Nocturnal Animals Ending Explained

The psychological thriller film Nocturnal Animals (2016), directed by Tom Ford, leaves a lasting impression with its ambiguous ending. To fully grasp its significance, we need to delve into the narrative and understand the emotional core of the story.

The Narrative Duality

The film presents a dual narrative. Susan Morrow (Amy Adams), a successful art gallery owner, receives a manuscript from her ex-husband, Edward Sheffield (Jake Gyllenhaal). The manuscript, titled Nocturnal Animals, tells the harrowing story of Tony Hastings (also played by Gyllenhaal), a man whose family vacation takes a horrifying turn. As Susan reads the increasingly violent story, it becomes clear that it reflects a dark chapter in her own past relationship with Edward.

Edward’s Revenge

Nocturnal Animals can be interpreted as Edward’s elaborate revenge on Susan. Their marriage ended due to Susan’s perceived lack of support for Edward’s artistic aspirations. The brutal events in the novel mirror the emotional trauma Edward feels from their past. By sending the manuscript, Edward forces Susan to confront the consequences of her actions and the pain she inflicted.

Susan’s Awakening

Susan’s initial dismissal of the novel gradually transforms into a profound emotional journey. She recognizes the parallels between Tony’s suffering and her own neglect of Edward’s emotional needs. The ending scene emphasizes this awakening. Susan, having removed her wedding ring, waits for Edward at a restaurant, presumably to apologize and reconnect. However, Edward never arrives.

The Open Ending

The film’s ambiguous ending is subject to multiple interpretations. Did Edward deliberately stand Susan up as a final act of revenge? Or did something prevent him from coming, leaving Susan with a renewed sense of loss and regret? The open ending forces the audience to confront their own interpretation of the characters’ motivations and the film’s message.

Questions and Answers

1. What is the significance of the title Nocturnal Animals?

The title refers to both the predatory nature of the animals in the novel and Susan’s own transformation into a creature who dwells in the darkness of regret.

2. Is Nocturnal Animals a revenge story?

While Edward’s intent can be interpreted as revenge, the film delves deeper, exploring themes of regret, missed opportunities, and the lasting impact of past choices.

3. What is the role of violence in the film?

The graphic violence in the novel serves as a metaphor for the emotional brutality experienced by Edward and the breakdown of their relationship.

4. What is the message of the ending?

The ending underscores the importance of communication and empathy in relationships. It also leaves viewers questioning the possibility of true forgiveness and reconciliation.

5. Is there a happy ending in Nocturnal Animals?

The film has no traditional happy ending. It offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of human relationships and the enduring consequences of our choices.