Reflecting on Movie Endings that Fall Short

Have you ever found yourself asking, 'What if the movie had a better ending'? The titles that come to mind often paint a picture of disappointment or a sense of unfinished business. This article explores a few movies that could have benefited from a better conclusion, from the absurd to the deeply impactful. Let's dive into the analysis.

Rat Race: Laughter Turns to Disappointment

Rat Race is a comedic gem where a diverse group of characters from different countries, professions, and backgrounds race an epic journey across the United States in hot cars. The movie is nothing short of hilarious as characters vie for the ultimate prize through various tricks and challenges. Anticipation builds as the racers catch glimpses of the money, eventually unveiled to be in a hot air balloon. The climax is a series of comical misfortunes when the balloon crashes at a Smash Mouth charity concert, leading to an unexpected twist.

In Slap, all eyes are on Smash Mouth as they perform 'All Star', with the congregation mistakenly treating the money as a donation. The absurdity of the situation underscores the film's broader message about greed and the pursuit of wealth. Despite the gags and silly moments, the ending feels anticlimactic and unresolved.

The Abyss of Trash Plots and Forced Happy Endings

Many movies, especially in the horror genre, suffer from forced happy endings imposed by studios. These contrived conclusions often shatter the tension and drama that the filmmakers had carefully cultivated. Thankfully, modern technology offers a solution: Blu-ray discs with alternate endings and deleted scenes that breathe life back into the narrative. Filmmakers can revisit these stories, providing a more authentic conclusion.

Man on Fire: A Hero's Tragic Fall

Man on Fire, starring Denzel Washington, is a gripping revenge film directed by Tony Scott, who tragically took his own life. The film tells the story of a Washington as a determined vigilante rescuing a kidnapped child, Dakota Fanning, in Mexico. The visual and auditory cues are visceral, making the scenes of violence and chaos impactful.

The conclusion, however, presents a significant letdown. After negotiating an exchange where he trades his life for Dakota's, Denzel dies within a minute, leaving viewers with a sense of frustration. A more satisfying alternative would have been a montage showcasing the relentless torture he endures, reflecting his character's determination and resilience.

Importance of Movie Endings

The ending of a movie is crucial as it leaves the audience with a lasting impression. It should provide closure, reinforce the themes, and resonate with the characters and their journeys. For Man on Fire, a more brutal and realistic conclusion would've heightened the impact and emotional depth, leaving a more profound impression.

For other movies with appendant endings, like Blow, replacing the ballroom finale with Eric Bana's character getting galloped over by a horse could create a powerful contrast in pacing and tone, possibly adding a layer of realism and tragedy that the original lacks.

When considering alternate endings, it's essential to draw from the inherent qualities of the film. Enhancing emotional intensity, increasing tension, or providing a more conclusive resolution can all elevate the audience's experience, making the final moments feel earned and fitting.

In conclusion, the endings of movies can significantly influence our perception and enjoyment of a film. By reimagining endings like those in Rat Race, Man on Fire, and others, we can explore new depths and understandings. Whether it’s the absurdity or the agony, a strong conclusion can transform a good movie into a great one.