The Mind-Blowing Secret Behind The Road's Ending
A concise exploration of the enigmatic conclusion of Cormac McCarthy's The Road and whether the book's ending differs from the film adaptation Discover what unfolds at the end of this gripping post-apocalyptic tale
Beloved and acclaimed author Cormac McCarthy, known for his popular novels such as No Country For Old Men and All The Pretty Horses, sadly passed away on June 13th, 2023. Among his impactful works, the 2006 novel The Road stands as a standout, later adapted into a film in 2009. The movie depicts a harrowing tale of a father and son traversing a desolate world post-apocalypse.
With remarkable performances from the two lead actors who shoulder the entire film, The Road not only flawlessly translates McCarthy's vision onto the screen but also delivers a captivating story of family and hope. Curious about the events that unfold and the conclusion?
What Is The Road About?
In The Road, Viggo Mortensen's character, Man, and his son Boy, played by Kodi Smit-McPhee, struggle to survive in a post-apocalyptic world. The cause of the devastation to animals and plants is never revealed in Cormac McCarthy's novel or its film adaptation. However, this detail doesn't detract from the powerful narrative focused on a father and his child facing the harsh reality of their surroundings. Similarly to the acclaimed game and TV series, The Last Of Us, The Road depicts two main characters who form a bond and defy despair despite the bleak outlook for their future.
The main character's wife was lost after giving birth to their son, a moment when he had to shoot someone who posed a threat to them. With only three bullets remaining, she felt that his actions were a way of preventing her from taking her own life and leaving their family behind. This heartbreaking choice forms the basis of the powerful movie, The Road, which explores the complex relationship between fathers and sons. By not revealing the names of the main characters, the film enhances their relatability. Furthermore, by providing limited information about the characters' lives prior to the apocalypse, the audience is invited to empathize with the boy and man's journey. Unlike certain Stephen King books that have polarizing film adaptations, Cormac McCarthy's The Road is widely regarded as a well-made and emotionally impactful movie, garnering positive reviews.
How Does The Road End?
The ending of The Road is truly devastating. After discovering a town, the boy and his father cling to a glimmer of hope for safety. However, the father tragically shoots a man who had just wounded him, and he knows his end is near. This particular scene is reminiscent of chilling horror movies centered around the bond between fathers and sons, showcasing the profound emotional depths of Cormac McCarthy's writing.
As the boy grapples with the loss of his sole parent, a kind and trustworthy man crosses their path. He offers to care for the boy and assures the audience that he and his family will provide the support and love the boy desperately needs. Viewers anxiously yearn for a positive outcome for this resilient young boy, who has endured so much suffering and the loss of both his parents.
Is The Ending Different In The Road Book?
The ending of both The Road by Cormac McCarthy and its movie adaptation share the same storyline. After the father's death, the boy is left alone and must navigate life without him. Similar to post-apocalyptic video games influenced by movies, The Road captivates readers and viewers with its unforgettable and striking setting. Throughout the book and movie, the father and son constantly face dire and bleak circumstances. According to CBC, McCarthy seldom conducted interviews, only participating in one TV interview in 2007 with Oprah Winfrey. McCarthy revealed that the idea for The Road originated during a trip to El Paso, Texas with his son. Contemplating how the land could appear after several decades, he began jotting down some ideas. McCarthy described The Road as a "simple and straightforward story."
The Road is regarded as one of the finest post-apocalyptic films of the 21st century, and its literary counterpart is revered by many. Cormac McCarthy, known for maintaining humility throughout his career, had an insightful experience while watching the movie adaptation. In an article written for The Guardian, Joe Penhall, the screenplay writer, shared McCarthy's impressions. McCarthy described the film as "very good" and "very powerful," emphasizing its uniqueness compared to other films he has seen. However, he humorously suggested taking a break to eat before getting too carried away.
