As the fifth and final installment After Everything arrives to conclude the emotional rollercoaster that is Hardin and Tessa’s love story, fans and newcomers alike might be in need of a refresher. The After franchise, adapted from Anna Todd’s best-selling novels, has grown from its Wattpad origins into a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its passionate storytelling, complicated characters, and stormy romance. If you’re preparing to watch After Everything, here’s a comprehensive look back at the previous four movies—and what made each of them unforgettable.
1. After (2019) — The Beginning of Everything
It all began when college freshman Tessa Young met the brooding and mysterious Hardin Scott. Tessa, portrayed as a studious and responsible young woman, was in a stable relationship and had a predictable future mapped out. But everything shifted when she crossed paths with Hardin. Their intense connection pulled her into a world of emotional extremes. Despite warnings from friends and family, Tessa was drawn to Hardin’s tortured soul and rebellious spirit.
The film ends with the shocking reveal that their entire relationship started as a cruel bet, a twist that shattered Tessa’s trust and left audiences craving answers.
2. After We Collided (2020) — When Passion Meets Chaos
Picking up where After left off, After We Collided dives deeper into the tumultuous push-and-pull dynamic between Tessa and Hardin. This installment introduces more emotional baggage, fiery arguments, and passionate reunions. It also marks the arrival of new characters, like Trevor, who complicates Tessa’s feelings and forces Hardin to confront his own insecurities.
What sets this sequel apart is its exploration of personal growth and emotional trauma. While their chemistry is undeniable, both protagonists begin to question whether love alone is enough to overcome their issues. Yet, every time they try to walk away, they find themselves pulled back to each other.
3. After We Fell (2021) — Secrets, Family, and New Temptations
As Tessa prepares for a major life decision—moving to Seattle for her dream job—she uncovers secrets about her family and Hardin’s past that threaten to destroy the fragile trust they’ve rebuilt. Hardin, in turn, battles jealousy and control issues, especially as he fears losing Tessa to a life without him.
This third film is perhaps the most emotionally intense. It underscores the fact that love is not always romantic; sometimes it’s exhausting, painful, and riddled with hard choices. Tessa and Hardin are forced to ask themselves a painful question: Are they helping each other grow or tearing each other down?
4. After Ever Happy (2022) — A Crossroads of Love and Independence
In After Ever Happy, the pair finally confronts the reality of their relationship. With both of them suffering from emotional scars and family trauma, the narrative pivots from pure romance to personal healing. Tessa begins to understand her worth outside of the relationship, and Hardin takes meaningful steps to change—not for her, but for himself.
This film is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Fans see a more mature Tessa who’s no longer willing to sacrifice her peace for the sake of love. Meanwhile, Hardin begins to write a book—yes, After is essentially his version of their story—which sets the stage for After Everything.
This fifth film promises closure, but not necessarily a fairytale ending. After Everything will explore Hardin’s life post-breakup, his growth as a writer, and whether there’s truly a second chance for him and Tessa. Set in Lisbon and London, it’s visually stunning and emotionally raw, aiming to give longtime fans the ending they deserve.
The After saga has always been about love—messy, passionate, and at times toxic—but also about growth and resilience. Each film captures a stage in Hardin and Tessa’s evolution, from wild obsession to emotional maturity. Whether you love or hate their choices, one thing’s clear: their journey feels real.
