Justin Baldoni is a man of many layers, both on and off the screen. As he takes a bite of a frosting-laden cinnamon roll, he jokes about the misconceptions surrounding his diet. “See, and people think I don’t eat carbs!” he laughs, embodying a contrast to the character he portrays in his latest film, “It Ends With Us.”
Baldoni, known for his role in “Jane the Virgin” and his dedication to redefining masculinity, has not only starred in but also directed the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestseller. The film dives deep into the complexities of abusive relationships and personal transformation. Here’s a closer look at how Baldoni’s approach to the project and his personal philosophy intersect.
Transforming into Ryle: Behind the Scenes of ‘It Ends With Us’
Justin Baldoni’s preparation for his role as Ryle Kincaid in “It Ends With Us” was thorough and intense. Unlike his charming on-screen persona, Ryle is a character marked by darkness and complexity. Baldoni’s preparation included:
- Intensive Research: Baldoni worked with acting coaches and engaged in immersive research, including attending court-mandated recovery groups to understand Ryle’s psychology.
- Emotional Exploration: He kept a journal from Ryle’s perspective, using it as a form of therapy to delve into the character’s fears and insecurities.
“I needed to understand him. I didn’t have to like him, but I had to understand why he did the things that he did,” Baldoni explains. This approach allowed him to connect deeply with Ryle’s internal struggles, portraying a character who is both compelling and disturbing.
Navigating Masculinity and Vulnerability
Baldoni’s personal mission to redefine masculinity significantly influenced his approach to directing and acting. He’s known for his efforts to break down traditional notions of male emotional suppression, a theme explored in his book “Man Enough” and his TED Talk.
- Undefining Masculinity: Baldoni’s work challenges the societal norms that dictate how men should express emotions. His role in “It Ends With Us” demanded him to explore the darker facets of masculinity and how they manifest in abusive relationships.
- On-Set Challenges: Balancing his role as both actor and director, Baldoni had to manage the intense emotional demands of Ryle while leading the film’s production. “I had to push Ryle down so I could be an effective director,” he admits. This transition wasn’t easy but was crucial for maintaining the film’s integrity.
The Directing Dilemma: Balancing Vision and Collaboration
Directing “It Ends With Us” posed unique challenges for Baldoni. He describes his directing style as highly collaborative, often seeking input from others to enhance the film’s authenticity.
- Collaborative Approach: Baldoni prides himself on being a “best idea wins” director. He values input from his team, which sometimes led to moments where he felt overshadowed but also enriched the project.
- Handling Sensitive Scenes: For scenes depicting domestic violence, Baldoni deferred to experts like the intimacy coordinator and domestic violence organisations to ensure respectful and accurate portrayals.
Baldoni’s approach highlights the importance of collaboration in filmmaking, especially when dealing with delicate subjects.
Honouring Colleen Hoover’s Vision
Colleen Hoover’s novel, “It Ends With Us,” is a deeply personal work, inspired by her own experiences. Baldoni’s role as a filmmaker was to honour Hoover’s vision while translating it to the screen.
- Preserving the Book’s Integrity: Baldoni’s goal was to stay true to the book’s essence, ensuring that the portrayal of complex emotions and relationships remained authentic.
- Character Complexity: Baldoni emphasises that Ryle is not just a villain but a multi-dimensional character. “The majority of women who fall in love with abusive men didn’t fall in love with them because they’re abusive. They fell in love with them because there was something to love,” he explains.
This nuanced portrayal aims to resonate with audiences and provide a truthful representation of abusive relationships.
Conclusion: A Journey of Transformation and Truth
Justin Baldoni’s involvement in “It Ends With Us” is a testament to his dedication to both his craft and his personal mission. By exploring the complexities of Ryle Kincaid and navigating his own challenges as a director, Baldoni has created a film that is both compelling and thought-provoking.
As the film hits theatres, Baldoni reflects on his journey: “I was always thinking about the outcome and the why, and the one woman I was making this for who would sit in that theatre and maybe not go back to her abusive relationship.” His commitment to this cause underscores the importance of addressing sensitive topics with integrity and empathy.
For those interested in exploring the deeper layers of Baldoni’s work and the themes of “It Ends With Us,” the film offers a powerful narrative that challenges perceptions and encourages conversations about abuse and masculinity.
