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10 Movies That Were AMAZING... Until the Ending

Published by Likewise | Feb 10, 2025Explore ten films that captivated audiences with their compelling stories and performances, only to leave them disappointed with their endings. From intense thrillers to fantastical adventures, these movies had all the makings of greatness—until the final moments.

In the vast landscape of cinema, there are films that grip you with an iron fist, leading you through intricate plots filled with excitement, thrilling twists, and nail-biting tension. However, amidst these masterpieces, a peculiar trend emerges: movies that shine brightly for an extended duration, only to stumble drastically in their concluding moments. Join us as we dive into ten movies that were nothing short of fantastic until their endings left us scratching our heads in disbelief or disappointment.

1. Law Abiding Citizen

Law Abiding Citizen
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Released in 2009, "Law Abiding Citizen" stars Gerald Butler as Clyde Shelton, a man seeking vengeance for the murder of his wife and daughter. The plot thickens as he targets not only the killers but the entire judicial system that allowed their release. While the movie's premise escalates tension with a captivating performance by Butler, the ending falters, falling into sensationalism that muddles the profound themes of justice and morality presented throughout. Read more about it here.

2. Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman
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"Wonder Woman," released in 2017, introduced audiences to the Amazonian warrior Diana, played by Gal Gadot. As she emerges during World War I to battle real evil, the film enchants with its stunning visuals and empowering narrative. However, in its final act, the film relies on typical superhero tropes that reduce the complexity of its groundbreaking protagonist to mere clichés, diluting the impact it had garnered. Discover more about this film here.

3. I Am Legend

I Am Legend
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Released in 2007, "I Am Legend" presents Robert Neville, portrayed by Will Smith, as the last man in a virus-ravaged New York City. His survival is marked by daily solitude and desperation. The film builds a haunting universe filled with tension and psychological depth; however, the climax diverges from the intricate narrative by opting for a conventional, predictable resolution that leaves much to be desired. Learn more about this film here.

4. Glass

Glass
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In 2019's "Glass," M. Night Shyamalan provides a thought-provoking exploration of identity and sanity through the intertwining tales of David Dunn, Kevin Wendell Crumb, and Elijah Price. While the movie excels in building suspense around its characters' complexities, the ending disappoints with a lack of payoff, leaving audiences perplexed by its abrupt and inconclusive resolution. Explore further about this film here.

5. Suspicion

Suspicion
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Hitchcock's classic "Suspicion," released in 1941, features a rich young woman who suspects her charming husband of plotting to kill her for her inheritance. The film meticulously crafts an atmosphere of dread, but the ending has faced criticism for its sudden tonal shift and lack of clarity, undermining the twisted psychological themes masterfully laid out throughout the narrative. Find additional insights about it here.

6. Raya and the Last Dragon

Raya and the Last Dragon
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"Raya and the Last Dragon" is a visually enchanting 2021 animation that follows a warrior's quest to unite her divided people against an ancient evil. The film presents a rich tapestry of lore and character development, yet the ending relies heavily on formulaic storytelling typical of the genre, diminishing the unique premise it builds. Read more about it here.

7. Sunshine

Sunshine
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In this 2007 sci-fi thriller, "Sunshine" follows a team of astronauts tasked with reigniting the dying sun. The film weaves a deeply philosophical tale underscored by breathtaking visuals and compelling performances. Unfortunately, as the film progresses, it succumbs to a labyrinth of horror tropes that drain its intellectual vitality by the conclusion, leaving audiences unsatisfied. Dive deeper into this film here.

8. Signs

Signs
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M. Night Shyamalan's "Signs," released in 2002, tells the story of a family encountering mysterious crop circles that herald a sinister presence. While the film captivates with its suspenseful build-up and emotional depth, the resolution is often seen as a letdown—relying on sensational revelations that neglect the atmospheric terror it expertly constructed. Learn more about this film here.

9. Frailty

Frailty
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"Frailty," a 2002 thriller, unfolds through the eyes of an FBI agent listening to a man recount his father's disturbing visions of demons. The film offers a gripping exploration of faith, madness, and morality, yet falters in its last act, falling into predictability that tarnishes its psychological intricacies. Find out more about this film here.

10. Mama

Mama
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Guillermo del Toro’s "Mama," released in 2013, weaves a chilling narrative about two sisters raised in isolation by a supernatural entity after their parents' demise. The film excels in creating a tense atmosphere and emotional narrative; however, critics argue that its finale leans too heavily on conventions that dilute the horror and poignancy it so effectively established. Explore this film further here.

As we reflect on these ten films, it's clear that even the most well-crafted stories can stumble into narrative pitfalls that disappoint audiences. While they all had the potential to soar, their endings diluted the profound journeys we were taken on. It serves as a reminder that in the world of storytelling, every bit of a narrative counts, and the final chords of a film can resonate louder than the beginnings. Despite their shortcomings, these movies remain intriguing examples of cinema's complexity and the varied responses they elicit.

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