365 Days (2020) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
The ending of 365 Days (2020) leaves viewers with a cliffhanger: Laura, the protagonist, is kidnapped by a masked assailant while on vacation with Massimo, the mafia boss who initially abducted her. The film deliberately avoids resolution, setting up a sequel (365 Days: This Day) to explore whether Massimo rescues her or if this is part of a larger power struggle. The ambiguous conclusion sparks debates about Laura's agency, Massimo's true intentions, and the cyclical nature of their toxic relationship. The film's controversial themes of Stockholm Syndrome and eroticized captivity remain unresolved, leaving audiences divided.
Detailed Explanation of the Ending
The final scenes of 365 Days take place after Laura and Massimo have seemingly reconciled their tumultuous relationship. Laura, who was initially kidnapped by Massimo and given "365 days to fall in love" with him, appears to have developed genuine feelings for him despite the coercive circumstances. Their romantic getaway to Sicily suggests a moment of peace-until Laura is suddenly abducted by an unknown assailant while Massimo is momentarily absent. The film ends abruptly, with Massimo discovering her missing and the audience left to speculate whether this is a revenge plot, a rival mafia move, or even a test orchestrated by Massimo himself.
Unresolved Questions & Possible Answers
- Who kidnapped Laura?
- Possibility 1: A rival mafia faction targeting Massimo.
- Possibility 2: Massimo's enemies seeking leverage against him.
- Possibility 3: A setup by Massimo to test Laura's loyalty.
- Does Laura truly love Massimo, or is she trapped in Stockholm Syndrome?
- Possibility 1: Her feelings are genuine, given her emotional vulnerability.
- Possibility 2: She's psychologically conditioned to accept his dominance.
- Will Massimo rescue her, or is this part of a larger game?
- Possibility 1: He will stop at nothing to get her back.
- Possibility 2: He may have orchestrated it to reinforce her dependence on him.
Thematic Implications of the Ending
The ambiguous ending reinforces the film's central theme of control versus consent. Laura's abduction mirrors her initial captivity, suggesting a cyclical pattern of power and submission. The lack of resolution forces viewers to confront whether Laura ever had true agency or if her "love" for Massimo is a survival mechanism. The film's erotic thriller elements clash with its problematic romanticization of coercion, leaving audiences to grapple with the morality of their relationship. The abrupt cutoff also serves as a narrative device to heighten anticipation for the sequel, ensuring viewers remain invested in the unresolved tension.
Personal Opinion on the Ending & Film
While 365 Days succeeds as a guilty-pleasure erotic thriller, its ending feels manipulative rather than satisfying. The cliffhanger is a transparent setup for sequels, sacrificing narrative closure for franchise potential. The film's portrayal of toxic dynamics as romance is troubling, and the ending does little to redeem its problematic themes. However, the boldness of leaving Laura's fate uncertain does create intrigue, even if it feels unearned. The performances by Michele Morrone and Anna-Maria Sieklucka are compelling, but the script's lack of depth undermines the emotional weight the ending attempts to convey.
Final Thoughts & Cultural Impact
365 Days became a polarizing phenomenon, criticized for glamorizing abuse while also gaining a cult following for its steamy scenes. The ending encapsulates this duality-simultaneously frustrating and addicting. It's a prime example of how erotic thrillers walk a fine line between fantasy and exploitation. Whether the sequel (365 Days: This Day) resolves these questions satisfactorily remains to be seen, but the first film's finale ensures audiences will keep talking-whether in outrage or anticipation. Ultimately, the film's legacy hinges on whether it evolves beyond shock value or remains mired in controversy.