The Mind-Bending Conclusion of Lights Out

Lights Out, the 2016 horror movie, boasts a chilling title and an even more unsettling plot, culminating in a haunting conclusion that lingers long after the credits roll. The film tackles weighty subjects such as mental health and familial trauma, earning a 75% rating on Rotten Tomatoes' Tomatomer and a 61% audience score. Its reception was largely positive, with viewers appreciating its well-drawn characters and the inherent terror of battling a demon in darkness. Ultimately, while the ending may be difficult to bear, Lights Out excels in creating an unsettling atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. So, what exactly unfolds in this spine-tingling flick and what inspired its creation?

What Is Lights Out About?

Rebecca discovers that her mother Sophie is being influenced by an evil ghost named Diana, causing her stepbrother Martin to struggle. Despite the challenges, Rebecca's boyfriend Bret tries to support her as they navigate this difficult situation. While often overlooked, Lights Out is a compelling horror film that delves into the complexities of mental health within a family. The characters demonstrate a deep care for Sophie and their desire to help her, all while contending with the malevolent presence of Diana.

The title of the movie, Lights Out, alludes to Diana's heightened power in darkness. Despite the characters' efforts to keep the house illuminated, Diana thwarts their plans by cutting off the electricity in the neighboring houses. Throughout the plot, the protagonists struggle to combat Diana's seemingly invincible presence. What makes Diana particularly terrifying is her tendency to prey on those who are close to Sophie, demonstrated in the opening scene where she kills Sophie's husband, Paul. Diana's aversion to light is a key characteristic, rendering her vulnerable only in total darkness. One could interpret Diana as a symbol for Sophie's personal struggles, a thought that is both poignant and unsettling.

What Is Lights Out Based On?

Lights Out, known for its bone-chilling storyline, is actually based on a short film of the same name released back in 2013. David F. Sandberg, who wrote, directed and produced the short film, cast his wife, Lotta Losten, as the main character, who remains unnamed throughout the movie. The original short film is a much simpler version of the full-length movie, showcasing a woman who is haunted by a presence in her house at night. In the end, she comes face-to-face with a humanoid figure, who switches off the lights, leaving her in complete darkness. The ending of the short film hints at the woman being killed by the ghost, with no possible escape. The horror genre has produced some remarkable short films, some of which can be found on YouTube. Lights Out's success as a full-length movie is not surprising, given the incredibly eerie and unforgettable atmosphere of the original short film.

How Does Lights Out End?

In the climactic ending of Lights Out, Rebecca and Martin manage to escape the basement with the assistance of two police officers, only to be relentlessly pursued by Diana's shadow. As the officers fall victim to Diana's deadly wrath, Rebecca confronts the truth behind her father's murder at the hands of the vengeful spirit. Although Diana doesn't possess Sophie, her presence makes it difficult for others to connect with her, reflecting the isolation that people feel during their struggles. With Sophie realizing that Diana's influence will never cease as long as she is alive, the film takes a tragic turn as Sophie takes her own life. As Rebecca and Martin are left to process the devastating events, they receive reassurance from Brett that Diana will never return.

The conclusion of Lights Out has stirred debate due to the brutal nature of Sophie's death. The depiction of her struggles throughout the film is heart-wrenching. Despite the discomfort it may elicit, the movie effectively addresses the topic of mental health. In particular, the ending serves as a poignant reminder of the severity and impact of depression.