Critic: Plot in the Film It Ends with Us

Abstract

This study examines the Justin Baldoni-directed movie It Ends with Us, which is based on Colleen Hoover's best-selling book. The study is to investigate how the novel's plot structure, as adapted for the film, affects viewers' comprehension and emotional reaction. In order to assess the main distinctions between the two versions, the study separates the narrative into exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and tragedy using Gustav Freytag's Pyramid Plot theory (1896). Repeated readings and viewings of the book and movie are part of this descriptive qualitative study, which is further supported by data from audience channels like YouTube and IMDb. The results show that although the film does a good job of introducing the lead character, Lily Bloom, and capturing the intensity of her emotions through visuals, it drastically cuts out important plot points like Lily's relationship with her father, her introspective journal entries to Ellen, and the impact of her mother. The audience's understanding of the novel's key themes—generational trauma, spousal abuse, and emotional healing—is diminished by these omissions. By emphasizing the value of emotional context and narrative depth in preserving thematic integrity across media, the study adds to the conversation about film adaptation.