How HIMYM Ending Could Have Been Better

The conclusion of HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER (HIMYM) failed to encapsulate the essence of this fan favorite series fully. The show, which had built its narrative around unconventional relationships and friendships, chose to center its finale around Ted's reunion with Robin. This decision, however, fell short of elevating the series' themes or fulfilling the audience's expectations.

Character Development and Theme Misalignment

Throughout the series, Ted had continuously advocated the importance of true friendship. He emphasized that these relationships were paramount, not just romantic partnerships. The show's focus on the adventures and journeys of the group of five unique friends produced a storyline rich in friendship, growth, and maturation. Yet, ending with Ted and Robin's reconciliation seemed like a significant misstep.

Robin, for her part, showed minimal character development over the years. Her inability to evolve alongside the other characters made it even more disheartening to see her reunion with Ted serve as the climax of the series. The themes of growth, acceptance, and friendship that HIMYM consistently explored were overshadowed by a narrative that, in retrospect, felt forced and unfulfilling.

A primary issue with the ending was the focus on Ted's romantic life rather than exploring the mature and deepening friendships that the show had built. The finale's efforts to provide a happy ending often neglect the fundamental pillars that made viewers fall in love with this series: the bonds formed between the characters.

A Better Alternative Ending

For a more fitting conclusion, an alternative ending would have been more in line with the series' overall narrative. My proposed ending aims to bring the audience back to the origin of the story, emphasizing the themes of loss, maturation, and robust friendships.

After the final train platform scene, we would see a shift back to the present, with the main characters as adults. This would culminate with a visit to their dying mother in the hospital. The scenes would symbolize the realization that life's journey is full of sacrifices and regrets but ultimately the importance of the friends who stood by them. The dialogue between Ted and his children would emphasize the value of relationships over material or romantic endings.

Key Scenes:

Ted and the kids in the hospital with the mother:

The camera captures the intense and emotive moments as the mother reveals her condition to Ted and their children. This scene would pull at the heartstrings, emphasizing the theme of loss and deep emotional connections.

Flashback to the waiting room with friends:

The conclusion would fade to the waiting room where Barney, Robin, and Lilly stand together. In this final scene, they would reflect on their own journey, offering each other support and encouragement. This scene would highlight the enduring nature of their friendships and the importance of facing life's challenges together.

Fading to black:

The finale would end with the camera pulling back, leaving the audience with a bittersweet yet profoundly moving conclusion. The black screen would serve as a poignant coda, leaving viewers to contemplate the true value of the show's themes and characters.

Conclusion

In summary, the ending of HIMYM could have been infinitely more satisfying if it had focused more on the deep, meaningful connections formed throughout the series and less on a particular romantic pairing. By weaving this thought-provoking and emotionally rich narrative into the conclusion, the series would have left a lasting impact on its viewers, affirming the true essence of what it means to be a friend and build a support system in life.

This alternate ending serves as a reflection on the strengths of the series and the importance of themes over loose ends. It is a call for creators to consider the overall message of a story over a singular dramatic resolution. It would have been a fitting tribute to the unique journey shared by the characters of HIMYM. Although an alternate ending had been produced for the DVD, the proposed script serves as a reminder of how well the story could have been told had the central themes remained the focus.