When After arrived on the big screen in 2019, much of the attention naturally fell on its passionate love story and the chemistry between its leads. Adapted from Anna Todd’s bestselling novel, the film carried with it the expectations of a fiercely loyal fanbase. At the center of this emotional storm was Josephine Langford as Tessa Young, a young woman navigating the fine line between independence and the intoxicating pull of first love.
In a year filled with memorable performances in the romance genre, Josephine’s stood out for its authenticity, subtlety, and ability to make an often idealized character feel grounded in reality. The culmination of this achievement came at the 2019 People’s Choice Awards, where she was named Choice Drama Movie Actress, cementing her place as one of the most compelling new talents in contemporary cinema.
The Character of Tessa Young: More Than a Romantic Lead
On paper, Tessa Young could have easily fallen into the trap of being a typical romance protagonist: bright, earnest, and defined largely by her relationship with the story’s male lead. Yet in both the novel and the film, Tessa’s arc is as much about self-discovery as it is about love. She begins as someone who follows rules and expectations, only to find herself questioning the boundaries she once thought were unshakable.
Josephine Langford approached the role with a keen understanding of that inner journey. Her performance made it clear that Tessa was not simply “reacting” to the presence of Hardin Scott (played by Hero Fiennes Tiffin) — she was evolving in response to her own desires, fears, and awakening sense of agency. This depth gave the character a vitality that resonated with viewers, especially young women who saw reflections of their own personal growth in Tessa’s choices.
Chemistry That Anchored the Story
In romantic dramas, the success of the central relationship often hinges on the chemistry between the leads. Josephine’s connection with Hero Fiennes Tiffin was not only palpable but also dynamic, evolving over the course of the film. Their interactions carried an ebb and flow of tension, warmth, and conflict that mirrored the unpredictability of young love.
This on-screen chemistry allowed Josephine to explore Tessa’s emotional landscape in real time, shifting from guarded curiosity to headstrong passion and, ultimately, to a more measured understanding of herself and her boundaries. It’s a testament to her skill that audiences invested so deeply in the relationship — even when it was messy, complicated, and imperfect.
Winning at the People’s Choice Awards
The People’s Choice Awards are unique because the winners are determined by fan votes, making them a direct reflection of audience connection. Josephine’s win for Choice Drama Movie Actress in 2019 was therefore more than just industry recognition; it was a message from millions of viewers who had been moved by her work.
For a relatively new face in Hollywood, the award was a career-defining moment. It validated her creative choices, affirmed her ability to carry a leading role, and solidified her position as a rising star to watch. For fans of After, it was also a victory for the kind of storytelling they loved — emotionally rich, character-driven romance that treats its female protagonist as a fully realized individual.
Critical and Fan Reception
While After naturally found its most passionate supporters among fans of the novel, critics took note of Josephine’s ability to elevate the material. Reviews often highlighted how she avoided the clichés that can sometimes accompany the “good girl meets bad boy” trope. Instead, her Tessa was introspective, self-aware, and capable of growth.
Fans, meanwhile, praised her for capturing the spirit of the Tessa they knew from the book while making her feel real in the cinematic world. Social media became a chorus of support, with viewers posting favorite scenes, emotional reactions, and heartfelt congratulations after her award win.
Why the Win Mattered Beyond the Film
Josephine’s 2019 victory was significant not just for her personal career but for what it represented in the broader conversation about female characters in romance films. Too often, romantic heroines are defined solely in terms of their relationships. By portraying Tessa as someone with her own ambitions, doubts, and evolving identity, Josephine helped push the genre toward more nuanced, empowered portrayals.
This shift matters because it challenges outdated narratives, inspiring audiences — particularly young women — to see love stories as part of a larger personal journey rather than the ultimate destination.
