“It Ends With Us” has become a social media sensation, capturing immense attention and selling millions of copies, setting the stage for its adaptation into a film. The upcoming movie is slated to feature Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, the latter also taking on the directorial role.
As the news of Lively stepping into the character Lily Bloom’s shoes surfaces, fans of “It Ends With Us” are understandably contemplating whether she aligns with the protagonist’s age in Colleen Hoover’s story.
In the novel, Lily Bloom is introduced at 23 years old, while Blake Lively, who will embody this character, celebrated her 35th birthday in August last year. This significant age gap has stirred discussions within the fanbase. Despite Lively’s ability to carry off the character’s red hair, doubts linger regarding her suitability to portray a recent college graduate, a pivotal aspect of Lily’s character arc.
Admittedly, Lively might effortlessly pass for someone in their mid-to-late twenties, a phase often marked by relationship missteps and substantial learning experiences—the crux of the story in “It Ends With Us.” Nevertheless, for devoted fans keen on staying faithful to the source material, the casting choice raises concerns about straying too far from the character’s origins.
Considering Hollywood’s tendency to take creative liberties in book-to-movie adaptations, citing instances like the Harry Potter film series or HBO’s adaptation of The Last of Us, alterations are not uncommon. While these adaptations managed to maintain the essence of their narratives, minor changes and omissions were evident.
Despite potential deviations in age alignment, if the film preserves the core storyline and character developments that made the novel a triumph, it’s likely to resonate with audiences. The essence of Lily’s journey and the thematic depth of “It Ends With Us” might still be preserved, even if the portrayal doesn’t mirror a fresh graduate experience.
The movie adaptation of “It Ends With Us” is scheduled for release in theaters on February 9, 2024.