Endings, Beginnings Review: A Raw and Intimate Look at Love, Choices, and Self-Discovery

Endings, Beginnings is not your typical love triangle story. Directed by Drake Doremus, the film takes a more introspective and emotionally driven approach to relationships. Centered on a woman steering love, heartbreak, and identity, it leans heavily into realism and improvisation rather than conventional storytelling.

For viewers searching for an Endings Beginnings review, the film offers a mixed but compelling experience. It is less about plot and more about emotional authenticity, making it a unique entry in the romantic drama genre. While it may not appeal to everyone, those who appreciate character-driven narratives will find plenty to engage with. Let’s break down what works, what doesn’t, and whether the film is worth your time.

A Story Focused on Emotional Complexity

At the center of the film is Daphne, played by Shailene Woodley, who is trying to rebuild her life after a breakup. She decides to take a break from relationships, only to find herself drawn to two very different men.

Jamie Dornan and Sebastian Stan play the two love interests, each representing contrasting emotional paths. One offers stability and warmth, while the other brings intensity and unpredictability. This dynamic forms the core conflict of the film.

Instead of relying on dramatic twists, the story unfolds through conversations and small, intimate moments. This approach makes the film feel personal and grounded, though it can also feel slow for viewers expecting a more traditional narrative structure.

A still from Endings, Beginnings

The strongest aspect of Endings, Beginnings is its performances. Shailene Woodley delivers a deeply vulnerable portrayal, capturing the confusion and emotional turbulence of her character. Her performance feels natural, largely because of the film’s improvisational style.

Jamie Dornan and Sebastian Stan also bring depth to their roles, creating believable chemistry with Woodley. Their characters are not simply opposites but fully realized individuals with their own flaws and motivations. This adds nuance to the love triangle, making it more than just a simple romantic dilemma.

The interactions between the three leads feel authentic, often resembling real-life conversations rather than scripted dialogue. This authenticity is one of the film’s biggest strengths.

Director Drake Doremus is known for his improvisational style, and Endings, Beginnings fully embraces this approach. Many scenes were loosely scripted, allowing actors to explore their characters organically. This results in a more natural and spontaneous feel.

The cinematography complements this style, with soft lighting and close-up shots that emphasize emotional intimacy. The film often feels like a series of personal moments captured on camera, rather than a tightly structured story.

However, this approach can be a double-edged sword. While it enhances realism, it also leads to uneven pacing and a lack of clear narrative direction. Some viewers may find the film meandering, especially in its middle sections.

Themes of Love, Identity, and Growth

At its core, Endings, Beginnings is about self-discovery. The film explores how relationships shape identity and how personal growth often comes from difficult choices. Daphne’s journey is less about choosing between two men and more about understanding herself.

The film also examines the idea of emotional vulnerability. It shows how people navigate love in a modern context, where uncertainty and fear often play a significant role. These themes make the story relatable, even when the narrative feels fragmented.

Another key theme is the idea that not all relationships are meant to last. The film suggests that some connections exist to teach us something, rather than to become permanent parts of our lives.