Among fans of the After franchise, After We Collided continues to generate passionate discussion, and one viewer’s detailed reaction captures exactly why the film remains both captivating and divisive. While the sequel builds upon the angsty chemistry of Tessa and Hardin, it also exposes narrative flaws and concerning themes that young audiences have been quick to point out.
The viewer begins by expressing genuine excitement for the film, noting that although the first installment wasn’t perfect, it was engaging enough to inspire them to read the books — which eventually drew them deeply into the After universe. That familiarity with the source material, they argue, was essential to understanding After We Collided. The sequel moves at a rapid pace, presenting multiple dramatic threads without always connecting them smoothly. For viewers who haven’t read Anna Todd’s novels, some scenes may feel abrupt, rushed, or emotionally disconnected.
Still, the reviewer highlights several positive aspects. The film is undeniably emotional and intense — perhaps too intense at times, creating moments where the drama becomes overwhelming, “the kind that makes you struggle to swallow your popcorn,” they note humorously. The lighter, humorous moments serve as welcome breathers amid the chaos, offering fans relief from the tension.
Performance-wise, Hero Fiennes Tiffin earns notable praise. According to the reviewer, his acting shows significant improvement compared to the first film. His portrayal of Hardin brings more depth, vulnerability, and emotional variation, allowing the character to feel more layered than before. This growth helped ground some of the film’s most heated exchanges.
However, the review takes a sharply critical turn regarding the film’s depiction of intoxicating behavior and relationship dynamics. As a young viewer, they express discomfort — even frustration — with the amount of drinking shown in the movie. Watching Tessa become “messy drunk” twice, coupled with Hardin’s seemingly amused reaction, sends troubling signals. In the books, Tessa is admired for her ambition, focus, and work ethic; in the film, the reviewer argues, her intelligence and maturity appear diminished.
They warn that the movie risks sending harmful messages to teenage girls by normalizing toxic relationship cycles and unsafe alcohol habits. While drama is a staple of the franchise, the viewer notes that After We Collided occasionally crosses the line into glamorizing unhealthy behavior rather than critiquing it.
Despite these criticisms, the reviewer ultimately concludes that the film remains enjoyable for young audiences — especially those familiar with the books. Its emotional extremes, heightened romance, and charismatic leads continue to make it entertaining, even if flawed.
Their take reflects a larger conversation among fans: After We Collided is gripping and addictive, but it also sparks deeper questions about what stories like this communicate to young people. And perhaps that complexity — both on screen and off — is exactly why the film continues to inspire such strong reactions.
