Sony Pictures Chief Tony Vinciquerra Applauds Blake Lively for Her Advocacy on Domestic Violence in It Ends With Us
Sony Pictures Entertainment Chairman-CEO Tony Vinciquerra has lauded Blake Lively for her pivotal role in raising awareness about domestic violence through the film It Ends With Us. Vinciquerra also commended author Colleen Hoover and the female team behind the film for their dedication to handling this sensitive issue with care.
Despite some online criticism directed at Lively during the film’s promotional tour, suggesting that she was not taking the issue seriously, she remains strongly supported by Sony Pictures. Vinciquerra emphasized that Lively, Hoover, and the other women involved worked tirelessly to address the topic responsibly. The film has received positive audience reactions, and Lively’s commitment to fostering dialogue on domestic violence has been widely recognized. Vinciquerra hinted at the possibility of future collaborations with Lively.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Vinciquerra stated, “Blake, Colleen, and many women put immense effort into this remarkable film, working selflessly from the outset to ensure that such an important subject was handled with sensitivity. Audiences have responded positively to the movie.”
He continued, “Blake’s passion and dedication to advancing the conversation around domestic violence are truly commendable. We love working with her and would be thrilled to do 12 more movies with her.”
In mid-June, Lively surprised attendees at Hoover’s Book Bonanza in Dallas by announcing a rough-cut screening of It Ends With Us the following day. This event marked a significant promotional milestone for Sony, representing the premiere of Wayfarer Studios’ first adaptation of one of Hoover’s bestsellers.
Directed by Justin Baldoni, who also stars in the film, It Ends With Us explores the story of Lily Bloom (played by Lively), who relocates to Boston after a traumatic childhood and becomes involved with neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid (Baldoni). As she navigates her new relationship and the return of her first love, Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar), Lily must confront her past and make challenging decisions about her future.
Despite reported tensions between Baldoni and Lively over certain scenes and edits, and Baldoni’s absence from promotional events, It Ends With Us exceeded expectations at the box office. The film earned $50 million domestically during its opening weekend and has grossed over $100 million worldwide, surpassing its $25 million production budget.
Sony’s marketing focused on themes of redemption rather than victimhood, a message reinforced by Lively at the New York premiere. She encouraged survivors to see themselves beyond their traumatic experiences and to take control of their own narratives.
