“Longlegs,” a 2024 horror – thriller directed by Oz Perkins, has left audiences perplexed and intrigued, especially when it comes to its ending. As the credits roll, viewers are often left with a whirlwind of questions, trying to piece together the complex narrative threads that have been woven throughout the film. This article aims to dissect the ending of “Longlegs” and shed light on its possible meanings, drawing from the plot, character development, and the overall themes explored in the movie.
Recap of the Plot Leading to the Ending
The Serial Killer Case
At the heart of “Longlegs” is an FBI agent, Lee Harker, played by Maika Monroe, who is on the trail of a mysterious serial killer. The killer’s modus operandi is both chilling and puzzling. The murders are not random; they seem to follow a specific pattern. Each victim is carefully selected, and the killings are accompanied by a series of occult – related clues. As Harker delves deeper into the case, she discovers that the killer has been leaving behind symbols and references to ancient, dark religions. These clues not only add an air of mystery to the investigation but also suggest that the killer has a deeper, more twisted ideology.
The Personal Connection
As the story progresses, it becomes clear that Harker has a personal connection to the killer. Nicolas Cage portrays the character of Longlegs, the serial killer. Theories on Reddit and among movie enthusiasts have speculated that Harker and Longlegs may be siblings. They are thought to have grown up in a deeply troubled and abusive household, likely influenced by a strict and warped religious ideology.
Their father’s violent and controlling nature, perhaps including the murder of their mother, had a profound impact on their lives. Longlegs, driven to the brink by this trauma, may have snapped and embarked on his killing spree. Harker, on the other hand, has become an FBI agent, unknowingly hunting her own brother.
The Ending Scene: A Closer Look
The Confrontation
In the final act of the movie, Harker finally confronts Longlegs. The tension in this scene is palpable. The setting is a dimly lit, abandoned – looking building, adding to the sense of dread. Longlegs, with his disheveled appearance and a wild look in his eyes, stands before Harker. His actions and words in this scene are crucial to understanding the ending. He seems to be both defiant and resigned, as if he has been waiting for this moment. Harker, on the other hand, is a mix of determination and shock. She has finally caught up with the person responsible for the heinous crimes, but the realization that it may be her own brother throws her into a state of turmoil.
The Revelation
As the confrontation unfolds, there is a revelation that ties back to their shared past. It is suggested that Longlegs’ killing spree is not just random violence but a warped attempt at “cleansing” the world. In his deranged mind, he believes that he is ridding the world of “dirty” people, based on his own twisted interpretation of morality, which has been shaped by their traumatic upbringing. The use of occult symbols and references is part of his attempt to distance himself from the religious teachings that he associates with his father’s abuse. He has created his own, dark ideology, and the killings are a manifestation of this.
The Final Moments
The final moments of the movie show Harker making a decision. With her gun drawn, she is faced with a difficult choice: to kill her brother or to try to save him. The movie leaves this decision somewhat ambiguous. Some viewers interpret her actions as a sign that she chooses to end Longlegs’ reign of terror, while others believe that there may be a glimmer of hope for his redemption. The ending also leaves open the possibility that Harker may be haunted by her decision, whatever it may be, for the rest of her life.
Symbolism in the Ending
The Occult Symbols
The occult symbols that have been present throughout the movie take on a new significance in the ending. The references to Hanbi, the ancient Sumerian/Akkadian god of evil, and other satanic imagery are not just random decorations. They represent Longlegs’ rejection of the traditional religious values that he was forced to adhere to as a child. In the ending, these symbols are a reminder of the darkness that has consumed him. They also serve as a contrast to Harker, who represents the forces of law and order, trying to bring an end to this darkness.
The Setting
The dimly lit, abandoned building where the final confrontation takes place is also symbolic. It represents the desolation and decay that has overtaken Longlegs’ life. The empty, echoing halls and the broken – down furniture mirror his mental state. For Harker, it is a place of danger and revelation, a place where she must face her past and make a decision that will change her life forever.
Themes Reflected in the Ending
Trauma and Redemption
The ending of “Longlegs” touches on the themes of trauma and redemption. Both Harker and Longlegs are products of their traumatic upbringing. Longlegs has been consumed by his trauma, using it as a justification for his violent actions. Harker, on the other hand, has tried to rise above her past by becoming an FBI agent. The ending leaves room for the possibility of redemption, either through Harker’s decision to spare Longlegs or through the idea that she may find a way to help him overcome his demons.
The Nature of Good and Evil
The movie also explores the nature of good and evil. Longlegs believes that he is doing good by ridding the world of what he perceives as “evil.” However, his actions are clearly immoral and heinous. Harker, as the FBI agent, represents the traditional concept of good, trying to bring justice to the victims. The ending blurs the lines between good and evil, as Harker is faced with the reality that her own brother, whom she may have loved at one point, is a serial killer.
Audience Reactions and Interpretations
Reddit Theories
Reddit has been abuzz with theories about the ending of “Longlegs.” Some users believe that Harker kills Longlegs in the end, seeing it as the only way to stop the killing spree. Others think that she may try to save him, perhaps because of their family connection. There are also theories that suggest that the ending is a cliffhanger, leaving room for a potential sequel. Some users have even speculated that there may be a hidden message in the ending, related to the current state of society and the prevalence of violence and mental illness.
Critical Reviews
Critical reviews of the ending have been mixed. Some critics praise the ambiguity of the ending, saying that it leaves room for the audience to interpret the story in their own way. They argue that this makes the movie more thought – provoking and engaging. Others, however, criticize the ending for being too vague, leaving too many loose ends and unanswered questions. They believe that a more definitive ending would have made the movie more satisfying.
Conclusion
The ending of “Longlegs” is a complex and multi – layered conclusion to a film that is filled with mystery, horror, and psychological depth. Through the confrontation between Harker and Longlegs, the revelation of their shared past, and the use of symbolism and themes, the movie leaves the audience with much to think about. Whether you believe that Harker kills Longlegs, tries to save him, or that the ending is a setup for a sequel, there is no denying that the ending of “Longlegs” is a powerful and memorable conclusion to a thrilling movie. It forces us to confront the nature of evil, the impact of trauma, and the blurred lines between good and evil. As we continue to discuss and analyze the ending of “Longlegs,” we are reminded of the power of cinema to challenge our perceptions and leave us with lingering questions long after the credits have rolled.
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