Defending the heart of ‘It Ends With Us’: A deeper look into the controversy
A storm of criticism
In the world of cinema, few things stir the pot like a high-profile adaptation of a beloved book. The recent release of It Ends With Us has been no exception. The film, starring Blake Lively and directed by Justin Baldoni, has faced a whirlwind of online backlash. Allegations of behind-the-scenes rifts and criticisms of the film’s promotional focus have overshadowed its core message.
Brandon Sklenar’s response
Actor Brandon Sklenar, who plays Atlas Corrigan in the film, took to social media to address the negativity. His heartfelt post aimed to defend author Colleen Hoover and the female cast members, emphasizing the film’s message of hope and perseverance.
“Colleen and the women of this cast stand for hope, perseverance, and for women choosing a better life for themselves,” Sklenar wrote. “Vilifying the women who put so much of their heart and soul into making this film because they believe so strongly in its message seems counterproductive and detracts from what this film is about.”
The core message
Sklenar’s words highlight a crucial point: the film’s intention is to shed light on serious issues like domestic violence and generational trauma. The story revolves around Lily Bloom, a flower shop owner in Boston, who navigates a complex love triangle while dealing with the violent aggression of her neurosurgeon boyfriend, Ryle Kincaid.
For those unfamiliar with the plot, you can watch the trailer for It Ends With Us to get a sense of the film’s emotional depth.
The backlash
Despite the film’s noble intentions, Lively’s press tour has been widely criticized. Many felt that she focused more on her brand deals and new hair care line than on the film’s serious subject matter. This has led to accusations of insensitivity and a lack of focus on the film’s core issues.
Sklenar’s plea for understanding
Sklenar’s post goes beyond mere defense; it is a plea for understanding and empathy. He acknowledges the responsibility that comes with portraying such heavy themes and stresses the importance of the film’s message.
“Trust me when I tell you, there isn’t a single person involved in the making of this film that was not aware of the responsibility we had in making this,” Sklenar wrote. “A responsibility to all the women who have experienced generational trauma, domestic abuse, or struggle with looking in the mirror and loving who they see.”
A call to action
Sklenar’s statement is not just a defense but a call to action. He urges viewers to move beyond the negativity and focus on the film’s intent to inspire and instill hope.
“This movie is a harsh reality check for the men who need to get their shit together and take responsibility for themselves and their actions,” he added. “This film is meant to inspire. It’s meant to validate and recognize. It’s meant to instill hope. It’s meant to build courage and help people feel less alone. Ultimately it’s meant to spread love and awareness.”
Box office success
Despite the controversy, It Ends With Us has proven to be a box office hit, crossing the $100 million mark domestically in just 11 days. This success underscores the film’s impact and the resonance of its message with audiences.
Final thoughts
In the realm of cinema and TV series, it’s easy to get caught up in the drama and controversy. However, it’s essential to remember the core messages that these stories aim to convey. It Ends With Us is more than just a film; it’s a narrative that seeks to inspire change and foster understanding.
For those interested in exploring more about the film, you can find additional details and multimedia resources on its information page.
In a world where negativity often overshadows positivity, Sklenar’s words serve as a reminder to focus on the good and to support the messages that truly matter. Let’s move beyond the backlash and appreciate the film for what it aims to achieve: a better understanding and a more compassionate world.