Baby Ruby (2022) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
Baby Ruby is a psychological horror-thriller that follows Jo, a new mother who begins experiencing disturbing hallucinations and paranoia after the birth of her daughter, Ruby. The film blurs the line between reality and delusion, culminating in a chilling finale where Jo's grip on sanity unravels. The ending suggests that Ruby may be a supernatural entity or that Jo's postpartum psychosis has completely consumed her. The ambiguous conclusion leaves viewers questioning whether the horrors Jo faced were real or manifestations of her fractured mind.
The Climax and Final Scene
The film builds to a crescendo as Jo's hallucinations intensify, making it nearly impossible to distinguish between reality and her deteriorating mental state. In the final act, Jo becomes convinced that Ruby is not an ordinary baby but something malevolent-perhaps a demon or a sinister force feeding off her despair. The tension peaks when Jo, in a frenzied moment, attempts to harm Ruby, only to be stopped by her husband or another character (depending on the film's interpretation). The last scene often depicts Jo either institutionalized, with Ruby taken away, or still trapped in her delusions, holding the baby while whispering something ominous. The camera lingers on Ruby's face, leaving the audience to wonder if her eyes flicker with something unnatural or if it's just a trick of the light.
Symbolism and Themes
Baby Ruby explores themes of maternal anxiety, postpartum depression, and the loss of identity. The ending underscores the terror of motherhood-the fear of failing as a parent or of the child itself becoming an unrecognizable force. Ruby symbolizes the uncontrollable, primal fears of new mothers: the sense that their child is both a source of love and an all-consuming responsibility that can erode their sanity. The film's ambiguity forces viewers to confront whether Jo's breakdown is purely psychological or if there's a supernatural element at play. The eerie final shot of Ruby suggests that the horror may not be over, leaving a lingering sense of dread.
Unresolved Questions & Possible Interpretations
- Is Ruby truly evil, or is Jo insane?
- Supernatural take: Ruby is a demonic entity or a changeling, feeding on Jo's fear.
- Psychological take: Jo suffers from severe postpartum psychosis, projecting her fears onto an innocent child.
- What do the hallucinations mean?
- They could be manifestations of Jo's guilt, trauma, or unresolved grief.
- Alternatively, they might be real visions of a dark force targeting her.
- Why does no one believe Jo?
- Gaslighting by those around her, or her perceptions are too distorted to be trusted.
- The others are complicit in hiding Ruby's true nature.
- What happens after the ending?
- Jo is hospitalized, and Ruby is adopted by another family, continuing the cycle.
- Jo succumbs completely, becoming a danger to herself and others.
Personal Opinion on the Ending
I find Baby Ruby's ending deeply unsettling because it refuses to provide easy answers. The film masterfully taps into the visceral fears of parenthood-how love and terror can coexist. The ambiguity works in its favor, making it a standout in psychological horror. However, some may find the lack of resolution frustrating. Personally, I lean toward the interpretation that Jo's breakdown is psychological, making the story a tragic portrayal of postpartum mental illness. Yet, the supernatural hints add a layer of unease that lingers long after the credits roll.
Final Thoughts
Baby Ruby is a harrowing exploration of motherhood's darkest corners. Its ending is designed to provoke debate, ensuring that viewers leave with more questions than answers. Whether you see it as a supernatural tale or a psychological character study, the film's strength lies in its ability to mirror real fears through horror. The final moments-whether a shot of Ruby's unnerving smile or Jo's hollow eyes-ensure that the terror doesn't end when the screen goes black. It's a film that stays with you, gnawing at your perception of reality, much like Jo's own unraveling mind.