The Colleen Hoover romance novel ‘It Ends With Us’ was published on August 2, 2016 by Altria Books. The novel is based on the relationship between Hoover’s parents and even described it as “the hardest book I’ve ever written.”
The novel has sold millions of copies worldwide and in 2021, it experienced a huge resurgence in popularity thanks to TikTok and topped sales lists for 2022 and 2023.
Now, the popular novel finally gets the big screen treatment and, if you have enjoyed the novel, I’m certain you’ll enjoy this film adaptation.
‘It Ends With Us,’ the first Colleen Hoover novel adapted for the big screen, tells the story of Lily Bloom, a woman who overcomes a traumatic childhood to embark on a new life in Boston and chase a lifelong dream of opening her own business.
A chance meeting with charming neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid sparks an intense connection, but as the two fall madly in love, Lily begins to see sides of Ryle that remind her of her parents’ relationship.
When Lily’s first love, Atlas Corrigan, suddenly re-enters her life, her relationship with Ryle is upended, and Lily realizes she must learn to rely on her own strength to make an impossible choice for her future.
‘It Ends With Us’ is a novel that I initially wasn’t familiar with and actually got familiar with this film and novel after checking out the trailers. This film adaptation of the novel delivers moments of romance and humor, along with major topics such as domestic abuse that can be a little tough to watch for some.
The film’s story is emotionally powerful and seeing the lead character’s (Lily Bloom) journey to having her own business is inspiring. When the film begins to start focusing on Lily and Ryle’s relationship, which does start out well. But, if you have either read the novel or at least familiar with it, you know it won’t last long.
‘It Ends With Us’ does capture the aspects of the very difficult subject matter of domestic abuse really well. Those moments on screen are extremely emotional and can be hard to watch. During those scenes, we also get to see how Lily’s mother went through a similar situation with her own husband and Lily’s father.
All of the performers in this film did a tremendous job, especially Blake Lively (who also serves as producer). Lively’s acting with Justin Baldoni (Ryle) during the abuse sequences really makes those scenes feel incredibly real and highly emotional. Actress Jenny Slate, a former SNL performer who portrays Lily’s best friend, really adds the humor to a good part of the film as well.
‘It Ends With Us’ is a must-see for fans of the popular novel and anyone who wants to see a powerful story about love, resilience and finding your voice.
Some of the cast: Blake Lively as Lily Bloom; Justin Baldoni as Ryle Kincaid; Jenny Slate as Allysa; Brandon Sklenar as Atlas Corrigan; Hasan Minhaj as Marshall; Kevin McKidd as Andrew Bloom; Amy Morton as Jenny Bloom; Alex Neustaedter as Young Atlas and Isabela Ferrer as Lily.
‘It Ends With Us’ is written by Christy Hall and directed by Justin Baldoni (Five Feet Apart; also portrays Ryle).
A film adaptation of ‘It Ends With Us’ has been in development since 2019. The film earned $50 million during its highly anticipated opening weekend. An adaptation of the novel’s sequel, ‘It Starts With Us,’ could be made down the road.
‘It Ends With Us’ is rated PG-13 for domestic violence, sexual content and some strong language and has a running time of 130 minutes.
Let me know on my Wyoming County Press Examiner reviews page on Facebook your thoughts on the film and also to see what else I plan on reviewing next!
Comments