Blake Lively has recently opened up about her emotional response to the controversy surrounding the release of her latest film, It Ends With Us. The backlash, which erupted due to rumored tensions between Lively and co-star/director Justin Baldoni, has left the actress feeling “vulnerable and upset,” according to sources close to her.
Controversy Unfolds
The controversy began on the film’s premiere night when Lively and Baldoni, who co-starred and directed the film, were notably absent from each other’s promotional activities. This absence led to speculation about a possible feud between the two, sparking a whirlwind of negative attention. As the film rolled out in theaters, the criticism intensified, with many focusing on Lively’s promotional efforts compared to Baldoni’s, as well as her comments in various interviews.
The film, based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel of the same name, deals with sensitive themes surrounding domestic violence. Some of the criticism also targeted the film’s marketing campaign, with claims that it might have been misleading given the film’s serious subject matter.
Lively’s Reaction
A source close to Blake Lively shared with People that she was “pretty surprised at the backlash and drama” that unfolded. “She initially felt very vulnerable and upset. During the promotion of the movie, not one day went by when she was not in the news in an unfavorable light. She’s just not used to this kind of drama,” the source revealed.
Lively, who not only starred in but also produced the film, found the entire situation overwhelming. The actress reportedly felt out of control as the drama escalated, which was a new and unsettling experience for her. Despite the turmoil, Lively remains committed to her career and is focused on moving forward with projects she is passionate about.
Film’s Success and Further Developments
Despite the controversy, It Ends With Us has been a commercial success, grossing $300 million worldwide. The film’s strong performance at the box office is a testament to Lively’s dedication to the project.
The film is adapted from Colleen Hoover’s novel, which has garnered significant attention for its exploration of complex and challenging themes. Hoover, who also wrote a sequel to It Ends With Us, has seen her work gain even more prominence due to the film adaptation. While Baldoni holds the rights to the sequel, he has previously suggested that Lively could be a strong candidate to direct any potential follow-up. However, no official plans for the sequel have been confirmed as of now.
Support from Co-Stars
Amidst the controversy, Lively received support from her co-star Brandon Sklenar. Sklenar took to Instagram to defend Lively and the female cast members, criticizing the negativity directed at them. He stated, “Vilifying the women who put so much of their heart and soul into making this film because they believe so strongly in its message seems counterproductive and detracts from what this film is about. It is, in fact, the opposite of the point.”
Sklenar’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among the film’s cast and crew, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the film’s message rather than the interpersonal drama that has overshadowed its release.
Looking Forward
As Blake Lively navigates the aftermath of the controversy, she remains a prominent figure in the film industry. Her role in It Ends With Us and her involvement in its production demonstrate her commitment to storytelling and her willingness to tackle complex subjects. The film’s success, despite the surrounding drama, highlights Lively’s enduring appeal and the powerful impact of her work.
The situation surrounding It Ends With Us serves as a reminder of the intense scrutiny faced by public figures and the challenges of navigating media attention. For Lively, the experience has been a learning curve, but her resilience and dedication to her craft are clear. As she looks ahead, Lively’s focus remains on pursuing projects that inspire and excite her, regardless of the challenges that may come her way.
