appears to have it all together but is silently grappling with the scars of her past. As Lily navigates a new romantic relationship with the charismatic neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni), she finds herself confronting old wounds and the painful memories that she thought she had left behind.

Blake Lively brings depth and nuance to Lily, portraying her as a strong yet vulnerable character who is easy to root for. Justin Baldoni, pulling double duty as both director and actor, delivers a compelling performance as Ryle, a man whose charm masks deeper, darker issues. The film’s genre is a blend of drama and romance, but it’s far from your typical love story. It tackles tough subjects like domestic abuse and emotional trauma with sensitivity and realism, making it a thought-provoking watch.

This movie is perfect for fans of character-driven stories, intense dramas, and anyone who has read and loved the book. It’s especially suited for adults who appreciate films that explore the complexities of human relationships and the impact of our past on our present. Ready to take an emotional journey with a story that will stay with you long after the credits roll?

Deep Dive (Spoiler Alert)

Popular Scene Breakdown

1. Lily and Ryle’s First Meeting: The movie opens with a chance encounter on a rooftop that sets the stage for Lily and Ryle’s whirlwind romance. Their chemistry is palpable from the get-go, with Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni sharing a natural, easygoing rapport that draws you in. This scene is crucial as it introduces the characters’ dynamic—Ryle’s charm is on full display, and Lily’s initial wariness slowly gives way to curiosity. It’s a classic meet-cute with an undercurrent of tension that hints at the deeper complexities to come. Ever met someone who seemed perfect on the surface, only to discover layers you weren’t expecting?

2. The Flashbacks to Atlas: One of the most emotionally resonant aspects of the film is Lily’s flashbacks to her teenage years with Atlas (Brandon Sklenar), her first love. These scenes are interwoven throughout the film, providing insight into Lily’s past and the experiences that shaped her. Sklenar brings a quiet intensity to Atlas, making him a compelling contrast to Ryle. The flashbacks are beautifully shot, with a nostalgic tone that tugs at the heartstrings. They serve as a poignant reminder of how our past loves and losses continue to influence us, no matter how much time has passed.
3. The Turning Point: The film’s pivotal moment comes when Ryle’s darker side is revealed, shattering the seemingly perfect relationship he has with Lily. This scene is handled with sensitivity and realism, depicting the shock, confusion, and heartbreak that Lily experiences as she confronts the reality of Ryle’s behavior. Blake Lively’s performance here is powerful and gut-wrenching, capturing the internal struggle of a woman torn between love and self-preservation. It’s a scene that forces both Lily and the audience to reckon with the complexities of love and abuse. How do you walk away from someone you love when you know it’s the right thing to do?
4. Lily’s Decision: In a powerful climactic moment, Lily makes the difficult decision to leave Ryle, choosing her safety and well-being over the relationship. The scene is both heartbreaking and empowering, as Lily asserts her independence and takes control of her life. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the emotional toll this decision takes on her, but it also highlights her strength and resilience. It’s a moment that underscores the film’s central theme—that sometimes, the hardest decisions are the ones that ultimately lead to healing and growth.
5. The Reunion with Atlas: The film’s final act brings Lily and Atlas back together, offering a glimmer of hope and a sense of closure. Their reunion is tender and bittersweet, as they acknowledge the impact they’ve had on each other’s lives and the possibility of a future together. Brandon Sklenar and Blake Lively share a quiet, understated chemistry that makes this scene all the more impactful. It’s a satisfying conclusion that leaves the door open for new beginnings while honoring the journey Lily has been on.

Character Journey

• Lily Bloom (Blake Lively): Lily’s journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment. She starts off as a woman who is trying to move on from her past but finds herself confronted by it in unexpected ways. Blake Lively brings depth to Lily, portraying her as a complex character who is both strong and vulnerable. As the film progresses, Lily evolves from someone who is defined by her past to someone who takes control of her future, making tough decisions that reflect her growth and resilience.
• Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni): Ryle is a character of contrasts—charming and successful on the outside, but struggling with deep-seated issues on the inside. Justin Baldoni’s performance captures this duality, making Ryle both likable and deeply flawed. Ryle’s journey is one of internal conflict, as he grapples with his darker impulses and the consequences of his actions. His relationship with Lily forces him to confront these issues, but ultimately, his inability to change leads to their downfall.
• Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar): Atlas represents Lily’s past, but also the possibility of a better future. Brandon Sklenar’s portrayal of Atlas is quietly compelling, bringing a sense of stability and warmth to the character. Atlas’s journey is less about change and more about constancy—he remains a steadfast presence in Lily’s life, offering her the support and love she needs to heal. His role in the film is crucial, serving as both a reminder of what Lily has lost and a beacon of hope for what she can gain.

Visuals & Vibes

“It Ends With Us” is visually stunning, with a cinematic style that enhances the emotional depth of the story. The film uses a warm, muted color palette that reflects the intimacy of Lily’s journey, with flashbacks to her time with Atlas bathed in soft, nostalgic hues. The cinematography is carefully crafted to capture the nuances of the characters’ emotions, using close-ups and natural lighting to create a sense of immediacy and connection. The overall vibe of the film is one of quiet intensity, with a focus on the internal struggles of the characters rather than overtly dramatic moments.

Tunes & Tones

The soundtrack of “It Ends With Us” is a blend of soft, melancholic tracks and more uplifting, hopeful tunes that mirror the emotional ups and downs of the story. The music is carefully chosen to complement the film’s tone, enhancing the mood without overpowering the scenes. The score underscores the film’s themes of love, loss, and healing, with a few standout tracks that are sure to linger in your mind long after the movie ends. The tone of the film is serious and contemplative, but with moments of lightness and hope that keep it from becoming too heavy.

Behind the Lens

Justin Baldoni, known for his work on “Jane the Virgin” and the film “Five Feet Apart,” brings a sensitive and nuanced approach to the direction of “It Ends With Us.” His understanding of the material is evident in the way he handles the film’s more difficult scenes with care and empathy. Baldoni’s dual role as both director and actor allows him to bring a unique perspective to the character of Ryle, adding depth to the portrayal. The script, adapted from Colleen Hoover’s novel, stays true to the source material while making slight adjustments for the screen, ensuring that the emotional impact is preserved.

Hidden Messages

“It Ends With Us” is a film that explores the complexities of love, the impact of trauma, and the importance of self-worth. It delves into the cycle of abuse and the difficult decisions that come with breaking free from it. The film also highlights the ways in which our past shapes our present and the power of healing and forgiveness. At its core, “It Ends With Us” is a story about choosing oneself, even when it’s the hardest thing to do.

The Final Word

Hits & Misses

• Hits: Strong performances from Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni; a sensitive and realistic portrayal of complex themes; beautiful cinematography and a fitting soundtrack; a faithful adaptation of a beloved novel.
• Misses: The film’s heavy subject matter might be overwhelming for some viewers; a few pacing issues in the middle act; those unfamiliar with the book might find certain character motivations underdeveloped.

Should You Watch?

If you’re a fan of the book, character-driven dramas, or films that tackle serious issues with heart and sensitivity, then “It Ends With Us” is definitely worth watching. It’s a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that offers both catharsis and hope. Whether you’re looking for a story that will make you think or one that will make you feel, this movie has something to offer.

Fun Facts & Trivia

• The film is based on Colleen Hoover’s novel, which became a bestseller shortly after its release and has garnered a massive following.
• Blake Lively was Colleen Hoover’s first choice to play Lily, and fans of the book widely supported her casting.
• Justin Baldoni, who directs and stars in the film, has spoken about how personal the story is to him and the responsibility he feels to handle its themes with care.

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