The 2024 film It Ends with Us, adapted from Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, dives deep into themes of love, trauma, and personal strength. The story centers on Lily Bloom, a young woman navigating the complexities of an emotionally and physically abusive relationship, while trying to break cycles from her past. Set against the backdrop of Boston, the film offers a raw and intimate portrayal of one woman’s struggle to find clarity, peace, and empowerment.
Lily, portrayed with emotional nuance and quiet resilience, is the heart of the narrative. Her journey is marked not by grand gestures, but by the internal shifts and quiet decisions that shape her path forward. What stands out is how the film presents Lily’s femininity—not as fragile or decorative, but as a source of strength. She is soft-spoken yet assertive, kind but unwilling to accept mistreatment. Her femininity is expressed in ways that feel real and grounded, without relying on stereotypes.
Visually, Lily is portrayed with an understated beauty. Her look is fresh, natural, and emotionally open—often dressed in simple, flowy clothing that reflects her creative spirit and emotional sensitivity. Her red hair and gentle features lend her a kind of earthy, memorable presence. She’s not styled for fantasy, but for relatability—a woman viewers can recognize in themselves or someone they know.
As the story progresses, the physical contrast between Lily and the intense men in her life—particularly Ryle and Atlas—highlights the gendered dynamics of power, control, and emotional vulnerability. Lily’s beauty is never weaponized; instead, it's a part of who she is, woven into her warmth, determination, and the courage it takes to walk away from someone she once loved.
It Ends with Us doesn’t romanticize pain or hardship. Through Lily’s character, it portrays a nuanced image of feminine strength: not just surviving, but choosing to do what’s right, even when it hurts. Her gender and appearance are part of her story, but they serve a deeper purpose—reflecting the inner beauty of someone who finds power in reclaiming her own voice.
