Dive into the After movie saga! Explore the ranking of all five films from worst to best, revealing the evolution of this captivating romantic series!
With the release of After Everything in 2023, the captivating saga of Tessa Young (Josephine Langford) and Hardin Scott (Hero Fiennes Tiffin), as portrayed in Anna Todd’s novels, has come to a close. The journey that began with After in 2019 has taken us through a rollercoaster of emotions, making us laugh, cry, and swoon over the undeniable chemistry between our beloved characters.
For devoted fans who have followed Tessa and Hardin’s tumultuous romance from the early days of university to the poignant conclusion, the sense of closure is undeniably bittersweet. The cinematic experience has evolved through After We Collided (2020), After We Fell (2021), and After Ever Happy (2022), each installment adding layers to the intricate dance of love and heartache.
Hero Fiennes Tiffin, Josephine Langford
Now, with the curtain drawn on this enchanting tale, it’s time to reflect and rank all five movies from the After series, presenting our subjective take on their highs and lows. Keep in mind, that opinions might differ, and that’s what makes discussing these films so much fun!
From flop to favorite
5. After We Fell (2021)
Securing the dubious honor of the lowest rank in our After movie lineup is the third installment After We Fell (2021). Here, Tessa’s life starts to unravel, setting the stage for a whirlwind of challenges. From job preparations in Seattle to family revelations about Hardin, the movie throws everything but the kitchen sink at our beloved couple.
Why did it land at the bottom? Well, the film struggled with what we deemed as poor writing, a lack of structure, and a portrayal of a toxic relationship. The dialogue felt cringe-worthy, and the direction seemed a bit awkward. While we get that it’s a setup for the next film, After We Fell gives off a standalone vibe, leaving us hanging. Its failure to address previous issues and a repetitive, melodramatic plot earned it a less-than-impressive 4.7 on IMDb, reflecting general viewer dissatisfaction.
4. After We Collided (2020)
Next up in our rankings is the second installment, After We Collided (2020). Continuing the rollercoaster romance of Tessa Young and Hardin Scott, the movie explores trust, jealousy, and personal growth. However, it finds itself in the same boat as its sequel due to a lack of a compelling plot and an overdose of clichés.
We couldn’t help but notice the repetitive events and lazy minor dramas between the protagonists, laden with clichés and tired young adult tropes. Still, it had its moments! Despite its flaws, it managed to keep us engaged and entertained!
Claiming the middle spot is the film that kickstarted it all, After (2019). This college romance introduces Tessa and Hardin, offering a typical yet charming story. The chemistry between Josephine Langford and Hero Fiennes Tiffin drew us in, even if the story itself felt a bit formulaic with its cheesy dialogue.
While the film adheres to common tropes and has faced criticism for its portrayal of a toxic relationship, it remains a fan favorite. The undeniable chemistry and a Teen Choice Award in 2019 speak volumes, even though it falls slightly short compared to the others in the franchise.
2. After Ever Happy (2022)
Claiming the silver medal in our rankings is After Ever Happy (2022), the fourth installment. This movie marks a turning point, portraying the maturation of Tessa and Hardin in a way unseen before in the series. The film explores self-discovery, forgiveness, and acceptance, signaling a new direction for the franchise.
While still immersed in the intense and tumultuous love story, After Ever Happy stands out for its portrayal of characters evolving beyond the usual young adult clichés. It suggests a promising trajectory for the series.
1. After Everything (2023)
At the peak of our list is the latest addition to the series, After Everything (2023). Departing from the formulaic nature of its predecessors, this installment focuses on Hardin’s perspective, delving into his backstory and providing a more in-depth understanding of his character.
The film’s departure from the standard formula and its exploration of Hardin’s character stood out, earning positive reactions despite the franchise’s mixed reviews. It brought a satisfying end to the series, giving us closure and a deeper insight into the couple’s journey.
For those who prefer to curate their movie collection, fear not! The entire After series is up for grabs on digital storefronts like Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, YouTube, Vudu, and Microsoft. Whether you’re in the mood for a spontaneous movie night or looking to own a piece of the Tessa and Hardin saga, these platforms offer both rental and purchase options.
