Netflix’s highly anticipated romantic drama, It Ends With Us, will not be available for streaming on the platform’s ad-supported tier in the United States. As of January 2026, this tier still restricts 145 titles—approximately 1.85% of Netflix’s total library of 7,834 titles—due to ongoing licensing limitations. While Netflix has been gradually addressing these issues since launching the ad-supported plan in November 2022, It Ends With Us remains one of the notable films that subscribers cannot access without upgrading their service.
The film, based on Colleen Hoover‘s best-selling novel, has generated substantial discussion since its release. Critics have praised its sensitive handling of complex themes, particularly domestic violence, and its strong performances, including a standout portrayal by Jenny Slate as the lead character, Lily. Directed by Justin Baldoni, the film has been noted for its mature approach to difficult subject matter, aiming to empower survivors rather than exploit their struggles.
Critical Reception and Themes
Early reviews have recognized It Ends With Us as a noteworthy adaptation. Collider’s review highlighted how the film successfully translates Hoover’s narrative to the screen with both care and restraint. The film’s portrayal of domestic violence avoids romanticizing the aggressor, a significant distinction from the source material. This approach has been credited to Baldoni’s direction and the thoughtful performances delivered by the cast.
While some critics pointed out that the character of Atlas could have been more developed and that the use of flashbacks felt underutilized, the overall reception has been positive. The film has been described as a “powerful, respectful portrayal” of breaking generational cycles and reclaiming agency. As one review articulated, “The film is sensitive to the main topic, and its performances and direction allow for Lily’s experience to empower survivors.”
The decision to age up the characters has also been viewed as a smart choice, contributing to a more universal interpretation of Lily’s journey. This adaptation appears to focus less on the romantic love triangle and more on the emotional depth of the protagonist’s experiences.
Streaming Limitations and Future Access
The absence of It Ends With Us on Netflix’s ad-supported tier raises questions about the broader strategy behind the platform’s pricing model. While the ad-supported plan offers a cheaper option for subscribers, it complicates the management of licensing agreements. As a result, viewers may find themselves facing prompts to upgrade if they wish to watch certain titles, creating a divide in content accessibility.
As Netflix continues to refine its ad-supported service, the challenge remains to balance offering affordable viewing options while navigating the complexities of licensing agreements. The ongoing restrictions on popular titles like It Ends With Us illustrate the hurdles the platform faces in accommodating both subscriber needs and contractual obligations.
Overall, It Ends With Us stands as a significant cultural conversation piece in 2024, both for its artistic merit and the complexities surrounding its availability. The film is set to be released in theaters on August 9, 2024, and will likely attract further attention as discussions around its themes and accessibility continue.
