Ending Explained

Ending Explained is a recurring series in which we explore the finales, secrets, and themes of interesting movies and shows, both new and old. We see it as an opportunity not only to help readers who need assistance unpacking endings but also as a chance to unpack themes and explore how expanded cinematic universes connect.

Here is an assortment of some of our favorite and most popular ending explainers throughout the years:

Explore the Ending Explained archive below

Nocturnal Animals Amy Adams

The Ending of ‘Nocturnal Animals’ Explained

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What really happened to Susan and Edward in Tom Ford’s neo-noir?

Hulu False Positive Glazer

The Ending of ‘False Positive’ Explained

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Does Lucy get her happy ending after all?

Mad Men ending first and Final Shots

The Ending of ‘Mad Men’ Explained

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We look back at the ending of the iconic TV series and consider two ways of looking at Don Draper’s final epiphany.

The Ice Road

The Ending of ‘The Ice Road’ Explained

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What do you get when you cross Liam Neeson and a giant ice truck? A pretty bad-ass final showdown.

F9 Ending Explained

The Ending of ‘F9’ Explained

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Is there justice for Han in the new ‘Fast and Furious’ movie? We examine his surprise return and how it could shape the franchise’s future.

Awake explained

The Ending of Netflix’s ‘Awake’ Explained

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What happens when you’re fighting for your life without having slept for a week? Not good things.

Marie Antoinette Ending Explained

The Ending of Sofia Coppola’s ‘Marie Antoinette’ Explained

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There are many different ways to say goodbye.

Army Of The Dead

The Ending of ‘Army of the Dead’ Explained

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Zack Snyder’s new zombie flick sets up an even more killer sequel.

Spiral Saw Ending Explained

The Ending of ‘Spiral: From the Book of Saw’ Explained

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We crack into the new ‘Saw’ spin-off and consider how it updates the franchise’s demented philosophy.