Don't Let Her In (2021) Ending Explained

TL;DR:
Don't Let Her In is a psychological horror-thriller about a young woman, Amber, who moves into a secluded house with her boyfriend, only to encounter a mysterious and malevolent woman named Scarlet. The ending reveals that Scarlet is a demonic entity who has been manipulating Amber's reality, making her question her sanity. In the climactic scene, Amber seemingly defeats Scarlet, but the final twist shows Scarlet's influence persisting, leaving Amber's fate ambiguous. The film explores themes of gaslighting, mental instability, and supernatural possession, culminating in an open-ended conclusion that leaves viewers questioning what was real and what was imagined.

Detailed Explanation of the Ending:
The ending of Don't Let Her In is a masterclass in psychological horror, blurring the lines between reality and delusion. Throughout the film, Amber is tormented by Scarlet, a woman who appears to be a figment of her imagination or a supernatural entity. The climax occurs when Amber, after enduring relentless psychological torture, finally confronts Scarlet in a violent struggle. Amber appears to overpower Scarlet, stabbing her and seemingly ending the nightmare. However, the film's final moments subvert this victory. As Amber tries to move on, she sees Scarlet's reflection in a mirror, smiling ominously, suggesting that Scarlet was never truly defeated and that Amber remains under her control. This twist leaves the audience questioning whether Amber ever had agency or if she was always a pawn in Scarlet's game.

Unresolved Questions and Possible Answers:
1. Is Scarlet a real demon or a manifestation of Amber's mental illness?
- Possible Answer 1: Scarlet is a demonic entity who preys on vulnerable individuals, exploiting their fears and insecurities.
- Possible Answer 2: Scarlet is a hallucination, representing Amber's unresolved trauma or schizophrenia.
2. Did Amber truly defeat Scarlet, or was the ending another illusion?
- Possible Answer 1: Amber's victory was real, but Scarlet's powers allow her to return or exist in another form.
- Possible Answer 2: The entire confrontation was a delusion, and Amber is still trapped in Scarlet's psychological maze.
3. What was Scarlet's ultimate goal?
- Possible Answer 1: To possess Amber's body or soul, using her as a vessel.
- Possible Answer 2: To drive Amber to madness, reveling in her suffering without a tangible end goal.

Themes and Symbolism:
The ending of Don't Let Her In reinforces the film's central themes of gaslighting and psychological manipulation. Scarlet's ability to warp Amber's perception mirrors real-world abusive relationships, where the victim is made to doubt their own reality. The mirror motif in the final scene symbolizes self-reflection and duality, hinting that Scarlet might be a darker aspect of Amber's psyche. The open-ended conclusion also serves as a commentary on the cyclical nature of trauma - Amber's struggle may never truly end, just as victims of psychological abuse often face recurring battles with their past. The film's ambiguity forces viewers to grapple with these heavy themes long after the credits roll.

Personal Opinion:
I found the ending of Don't Let Her In to be both satisfying and frustrating. The ambiguity is effective in maintaining tension, but it also leaves too many questions unanswered. The final shot of Scarlet in the mirror is chilling, but I wish the film had provided more clues to interpret her true nature. The performances, particularly by the lead actress, sell the horror of the situation, making the psychological torment feel visceral. However, the lack of a definitive resolution might disappoint viewers who prefer clear-cut endings. Despite this, the film succeeds as a psychological horror by prioritizing atmosphere and mind games over cheap jump scares, making it a memorable entry in the genre.

Final Thoughts:
Don't Let Her In delivers a haunting ending that lingers in the mind, playing with the audience's perception much like Scarlet does with Amber's. Whether interpreted as a supernatural tale or a psychological breakdown, the film's conclusion is designed to provoke discussion and debate. The unresolved questions add to its rewatch value, as viewers may pick up on subtle clues they missed the first time. While not perfect, the ending cements the film as a thought-provoking horror experience that challenges the viewer to distinguish between reality and illusion. It's a fitting finale for a story about the fragility of the human mind and the horrors that lurk within it.