It ends with us shatters box office records, sparking controversy over Blake Lively

In the United States, the film It Ends With Us, directed by Justin Baldoni and based on Colleen Hoover's novel, has garnered significant attention since its release on August 9, 2023. It achieved remarkable financial success, with a domestic box office gross of $148 million and a global total of $350 million. Following its theatrical run, the film became available on Netflix, where it continued to attract viewers and generate discussions about its themes surrounding domestic abuse. Baldoni publicly thanked fans for their support during an interview with TMZ in New York City, expressing appreciation for their engagement with the message of the film. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging survivors of domestic violence, reinforcing the film's intent to raise awareness about these issues and ensure that the critical message is not lost. In the months following its release, Baldoni dealt with various challenges, including a controversial working relationship with the film's lead actress, Blake Lively. Reports indicated that Baldoni was at times dismissive of Lively's suggestions during the filming of scenes depicting abuse, leading to a tense atmosphere on set. Sources described how his focus on the abusive male perspective contributed to further complications in their collaboration. This tension, alongside his reported borderline abusive behavior toward some female crew members, cast a shadow over the film's production experience. Despite these challenges, Baldoni's focus after the film's release has been to celebrate its successes and support those who identify with its themes. As he prepares to take a family vacation, he reflects on the impact of the film and the importance of continuing the conversation surrounding domestic violence, encouraging viewers to seek help if needed.