Ending of Reptile Explained

The 2020 neo-noir thriller film “Reptile,” directed by Alan Coulter, leaves viewers with a complex and morally ambiguous ending. This section will delve into the key aspects of the film’s conclusion, providing explanations for what transpired and the lingering questions it raises.

What is Known?

The Murder: Summer Elswick, a key witness in a potential corruption case, is found murdered. Detective Tom Nichols (Benicio del Toro) investigates the case, uncovering a web of deceit that implicates figures within his own police department.

The Conspiracy: “White Fish,” a seemingly legitimate company, is revealed to be a front for a drug laundering operation. This operation involves corrupt police officers who use seized property from drug busts for personal gain.

The Culprit: Will Grady, Summer’s boyfriend, is initially suspected. However, the film reveals that he is merely a pawn in a larger scheme orchestrated by his mother and a network of corrupt officials within the police force.

The Climax and Resolution

The film’s climax sees Detective Nichols confronting the truth. He discovers that his superior officers, Captain Robert Allen and Chief Marty Graeber, are deeply involved in the conspiracy. A violent confrontation ensues, resulting in the deaths of Allen and Graeber at Nichols’ hands. Another corrupt officer, Detective Wally Sossa, is apprehended but not before inflicting a serious injury on Nichols.

The film concludes with Will Grady being arrested by the FBI while golfing, signifying that Nichols exposed the corruption. The final scene shows Nichols washing his wounded hand in his newly remodeled kitchen, a subtle reminder of his personal life existing alongside his relentless pursuit of justice.

Conclusion

“Reptile’s” ending offers a sense of justice prevailing, with the corrupt individuals apprehended. However, the film doesn’t shy away from the high cost of this victory. Nichols is physically and emotionally scarred, and the sense of betrayal within his own department casts a shadow over his triumph. The film leaves the audience pondering the true cost of upholding the law in a system riddled with corruption.

Key Questions and Answers

1. Who ultimately killed Summer Elswick? While Will Grady played a part in the conspiracy, it remains unclear whether he directly killed Summer. The implication is that someone higher in the corrupt chain of command silenced her.

2. What happens to Detective Sossa? The film doesn’t explicitly show Sossa’s fate, but it’s likely he faces serious legal consequences for his involvement in the corruption.

3. Does Nichols face any repercussions for his actions? The film doesn’t address potential disciplinary actions against Nichols. However, his actions demonstrate a commitment to justice, even at great personal cost.

4. Does the film offer any solutions to police corruption? “Reptile” doesn’t propose a specific solution, but it highlights the importance of individual integrity and the need for robust internal investigations within law enforcement.

5. What is the significance of the final scene? The final scene emphasizes the toll the case has taken on Nichols. Despite achieving a measure of justice, he is forever marked by the experience.