It Ends With Us: Blake Lively’s New Film Is Out This Week

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni hit the red carpet this week for the launch of one of the buzziest movies of the summer: the screen adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel It Ends With Us. Published in 2016, the book was a bestseller, and went viral on TikTok, so fans were delighted when it was announced that a cinematic retelling was on the cards. After being delayed as a result of the Hollywood strikes in 2023, the release date was pushed back a couple of times, but it’s finally premiering this week. So what can we expect?

It Ends With Us: Plot, Cast, Controversy

What Is It Ends With Us About?

Based on Hoover’s novel, It Ends With Us tells the story of Lily Bloom, who heads to Boston to fulfil her lifelong dream of starting a floristry business. She falls for a charming neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid – but their fiery romance soon takes a turn as Lily begins to recognise an abusive side to Kyle, which she recognises from her parents’ relationship. Things are complicated even further when Lily’s first love Atlas Corrigan comes into the picture, upending things with Ryle.

Who Is In The Cast?

Blake Lively stars as Lily, alongside Justin Baldoni (Jane the Virgin) – who is also the film’s director – and Brandon Sklenar (Vice) as Ryle Kincaid and Atlas Corrigan respectively. 

Speaking about the role to People back in April, Lively said: ‘Stepping into a character who’s had such a meaningful impact is an honor to take on. I loved Lily, and I hope that love is felt by those who care about her like I do, and also those who are getting to know her for the first time in this film.’

Hoover – who executive produced the film alongside Lively – has also described her excitement at the starring roles, saying in an Instagram video: ‘I think that Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively have what it takes to bring these characters to life, and I cannot wait for you guys to see that happen. I’m so excited, y’all. I can’t even wrap my mind around this.’

The cast also includes:

• Jenny Slate
• Hasan Minaj 
• Alex Neustaedter
• Isabela Ferrer 

What Is The Controversy Surrounding The Film?

Although the novel was wildly successful, the film adaptation has sparked controversy. Some thought initial stills from the movie made it appear like a rom-com, despite its domestic abuse storyline. However, others have defended the film, arguing that the initial romance was a key part of the plot.

Hoover has previously said the book draws on her own parents’ relationship. She believes the film ‘maintained the essence of this book in a delicate and beautiful way’, adding: ‘the readers are the reason this book has been adapted, and I appreciate how much Justin wants to make sure those readers get the movie they deserve.’ 

What Is The Release Date?

It Ends With Us is out in UK cinemas on 9 August 2024.