The ending of She Said highlights the power of journalism and the ongoing fight against systemic abuse.
She Said is a biographical drama directed by Maria Schrader. It follows New York Times journalists Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor as they expose Harvey Weinstein’s history of sexual abuse. The film is based on the book of the same name and shows the impact of their work on the #MeToo movement.
Climactic Conclusion
The film reaches a powerful climax with Twohey and Kantor’s relentless pursuit of justice. They gather testimonies from survivors, many of whom are scared to speak out. The emotional toll on the journalists is clear as they balance their personal lives with their work.
In the final act, the tension peaks as they secure enough credible testimonies to publish their article. This moment is a turning point, not just for the journalists but for the entire movement against sexual harassment. The publication of the article ignites a global conversation about the treatment of women in the workplace and beyond.
Emotional Resonance
The film’s ending is emotionally resonant, focusing on the survivors’ stories. It does not sensationalize the abuse but highlights the humanity of the women involved. For example, Laura Madden, played by Jennifer Ehle, transforms from a woman haunted by her past to one who finds the courage to speak out. Her journey adds depth to the film’s conclusion, emphasizing the importance of giving voice to the voiceless.
The final scenes show the aftermath of the article’s publication. Weinstein faces immediate fallout, and the entertainment industry feels the broader implications. The film reminds us that while the article’s publication was a monumental achievement, it was just the beginning of a long journey toward justice for many survivors. The ending serves as a reminder that the fight against systemic abuse is ongoing.
Broader Implications
The ending of She Said reflects the societal shifts that followed the article’s publication. The film highlights the role of journalism in holding powerful individuals accountable and the importance of investigative reporting. It serves as a tribute to the women who bravely shared their stories and the journalists who worked tirelessly to bring those stories to light.
The film’s conclusion resonates with ongoing discussions about the #MeToo movement and the need for systemic change. The portrayal of Twohey and Kantor as working mothers adds another layer to the narrative, showing the challenges faced by women in the workforce. This aspect emphasizes the importance of female solidarity and the collective effort required to challenge entrenched power dynamics.
Critical Reception
She Said received positive reviews from critics, who praised its screenplay and the performances of Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan. The film was pointed out for its thoughtful approach to a sensitive subject, avoiding sensationalism while delivering a powerful message. Critics highlighted the film’s ability to humanize the journalists and the survivors, making their stories relatable and impactful (DMTalkies, Variety).
Despite its critical acclaim, the film struggled at the box office, grossing only $13 million against a production budget of $32 million. This underperformance has been attributed to various factors, including audience fatigue with the subject matter and competition from other films released at the same time (Wikipedia, Deadline Hollywood).
Conclusion
The ending of She Said serves as a poignant reminder of the power of journalism and the importance of giving voice to those who have been silenced. It encapsulates the emotional journey of the journalists and the survivors, highlighting the courage required to confront systemic abuse. While the film concludes with a sense of achievement, it also acknowledges that the fight for justice is far from over. The legacy of Twohey and Kantor’s work continues to resonate, inspiring future generations to challenge the status quo and advocate for change.
In summary, She Said is not just a film about a significant journalistic achievement; it is a testament to the resilience of women and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in society.
