It Ends With Us: A focus on the Message Amidst Controversy
Table of Contents
- 1. It Ends With Us: A focus on the Message Amidst Controversy
- 2. How has the controversy surrounding the film’s production impacted yoru creative process and overall vision for the project?
- 3. It Ends With Us: A Message Amidst Controversy – An Interview with Director Brandon Sklenar
- 4. Q: With the film’s release just around the corner, what message do you want viewers to take away from “It Ends With Us”?
- 5. Q: You’ve mentioned that you have someone close to you who has gone thru similar experiences. How has that influenced your approach to this project?
- 6. Q: The film’s promotion has been largely overshadowed by the public dispute between Blake Lively and Justin baldoni. How do you address this unfortunate distraction from the film’s intended message?
- 7. Q: Given your involvement, have you had to navigate questions about where your allegiance lies – “team Blake” or “team Justin”? How do you handle such questions without fanning the flames of the controversy?
- 8. Q: As the trial date approaches, are you worried that the ongoing legal battle will continue to overshadow the film’s release?
- 9. Q: What would you like to say to those who have been vocal in their support for Blake Lively and the message of the film?
As the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel, “It Ends With Us,” prepares for its theatrical release on august 9th, 2025, director Brandon Sklenar is emphasizing the film’s core message amidst ongoing legal battles and speculation surrounding the production. Sklenar, who appeared on CBS Mornings to discuss the highly anticipated second season of “1923,” expressed his desire to keep the focus on the film’s powerful themes.
“I just want people to remember why we made the movie in the first place and what it stands for, and just keeping the focus on that,” he said. “Like that movie meant so much to me, and I have someone very, very close to me in my life whose gone through what lily’s [Lily Lively’s character] going through for a long time, and I’ve been on the frontlines of helping her navigate that space.”
Sklenar acknowledged the unfortunate diversions from the film’s intended message but remained steadfast in his commitment to the story’s impact. “It’s unfortunate that things get taken away from what the ethos of that thing is and it gets convoluted,” he stated.
When pressed by host Gayle King if he was “team Blake or team Justin” in reference to the public dispute between stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, Sklenar skillfully navigated the question, choosing to reaffirm his dedication to the film’s message.
The controversy surrounding “It Ends With us” began with whispers of tension on set between Lively and Baldoni,culminating in the duo not appearing together at press events. This prompted Sklenar to release a statement on Instagram, urging an end to the online negativity directed towards Lively.
“Vilifying the women who put so much of their heart and soul into making this film as thay believe so strongly in its message seems counterproductive and detracts from what this film is about,” he said in part. “It is, in fact, the opposite of the point.”
Adding fuel to the fire, lively and her husband, ryan Reynolds, made their first red carpet appearance since the legal tussle began at the SNL50: The anniversary Special. Reynolds even incorporated a thinly veiled reference to the media frenzy in a comedic bit, quipping, “Great. Why, what have you heard?”
Since then, the situation has escalated. Many prominent figures in Hollywood have voiced their support for Lively and her right to a safe working environment. In contrast, Baldoni has largely faced industry repercussions. He filed a lawsuit against the New York Times for its initial publication of the legal filings, while Lively has denounced this tactic as victim-blaming. As of January 16th, Baldoni is demanding $400 million from Reynolds and Lively, alleging defamation, extortion, and other claims.
The legal battle is set to unfold in a New York federal court with a trial date scheduled for March 29th, 2026.
In the midst of this legal drama, Sklenar remains resolute in his vision for “It Ends With Us,” urging viewers to prioritize the film’s message about domestic violence and its impact on individuals and relationships.
How has the controversy surrounding the film’s production impacted yoru creative process and overall vision for the project?
It Ends With Us: A Message Amidst Controversy – An Interview with Director Brandon Sklenar
As the dust settles on the highly publicized dispute surrounding the upcoming film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel “It Ends With Us,” director Brandon Sklenar remains steadfast in his vision for the project. Archyde News had the opportunity to sit down with Sklenar to discuss the film’s powerful message and the controversy that has surrounded it.
Q: With the film’s release just around the corner, what message do you want viewers to take away from “It Ends With Us”?
Brandon Sklenar: First and foremost, I want viewers to understand the gravity of domestic violence and it’s impact on individuals and relationships. This film is a powerful exploration of that reality, and I hope it serves as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and support for those affected.
Q: You’ve mentioned that you have someone close to you who has gone thru similar experiences. How has that influenced your approach to this project?
Brandon Sklenar: Having someone so close to me navigate the complexities of domestic violence has given me a firsthand viewpoint on the emotional rollercoaster that survivors often face. That understanding has deeply influenced my approach to this film, ensuring that we tell Lily’s story with authenticity and sensitivity.
Q: The film’s promotion has been largely overshadowed by the public dispute between Blake Lively and Justin baldoni. How do you address this unfortunate distraction from the film’s intended message?
Brandon Sklenar: It’s unfortunate that the focus has been taken away from the film’s core message, but it’s crucial to remember that these distractions are not indicative of the work we’ve all put into this project. I urge everyone to keep the discussion centered around the film’s powerful themes and the impact it can have on audiences.
Brandon Sklenar: I’ve been asked that question a few times, and I understand why, but my allegiance is to the film and its message. I’ve made a conscious effort to steer conversations back towards the movie, highlighting the importance of its themes and the unbelievable work everyone involved has put into bringing this story to life.
Q: As the trial date approaches, are you worried that the ongoing legal battle will continue to overshadow the film’s release?
Brandon Sklenar: While it’s a valid concern, I choose to focus on what we can control, which is the film itself.I firmly believe that once viewers experience “It Ends With Us” and connect with its powerful story, the legal drama will take a backseat to the message we’ve worked so hard to convey.
Q: What would you like to say to those who have been vocal in their support for Blake Lively and the message of the film?
Brandon Sklenar: I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for their support.It’s incredibly encouraging to see so many people rallying behind this film and the important issues it addresses. Their voices are a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to spark meaningful dialog.
