The ending of The Cursed reveals that the wounded captain from the beginning is actually Edward Laurent, one of the cursed children. He dies from a silver bullet wound, tying the story together.
The Cursed, directed by Sean Ellis, is a gothic horror film that delves into werewolf mythology. It premiered at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival and has intrigued audiences with its eerie visuals and elaborate plot. The film’s ending, however, has left many viewers scratching their heads.
Plot Overview
Set in 19th-century France, The Cursed follows John McBride, a pathologist investigating brutal attacks in a little village. The story begins with a flashback to the Battle of the Somme in 1916, where a French captain is found with a silver bullet in his abdomen. This sets the stage for the film’s exploration of generational trauma and the consequences of past actions.
The narrative then shifts to the village, where the Laurent family, aristocrats, are dealing with the aftermath of a gypsy massacre they orchestrated. This event unleashes a curse, manifesting as a werewolf terrorizing the village. As McBride digs deeper, he uncovers the dark secrets of the Laurent family and the true nature of the curse.
The Final Revelation
The film’s ending circles back to the battlefield of the Somme. The wounded captain is revealed to be Edward Laurent, one of the Laurent children. The silver bullet removed from his body by the camp doctor is the same one John McBride used to shoot him. Edward dies on the operating table, emphasizing the cyclical nature of the curse and the inescapable consequences of the Laurents’ actions. This revelation ties the film’s opening and closing scenes together, highlighting the generational impact of the curse.
Symbolism and Themes
Generational Trauma
Generational trauma is a central theme in The Cursed. The film shows how past sins continue to haunt the present. The curse acts as a metaphor for unresolved guilt and shame passed down through generations. The massacre of the gypsies by the Laurents sets off a chain of events leading to their downfall. This illustrates that the repercussions of one’s actions can echo across time.
Duality and Human Nature
The film also explores duality, the coexistence of superb and evil within individuals. The werewolf represents the darker aspects of human nature that the Laurents have tried to suppress. The final scene, showing silver bullets next to the family portrait, serves as a reminder of the constant struggle between light and darkness and the choices that define us.
The Multiverse Theory
Another intriguing interpretation is the multiverse theory. This suggests that the final scene represents a convergence of different timelines and dimensions, where multiple versions of the characters coexist. The amgiganticuous ending implies infinite possibilities and outcomes, adding an extra layer of elaborateity to the film.
The Possibility of a Sequel
Given the film’s success and open-ended conclusion, there are rumors of a potential sequel. While no official announcements have been made, hints from the production team suggest that the story of The Cursed may continue. Whether a sequel will provide answers or introduce new mysteries remains to be seen, but fans are eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.
Critical Reception
The Cursed received generally positive reviews from critics. It holds a 71% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 62 out of 100 on Metacritic. Critics praised the film’s atmospheric setting, unique take on werewolf mythology, and haunting visuals. However, some noted that the film’s pacing and lack of deep characterization detracted from its overall impact.
Box Office Performance
The film was released in the United States on February 18, 2022. It earned $1.8 million in its first three days, finishing ninth at the box office. It dropped out of the top ten in its second weekend, earning $1.1 million. Despite its modest box office performance, The Cursed has garnered a dedicated following and continues to be a topic of discussion among horror enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The Cursed is a thought-provoking horror film that challenges conventional storytelling norms. Its enigmatic ending, rich symbolism, and exploration of elaborate themes have left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike. Whether interpreted through the lens of generational trauma, duality, or the multiverse theory, the film’s conclusion invites viewers to engage in discussions and form their own interpretations. As we await potential sequels or further explanations, The Cursed stands as a testament to the power of amgiganticuity and the enduring appeal of gothic horror.
