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Romance drama ‘It Ends With Us’ poised for box office success
A promising start at the box office
With an impressive $7 million in Thursday previews and an opening weekend projected to surpass $40 million, the romance drama It Ends With Us is on track to become a box office sensation. This raises an intriguing question: Will the cast return for a sequel?
The story behind the film
It Ends With Us is adapted from the 2016 bestseller by Colleen Hoover. The novel’s popularity led Hoover to publish a sequel, It Starts With Us, in 2022. The film adaptation has generated significant buzz, not only for its compelling storyline but also for its star-studded cast and crew.
Directorial decisions and future prospects
At the film’s premiere, director and star Justin Baldoni was asked about the possibility of directing a sequel. His response was unexpected: “I think there are better people for that one,” Baldoni said. “I think Blake Lively’s ready to direct. That’s what I think.”
This statement has sparked curiosity among fans, especially since Lively, who stars as Lily Bloom, also produced the movie. Could she be stepping into the director’s chair for the sequel?
The cast and their roles
In It Ends With Us, Blake Lively portrays Lily Bloom, a flower shop owner in Boston who falls for neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid, played by Justin Baldoni. The film also features Brandon Sklenar as Atlas Corrigan, Lily’s teenage love. The narrative revolves around Lily’s navigation of a complex love triangle and her struggle against Ryle’s violent tendencies. These characters are central to the sequel novel, It Starts With Us, though Baldoni seems hesitant to direct the follow-up film.
Behind-the-scenes dynamics
Rumors have swirled about a possible conflict between Baldoni and Lively during post-production, particularly concerning the final cut of the movie. Neither actor has publicly addressed these speculations. Baldoni, who secured the film rights to Hoover’s novel, has expressed his deep connection to the story, describing it as “sexy, romantic, and mysterious.” He added, “By the end, I was sobbing real snot tears.”
Hoover herself was initially protective of her book, rejecting several offers before agreeing to Baldoni’s proposal. “I felt like he understood the book and the importance of people needing to see it on-screen,” she said.
The film’s impact and future
It Ends With Us is now playing in theaters nationwide, distributed by Sony. The film’s early success suggests a strong reception from audiences, which could pave the way for a sequel. Whether or not Baldoni returns as director, the potential for It Starts With Us to continue the story on the big screen is an exciting prospect for fans of the original novel and the film.
For those eager to dive deeper into the world of It Ends With Us, you can watch the trailer here.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
As a cinema enthusiast, the journey of It Ends With Us from page to screen is a fascinating one. The film’s exploration of complex emotional landscapes and the dynamics of love and aggression offers a rich tapestry for both viewers and critics. The potential for a sequel, especially with the possibility of Blake Lively directing, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative.
For those who appreciate in-depth character studies and emotionally charged storytelling, It Ends With Us is a must-watch. The film not only brings Hoover’s beloved characters to life but also invites viewers to reflect on the themes of love, resilience, and personal growth.
Final thoughts
The success of It Ends With Us at the box office is a testament to the power of compelling storytelling and strong performances. As the film continues to captivate audiences, the anticipation for a sequel grows. Whether or not Justin Baldoni returns as director, the future of this franchise looks promising, offering fans more opportunities to engage with the characters and their journeys.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit the It Ends With Us trailer page.
