'It Ends with Us' drama: Justin Baldoni has everyone upset
What's the story
The recently released film It Ends with Us has been making headlines not only for its strong $50M opening at the US box office but also for the alleged discord between its director, Justin Baldoni, and star-producer, Blake Lively.
However, according to a new report, the issues brewing behind the scenes surpass alleged creative differences and have led to a situation where "the principal cast and [author] Colleen Hoover will have nothing to do with [Baldoni]."
Initial signs
Rumors were started before film's release
A source told People that "All is not what it seems," and "There is much more to this story."
Rumors of discord began to circulate prior to the film's release when Baldoni was seen handling most of his press solo and did not pose for pictures alongside the cast at the film's New York premiere.
Fans also noticed that Lively, Hoover, and cast member Jenny Slate do not follow Baldoni back on Instagram.
Creative differences
Reports of two different cuts of the movie emerged
A Hollywood Reporter story published on August 8 reported a "fracture among the filmmakers in the post-production process," leading to two different cuts of the movie.
A source close to Baldoni attributed this discord to "creative differences" that had been "overblown," while talking to People, claiming Lively "wants to direct the next movie, sidelining him and securing the rights from Colleen."
However, a Hollywood source told People that there has not been any discussion yet of a second movie.
Allegations
Baldoni accused of being 'chauvinistic,' 'borderline abusive'
Reports of Baldoni's alleged poor behavior surfaced on August 9 when allegations were made that he was "chauvinistic" and "borderline abusive" on set.
Page Six also reported that Baldoni created an "extremely difficult" atmosphere behind the scenes for the entire cast.
Director's response
Baldoni has praised Lively's performance, contributions as producer
Despite the rumors, Baldoni has publicly praised Lively's performance and her contributions as a producer.
In various interviews, he described her as a "dynamic creative" and expressed love for her work.
He even suggested that Lively should helm a sequel, stating, "I think Blake Lively's ready to direct. That's what I think."
Lively's stance
Lively has avoided mentioning Baldoni in interviews
Lively, who is also a producer on It Ends with Us, has spoken of putting her touches on the film's music, costumes, dialogue, and more.
She has also talked about her husband-actor Ryan Reynolds ghostwriting a few scenes here and there.
However, Hollywood press noted that she has avoided mentioning Baldoni by name in her interviews.