Few film franchises have ignited as much passion — and heartbreak — as the After series. At the center of it all is Josephine Langford, who brought emotional depth and authenticity to the role of Tessa Young, the quiet bookworm whose love story with Hardin Scott (played by Hero Fiennes Tiffin) became one of the most addictive modern romances on screen. In a recent interview, Langford opened up about her experience filming After We Fell and the impact of those now-iconic cliffhanger endings that left fans breathless.
A Turning Point in the After Saga
Released in 2021, After We Fell marked a crucial shift in Tessa and Hardin’s journey. The third installment of the franchise delved into more mature themes — betrayal, self-discovery, and the painful process of growing apart to grow stronger. For Langford, this evolution mirrored her own growth as an actor.
“Tessa changes so much from the first film to After We Fell,” Langford said. “She’s learning to find her own voice, to make choices that aren’t just about Hardin but about herself. I think a lot of people, especially young women, can relate to that transition.”
Filming those emotional scenes wasn’t easy. Langford revealed that maintaining the balance between romance and realism was key. “The story is so intense,” she explained. “But what I love about it is that it doesn’t shy away from the messiness of love. It shows how complicated relationships can be, especially when you’re still figuring out who you are.”
The Cliffhangers That Broke the Internet
One thing After fans know all too well: the franchise loves a good cliffhanger. From shocking revelations to emotional breakups, each movie ends in a way that leaves audiences desperate for more. Langford admitted that even she was caught off guard at times.
“When I first read the script for After We Fell, I remember thinking, ‘Oh, they’re really doing that!’” she said with a laugh. “The endings always leave everyone on edge — including us.”
She added that the emotional weight of the final scenes often made filming bittersweet. “You pour so much into these characters, and then you have to leave them hanging in this place of uncertainty. It’s tough, but it’s also what makes the story so powerful.”
Behind the Chemistry with Hero Fiennes Tiffin
Langford and Fiennes Tiffin’s on-screen chemistry has been praised since the first film, and After We Fell only intensified that connection. “We’ve worked together for years now, so there’s this level of comfort and trust,” Langford said. “We know how to push each other emotionally in scenes, but we also know how to step back and keep it professional.”
What Comes Next for Tessa
As the After universe expands with sequels and spinoffs, Langford looks back at her journey with gratitude. “It’s been such a wild ride,” she reflected. “The fans are the reason these stories keep going. Every message, every post — it means the world.”
