The After movie franchise has become a staple in the modern romance genre, capturing hearts worldwide with the tumultuous love story of Tessa Young and Hardin Scott. Based on the bestselling novels by Anna Todd, the films explore the highs and lows of young love, toxic attachment, forgiveness, and personal growth. While the series has faced both praise and criticism, there’s no denying its cultural impact and the loyal fanbase it has cultivated.
With five films released, fans have debated endlessly over which installment stands as the best. Some love the raw emotion of the early films, while others favor the growth and maturity seen in the later entries. Let’s take a seamless journey through all five After films, ranking them from worst to best based on narrative strength, character development, emotional impact, and overall storytelling.
5. After Ever Happy (2022)
While the fourth installment attempts to dive deeper into the emotional consequences of Tessa and Hardin’s volatile relationship, it ultimately stumbles due to pacing issues and an overwhelming sense of repetition. After Ever Happy tries to juggle numerous emotional storylines, such as Hardin’s discovery about his biological father and Tessa’s personal heartbreak. However, the plot feels disjointed at times, never quite giving any single arc the depth it deserves. What should have been a powerful turning point for the characters ends up feeling like filler. Tessa’s emotional breakdown and Hardin’s spiral could have carried real weight, but the rushed storytelling prevents the audience from fully connecting. Still, the film lays the groundwork for a more reflective finale, showing that the characters are on the brink of transformation.
4. After We Fell (2021)
This third chapter is heavy on drama and tension. Tessa and Hardin continue to hurt one another in a destructive loop, and while this film delves into serious themes like independence and betrayal, the repetitive arguments and toxic patterns begin to wear thin. That said, there are redeeming qualities. Tessa begins to seek her own identity outside of Hardin, which adds layers to her character. The film also introduces new complications, including family secrets and the prospect of long-distance love. While not the most balanced installment, After We Fell marks the beginning of much-needed change in both characters’ lives, setting the stage for resolution.
3. After Everything (2023)
Unexpected but necessary, After Everything provides the closure fans craved. This fifth and final film shifts the focus almost entirely to Hardin as he sets off on a redemptive journey to atone for his mistakes. Set primarily in Lisbon, it’s a quieter, more introspective film that departs from the series’ usual chaos. This installment shows Hardin not just as a tortured romantic, but as a flawed man striving to grow up. Without Tessa constantly beside him, he confronts his past and begins to take accountability. The narrative feels more mature and subdued, with a sense of calm that was previously missing from the series. While some may miss the tension-filled romance, others will appreciate the emotional evolution and peaceful tone.
2. After (2019)
The film that started it all, After introduced the intense chemistry between Tessa and Hardin and brought Anna Todd’s characters to life on the big screen. Tessa, the sweet, rule-following college freshman, is instantly drawn to the mysterious and emotionally distant Hardin. Their love story unfolds with intensity, confusion, and passion.
While the film received criticism for romanticizing toxic relationships, it undeniably captured the excitement of young, all-consuming love. Josephine Langford and Hero Fiennes Tiffin delivered standout performances that grounded the drama in authenticity. The tension, the betrayal, and the longing all felt real — and for many, unforgettable. As an origin story, it worked. It hooked audiences and laid the emotional foundation for everything that followed.
At the top of the list is the explosive second installment, After We Collided. This is where the series truly finds its rhythm. The stakes are higher, the romance is more fiery, and the characters face real consequences. Tessa begins to grow stronger, navigating her career ambitions while still wrestling with her feelings for Hardin. Meanwhile, Hardin’s struggle with emotional vulnerability takes center stage.
