The triumph of good over evil is a common narrative in cinema. However, several films dare to deviate from this norm by offering a different perspective where the antagonists emerge victorious. Here are seven such movies where the conclusion defies traditional expectations.
7. Funny Games (1997)
Directed by Michael Haneke, this Austrian psychological horror film portrays a vacation turning nightmarish. Two young men, Peter and Paul, hold a family hostage in their holiday home, subjecting them to a series of sadistic games. ‘Funny Games‘ ends in a shocking way — all of the family members die.
6. Jeepers Creepers (2001)
Victor Salva’s horror film ‘Jeepers Creepers‘ introduces us to a demonic entity known as ‘the Creeper.’ Siblings Trish and Darry Jenner encounter this relentless pursuer on their way home from college. Despite their efforts to escape, the Creeper fulfills its gruesome ritual, claiming Darry as its victim and continuing its cycle of terror.
5. Natural Born Killers (1994)
Oliver Stone’s ‘Natural Born Killers‘ follows Mickey and Mallory Knox, a couple who become mass murderers. Their violent journey across the American Southwest ends with their escape from incarceration, continuing their life of crime. The film, noted for its portrayal of the media’s role in glorifying violence, leaves the Knoxes unapprehended, free to continue their rampage.
4. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Jonathan Demme’s ‘The Silence of the Lambs‘ features Hannibal Lecter, a cannibalistic serial killer. Despite the efforts of FBI trainee Clarice Starling, Lecter escapes from custody. The film ends with Lecter at large, leaving us with a sense of unease about his future actions.
3. Hell or Highwater (2016)
Directed by David Mackenzie, ‘Hell or Highwater‘ focuses on two brothers, Toby and Tanner Howard, who engage in a series of bank robberies. Their actions are driven by a desire to save their family ranch from foreclosure. While Tanner meets a tragic end, Toby successfully evades capture and secures a future for his family.
2. The Skeleton Key (2005)
Iain Softley’s ‘The Skeleton Key‘ is set in a plantation home in Louisiana, where a hospice nurse uncovers a supernatural mystery. The film ends with the nurse, Caroline Ellis, trapped in an older woman’s body while the spirit of Mama Cecile inhabits hers. This conclusion leaves the evil entity in control.
1. Creep (2014)
Patrick Brice’s directorial debut, ‘Creep,‘ is a found footage psychological horror film. It follows a videographer, Aaron, who becomes the target of his client, Josef. The film concludes with Aaron’s demise at the hands of Josef, who continues to target others.
