Not every relationship is meant to last—especially those stained by abuse. Too often, victims of domestic violence remain trapped, paralyzed by financial dependence or the sheer terror of their situation. But the truth is clear: the only escape is to leave, and leave as fast as possible.
It Ends with Us is a story that confronts this harsh reality head-on. I didn’t expect a film to provoke such deep reflection on the issue of domestic abuse, but it does so with unflinching honesty. The narrative follows Lily Bloom, a young woman who moves to Boston after her father’s death. She soon crosses paths with Ryle Kincaid, a seemingly perfect neurosurgeon—handsome, kind, and attentive. But as their relationship deepens, the cracks in Ryle’s facade begin to show. Lily slowly realizes that the man she fell for is capable of terrifying cruelty and violence. She knows she must escape, but the question that lingers is: will she find the strength before it’s too late?
Lily’s journey is marked by a series of red flags she initially overlooks. When we first meet her, she’s at her father’s funeral. Asked to speak, she glances at her notes but quickly abandons the podium, choosing silence over sharing fond memories. The moment is telling—why would someone refuse to eulogize their own parent? Through flashbacks, the answer becomes clear: her father was a brutal man, whose violence marred her childhood. Understanding this context, Lily’s silence at the funeral speaks volumes.
But Lily is determined not to follow in her mother’s footsteps. She’s not someone who will quietly endure a relationship steeped in abuse. The film uses flashbacks to introduce Atlas Corrigan, a troubled young man with whom Lily shared a deep connection in her youth. This bond is crucial, highlighting the stark contrast between Atlas’s kindness and Ryle’s eventual cruelty.
When Lily first meets Ryle on the rooftop of her apartment building, there’s an immediate red flag—his sudden, violent outburst. It’s a moment that should have made her pause, but Ryle’s charm and allure blind her to the danger ahead. Despite warnings from Ryle’s sister, Alyssa, who hints at her brother’s dark side, Lily becomes ensnared in his web. By the time she sees the truth, she’s already in too deep, ignoring the warning signs that mirror the abuse she witnessed as a child.
It Ends with Us, based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling 2016 novel, with a screenplay by Christy Hall and direction by Justin Baldoni, is a film that speaks to anyone who’s ever found themselves trapped in an abusive relationship. The film’s final scene is a powerful climax, one that will leave a lasting impact. No other portrayal of domestic abuse has hit quite as hard as this one. It’s a scene that forces Ryle to confront the consequences of his actions, leaving no room for denial.
Blake Lively’s portrayal of Lily is nothing short of extraordinary. She brings the character to life with such depth and authenticity that her pain becomes palpable. It’s a performance that will resonate deeply, likely leaving audiences in tears. Yet, the film doesn’t seek to manipulate emotions or force sympathy. Instead, it allows the story to unfold naturally, giving weight to every moment and decision.
It Ends with Us is a must-see, much like Big Little Lies, especially for those who might not recognize the signs of abuse in their own lives. It’s a film that holds a mirror up to the audience, challenging them to see the truth. The final sequence is unforgettable, driving home the importance of making the right choice—of walking away when the red flags are too glaring to ignore. Some abusive partners are masterful manipulators, but Lily’s story shows why it’s crucial to find the strength to leave. If you know someone struggling in an abusive relationship, encourage them to watch this film. It might just be the catalyst they need to step out of the shadows and into the light of freedom. Because this story, as painful as it is, has the power to change lives.