Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Green
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
More drama, sex, alcohol, and drugs in romance sequel.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
After Ever Happy
What's the Story?
In AFTER EVER HAPPY, Hardin (Hero Fiennes Tiffin) is reeling from the revelation that the man he grew up believing was his father (Rob Estes) actually is not. His mother (Louise Lombard) let him believe it, though Vance (Stephen Moyer) wanted to be a part of Hardin's life. In his confusion and anger, Hardin turns to drinking again, pushing girlfriend Tessa (Josephine Langford) away. Tessa returns from London to Seattle without him, but when tragedy strikes her family, Hardin runs back to be by her side. Still, Tessa knows they need time apart to break their destructive cycle, so she moves to New York with Landon (Chance Perdomo).
Is It Any Good?
At this rate, the After series could go on with its relentless cycle of break-ups and make-ups for another 20 years. Would fans ever tire of Tessa and Hardin? Just when you've given up -- or Tessa has, like in After Ever Happy -- Hardin redeems himself again. Though it feels repetitive and increasingly difficult to sympathize with their clearly unhealthy relationship, there's always just enough in each film to keep you watching. And once again, this entry ends with a "To be continued." The series is as melodramatic and unbelievable as a soap opera, and it's likely just as addictive for its diehard fans.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how After Ever Happy compares with previous installments in the After series. How have the characters and their relationships evolved?
Were Tessa's motivations clear? Why did she leave for New York? Why was she upset with Hardin over his book?
How is young love portrayed in this film? Are Tessa and Hardin in a healthy relationship? Why or why not?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : November 8, 2022
- Cast : Josephine Langford , Hero Fiennes Tiffin , Louise Lombard
- Director : Castille Landon
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Voltage Pictures
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Book Characters , Friendship
- Run time : 95 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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