Translating the intricacies of a novel into a cinematic experience is a formidable challenge. The rich tapestry of character development and world-building often proves difficult to condense into a two-hour film.
While I cannot comment on the fidelity of “It Ends With Us” to its source material, this review will focus solely on its merits as a standalone film.
At its core, the film follows Lily Bloom, a woman navigating the complexities of love, loss, and trauma. Her life intersects with two men: Ryle, a charismatic neurosurgeon with a darker side, and Atlas, the gentle ex-boyfriend who represents a contrasting vision of love. This dynamic serves as a backdrop to a story that grapples with themes of abuse and resilience.
The narrative is structured around the stark contrast between Ryle Kincaid, a charming neurosurgeon with a darker underbelly, and Atlas Corrigan, Lily’s college sweetheart, a symbol of hope and stability. Justin Baldoni delivers a compelling performance as Ryle, masterfully capturing the character’s duality. His portrayal of a man capable of both intense affection and violent outbursts is chillingly authentic. However, the film falters in its depiction of Atlas. While Brandon Sklenar’s performance is competent, the character remains somewhat underdeveloped, relegated to the periphery of the narrative. Blake Lively is great as Lily Bloom and she navigates greatly through the complex narrative. Jenny Slate, as Allysa, is one of my favorite characters in the film, and she has the strongest last line.
Cinematography plays a pivotal role in establishing the film’s atmosphere. The visuals are often striking, with dreamlike sequences that mirror Lily’s internal turmoil. The editing, while effective in creating a sense of longing and melancholy, occasionally contributes to a pacing issue. The film’s runtime feels rushed, leaving certain plot points underdeveloped and character arcs incomplete. A more extended narrative would have allowed for a deeper exploration of the characters and their complexities.
The film’s greatest strength lies in its unflinching portrayal of domestic abuse. It deftly navigates the complexities of this issue, showcasing the insidious nature of manipulation and gaslighting. The gradual descent into a toxic relationship is depicted with a harrowing realism that is both disturbing and essential. Lily’s character arc is very inspiring as she ultimately finds the strength to break free from the cycle of abuse.
The theme of trauma is explored through multiple layers. Ryle’s own troubled childhood provides a glimpse into the origins of his abusive behavior, prompting empathy while in no way justifying his actions. Although Ryle himself does try to justify his action by manipulating Lily into believing it was an accident. The film also touches upon the intergenerational impact of trauma, as evidenced by Lily’s mother’s passive acceptance of her own abusive relationship.
Baldoni’s directorial approach feels somewhat restrained. While the comedic moments land effectively, the overall narrative lacks a compelling energy. The film’s tone is notably subdued, which, while fitting for the subject matter, feels boringly presented.
Ultimately, “It Ends With Us” is a film about survival. Lily’s decision to divorce Ryle is a powerful act of self-preservation, a testament to the strength it takes to break free from a toxic relationship. The film’s title becomes imbued with profound significance, representing not only the end of a tumultuous chapter but also the beginning of a new life.
While the film’s pacing and character development could have been stronger, its unflinching portrayal of domestic abuse and its message of hope and resilience make it a thought-provoking and impactful viewing experience. The most satisfying part of the film is the revelation of the real meaning of the film’s title, “It Ends With Us.”
“It Ends With Us” is undeniably well-acted, with strong performances contributing to its overall appeal. However, despite its merits, the film falls short of reaching its full potential. It’s a solid effort, but ultimately, it delivers more promise than fulfillment.
Rating: Three out of five stars.
