My Best Friend's Wedding (1997) Ending Explained
tl;dr: In My Best Friend's Wedding, Julianne (Julia Roberts) realizes too late that she's in love with her best friend Michael (Dermot Mulroney), who is about to marry Kimmy (Cameron Diaz). Despite her elaborate schemes to sabotage the wedding, Julianne ultimately accepts that Michael has moved on and supports their union. The bittersweet ending sees Julianne dancing with her confidant George (Rupert Everett) at the reception, symbolizing her growth and the enduring value of friendship over romantic obsession.
Detailed Explanation of the Ending
The climax of My Best Friend's Wedding revolves around Julianne's last-ditch effort to stop Michael from marrying Kimmy. After confessing her love to Michael in a dramatic scene, she is rejected-he genuinely loves Kimmy and is committed to her. This moment is pivotal because Julianne, who has spent the entire movie manipulating situations (like lying about being engaged or sabotaging Kimmy's singing performance), finally faces the consequences of her actions. The rejection forces her to confront her own selfishness and the reality that love isn't always reciprocated, no matter how deeply felt.
The wedding proceeds, and Julianne, though heartbroken, attends as a guest. In a touching moment, she helps Kimmy overcome her fear of public speaking by encouraging her to give a heartfelt toast. This act of kindness marks Julianne's emotional growth. She transitions from a scheming, jealous friend to someone who prioritizes Michael's happiness over her own desires. The film's resolution is bittersweet: Julianne doesn't get the guy, but she gains self-awareness and a deeper appreciation for the friendships in her life, particularly with George, who has been her unwavering support throughout the chaos.
Symbolism and Themes
The final scene, where Julianne dances with George at the reception, is loaded with symbolism. George, who is gay and thus represents a non-romantic but deeply meaningful relationship, becomes her anchor. Their dance signifies Julianne's acceptance of her situation and her recognition that love comes in many forms-not just the passionate, possessive kind she felt for Michael. The film subverts the traditional romantic comedy trope where the protagonist "wins" their love interest; instead, it delivers a more mature message about letting go and valuing the people who truly care for you.
Unresolved Questions and Possible Answers
Does Julianne ever find romantic love?
- The film leaves this open, but her growth suggests she'll eventually find someone who reciprocates her feelings.
- Alternatively, she might remain single but content, having learned to cherish platonic love.
Will Michael and Kimmy's marriage last?
- Their relationship seems strong, as Michael chooses Kimmy despite Julianne's confession.
- However, Kimmy's naivety and Michael's impulsiveness could lead to challenges down the line.
What's next for George and Julianne's friendship?
- Their bond is likely to deepen, with George becoming her emotional rock.
- They might even navigate future romantic misadventures together.
Personal Opinion
My Best Friend's Wedding stands out because it doesn't cater to the typical rom-com fantasy. Julianne's failure to "win" Michael is refreshingly realistic, and her arc feels more impactful because of it. Julia Roberts delivers a nuanced performance, balancing humor and heartbreak. The ending resonates because it's relatable-not everyone gets their happy ending in love, but there's solace in friendship and self-discovery. The film's strength lies in its refusal to villainize Kimmy, who is genuinely kind, and its emphasis on emotional maturity. It's a smarter, more bittersweet take on love stories that lingers long after the credits roll.
Final Thoughts
The movie's conclusion is a masterclass in subverting expectations while delivering emotional truth. Julianne's journey from denial to acceptance is poignant, and the emphasis on platonic love over romantic conquest gives the story depth. The ending isn't about closure but about growth, making My Best Friend's Wedding a timeless classic that challenges the genre's conventions. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best love stories aren't about getting what you want but learning what you truly need.