Justin Baldoni has released documents confirming that all intimate scenes in It Ends With Us followed strict consent guidelines. He also criticized Blake Lively for skipping a crucial meeting with an intimacy coordinator. As legal battles continue, these revelations could significantly impact the ongoing dispute.
Justin Baldoni Unveils Key Evidence in It Ends With Us Legal Dispute
The ongoing legal battle between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively over It Ends With Us has taken another turn. Baldoni has released official documents proving that all intimate scenes in the movie adhered to strict consent guidelines. These documents reveal details from an April 21, 2023, meeting with an intimacy coordinator—a meeting that Lively reportedly refused to attend. The controversy has intensified, with both sides standing firm in their claims.
The release of these documents adds a new layer to Baldoni’s defense against Lively’s allegations of inappropriate conduct. He insists that his conversations about intimate scenes were based solely on professional guidelines set by the intimacy coordinator. Meanwhile, Lively and her legal team continue to push forward with their claims.
The Importance of Intimacy Coordinators in Film Productions
In the modern entertainment industry, intimacy coordinators play a crucial role in ensuring that actors feel safe and respected during the filming of intimate scenes. The use of an intimacy coordinator in It Ends With Us was intended to ensure that all performances aligned with industry standards for consent and comfort. According to Baldoni, the coordinator chosen for the film was a woman with expertise in crafting scenes that cater to the “female gaze,” acknowledging the largely female audience of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel.
Baldoni’s notes from the meeting, released on his website, included explicit terminology directly from the coordinator, such as “orgasm,” “foreplay,” and “the clit test.” While these terms might appear controversial, they were part of a structured discussion aimed at creating an authentic but professional depiction of intimacy in the film.
Blake Lively’s absence from this meeting raises questions about her involvement in shaping the intimate scenes. Baldoni claims that her decision to skip the discussion placed him in the uncomfortable position of relaying notes to her, rather than allowing direct communication between Lively and the intimacy coordinator. This, he argues, was a significant oversight on her part, especially considering her later claims of discomfort during filming.
How This Evidence Impacts Blake Lively’s Lawsuit
Blake Lively has accused Justin Baldoni of sexual harassment, alleging that conversations between them about intimate scenes were inappropriate. However, Baldoni counters that these discussions were strictly professional and based on the intimacy coordinator’s directives. He believes the recently released documents prove that he was following industry protocols rather than acting inappropriately.
Furthermore, footage of Lively and Baldoni slow dancing—a scene filmed nearly a month after the disputed meeting—has surfaced as potential evidence. Lively had previously argued that the scene lacked proper choreography with the intimacy coordinator. However, Baldoni asserts that her absence from the planning meeting contributed to any misunderstandings about the choreography.
In response to Lively’s lawsuit, Baldoni amended his legal filings, providing a detailed timeline of text messages and emails related to It Ends With Us. His legal team, led by Bryan Freedman, has stated that they aim for full transparency to counter what they see as a campaign against Baldoni’s career.
What’s Next in the Legal Battle?
As the case moves forward, all eyes are on Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds’ legal team, who are set to appear in court to request the dismissal of Baldoni’s lawsuit. If the court sides with Baldoni’s claims, it could reshape the narrative surrounding the controversy. Conversely, if Lively’s accusations hold up, Baldoni’s career could face significant repercussions.
Regardless of the outcome, this legal battle highlights the importance of clear communication and adherence to professional guidelines when filming intimate scenes. The entertainment industry continues to evolve in its approach to on-screen intimacy, and cases like this underscore the necessity of established protocols and mutual cooperation among cast and crew.
As Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively’s legal dispute unfolds, the release of new evidence may shift public perception. The documents verifying adherence to consent guidelines suggest that professional protocols were in place, yet Lively’s absence from key discussions raises critical questions. Will these revelations be enough to clear Baldoni’s name, or will Lively’s accusations hold firm in court? Stay tuned for further developments in this high-profile Hollywood battle.
