Released in 2020, After We Collided is the highly anticipated sequel to the hit romantic drama After (2019). Based on Anna Todd’s best-selling novel series, the film continues the stormy love story between Tessa Young and Hardin Scott — two passionate yet deeply flawed young lovers trying to find their way through heartbreak, betrayal, and forgiveness.
Plot Summary
After We Collided picks up right where the first film left off, with Tessa (Josephine Langford) reeling from the painful revelation of Hardin’s (Hero Fiennes Tiffin) deception. Determined to move forward, Tessa begins her internship at Vance Publishing, where she meets Trevor Matthews (Dylan Sprouse), a charming and responsible colleague who quickly takes an interest in her.
As Tessa starts to rebuild her life, Hardin struggles with guilt and the fear of losing her forever. Their paths inevitably cross again, igniting the same intense chemistry that first brought them together — but also reopening old wounds. The film dives deeper into the emotional push and pull between the two characters, exploring themes of redemption, trust, and the blurred line between love and obsession.
Unlike the first installment, After We Collided doesn’t shy away from mature content. The sequel is bolder, more intense, and emotionally charged, showing a more complex side of both protagonists as they confront their insecurities and their past.
Cast and Characters
At the heart of the film is Josephine Langford, who delivers a nuanced performance as Tessa Young — portraying her as both vulnerable and strong-willed. Langford’s portrayal captures the confusion and emotional growth of a young woman torn between logic and desire.
Hero Fiennes Tiffin returns as Hardin Scott, the brooding, tattooed romantic lead whose volatile nature masks a deep emotional pain. His chemistry with Langford remains electric, grounding the film’s emotional core.
The supporting cast includes Dylan Sprouse as Trevor, whose grounded personality offers a stark contrast to Hardin’s intensity. Louise Lombard stars as Trish Daniels, Hardin’s mother, and Charlie Weber appears as Christian Vance, Tessa’s mentor. Their performances add maturity and dimension to the film’s storyline.
Behind the Camera
Directed by Roger Kumble, best known for his work on Cruel Intentions (1999), After We Collided carries his signature blend of emotional depth and sensual drama. Kumble’s direction amplifies the story’s tension, turning what could have been a simple love triangle into a compelling exploration of forgiveness and self-discovery.
The film’s screenplay, co-written by Anna Todd and Mario Celaya, stays largely faithful to the novel while adding cinematic flair. Todd’s involvement ensured that the movie remained true to the fan-favorite tone of her books, which blend romance with raw emotion.
Reception and Legacy
While critics offered mixed reviews, After We Collided became a massive success among fans of the franchise. The film grossed over $48 million worldwide, a strong showing for a mid-budget romance released during the pandemic. It also solidified Josephine Langford and Hero Fiennes Tiffin as rising stars in Hollywood’s next generation of leading actors.
