After Everything, the fifth and final chapter of the After series, landed on Netflix on January 11, 2024, promising to conclude the passionate saga of Tessa Young and Hardin Scott. Adapted from Anna Todd’s novels, this R-rated romance-drama delivers emotional highs and a nostalgic farewell but leaves fans craving a deeper resolution, making it both a touching and frustrating end to a beloved franchise.
The story centers on Hardin (Hero Fiennes Tiffin), who, a year after his breakup with Tessa (Josephine Langford), is lost in a haze of heartbreak and writer’s block. Seeking redemption, he journeys to Lisbon to confront his past, particularly his guilt over Natalie (Mimi Keene), a figure from his youth. Hardin’s quest for self-forgiveness unfolds with raw intensity, elevated by Tiffin’s compelling performance. Tessa, however, appears sparingly, her limited role confined to a wedding scene and a brief flash-forward, leaving fans of the couple’s fiery chemistry wanting more.
Directed by Castille Landon, the film shines visually, with Lisbon’s vibrant landscapes and a stirring soundtrack by George Kallis amplifying its emotional core. Yet, the 95-minute runtime feels rushed, skimming over key moments like Hardin and Tessa’s reconciliation. The flash-forward to their married life, while heartwarming, lacks the depth to fully satisfy, as it glosses over how they rebuilt their bond. Subplots, such as Hardin’s family ties, also feel underdeveloped, creating narrative gaps.
The supporting cast, including Mimi Keene’s standout portrayal of Natalie, adds warmth, but the film’s focus on Hardin’s solo arc overshadows Tessa’s growth, a choice that may alienate viewers invested in their dual journey. While fans on Rotten Tomatoes praise the wedding scene and Hardin’s evolution, critics note the uneven pacing and abrupt ending, reflecting a consensus that the finale needed more time to breathe.
After Everything succeeds as a love letter to fans, capturing the series’ signature angst and romance. Yet, its hurried conclusion and Tessa’s reduced presence leave a lingering ache for a fuller story. With a prequel and sequel in development, the door remains open for more, but this chapter feels like a bittersweet pause rather than a definitive close.
