After (2019 film)

After is a 2019 American romantic drama film directed by Jenny Gage, based on the 2014 novel of the same name by Anna Todd. The film stars Josephine Langford and Hero Fiennes Tiffin, and follows Tessa Young, a college freshman, who begins a tumultuous relationship with Hardin Scott, a mysterious and brooding student with a troubled past.

The film explores themes of young love, sexual awakening, self-discovery, and the challenges of navigating complex relationships. Tessa's established life and aspirations are disrupted by her connection with Hardin, leading her to question her values and identity. Hardin, in turn, is portrayed as emotionally guarded and resistant to vulnerability, forcing Tessa to confront his defenses.

After was produced by Jennifer Gibgot, Aron Levitz, and Mark Canton, among others. It was released in theaters on April 12, 2019, and distributed by Aviron Pictures. The film received generally negative reviews from critics, who criticized its writing, acting, and perceived romanticization of toxic relationship dynamics. Despite the critical reception, After was a commercial success, grossing over $69 million worldwide against a relatively small budget.

The film's popularity led to several sequels, continuing the story of Tessa and Hardin. These include After We Collided (2020), After We Fell (2021), After Ever Happy (2022), and After Everything (2023). The franchise has cultivated a significant fanbase, particularly among young adults, drawn to the characters and their relationship drama.