29 Aug 2024
The upcoming film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's ‘It Ends With Us’ has become embroiled in a significant PR crisis, largely due to a reported rift between its lead stars, Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively.
This tension appears to be rooted in fundamental differences in their approach to the film’s sensitive subject matter, particularly domestic violence (DV), which is at the heart of the story.
Justin Baldoni, who is both starring in and directing the film, has been deeply committed to portraying the complexities of DV with authenticity and care. Known for his work on projects that explore tough social issues, Baldoni has emphasised the need for a nuanced and empathetic depiction of the characters, striving to remain true to the emotional depth of Hoover’s novel. His vision is to present a story that not only entertains but also resonates with those who have experienced similar traumas.
On the other hand, Blake Lively, while fully invested in her role, has reportedly struggled to fully embrace the gravity of the subject matter. Sources suggest that Lively’s focus has been more on the romantic elements of the story, potentially overlooking the intricate layers of trauma and healing that Baldoni deems essential.
This divergence in storytelling priorities has led to creative clashes, with Baldoni advocating for a more thoughtful exploration of DV, while Lively is believed to favour a more mainstream romantic interpretation.
The situation has been further complicated by the immense public and media attention surrounding Lively, who, along with her husband Ryan Reynolds, forms one of Hollywood’s most powerful couples.
Their influence has reportedly made it difficult for Baldoni to navigate the growing tension, prompting him to hire veteran PR Melissa Nathan to manage the situation. Her team’s task is not only to mitigate the fallout from the on-set discord and balance the narrative but also to highlight the film’s critical themes while carefully handling the public perception of the tensions between the stars.
The outcome of this PR battle will likely play a crucial role in shaping both the film’s reception and its impact on audiences, particularly those for whom the story’s themes of domestic violence are deeply personal.
Commercially ‘It Ends With Us’ has been a huge success at the box office, bringing in more than $242 million globally, but now rumours persist that the rift might still put the possibility of a sequel to the movie in doubt. Time will tell how the next chapter of this saga plays out.
If you’re looking for some advice around your PR requirements, speak to our experienced team at KAT Marketing on 01206 765544.