Alternatives to Get Out’s Ending: A Better Direction for Horror and Social Commentary

When it comes to horror films, the ending is often what lingers in viewers' minds long after the credits roll. Despite Get Out being widely celebrated as a masterwork, some fans and critics, including yours truly, believe that a different ending could have elevated the film even further. In this article, we delve into why the current ending of Get Out may have detracted from its powerful messaging, and propose a more fitting alternative.

The Critical Reception and My Love for Get Out

Get Out, directed by Jordan Peele, has received universal acclaim and rightly so. The film masterfully explores themes of race, prejudice, and societal deception. The horror genre, known for its grim and unsettling conclusions, provided the perfect platform for Peele to convey these profound messages. Despite my love and admiration for the film, I was disappointed with the ending that likely felt more like a cop-out to many viewers, especially those who were hoping for a more socially impactful conclusion.

My Ideal Ending for Get Out

In my ideal scenario, the ending would play out in a way that aligns more closely with the tone and themes of the film. Picture the scenario: the police arrive at the burning mansion, and the protagonist returns to the scene of the crime. However, as he utters his cries of horror seeing the burning mansion and the dead, the audience would see a black man covered in blood, presumably his own, and possibly that of others. This would be his only clue that something sinister has happened as he is cornered and taken into custody. In this alternative ending, the protagonist would be charged and likely wrongfully imprisoned, symbolizing the harsh realities of being a victim of systemic racism and societal injustice.

The Real Ending and Its Impact

The theatrical release of Get Out featured a more conventional happy ending, where the protagonist is rescued by his friend who has been searching for him. The scene culminates with the two friends driving away together, symbolizing their newfound trust and partnership. While this ending provides a sense of resolution, it fails to fully encapsulate the film's message of systemic racism and injustice.

Conclusion: What Could Have Been

It is unfortunate that the ending of Get Out feels like a detour from its primary mission. The original director's cut or my proposed ending would have reinforced the film's themes and offered a more coherent narrative. The horror genre is celebrated for its unflinching look at society's darkest aspects. By choosing a resolution that appears more palatable to a wider audience, the filmmakers may have missed an opportunity to strike a chord with viewers and provoke deeper reflection on the issues it addressed.

Although Get Out is a widely lauded film, with many aspects making it deserving of its accolades, the ending, in my opinion, could have enhanced its impact if it had been more aligned with its purpose. Directors and filmmakers should take the opportunity to make bold statements, even if they are challenging, rather than settling for endings that feel 'safe' or 'palatable.'

Note: This analysis is based on the theatrical release of the film and the director’s intended vision is yet to be explored fully in the future.

For those interested in experiencing alternative endings or exploring further discussions, there are resources available online where 'fan endings' for movies are discussed and explored. This can provide a more fulfilling narrative experience and help close any perceived gaps in storytelling.