Watchmen: The IMAX Experience (2009) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
The ending of Watchmen: The IMAX Experience (the 2009 film adaptation of Alan Moore's graphic novel) revolves around Adrian Veidt (Ozymandias) orchestrating a false alien attack on New York City to unite the world against a common enemy, preventing nuclear war. Rorschach's journal, which details Veidt's conspiracy, is left at a newspaper office, hinting that the truth may eventually come out. The film leaves audiences questioning whether Veidt's morally ambiguous plan was justified and whether the fragile peace will hold. The final scene mirrors the opening, with the Comedian's bloodstained smiley face pin, symbolizing the cyclical nature of violence and the cost of "saving" humanity.
Detailed Explanation of the Ending
The climax of Watchmen sees Adrian Veidt's grand plan come to fruition: he stages a catastrophic "alien" attack (using Dr. Manhattan's energy signature) that decimates New York City, killing millions. His intention is to force the U.S. and Soviet Union into a temporary alliance, averting an impending nuclear war. Veidt justifies his actions with utilitarian logic-sacrificing a few to save billions. The remaining Watchmen (Nite Owl, Silk Spectre, and a disillusioned Dr. Manhattan) confront Veidt but ultimately concede that exposing the truth would undo the fragile peace. However, Rorschach, who refuses to compromise, is killed by Dr. Manhattan to prevent him from revealing the conspiracy.
The final moments of the film focus on Rorschach's journal being delivered to the New Frontiersman, a right-wing newspaper. This implies that the truth about Veidt's scheme may eventually leak, potentially destabilizing the newfound unity. The ambiguity of this ending raises questions about whether humanity deserves to be "saved" through deception and whether peace built on lies can last. The cyclical nature of violence is reinforced by the recurring imagery of the bloodstained smiley face pin, which bookends the film-suggesting that history may repeat itself despite Veidt's efforts.
Unresolved Questions & Possible Answers
Will the truth about Veidt's plan be exposed?
- Yes: Rorschach's journal could be published, leading to global chaos.
- No: The New Frontiersman might dismiss it as conspiracy theory, preserving the peace.
Is Veidt's plan morally justified?
- Yes: It prevented nuclear annihilation, making the sacrifice necessary.
- No: Mass murder and deception are never ethical, regardless of intent.
What is Dr. Manhattan's ultimate fate?
- He leaves Earth to create life elsewhere, possibly transcending human morality.
- Alternatively, he may return if humanity's peace collapses.
Does the smiley face pin symbolize hope or futility?
- Hope: It represents the persistence of human spirit despite corruption.
- Futility: It signifies the inevitability of violence and moral compromise.
Personal Opinion on the Ending & Film
The ending of Watchmen is a masterclass in moral ambiguity. Veidt's plan is monstrous yet eerily logical, forcing the audience to grapple with the idea that "good" and "evil" are not clear-cut. The film's bleak tone and philosophical depth set it apart from conventional superhero movies, making it a standout adaptation. However, some purists argue that Zack Snyder's stylized violence detracts from the graphic novel's nuance. Personally, I find the ending hauntingly effective-it refuses to offer easy answers, leaving viewers to wrestle with the cost of survival. The unresolved tension of Rorschach's journal ensures the story lingers long after the credits roll.
Final Thoughts on Themes & Legacy
Watchmen deconstructs superhero mythology by presenting flawed, morally compromised characters. The ending reinforces the central theme: absolute power corrupts, and even the "smartest man in the world" is not immune to hubris. The film's legacy lies in its willingness to challenge audiences, asking whether the ends justify the means. While some prefer the graphic novel's squid monster (changed for the film), the cinematic version's streamlined approach maintains the story's emotional weight. Ultimately, Watchmen remains a provocative, visually stunning exploration of power, justice, and the price of peace.