"After We Collided," directed by Roger Kumble, is a romantic drama film that intricately explores the complexities of young love and the ensuing emotional challenges. As a sequel to "After," the film resumes the turbulent narrative of Tessa Young (Josephine Langford) and Hardin Scott (Hero Fiennes Tiffin). Adapted from the 2014 novel by Anna Todd, who also contributed to the screenplay, the movie ensures a faithful representation of its literary origin, immersing viewers in the deep emotional currents of the story.
The film's plot unfolds following the intense breakup of Tessa and Hardin. Tessa's new journey, beginning with an internship at Vance Publishing, introduces her to a spectrum of challenges and opportunities, including a potentially life-altering job offer in Seattle. Concurrently, Hardin battles his inner demons, tormented by nightmares and strained familial relationships. Their story navigates through cycles of breakups and reconciliations, each phase underlined by profound emotions and physical intimacy. This repetitive pattern emphasizes the significant theme of forgiveness within their volatile relationship.
At the core of "After We Collided" lies the exploration of toxic relationships and the influence of personal pasts on romantic connections. Hardin’s portrayal as a character riddled with jealousy, anger, and violent tendencies reflects his struggle with past traumas and emotional distress. Tessa, caught between her deep affection for Hardin and the awareness of their relationship's destructive nature, embodies the conflict many face in similar situations. The film adeptly captures these emotional highs and lows, presenting an unvarnished depiction of their intense relationship.
A pivotal element in the narrative is the introduction of Trevor, Tessa's coworker. His character, calm and non-toxic, starkly contrasts Hardin’s tumultuous persona. Despite Trevor’s limited role in the overall plot, his presence provides a different perspective on Tessa’s life choices. The film reaches a climactic point when Tessa encounters a homeless man, later revealed to be her estranged father. This revelation adds a new dimension to the narrative and lays the groundwork for future developments.
The movie concludes with several open-ended questions, particularly regarding Tessa's decision about the job in Seattle and the consequences of her father's sudden emergence. These unresolved aspects suggest a further exploration of Tessa and Hardin's complex relationship in the upcoming sequel, "After We Fell."
In summary, "After We Collided" captures the essence of a fervent yet troubled young romance. It effectively portrays the depth and intricacies of such relationships, accentuated by themes of forgiveness, personal growth, and overcoming past traumas. The film offers a compelling insight into the dynamics of a toxic relationship, its impact on those involved, and the journey towards self-discovery and healing.
