After We Collided: A Disastrous Sequel
After We Collided is the follow-up to the 2019 film After, based on the novel series by Anna Todd. Despite its significant flaws, After at least maintained a semblance of competence, but this sequel descends into an abyss of poor storytelling, lackluster characters, and an overabundance of melodrama. Directed by Roger Kumble, this film tries to intensify the romance and drama, but ends up delivering a product that feels contemptuous towards its audience.
Summary
The film picks up a month after the events of After. Hardin Scott (Hero Fiennes Tiffin) is wallowing in self-pity, drowning his sorrows in alcohol and tattoos. Meanwhile, Tessa Young (Josephine Langford) starts a new job at a publishing company, where she immediately impresses her boss and catches the eye of shy accountant Trevor (Dylan Sprouse). Despite her budding professional success and a potential new love interest, Tessa remains drawn to Hardin.
The film follows their tumultuous relationship, marked by constant fighting and intermittent make-up sessions. Hardin's troubled past resurfaces during a disastrous Christmas party at his estranged father’s house, leading to more drama and a lack of any real character development or plot progression.
Analysis
The primary issue with After We Collided is its lack of a coherent story. The screenplay, co-written by Anna Todd, is essentially a series of disjointed scenes that fail to build any meaningful narrative. The relationship between Tessa and Hardin is portrayed as both toxic and boring, with little to no chemistry between the leads.
The attempt to transition from PG-13 to R-rated content is handled poorly. The dialogue is laden with forced profanity, and the intimate scenes lack passion and authenticity. The film's effort to appear more mature only highlights its shortcomings in writing and direction.
The supporting cast, including Selma Blair, Rob Estes, and Karimah Westbrook, are given little to do, with their characters serving as mere plot devices rather than fully fleshed-out individuals. The film also suffers from an inconsistency in casting, with notable actors from the first film mysteriously absent in this sequel.
Evaluation
*After We Collided* is a disappointing sequel that fails to capture the essence of its source material or the charm of a compelling romantic drama. The characters are unlikable and underdeveloped, and the story is a repetitive cycle of arguments and reconciliations with no real stakes or emotional depth.
The movie’s attempt to appeal to an older audience by increasing the intensity of its content backfires, resulting in scenes that feel awkward and contrived. The lack of chemistry between the leads further detracts from the film’s ability to engage viewers.
Conclusion
After We Collided is a lackluster continuation of a saga that didn’t need to be extended. The film’s numerous flaws, from its weak plot and dull characters to its misguided attempts at maturity, make it a chore to watch. For those seeking a well-crafted romantic drama, *After We Collided* is not the answer. Instead, consider films like *The Souvenir* (2019), which offers a deeply felt and poignant exploration of a passionate but toxic relationship.
**Rating**: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
In summary, After We Collided is a film best avoided. Its lack of substance and engaging content, combined with poor execution, results in a viewing experience that is neither enjoyable nor memorable. Save your time and seek out more fulfilling cinematic experiences.