'It Ends With Us' director Justin Baldoni praises Blake Lively for portrayal of Lily

Director Justin Baldoni, who also stars as Ryle, calls Lively’s performance "strong, funny and intelligent."

Fans eagerly anticipating the release of the film adaptation of "It Ends With Us" have something to tide them over – high praise for Blake Lively's performance from director and co-star Justin Baldoni.

Baldoni, 40, spoke to People on Tuesday, April 30, about Lively's work on the film. "There wasn’t a part of this production that she didn’t touch and have influence on. And everything she put her hands on and her mind to, she made better,” he stated. 

The actor, also an executive producer, describes her performance as “strong, funny and intelligent — all the things you want from a female heroine."

Baldoni further reflected on the project's personal impact, stating that the years-long process of adapting "It Ends With Us" led to self-discovery and healing. 

He shared that playing Ryle helped uncover and heal unresolved parts of himself.

"It Ends With Us" draws inspiration from Colleen Hoover's bestselling 2016 novel. 

The story follows Lily, a young woman navigating her father's passing while falling for a doctor named Ryle.  When her first love, Atlas (Brandon Sklenar), reemerges,  Lily's life takes a complex turn.

Lively also spoke to People on Tuesday, expressing her honour in taking on the role of Lily – a character deeply beloved by readers. 

She gushed about the experience and hopes that the film resonates with both devoted book fans and those experiencing the story for the first time.

Author Colleen Hoover is enthusiastic about the film, calling it "a dream come true" to witness her characters come to life onscreen. 

She expressed satisfaction with how the film captures the spirit of her book and believes that fans will be equally pleased.

The film hits theatres on August 9.