The film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s best-selling novel It Ends With Us is out in cinemas now – and there are some things you should know before heading into cinemas to watch the film.
The novel, which to date has sold 6.9 million copies, was published in 2016 and is categorised as a “romance” novel. However, Hoover’s book touches on themes of family, domestic and sexual violence, and the challenges of navigating an abusive relationship.
The story follows the relationship of Lily Bloom and Ryle Kinkaid, and how it turned from a “too-good-to-be-true” romantic partnership to a relationship that perpetuated the cycle of abuse.
Hoover has lived experience of growing up in a household where there was family violence and was heavily involved in the production of the film adaptation, starring Blake Lively as Lily and Justin Baldoni as Ryle.
Here’s what you should know before watching It Ends With Us.
Violent scenes
Many people who have gone to the cinemas to watch It Ends With Us have criticised the makers of the film for failing to include trigger warnings or content warnings.
However, the trailer and description of the film indicate the movie does contain scenes of physical and emotional abuse.
As with any film, it’s important for viewers to watch the trailer and understand what the film is about before heading to the cinemas. This way, you can decide if the film is right for you.
Partnership with victim-survivors
The creators of the film have engaged with victim-survivors of domestic abuse in order to tell the story authentically and respectfully.
Colleen Hoover has been open about her lived experience of domestic and family violence growing up. She has said before It Ends With Us is loosely based on her parents’ relationship. Hoover is an executive producer of the film and therefore was able to provide not only her lived experience, but her original vision of the book in the film adaptation of her story.
The director and co-star of the film, Justin Baldoni, is also an advocate for women’s safety. Baldoni co-hosts a podcast with author and journalist, Liz Plank, called The Man Enough Podcast. Each episode explores definitions of masculinity and how rigid gender roles have impacted what it means to be a man.
Baldoni’s production company that produced It Ends With Us, Wayfarer Studios, also partnered with the No More Foundation upon the film’s release. The No More Foundation provides support for victim-survivors of family, domestic and sexual violence.
Baldoni has a link in his Instagram bio to donate to the foundation, which has also produced A Viewer’s Guide for those wanting to watch It Ends With Us. You can view the guide here.
What’s all the drama about?
The film’s release hasn’t gone without controversy. At the premier of the film in New York City, not a single cast or crew member appeared in a photo with director and co-star Justin Baldoni. They dodged questions about Baldoni, they never mentioned his name, some even unfollowed Baldoni on Instagram.
That’s because Baldoni, who has built his brand on being a progressive feminist, has been accused of poor behaviour throughout the production of the film, according to Daily Mail.
A source told People that “all is not what it seems” when it comes to Baldoni and his manner, and that there is “much more to this story”.
“The principal cast and Colleen Hoover will have nothing to do with him,” the source told People.
Social media users and fans of It Ends With Us have thrown out rumours as to why there is a rift between Baldoni and the rest of the team. Some – in fact, most – are siding with Baldoni, accusing Lively and Hoover of pushing Baldoni out of the film.
In an interview with ELLE UK, Baldoni said there was a lot of “pressure” in his dual role as co-star and filmmaker.
“You’re always navigating personalities,” he said.
“There’s always friction that happens when you make a movie like this. Then at the end of the day, it’s that friction, I believe, that creates the beautiful art.”
Hoover or Lively have not publicly addressed the speculations, and the accusations against Baldoni have not been confirmed.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit http://www.ntv.org.au.
Feeling worried or no good? No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn. Speak to a 13YARN Crisis Supporter, call 13 92 76. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.