Where to watch: Netflix
Reactions: Triggering, Powerful, Gut-wrenching

I did NOT know what I was getting myself into when I pressed play on It Ends With Us. I honestly believed it was another cute romcom. And then the first “incident” happens. At first I thought, ok, it was an accident. Then the second one occurred and I cried. The third one had me shaking and sobbing uncontrollably. I texted a friend for comfort to be able to finish the movie.

This movie is powerful and triggering for anyone who has suffered physical violence or sexual assault in a relationship. As someone who has suffered such at the hands of a partner, I struggled with the movie’s depictions, but was also deeply moved. Two parts really make the movie special are: 1. When Blake’s character confides in two friends, they BELIEVE her and support her, and 2. The scene in which she tells her abuser it’s over is so well-written and expertly acted.

I won’t comment much on the real-life misconduct and abuse that Blake has suffered on set and at the hands of her co-star (I won’t name him because, fuck him). But it’s sad that she had something like this happen to her when the movie LITERALLY portrays how men take advantage of their positions of power over women to mistreat them. It’s been reassuring to watch other extremely famous actresses and artists speak up in a chorus of “me too” sentiments in support of Blake Lively. Which is to say, TRUST WOMEN, BELIEVE WOMEN, SUPPORT WOMEN. This shit happens all the time. It’s not over. It’s not better. Let the movie’s message sink in and believe and support the women in your life who speak up and stand against their abusers.

My recommendation on whether to watch this movie or not is simply: Be cautious and aware of your emotions going into it. If you or someone you know has been assaulted or abused, this will trigger you. But it’s a powerful movie with a meaningful ending.

(P.S. Both young and old Atlas are dreamy heartthrobs. Swoon.)