Blake Lively was heavily involved in the production of the film, according to director Justin Baldoni. He credited Lively with bringing many ideas to the table and making the film better with her input. Baldoni revealed that he often let Lively take the lead, recognizing her creativity and passion for the project. However, despite their collaboration, there were creative differences that arose during the movie-making process, such as the decision to keep Lana Del Rey’s song “Cherry” in the film. Lively revealed in a recent interview that some people had urged her to remove the song because it was viewed as too charged and heavy, especially given the storyline involving her character’s past relationship.
Lively defended her decision to keep the song in the film, explaining that it was important for setting the tone and capturing the emotional intensity of the moments when her character reconnects with her past love interest, Atlas. She emphasized the charged and heavy nature of the relationship dynamics, highlighting the conflict, pain, turmoil, and tension that come with facing a soulmate who had a significant impact on her life. Lively believed that the song was a crucial element in conveying the emotional complexity of the characters’ reunion and the impact it had on their lives.
The actress discussed the intense feelings that arise when a past love interest reenters one’s life, bringing with them a flood of emotions and memories. She described the internal turmoil and conflict that occurs when faced with the presence of someone who had a profound connection with them, creating a sense of nostalgia and longing. Lively portrayed the complexity of love and relationships, showing how past experiences and relationships can continue to influence and shape one’s identity and emotional well-being, even after time has passed.
Lively’s deep understanding of the emotional depth and complexity of relationships informed her portrayal of the character and her approach to the storyline. She delved into the psyche of her character, exploring the impact of past relationships on her present reality and the challenges of navigating conflicting feelings of love, loss, and longing. Lively’s nuanced performance captured the essence of a character grappling with unresolved emotions and unfinished business, highlighting the power of connections that transcend time and distance.
In discussing the creative process behind the film, Lively highlighted the importance of capturing the raw, unfiltered emotions that define human connections and relationships. She emphasized the need for authenticity and vulnerability in portraying characters who are grappling with the complexities of love and loss, and the challenges of facing the ghosts of relationships past. Lively’s insights into the emotional landscape of the film underscored her dedication to creating a genuine and compelling portrayal of the characters’ inner lives and struggles, resonating with audiences on a deep and emotional level.
Overall, Lively’s contributions to the film were significant, as she brought a unique perspective and depth to her character, enriching the storyline with her understanding of human emotions and relationships. Her collaboration with director Justin Baldoni and the creative team resulted in a powerful and emotionally resonant film that explores the enduring impact of past relationships on the present, and the complexities of love, loss, and longing. Lively’s dedication to authenticity and emotional depth shines through in her performance, creating a compelling and engaging portrayal of a character grappling with the ghosts of her past and the challenges of finding closure and healing in the present.
