It Ends With Us” actor Brandon Sklenar is addressing the online discussions and backlash surrounding the film’s release and promotion.
On Instagram, Sklenar shared a detailed message asserting that author Colleen Hoover, who wrote the bestselling novel the film is based on, and the women in the cast represent “hope, perseverance, and women choosing a better life for themselves.”
He criticized the vilification of the women involved in the film, arguing that it undermines the film’s core message. “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,” Sklenar stated.
Sklenar also addressed reports of creative conflicts on set between Blake Lively, the film’s star and co-executive producer, and co-star/director Justin Baldoni. He emphasized that behind-the-scenes issues should not overshadow the film’s intentions. “It’s been disheartening to see the amount of negativity being projected online,” he wrote.
There has been criticism regarding how Lively and the film’s promotional efforts have addressed domestic violence, a key theme in the movie. Sklenar reassured that everyone involved was aware of the responsibility in portraying this sensitive subject. “There isn’t a single person involved in the making of this film that was not aware of the responsibility we had,” he said.
The film aims to inspire, bring hope, and “spread love and awareness,” according to Sklenar. He urged his followers to focus on the positive aspects of the film rather than spreading negativity online.sony Pictures Entertainment Chair-CEO Tony Vinciquerra defended the film’s promotion, which some critics felt overly emphasized lighter elements, in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter last week.
“So many women put so much effort into this remarkable movie, working selflessly from the start to ensure that such an important subject matter was handled with care,” Vinciquerra said.
“It Ends With Us” centers on Lily Bloom (played by Blake Lively), a flower shop owner who confronts a traumatic childhood marked by abuse. As she falls for Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni), she encounters unsettling patterns reminiscent of her parents’ relationship.
Lively addressed the issue of intimate partner violence in an Instagram Story earlier this month, linking to the National Domestic Violence Hotline and stating, “Intimate partner violence affects all genders, including more than 12 million people every year in the United States. Everyone deserves relationships free from domestic violence.”
Sklenar, meanwhile, has urged his followers to avoid negativity and contribute positively. “Be a part of a new story,” he wrote, “being written for women and all people everywhere.”
