12 Best Movies Like It Ends With Us

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The 2024 movie “It Ends With Us” generated more media attention due to the public spat between its director/leading actor, Justin Baldoni, and his co-star, Blake Lively, rather than any other aspect. Despite their legal disagreements, the film was successful at the box office, and it’s clear why that is. “It Ends With Us” is a screen adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s popular novel of the same name, which became a sensation on BookTok. Moreover, it boasts a charismatic lead in Lively (portraying Lily Bloom, a florist), and not just one, but two handsome male leads: Baldoni as neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid and Brendon Sklenar as restaurateur Atlas Corrigan.

This movie explores the troubling topic of Lily enduring abuse from her spouse, Ryle. Initially, their relationship appears tender, but it’s marred by escalating instances of physical and emotional violence. The reappearance of Lily’s former lover, Atlas, complicates matters further. Similar movies that delve into themes such as violence, domestic abuse, and love triangles are listed below. If you’re interested in watching something comparable, we have some recommendations for you – here are 12 excellent films like “It Ends With Us.

Sleeping with the Enemy (1991)

Following the success of “Steel Magnolias” and “Pretty Woman,” Julia Roberts chose to star in “Sleeping with the Enemy,” a dramatic portrayal of domestic abuse. In this film, she plays Laura, a woman enduring brutal treatment at the hands of her husband Martin (Patrick Bergin). During a stormy day on the water, Laura intentionally falls off a sailboat, leading people to believe she drowned as she couldn’t swim. However, Martin arranges a funeral for her, assuming her death. In reality, Laura had decided to escape Martin’s abuse and secretly learned how to swim, surviving the ordeal undetected.

Laura relocates to Iowa, where she reconnects with a man named Ben. Meanwhile, Martin becomes aware of Laura’s swimming classes, leading him to believe she may still be alive. The movie “Sleeping with the Enemy” shares similarities with “It Ends With Us,” particularly in the domestic abuse narrative. However, unlike Lily in “It Ends With Us,” Julia Roberts’ character in “Sleeping with the Enemy” feigns her death to escape her abuser. Remarkably, Laura’s husband is so malevolent that he persistently stalks her even after she leaves and takes his obsession to its darkest extent.

A Star is Born (2018)

Four distinct adaptations of “A Star is Born” have emerged since its initial release in 1937 (with subsequent remakes in 1954, 1976, and 2018). Despite the passage of time, the fundamental narrative has remained consistent: A prominent man, struggling with alcoholism, encounters a woman whose career eventually surpasses his own in their shared field. In the most recent telling of the tale (2018), Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga portray Jackson Maine and Ally Campana respectively, two musician characters trying to manage their tumultuous relationship while Jackson’s alcohol and drug issues worsen and Ally’s stardom ascends ever higher.

In essence, though “A Star is Born” doesn’t portray domestic abuse as vividly as “It Ends With Us”, both movies share striking similarities. They both illustrate how a relationship that begins with promise can deteriorate into turmoil. Ally, unlike the character in “It Ends With Us”, does not experience physical abuse, but she grapples with Jackson’s erratic behavior, such as his on-stage collapse during Ally’s Grammy win for best new artist, and her struggle to come to terms with their broken relationship mirrors Lily’s journey in “It Ends With Us”. Similar to “It Ends With Us”, “A Star is Born” was a commercial success, earning over $430 million worldwide.

Enough (2002)

In the movie “Enough,” Jennifer Lopez plays Slim, a waitress who falls for Mitch (Billy Campbell), a man who defends her against an unwanted advance. They marry, have a child, and seem to live blissfully until Slim uncovers Mitch’s infidelities, which he doesn’t seem to regret due to being the primary earner. He even resorts to violence when she finds out. However, Slim has a different perspective on their relationship, and despite the police offering little assistance, she chooses to leave him.

In the dead of night, Slim enlists her friends for a stealthy exit, yet Mitch thwarts her attempt and viciously attacks her instead. Regrettably, their daughter stirs during this altercation, prompting Mitch to release them lest she uncovers his true character. The film is marked by numerous unexpected events, but what truly stands out is its incorporation of Krav Maga, a fighting style that Jennifer Lopez mastered for the role. Although Krav Maga is an unusual method in such circumstances and starkly contrasts Lily’s approach to handling her abusive spouse in “It Ends With Us,” it effectively resolves the situation.

Malcolm & Marie (2021)

In contrast to ‘It Ends With Us,’ which centers around an abusive relationship, ‘Malcolm & Marie’ revolves around a tense one. The movie was filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic and unfolds over several hours following the premiere of writer-director Malcolm’s (John David Washington) film. His girlfriend, Marie (Zendaya), is displeased because Malcolm didn’t mention her in his speech and feels that she was the inspiration for the movie. However, Malcolm argues that this isn’t accurate and that his main character is a composite of various women he knows.

In their conversation, they delve into topics like films, intimacy, and their bond, making for quite a thrilling journey. It appears that the pair are on the verge of reconciliation, but conflicts resurface instead. The movie is intense, skillfully performed, and visually stunning – it was filmed in black and white to give an air of timelessness, as Zendaya mentioned during her Good Morning America interview. She noted that this choice aims to recreate the atmosphere of classic Hollywood movies and reclaim the narrative of black and white cinema for Black actors who were prominent during that era. By the time you reach the end of “Malcolm & Marie,” you might find yourself emotionally exhausted, but there’s no question about the acting prowess of the two leads.

What’s Love Got To Do With It (1993)

The biographical movie “What’s Love Got To Do With It” took creative liberties with Tina Turner’s true story, yet it garnered significant critical acclaim. Angela Bassett received an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of the legendary artist, and Laurence Fishburne earned a nod for his role as Tina Turner’s abusive husband, Ike. Despite its inaccuracies, the film candidly depicts Ike Turner’s manipulative and violent behavior during their marriage, making it resonate with viewers who are drawn to dramas like “It Ends With Us.

In the movie, Tina (originally Anna Mae Bullock) enters into a partnership with Ike’s band, Kings of Rhythm, marking the beginning of their professional and personal bond. Impressed by her talent, Ike offers to guide her career and produce her records. He subsequently renames her Tina Turner, and together they create the Ike & Tina Turner Revue which gains immense popularity across the nation. They marry and relocate to Los Angeles, but it’s later exposed that Ike has been physically abusing Tina. As more fans demand Tina over Ike, the abuse intensifies. This is a true-to-life tale similar to “It Ends With Us,” as it portrays a relationship that deteriorates progressively over time.

Luckiest Girl Alive (2022)

The film “Luckiest Girl Alive,” adapted from Jessica Knoll’s novel, features Mila Kunis as Ani, a woman who appears to have an enviable life with a wealthy fiancé and a job at a fashionable women’s magazine. However, beneath this polished exterior lies a darker truth: Ani is actually a survivor of a gang rape in high school by three boys, and she later endured a school shooting intended for her attackers, who were friends of hers, Arthur (Thomas Barbusca) and Ben (David Webster), both of whom had also been traumatized by the same group. The movie includes several flashbacks to 1999 depicting Ani as Tifani (Chiara Aurelia) in high school, but most of it unfolds in 2015, when Ani is asked to contribute to a documentary about the school shooting event.

In the documentary, Ani is compelled to face her long-suppressed trauma for the first time, leading her to write an article published in The New York Times about her rape experience. This ordeal also provides her with a fresh perspective and encourages her to end her engagement, admitting that she was using her fiancé as a means to escape her past. Although “Luckiest Girl Alive,” inspired by real events and lacking depictions of domestic abuse, does portray distressing situations similar to Lily’s journey in “It Ends With Us,” it is only when Ani confronts these experiences that she begins to experience tranquility in her life. The film offers a challenging yet ultimately enriching viewing experience.

Alice, Darling (2022)

Similar to “It Ends With Us,” “Alice, Darling” delves into the complexities of an emotional abuse relationship, rather than physical violence. Portrayed by Anna Kendrick, Alice is involved with a man named Simon, but we mostly see her spending time with friends Tess and Sophie. The narrative unfolds as they embark on a trip for Tess’ birthday, while Alice deceives Simon by claiming work obligations, revealing that Simon has been isolating her from her social circle. Initially cautious around her friends, Alice eventually confesses the truth about her relationship with Simon. Despite him never inflicting physical harm, Simon has emotionally tormented Alice. This is why she abstains from sugar and pulls out her hair; she believes that by maintaining perfection, he will stop belittling her.

Alice, Darling” subtly explores a significant theme – emotional abuse. Although physical abuse can be easily identified, emotional abuse often goes unnoticed. Initially, even Alice’s friends struggle to understand her peculiar behavior, only realizing the truth when she reveals Simon’s hurtful words towards her. The movie underscores the fact that we may never fully comprehend the intricacies of a relationship, and it’s all too easy to misconstrue a victim’s actions. This is what actress Anna Kendrick admired about “Alice, Darling,” as Alice isn’t immediately endearing to viewers.

Where the Crawdads Sing (2022)

In the novel “Where the Crawdads Sing,” a young woman named Kya Clark (Daisy Edgar-Jones) stands accused of murdering Chase Andrews (Harris Dickinson), the beloved local athlete. The narrative unfolds following her arrest, with flashbacks revealing her past. Born into poverty in the North Carolina marshlands, she was abandoned by her family due to her father’s abuse, leaving her alone until her siblings and mother departed. As a result of her solitary upbringing, Kya was often taunted by townspeople and became known as the “Marsh Girl.” She struggled to lead a normal life, attending school and enduring the ridicule of her peers.

Over the course of events, Kya develops romantic relationships with Tate Walker (played by Taylor John Smith) and later with Chase Andrews. However, when Tate fails to return home as promised during college, Kya finds herself in a relationship with Chase. Unfortunately, she learns that Chase is engaged to a local girl, which causes her to reject him. A troubling encounter ensues where Chase attempts to assault her. “Where the Crawdads Sing” blends elements of courtroom drama and romance, focusing on a girl who feels profound loneliness and faces harsh discrimination. Unlike in “It Ends With Us,” it is Kya’s father who is abusive in this story, leaving lasting effects – particularly the anxiety she experiences as a result of Chase’s reprehensible actions towards her.

Blue Valentine (2010)

Blue Valentine” portrays Michelle Williams as Cindy and Ryan Reynolds as Dean, their romance blossoming in one storyline only to falter a few years later in another. Initially, their bond is filled with optimism; despite issues with her former partner Bobby (Mike Vogel), Dean proves kind, and they genuinely cherish each other. However, in the latter timeline, Cindy becomes disillusioned with Dean. She finds his lack of drive unsettling and grows exasperated by his outbursts of anger.

Despite the fact that Cindy isn’t experiencing physical abuse, her relationship with Dean is unsteady due to Dean’s outbursts of anger, constant drinking and smoking. Cindy’s mother was subjected to verbal abuse by her father, and she doesn’t want her child to witness parents who harbor mutual disdain. This mirrors “It Ends With Us” as Lily chooses to part ways with Ryle for similar reasons involving their daughter. Just like the critically acclaimed film “Blue Valentine,” this story serves as a poignant reminder of how initially beautiful relationships can deteriorate into something dark and unrecognizable over time.

Safe Haven (2013)

Safe Haven” is a film adaptation from Nicholas Sparks’ 2010 novel, so if you’re familiar with his work, you can anticipate the kind of story you’ll encounter when you decide to watch this movie. Similar to “It Ends With Us,” the main character, Erin (played by Julianne Hough), experiences physical abuse, but unlike “It Ends With Us,” a significant portion of the film occurs after she has escaped her abuser. The story begins with her escaping from her blood-stained home. She chooses to settle in the peaceful town of Southport, North Carolina, where she hopes to find safety.

In a modest dwelling, a woman attempts to remain detached yet finds herself entangled in a romantic relationship with a widower named Alex (Josh Duhamel), who has two young children. However, her estranged husband, a detective with a drinking problem, continues his search for her despite their separation. As events unfold, Alex assists the woman in dealing with her troubled past and helps her find ways to heal. This film includes a twist that some viewers might find implausible, but others may consider it an enjoyable example of “Safe Haven”-style melodrama at its best.

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966)

The 1962 play “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” by Edward Albee is frequently hailed as one of the greatest films ever made. It was nominated in all 13 categories it could potentially win at the Oscars, eventually taking home five. Similar to “It Ends With Us,” this film features an abusive relationship as its main theme. Unlike the abuse depicted in “It Ends With Us,” which is one-sided and inflicted by Ryle upon Lily, George (played by Richard Burton) and Martha (Elizabeth Taylor) engage in mutual abuse in “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” The narrative revolves around two sets of couples: the older pair, George and Martha, and a younger couple, Nick (George Segal) and Honey (Sandy Dennis), who visit George and Martha’s home following a cocktail party.

During the entire night, George and Martha engage in a series of bitter verbal attacks towards each other, using cruel games to hurt one another. As they become more intoxicated, they involve the other couple in their messy disputes. George contemplates killing Martha, nearly succeeding in choking her, while Martha seeks to embarrass George publicly. Ultimately, both are accountable for their poisonous marriage. The film captivated audiences back then and continues to hold viewers spellbound even today due to its intense portrayal of their toxic relationship.

Fried Green Tomatoes (1991)

The film “Fried Green Tomatoes” is widely enjoyed by audiences. In this movie, Ninny Threadgoode (played by Jessica Tandy), a resident at a nursing home, narrates the tale of unconventional Idgie (Mary Stuart Masterson) and proper Ruth (Mary-Louise Parker) to volunteer Evelyn Couch (Kathy Bates). Set in the 1920s, they manage the Whistle Stop Cafe, experiencing both hardship and success. A significant aspect of the movie involves Idgie saving Ruth from her abusive spouse, similar to how Lily is assisted in escaping Ryle in “It Ends With Us.

In the novels “It Ends With Us” and “Fried Green Tomatoes,” Lily’s ex, Atlas, bears some similarities to Idgie, particularly in their strong-willed natures. However, Idgie surpasses Atlas when it comes to loyalty: When Ruth’s former partner attempts to claim custody of his and Ruth’s son, the ensuing events impact both women significantly. In times of need, Idgie swiftly steps up to support her friend, demonstrating once again that friendship is the most valuable thing a woman can possess.

Should you or someone close to you be experiencing domestic abuse, know that there’s help available. Reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233. If you prefer digital resources, their website offers a wealth of information, resources, and support.

2025-04-28 21:02