Understanding the Depiction of Ryle’s Abuse in It Ends With Us

The film adaptation significantly alters the portrayal of domestic violence, creating a stark contrast with the original novel. Notably, one of the critical scenes is represented differently; in the book, Ryle’s hand burns only after he attempts to cool it under the sink, whereas in the film, the incident occurs immediately after he touches the hot surface. This change not only affects the timeline of events but also influences the audience’s emotional engagement with the characters and their motivations.

Moreover, within this scene from the book, Lily’s uncontrollable laughter due to intoxication is overshadowed by Ryle’s abrupt transition to violence. His harsh words, “Goddammit, Lily, it’s not funny. This hand is my f–king career,” emphasize the tension and severity of the situation, highlighting the complexities of their relationship and the impact of abusive behavior. Following this violent act, the narrative takes a decisive turn; Lily asserts her strength by kicking Ryle out of their apartment, leading him to spend a lonely night in the hallway, a powerful statement on the repercussions of abuse.

In addition, the film introduces a new dynamic in the conversations about abuse. For instance, Ryle discovers Lily’s family history of domestic violence much later in their relationship, contrasting with the book where this revelation occurs on their first meeting. This alteration shifts the emotional weight of their interactions and raises questions about the timing and context of such significant disclosures in relationships.

A particularly poignant addition to the film is the conversation between Lily and her sister-in-law, Allyssa (played by Jenny Slate). After learning of Ryle’s abusive actions, Allyssa shares a critical piece of information regarding Ryle’s past—his childhood incident where he accidentally shot his brother. In contrast, the book places this revelation in Ryle’s hands, as he explains his brother’s death to Lily. Notably, Allyssa’s character in the film actively advises Lily against reconciling with Ryle, a role that was absent in the book, showcasing a shift in how support systems respond to abusive relationships.