Brightburn (2019) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
Brightburn (2019) is a dark superhero horror film that subverts the Superman mythos by exploring what would happen if an alien child with godlike powers turned evil. The movie follows Brandon Breyer, a superpowered boy raised by loving human parents, who gradually succumbs to his violent, alien instincts. The ending sees Brandon fully embracing his monstrous nature, massacring his adoptive parents and the townspeople before donning a makeshift red cape and mask to terrorize the world. The film concludes with a montage of news reports hinting at his escalating reign of terror, leaving his ultimate fate unresolved.
Detailed Explanation of the Ending
The climax of Brightburn occurs when Brandon's adoptive mother, Tori, finally realizes that her son is beyond redemption. After discovering the corpses of those he has murdered and witnessing his cold indifference, she attempts to kill him with a piece of the spaceship that brought him to Earth-the only known material that can harm him. However, Brandon survives the attack and kills his father, Kyle, who was trying to protect Tori. In a chilling moment, Brandon hovers above his grieving mother, whispering, “I'll always love you, Mom,” before flying away, symbolizing his complete rejection of humanity.
The final scenes of the movie transition into a montage of news broadcasts reporting on mysterious disappearances, mass killings, and strange phenomena across the globe, all linked to Brandon. These reports suggest that he has fully embraced his role as a malevolent force, using his powers to instill fear rather than inspire hope. The closing shot mirrors Superman's iconic flight, but instead of soaring heroically, Brandon dons a crude red mask and cape, signifying his transformation into a horror-movie version of a supervillain. The implication is clear: humanity is now at the mercy of an unstoppable, godlike predator.
Unresolved Questions & Possible Answers
What was Brandon's true purpose?
- Possible Answer: The alien ship may have programmed him to conquer or destroy humanity, overriding his human upbringing.
- Alternative Theory: He was always destined to be evil, and his “parents” were merely caretakers until he awakened.
Why couldn't Tori and Kyle stop him sooner?
- Possible Answer: Their love blinded them to his true nature until it was too late.
- Alternative Theory: The alien technology made him nearly invincible, leaving them with no real way to intervene.
Will anyone ever stop Brandon?
- Possible Answer: The sequel setup suggests he becomes an enduring horror figure, like a supernatural serial killer.
- Alternative Theory: If the ship's material is studied, someone might find a way to neutralize him.
What was the ship's influence on him?
- Possible Answer: It emitted a signal that corrupted his mind over time.
- Alternative Theory: It was a failsafe to ensure he fulfilled his mission, overriding his human emotions.
Personal Opinion on the Ending & Film
Brightburn is a refreshingly grim take on the superhero genre, blending body horror with psychological terror in a way that feels both original and unsettling. The ending is particularly effective because it doesn't offer a hopeful resolution - Brandon wins, and the world is left defenseless. This bleakness reinforces the film's core theme: absolute power corrupts absolutely, especially when wielded by someone without empathy. The montage of news reports serves as a brilliant way to expand the lore without needing a direct sequel, though I personally would love to see more of this dark universe explored.
That said, the film's weakest aspect is its lack of deeper character exploration. While the Breyers' love for Brandon is touching, their denial stretches believability at times. Additionally, the film could have delved further into the ship's origins or the alien society that sent Brandon. Still, as a standalone horror flick with superhero tropes turned inside out, Brightburn succeeds in delivering a chilling, nihilistic finale that lingers long after the credits roll.
Final Thoughts:
Brightburn is a fascinating “what if” story that asks, What if Superman was the villain? The ending leaves no room for hope, cementing Brandon as an unstoppable nightmare-an approach that makes the film memorable, if not exactly uplifting. Whether you see it as a cautionary tale about unchecked power or just a brutal superhero horror, it's a film that sticks with you.