What Comes Around (2022) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
What Comes Around is a psychological thriller that explores themes of revenge, fate, and moral ambiguity. The ending reveals that the protagonist, Grace, has been manipulated into exacting revenge on her ex-boyfriend, only to discover she's part of a larger cycle of vengeance orchestrated by a mysterious woman named Anna. The film concludes with Grace trapped in a never-ending loop of retribution, questioning whether she's a victim or a perpetrator. The ambiguous finale leaves viewers pondering the nature of justice and whether cycles of violence can ever be broken.
Detailed Explanation of the Ending
The climax of What Comes Around unravels as Grace, the protagonist, confronts her ex-boyfriend, Eric, whom she believes betrayed her. Throughout the film, Grace is guided by Anna, a seemingly sympathetic stranger who encourages her to seek revenge. However, the final act reveals that Anna has been manipulating Grace all along - Anna is actually a victim of Eric's past actions, and she has orchestrated Grace's revenge as payback. The twist forces Grace to realize she's been a pawn in a larger game of vengeance, blurring the lines between victim and aggressor.
The film's closing scenes depict Grace grappling with the moral weight of her actions. After exacting her revenge, she learns that Anna has vanished, leaving Grace to face the consequences alone. The final shot shows Grace staring into a mirror, her reflection morphing into Anna's face, symbolizing that she has now become part of the same cycle of retribution. This chilling visual suggests that Grace may inherit Anna's role, destined to manipulate another person in the future. The ending is deliberately ambiguous, leaving the audience to wonder whether Grace will break free or perpetuate the cycle.
Unresolved Questions & Possible Answers
Who is Anna, really?
- Possible Answer: Anna could be a former lover of Eric's who was wronged and now seeks revenge by proxy.
- Alternative Theory: Anna might be a metaphorical representation of vengeance itself, an entity that thrives on cycles of retribution.
Is Grace truly innocent, or complicit?
- Possible Answer: Grace is initially a victim but becomes culpable when she chooses violence.
- Alternative Theory: Grace was always destined to follow this path, making her a tragic figure rather than a villain.
Does the cycle ever end?
- Possible Answer: No-the film suggests revenge is an inescapable loop.
- Alternative Theory: Grace's self-awareness at the end could hint at a potential break in the cycle.
Personal Opinion on the Ending & Film
What Comes Around is a gripping thriller that succeeds in making the audience question morality and justice. The ending is haunting because it doesn't offer catharsis-instead, it leaves viewers unsettled, pondering whether revenge is ever truly justified. The mirror scene is particularly effective, reinforcing the idea that violence begets violence. However, the film could have delved deeper into Anna's backstory to make her motivations clearer. Overall, it's a thought-provoking movie that lingers in the mind, though its bleak outlook might not satisfy those seeking closure. The ambiguity is its strength, forcing introspection about the nature of revenge.
Final Thoughts
The brilliance of What Comes Around lies in its refusal to provide easy answers. By ending on an open note, the film challenges viewers to reflect on their own beliefs about justice and retribution. The cyclical nature of the story serves as a cautionary tale, suggesting that revenge consumes everyone it touches. Whether Grace escapes her fate or becomes the next Anna is left to interpretation, making the film a compelling conversation starter about morality, accountability, and the human penchant for vengeance.