Netflix users in the United States may find themselves at a disadvantage if they wish to stream one of 2024’s most discussed romantic dramas, It Ends With Us. As of January 2026, this film is unavailable on Netflix’s ad-supported tier, which excludes approximately 145 titles—about 1.85% of the platform’s total library of 7,834 titles—due to licensing restrictions. Subscribers who wish to view the film will need to upgrade to the ad-free plan, highlighting ongoing challenges Netflix faces in balancing lower subscription costs with existing licensing agreements.
It Ends With Us, set to premiere on August 9, 2024, has become a focal point of conversation, praised for its sensitive portrayal of challenging themes, including domestic violence. Directed by Justin Baldoni and featuring performances by Blake Lively and Jenny Slate, the film is an adaptation of Colleen Hoover‘s bestselling novel. Critics have lauded it for its careful handling of complex relationships, sparking both admiration and debate.
Critical Reception and Themes
The film has garnered significant attention for its nuanced approach to difficult subject matter. According to a review by Collider, It Ends With Us successfully translates Hoover’s narrative to the screen with a sense of restraint. The direction by Baldoni, coupled with Lively’s performance, is credited with empowering survivors by treating the subject matter with dignity rather than sensationalism.
Aspects of the film that have drawn praise include the decision to age up the characters, which adds a layer of maturity to the story. Critics noted that this adjustment enhances the universality of the protagonist Lily’s journey, making it resonate with a broader audience. While some have pointed out that the film underdevelops supporting characters, particularly Atlas, the overall depiction of breaking generational cycles and reclaiming agency has been positively received.
“The film is sensitive to the main topic, and its performances and direction allow for Lily’s experience to empower survivors,” a review stated, emphasizing the adaptation’s careful navigation of its themes.
Despite the film’s acclaim, the absence of It Ends With Us from Netflix’s ad-supported tier raises questions about accessibility for viewers. While it remains listed for subscribers, the ad-supported model complicates matters, prompting viewers to consider whether the potential inconvenience outweighs the benefits of a lower subscription cost. As Netflix continues to evolve its offerings, the challenge of reconciling pricing models with content availability remains a significant issue.
In summary, It Ends With Us is set to make a notable impact in 2024, both as a cinematic adaptation of a beloved novel and as a point of contention regarding streaming access. The film’s sensitive handling of its subject matter may resonate with many, but the licensing limitations on Netflix’s ad-supported tier could limit its reach among potential viewers.
