The After film series, adapted from Anna Todd’s bestselling novels, has emerged as one of the most financially successful young adult romance franchises in recent years. Despite often receiving lukewarm critical reviews, the saga of Tessa Young and Hardin Scott has consistently drawn audiences worldwide, amassing a global box office total that now exceeds $150 million.
The journey began in 2019 with After, directed by Jenny Gage. Produced on a modest budget of around $14 million, the film defied expectations by grossing more than $69 million globally. Its financial success underscored the enduring appeal of romantic dramas targeted at younger audiences, even in an era dominated by superhero blockbusters and action-heavy franchises.
Following the unexpected triumph of the first installment, producers quickly greenlit sequels. After We Collided (2020), After We Fell (2021), and After Ever Happy (2022) all extended the franchise’s momentum, drawing particularly strong numbers from international markets. While the films underperformed in North America, they flourished overseas, especially in Europe and Latin America, where the story’s passionate love affair between Tessa (Josephine Langford) and Hardin (Hero Fiennes Tiffin) resonated strongly with fans.
Italy, Spain, France, and Brazil emerged as hotspots for the franchise’s popularity. In Italy, After We Collided even became one of the most successful box office releases of 2020, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. This international enthusiasm has been a crucial factor in sustaining the series across multiple installments.
Altogether, the four main films have earned a combined total of more than $150 million worldwide, a remarkable achievement for a romantic drama franchise with modest production budgets. The profitability of the series highlights both the loyalty of its fan base and the potential of YA romance adaptations to thrive when strategically marketed to international audiences.
The franchise has also benefited from its strong online presence. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram amplified the cultural impact of the films, with the hashtag #Hessa — the fan-favorite ship name for Tessa and Hardin — garnering hundreds of millions of views. This online buzz not only reinforced box office success but also created a sustained digital community around the films, ensuring that each new installment attracted global attention.
Industry analysts point to the After films as an example of how niche adaptations can yield significant returns, especially when they tap into the emotional investment of fans worldwide. With relatively low production costs, international appeal, and a passionate digital following, the series has cemented itself as a sleeper hit of the 2019–2022 period.
Although critical acclaim has eluded the After films, their financial performance speaks volumes about the franchise’s place in the modern film landscape. At a time when Hollywood often favors big-budget franchises, After has demonstrated that intimate, character-driven romance stories can still achieve commercial success on a global scale.
With After Everything (2023) serving as an epilogue to the saga, the franchise has closed out its cinematic journey on a high note, leaving behind a legacy defined not by critics, but by fans and box office numbers.
