The ending of “Don’t Worry Darling” reveals that the idyllic 1950s community is a simulated reality. Alice, the protagonist, discovers this and fights to escape.
“Don’t Worry Darling”, directed by Olivia Wilde, is a psychological thriller that has captivated audiences. The film’s ending, filled with twists and revelations, has left many viewers pondering its deeper meanings.
Plot Overview
The story follows Alice, played by Florence Pugh, a housewife in a perfect 1950s suburban community called Victory. Her husband, Jack, portrayed by Harry Styles, works at a mysterious facility. On the surface, their life seems flawless. However, Alice starts noticing odd events and grows suspicious of Victory and its leader, Frank, played by Chris Pine.
Alice’s journey to uncover the truth is filled with strange occurrences. She sees her reflection lag in the mirror, crushes an egg with no yolk, and feels an invisible force pressing her against a glass window. These experiences hint at the artificial nature of her reality.
The Big Twist
The central twist of the film is the revelation that Victory is not a real place but a simulated reality created by the Victory Project. This twist draws comparisons to other dystopian narratives like The Stepford Wives and The Truman Show. Alice discovers that the men, including her husband Jack, are aware of the simulation, while the women are kept in the dark. This setup allows the men to control and manipulate their wives, creating a facade of a perfect 1950s life.
Alice’s suspicions lead her to confront Frank during a dinner party. She accuses him of manipulating the residents of Victory and making choices for them without their consent. Frank’s admission, coupled with his magnetic influence over the other residents, heightens the tension. Jack, initially furious with Alice, eventually agrees to leave Victory with her, but this turns out to be a trap. Alice is captured and subjected to electric shock therapy to erase her memories and suppress her suspicions.
The Final Revelation
In the original ending, Alice awakens in the year 2050, attached to a simulation machine. She learns that Jack had faked her death to trap her in the simulation, hoping it would repair their failing relationship. A confrontation ensues, resulting in Jack’s death and Alice being institutionalized.
Themes and Analysis
Feminist Undertones
“Don’t Worry Darling” explores themes of gaslighting, bodily autonomy, and patriarchal control. The film highlights how women are often disbelieved and dismissed, even when they are aware of their own reality. Alice’s struggle to regain control over her life and body is a central theme, reflecting broader societal issues of gender inequality and the fight for women’s rights.
The Perception of Happiness
The film delves into the concept of happiness and the lengths people will go to achieve it. The men in Victory create a simulated world to escape their real-life problems, believing that controlling their environment and partners will bring them happiness. However, this artificial happiness is built on deception and manipulation, ultimately leading to their downfall.
Societal Critique
The setting of Victory in a 1950s-style suburb serves as a critique of nostalgic ideals of gender roles and domesticity. The film juxtaposes the seemingly perfect suburban life with the underlying horror of control and manipulation, challenging the notion that returning to “uncomplicatedr times” is a solution to modern problems.
Critical Reception
“Don’t Worry Darling” has received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the film’s ambitious themes and Florence Pugh’s performance, others criticized its execution and the numerous plot holes. The film’s real-life controversies, including on-set feuds and casting changes, have also overshadowed its release, affecting its reception.
Positive Reviews
Critics who enjoyed the film highlighted its visual style, compelling performances, and thought-provoking themes. The film’s exploration of gender dynamics and the illusion of happiness resonated with many viewers, making it a relevant and timely piece of cinema.
Negative Reviews
On the other hand, some critics found the film’s twist predictable and its themes underdeveloped. The ending, in particular, was seen as rushed and lacking in coherence, leaving many questions unanswered. The film’s attempt to blend psychological thriller elements with social commentary was viewed as uneven by some reviewers.
Conclusion
“Don’t Worry Darling” is a film that sparks conversation and debate, both for its narrative and the controversies surrounding its production. Its ending, with its shocking twist and thematic depth, leaves a lasting impression on viewers. While the film may not have lived up to all expectations, it succeeds in challenging audiences to think critically about the nature of happiness, control, and gender dynamics.
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