Season of the Witch (1973) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
Season of the Witch (2011) is a supernatural horror film starring Nicolas Cage and Ron Perlman as 14th-century knights transporting a suspected witch to a monastery. The ending reveals the girl (Emily) is indeed a vessel for a demonic plague, and the knights must perform an exorcism. After a brutal battle, Cage's character, Behmen, sacrifices himself to kill the demon by reciting the Lord's Prayer, destroying the witch and ending the plague. The film concludes ambiguously, suggesting the demon may still exist in another form, leaving room for interpretation.
Detailed Explanation of the Ending
The climax of Season of the Witch unfolds in the monastery where Behmen (Nicolas Cage) and Felson (Ron Perlman) deliver the accused witch, Emily. The priests attempt an exorcism, but it fails catastrophically, revealing Emily as a vessel for a demonic entity causing the Black Plague. As the monastery collapses into chaos, Behmen realizes the only way to stop the demon is by performing the exorcism himself, using the power of faith. In a tense final showdown, Behmen recites the Lord's Prayer while stabbing Emily with a sacred dagger, seemingly destroying the demon. However, the film's final shot-a crow with glowing red eyes-hints that the evil may not be fully vanquished.
Unresolved Questions & Possible Answers
- Did the demon truly die?
- Yes: Behmen's sacrifice and the prayer were enough to banish it.
- No: The crow suggests the demon escaped or reincarnated.
- What was the true nature of Emily?
- She was an innocent possessed by the demon.
- She was a willing host, as hinted by her cryptic smiles.
- Was the plague truly supernatural?
- The film implies it was demonic, but historical context leaves room for doubt.
- What happened to Felson?
- He likely died in the monastery's collapse, but his fate is left ambiguous.
Themes & Symbolism
The ending reinforces themes of faith, sacrifice, and the cyclical nature of evil. Behmen's redemption arc culminates in his selfless act, contrasting his earlier disillusionment with the Church. The crow symbolizes lingering evil, suggesting that darkness persists even after great sacrifices. The film critiques blind faith (the corrupt priests) while affirming genuine belief (Behmen's final prayer). The plague serves as a metaphor for unchecked corruption, both spiritual and societal.
Personal Opinion on the Ending & Film
Season of the Witch is an underrated gem that blends historical drama with supernatural horror. The ending is satisfying yet unsettling - Behmen's sacrifice feels earned, but the crow's appearance leaves a haunting ambiguity. The film's strength lies in its atmosphere and Cage's committed performance, though some CGI effects and pacing issues hold it back. The finale's moral complexity-questioning whether evil can ever be fully destroyed-elevates it above typical horror fare. While not perfect, it's a compelling mix of action, horror, and medieval intrigue.
Final Thoughts
The ambiguous ending ensures Season of the Witch lingers in the viewer's mind. Was the demon defeated, or did it simply take another form? The film doesn't provide easy answers, instead inviting reflection on the nature of evil and redemption. For a movie often dismissed as a B-grade Cage vehicle, it delivers a surprisingly thoughtful conclusion. The blend of historical setting, religious symbolism, and horror elements makes it a unique entry in the genre. If you enjoy medieval-themed horror with a philosophical edge, this film-and its enigmatic ending-will likely resonate.