The ending of a film plays a crucial role in shaping the overall viewing experience. It serves as the final impression the audience has before forming their ultimate opinion about the movie, determining whether they would recommend it or choose to watch it again. A well-crafted ending can rescue an otherwise lackluster film, but achieving this can be quite challenging. Every element of the narrative, including the plot, underlying themes, and character arcs, builds toward this moment, making it essential to deliver a satisfying conclusion. Numerous films have suffered from disappointing endings that undermine their potential, while others have been negatively impacted by conclusions that simply do not resonate. Common pitfalls include endings that feel rushed, leave critical plot points unresolved, contradict the film’s overall message, or come across as overly cliché.
Viewers often have an inkling about whether a film will conclude with a happy ending, especially if it belongs to a comedy or adheres closely to familiar genre tropes. This predictability can be acceptable if the storytelling includes enough nuance and aligns with the overall narrative. Conversely, some films take unexpected twists that pleasantly surprise audiences. While there are countless iconic movies known for their exceptional endings, this list highlights ten unforgettable finales. From profound plot twists to well-deserved happy resolutions and fittingly dark conclusions, the following ten endings are exemplary, showcasing the dramatic, emotional, and thematic power that cinema can achieve when a well-executed narrative culminates effectively.
10
‘Chinatown’ (1974)
Directed by Roman Polanski
As one of the most acclaimed mystery films in cinema history, Chinatown is particularly recognized for its deeply unsettling finale. The film takes a dark turn when Evelyn (Faye Dunaway) attempts to escape with her daughter Katherine (Belinda Palmer), only to be fatally shot in the process. This tragic moment is compounded by the fact that the antagonist, a nefarious John Huston, takes the distraught child away, intensifying the horror of their familial bond. Jake (Jack Nicholson), the protagonist, is left powerless to intervene, merely an observer to the unfolding tragedy. The expression on his face reveals the depth of his despair; he recognizes that even imprisonment would feel less painful than witnessing this horror. In traditional film noir, narratives often conclude with a blend of resolution and ambiguity, but Chinatown defies this norm; ultimately, the villain prevails. This choice aligns seamlessly with the film’s overarching themes of corruption and emotional turmoil, solidifying its place as one of the most cynically impactful endings in cinematic history.
9
‘Apocalypse Now’ (1979)
Directed by Francis Ford Coppola
The production of Apocalypse Now was so tumultuous that the film’s conclusion remained uncertain for some time, leaving director Francis Ford Coppola in a state of uncertainty about how to wrap up the narrative. Ultimately, he opted to conclude this unconventional and ominous film in a similarly unconventional manner. After Captain Willard (Martin Sheen) successfully eliminates Colonel Kurtz (Marlon Brando), he calmly exits the compound and departs by boat, with the cultists allowing him to leave without resistance.
This passive acceptance from the cult members is fitting, given the arbitrary nature of the rules established throughout the film. The departure of Willard, who was initially portrayed as Kurtz’s potential successor, is significant; he not only kills Kurtz but also decisively rejects the dark path of power and control. Furthermore, as he silently takes a converted Lance (Sam Bottoms) with him, this eerie and thematically complex resolution solidifies Apocalypse Now as one of the greatest war films of the past half-century.
8
‘Close Encounters of the Third Kind’ (1977)
Directed by Steven Spielberg
In Close Encounters of the Third Kind, directed by Steven Spielberg, the narrative unfolds seamlessly from start to finish, culminating in a breathtaking conclusion. The film delivers an unparalleled depiction of human-alien interaction, featuring a massive spacecraft that descends upon Devil’s Tower, where the government has covertly established a communication zone with extraterrestrial life using music. This climactic sequence is nothing short of captivating; the musical notes exchanged between humans and aliens create a sense of dialogue, though the specific meaning remains elusive. The audience witnesses a meaningful exchange, portraying the essence of communication transcending words.
As the narrative progresses, individuals who were once reported missing are revealed, and the utterly fascinated Mr. Neary (Richard Dreyfuss) decides to board the ship. This moment represents the culmination of the entire film’s journey, and the payoff is nothing short of spectacular. The film brilliantly captures the wonder and mystery of the universe, leaving viewers in awe.
7
‘Star Wars’ (1977)
Directed by George Lucas
Upon its release, Star Wars quickly became a cultural phenomenon, largely because it offered audiences a much-needed sense of hope and exhilaration. As the film reaches its climax, Luke (Mark Hamill) successfully destroys the Death Star, aided by Han Solo (Harrison Ford). While the Empire remains intact, this monumental victory delivers a significant blow to their sinister plans.
The plans stored within R2-D2 serve as the vital MacGuffin that initiates the entire plot, and it is immensely gratifying to witness the characters’ efforts rewarded. Following their triumph, a celebratory ceremony unfolds, where Chewbacca, Han, and Luke approach Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) and receive medals amidst cheers from their fellow rebels. This moment is heartwarming, the music resonates beautifully, and the atmosphere is filled with joy. What more could one desire from an iconic conclusion?
6
‘The Godfather’ (1972)
Directed by Francis Ford Coppola
The Godfather is often hailed as one of the greatest films ever made, and its ending is a significant reason why. Contrasting sharply with the Star Wars finale, the character development throughout this movie leads viewers down an increasingly dark path. By the film’s conclusion, Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) has assumed control of the family’s mafia empire, becoming more ruthless than even his father. When his sister (Talia Shire) confronts him, accusing him of her husband’s murder, Michael dismisses her with cold indifference.
When Kay (Diane Keaton) inquires about the truth, he evades a direct response. Ultimately, when he does speak, he lies, offering her a momentary sense of relief before she retreats to pour drinks for both of them. However, as she turns to leave, she witnesses Michael surrounded by men who kiss his hand and refer to him as “Godfather.” The final shot focuses on Kay’s face as the door closes, symbolizing her emotional alienation from her morally compromised husband. Coupled with the swelling score, this powerful ending encapsulates the film’s themes of power, betrayal, and loss.
5
‘Dr. Strangelove: Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb’ (1964)
Directed by Stanley Kubrick
Dr. Strangelove is a brilliantly crafted satire that captures the chaotic attempts of various individuals to avert a catastrophic nuclear attack, triggered by an errant American fighter plane. The stakes are heightened when it is revealed that the Russians possess a Doomsday device capable of annihilating the planet, making the pilot’s efforts critical. As the pilot struggles to regain control, he ends up straddling the bomb like a rodeo cowboy, waving his hat and whooping into the impending doom.
The film then shifts to a war room where politicians discuss survival strategies in a post-apocalyptic world. This discussion culminates in a famously absurd moment when former-Nazi Dr. Strangelove (Peter Sellers) miraculously rises from his wheelchair, exclaiming, “Mein Führer, I can walk!” The film concludes with a montage of bombs detonating to the tune of Vera Lynn‘s “We’ll Meet Again,” creating a hilariously poignant finale that resonates with audiences.
4
‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ (1991)
Directed by James Cameron
Considered one of the most iconic action films ever made, Terminator 2: Judgment Day delivers a heart-stopping finale where the T-800 (Arnold Schwarzenegger) ultimately defeats the formidable T-1000 (Robert Patrick) by sending it into a vat of molten steel. The T-1000’s agonizing struggle to escape from the molten metal creates one of the most unforgettable sequences in cinematic history, solidifying its status as a remarkable villain that stood in stark contrast to the hero.
However, the film’s emotional climax arrives when the T-800 informs John (Edward Furlong) and Sarah (Linda Hamilton) that there is still one final chip that must be destroyed—pointing to its own head. In a poignant farewell, the Terminator expresses its newfound understanding of humanity, stating it now comprehends why people experience tears. As it lowers itself into the molten steel, it gives a victorious thumbs-up to its friends. The film concludes with a powerful image of the road ahead as Sarah’s voice-over conveys a message of hope for humanity. This exceptional ending not only completes the character arcs beautifully but also embodies the thrilling action and hints at a hopeful future, making it truly memorable.
3
‘The Shawshank Redemption’ (1994)
Directed by Frank Darabont
The Shawshank Redemption concludes with a powerful moment as Red (Morgan Freeman) defies the terms of his parole to seek out Andy (Tim Robbins) in Zihuatanejo. As Red rides on the bus, he delivers a poignant voice-over: “I hope I can make it across the border. I hope to see my friend and shake his hand. I hope the Pacific is as blue as it has been in my dreams. I hope.” Freeman’s emotional delivery, paired with the imagery of the bus journey, creates one of the most resonant quotes in cinematic history.
After enduring years of hardship, Red and Andy are finally reunited. Their meeting is wordless and profoundly moving, encapsulating the deep bond forged through their shared struggles. Andy spent two decades in Shawshank prison, while Red served even longer, each overcoming formidable obstacles to achieve freedom. This reunion stands as one of the most gratifying happy endings in cinema, highlighting the triumph of friendship, hope, and perseverance.
2
‘Planet of the Apes’ (1968)
Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner
Planet of the Apes features one of the most astonishing plot twist endings in cinematic history. Throughout the film, Taylor (Charlton Heston) navigates a world dominated by apes, ultimately escaping their society. In a pivotal conversation with Dr. Zaius (Maurice Evans), it becomes clear that Zaius is aware of humanity’s former intelligence, yet harbors a deep-seated animosity toward it. Zaius warns Taylor that he may not like what he discovers on his journey, setting the stage for the film’s shocking conclusion.
As Taylor and Nova (Linda Harrison) ride along a beach, Taylor spots a large object in the sand. Initially, only a fragment is visible. As he approaches, viewers are treated to a high-angle shot, revealing more of the object. When he realizes what it is, he dismounts and collapses in despair, delivering one of the most iconic scenes in film history. The camera reveals the remnants of the Statue of Liberty, transforming the intriguing science fiction narrative into a haunting commentary on the consequences of humanity’s actions during the Cold War.
1
‘Citizen Kane’ (1941)
Directed by Orson Welles
The conclusion of Citizen Kane is often regarded as one of the finest endings in film history, intertwined with one of the most enigmatic phrases in cinema: “Rosebud.” Reporter Jerry Thompson (William Alland) has dedicated himself to uncovering the meaning behind Charles Foster Kane’s (Orson Welles) last words but struggles to find clarity. Despite his efforts, he concludes that the significance of these words represents just a small fragment of a much larger puzzle. He articulates that no single word can encapsulate the essence of a person, yet “Rosebud” comes remarkably close.
After Thompson and his colleagues depart, viewers witness Kane’s possessions being incinerated. Among them, a childhood sled emerges, the very one Kane played with in the snow before being separated from his family. The word “Rosebud” is revealed as a poignant reminder of lost innocence, symbolizing the profound tragedy of lost youth and its impact on the human soul.
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