9 Movies That Changed Their Endings Based on Test Screenings

1. The Unexpected Survival of Rambo

The original plan for First Blood was to have John Rambo meet a tragic end, mirroring the somber tone of the source material. However, test audiences and Sylvester Stallone himself championed for Rambo's survival, paving the way for a new trajectory in the action movie genre.

Rambo with his arrows pointed in Rambo First Blood

2. Reimagining Little Shop of Horrors

Little Shop of Horrors underwent a major transformation thanks to test screenings. Initially set to conclude with a dark and fatalistic ending, the feedback from audiences prompted director Frank Oz to craft a more hopeful resolution where the heroes triumph over the alien plant.

Seymour (Rick Moranis) looking at Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors

3. The Redemption of Loki in Thor

Thor: The Dark World faced a pivotal moment in test screenings that altered the fate of Loki. Originally intended to meet his demise, Loki's character arc took a significant turn towards redemption, ultimately shaping his pivotal role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Tom Hiddleston as Loki faking his own death as Thor (Chris Hemsworth) mourns him in Thor The Dark World

4. Elle's Iconic Graduation Speech

Legally Blonde's original ending left audiences wanting more, but test screenings led to the creation of the iconic graduation speech scene that solidified Elle's success story. The revised ending provided a more satisfying conclusion to the comedy classic.

Legally Blonde Elle talking to Emmett

5. The Evolution of Scott Pilgrim's Love Story

Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World faced a dilemma in its conclusion, with test audiences influencing a pivotal change in Scott's romantic fate. The feedback led to a reimagined ending that elevated the story's emotional impact and character development.

Scott Pilgrim vs the World Michael Cera as Scott looking confused

6. A Darker Alternative in 28 Days Later

28 Days Later originally concluded with a bleak and despairing ending, but test screenings steered the film towards a more hopeful resolution. The feedback prompted a shift in the narrative, offering audiences a glimmer of optimism amidst the horror.

Cillian Murphy as Jim at the end of 28 Days Later.

7. Duckie's Journey in Pretty in Pink

Pretty in Pink underwent a significant alteration in its ending, thanks to test screenings that highlighted audience preferences. The revised conclusion provided a satisfying resolution to the romantic tensions, reshaping the dynamics of the beloved John Hughes classic.

Pretty In Pink

8. My Best Friend's Wedding: A Character Reimagined

My Best Friend's Wedding experienced a transformation in its protagonist's portrayal, driven by feedback from test audiences. The reshoots and expanded storyline enhanced the character's depth, leading to a more nuanced and engaging resolution.

Julia Roberts as Julianne with Rupert Everett's George's hand around her shoulders in My Best Friend's Wedding

9. Embracing Change in Army of Darkness

Army of Darkness navigated a divergent path in its conclusion, shaped by the response of test audiences. The altered ending veered away from a dystopian future, offering a more grounded and satisfying resolution that resonated with viewers.

Army of Darkness Both Endings