What If? Exploring the Impact of Alternative Endings in Film

Films are often judged not just by their plot but by their endings. Sometimes, a change in the conclusion of a movie can completely transform the entire viewing experience. Let's explore a few classic and not-so-classic movies that would have benefited from different endings.

The Great Gatsby: A Different Farewell

One of the most discussed alternative endings of a beloved classic is in The Great Gatsby. In the original 1949 version, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, the final line, spoken by Rhett Butler to Scarlett O'Hara, is iconic: "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn." This ending arguably leaves the audience on a cliffhanger, creating a sense of uncertainty about the future of Scarlett and Rhett's relationship.

My suggested ending for the 1998 version of What Dreams May Come had a more poignant and satisfying conclusion. Unlike the original, in this version, Robin Williams' character's love and sacrifice ultimately transform their home in hell into a beautiful oasis of peace and tranquility. This ending emphasizes the power of love and sacrifice, making the film's message even more impactful.

The Choice of Sophie

Sophie's Choice is a profound film about the horrific choices made during the Holocaust. One of the most harrowing scenes involves Sophie being forced to choose between her children—both sent to the gas chambers, but with the ability to save only one. This scene is the film's emotional core but leaves a lasting scar on the audience.

The Butterfly Effect: A Tragic Sacrifice

The concept of the Butterfly Effect, a key element in chaos theory, plays a central role in Tim Burton's The Butterfly Effect. The central character, Evan Treborn, discovers he can time-travel to undo past events, with the ultimate goal of improving his family's life. However, the theatrical ending is a cliché, where Evan sacrifices his friends by breaking up with them to have a better life for them. This ending is predictable and lacks the emotional resonance needed to fully captivate the audience.

My suggestion for an alternative ending is even more dramatic. In the Director's Cut, Evan locks himself away in a mental institution, knowing he will soon lose his time-traveling ability and that the terrible changes he has made to history will become permanent. Evan then travels back in time to his mother's womb and sacrifices himself by strangling himself with his umbilical cord. This ending is a powerful and tragic conclusion that fits the film's earlier themes of sacrifice and the consequences of altering history.

Conclusion

Films are an intricate blend of storytelling, acting, and direction. Changing an ending can completely alter the viewer's experience. Whether it's a romantic final scene, a heart-wrenching decision, or a dramatic sacrifice, these alternatives to familiar endings can add a new layer of depth and emotion to beloved films.

By reimagining these endings, we not only explore new interpretations of the story but also deepen our connection with the characters and the themes. In doing so, we may uncover a new appreciation for films and the significant impact different endings can have on our overall perception.